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It looks like I may have space in our new apartment for a larger tank. A 55g, but with the length being the same I'd like to try for a 75g

I want a larger cichlid(s). I've always had an interest in JDs but what I'd really like is something of a pet, a fish that might learn to be handfed, etc.

So I'm looking for suggestions that might fit those requirements. Also with these larger cichlids what else can I or should I keep in the tank...bottom feeders, dither fish, etc.

Thanks very much


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There is water at the bottom of the ocean

There is also a 90g tall tank with a footprint similar to the 55g.
A co-worker keeps a JD, an oscar, a clown knife and a big pleco together. Its all a matter of finding fish of like temperments and sizes. He hand feeds the JD and oscar with earthworms. I have severums and have gotten them to take meal worms by hand. It seems like to me that most of the big SA/CA cichlids make great "pets" and watch what is going on outside their tank. Mine follow me when I walk by or around their tank.
If you settle on JD's, look for the electric blue color morph. Rarer and more expensive, but a beautiful fish.

IMO Oscars are a great fish if you want something that can be a true pet. They are pretty easy going for a large fish. I have one with a Gold severum and a couple of Firemouths and Clown Loaches.

If you can swing it get the 90. It's got the same footprint as a 75 and it's just a little wider than a 55.

Have fun, Mike

I would get one of the rarer types of oscar... Maybe a long finned albino.

midas or red devil make great pets but they may be a bit too aggressive to be handfed. some will try to attack your hands. if you want something less aggressive you could take a look at Paratheraps synspilum. These grow large also and are not as aggressive and are beautiful cichlids.