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Hi,

I am considering setting up my first African Cichlid tank. I have kept tropical fish before, but never cichlids.

I have a 30 gallon (not very big, I know but upgrading isn't an option right now) and since this is my first attempt at dealing with cichlids, I'm thinking of making it a single-species tank. I'd like to find a species that would be hardy and preferably colorful.

I've looked into the different types of cichlids but I am a little overwhelmed by the number of different species.

I really love the Demanson's Cichlid, Five Bar Cichlid and Yellow Tail Acei. But so far, that's based mostly on looks (and size, I know I can't fit a 12 inch fish in that tank!)

Can anyone suggest any species that would be suitable for a 30g tank and be fairly easy to care for?
Also, is a single species tank a good idea to start with?

It probably wont be weeks until I can really set up the tank, but it'll give me time to do my research first.

I personally like electric yellow cichlids.... but they are all yellow,,,, but you could mix them I belive, cause you can just do like a electric yellow and electric blue ect... Thats what I did WHEN I had mine.... but I will let a "more experenced" person help you

oh here are some links on the Yellow lab, or electric yellow cichlid ect
http://www.cichlid-forum.com/profiles/species.php?id=1669
http://www.fishprofiles.com/files/profiles/520.htm
http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?cls=16&cat=1920&articleid=2208

I think a 30g is a little small for Africans. A 55g was suggested to me for an appropriate tank. You could have a group (1m/3-4f) of yellow labs and a group of red zebras or another less aggressive cichlid in a 55g.

*Kristin*

Of the species you've mentioned, the acei would be a good choice for your tank. They are on the relatively peaceful side, and 4 fish (1 male, 3 female) would be a nice fit for a 30 gallon. As with all African cichlids, make sure there is plenty of rockwork in the tank.

The only way to get rid of a temptation is to yield to it. - Oscar Wilde