growth rate

[jerkyvan]

I finally got a salvini to go with my dempsey and firemouth. There all about the same size(3.5 inches). I was wondering what are are the growth rates of the three, does one on average grow faster than the other? Just wondering who is going to be the boss of the tank, currently it is the dempsey (sort of). I wanted to thank you for all the great info and to say that this website is awesome.

[Pam Chin]

Hi Jerky,

I would bet the dempsey will rule the tank, but letting the grow up together does help them learn to tolerate each other somewhat. Your tank size is good, and if you provide plenty of cover, they should do okay.

You might want to get some think for the top part of your tank though, since these guys are going to be occupying the lower half. You might consider some Giant Danio's or some Rainbow fish. they both seem to be able to take the beating and keep on ticking! They will act as dithers, and this will also lessen the aggression on your other cichlids.

Cichlid Power!
Pam