Want more tips and tricks to care for your fish? Check out these playlists! Best Fish Keeping Tips Playlist is here: ruclips.net/p/PLr8ew8o8WXoDLeItfzOiRG8DV-1W9qNX4 Lowering and Controlling Nitrates Playlist is here: ruclips.net/p/PLr8ew8o8WXoD-pzZaHgtIFqurG9HZn2zz Every Live Stream is Here: ruclips.net/p/PLr8ew8o8WXoApHjaPfc6rdr7oipfEbZ-k The Water Change Tips & Tricks Playlist is here: ruclips.net/p/PLr8ew8o8WXoCdEYkD0rQa0OWejFk5-bHD SunSun Canister Filter Playlist is here: ruclips.net/p/PLr8ew8o8WXoCiMWEpBFJFJGxTqJH_MdMg Fluval Canister Filter Playlist is here: ruclips.net/p/PLr8ew8o8WXoC8gSuqdG1c4nOzlAMFTmiD
Thank you so much MnM and welcome to the RUclips cichlid universe. It is loaded with content. Some accurate and informative and some a total waste of time. All fun regardless. I appreciate you stopping by my channel!
Really appreciate this video. I’ve been in the hobby for about 4 months now, and have experienced a lot of negativity...but this really brightened my day! Thank you!
Absolutely beautiful tank! Your tips were on point! I have a 55 gallon cichlid tank and adore it. This hobby is so satisfying! Hope to watch and see more from you 😊
If you can’t sleep at night, I guarantee you put on one of Ben Ochart videos and his smooth, relaxing voice will put you to sleep, while teaching you a thing or two! 😁😴
Beautiful tank. Great tips. Your video is inspirational. Soon I will be starting the hobby again after 20 years of retirement. 20 years ago I had a 30 gallons Truvue African Cichilds tank and was very successful. My kids enjoyed as well. Now it is turn for my grandchildren . This time I want a 50 gallon tank. With all the info on YT, FB and other forums. I have no doubt that I will be back on track. Again. thank you for sharing your video.
your community is beautiful! why did you call that fish what sounded like 'frontosa'? I have two very large convict cichlids that look very similar. I'm a novice and trying to learn. thanks for all your tips as well as the lead on sites and forums to learn from. much appreciated
Hello Juli. The Frontosa (Cyphotilapia frontosa, sometimes called "front" for short) is a Lake Tanganyika (east Africa) fish. They get very large and can live many years, like over 20 under excellent conditions. I ended up giving mine, "Eeyore," away to a friend that had a Front only aquarium. I believe he will be much happier and thrive in an environment that is specific to Tanganyika fish. Fronts prefer to live in groups of other Frontosas. Also, it's not a great idea to mix lakes since conditions and diet requirements can be very different. I am now 99.9% Lake Malawi. Thanks for watching and good luck in the hobby.
I am in the process of setting up a cichlid tank and very excited about the knowledge you have shared. I mirror everything you have stated as I have been listening carefully to many people on the net who have these fish. I am up for the challenge and so appreciate your advice. Great advice, thanks so much! 😊 😊 😊
So Ben just had to let you know, add 5 new fish today and damned if everyone isn't chill and just hanging out! My two big boys just swimming around, no aggression, everyone just being cool. Thanks man, so excited.
I just converted our Community Tank to a African Cichlids Tank. This is a good start for me. Thank you for sharing your knowledge-it can be intimidating.
You're in for a adventure. The best advice I can give is: patience and research. If you'd like, come over the Facebook page, "Ben O'Cichlid" where a lot of fish keepers of all levels get into friendly discussions and share tips.
Hey Ben, I really enjoyed this video. It is very much obvious that you learned a lot about African Cichlid fish keeping when you filmed it. Thanks very much for sharing
Ben, I am getting back into the larger tank part of the hobby, after decades of being away. Your videos are a pleasure to watch and are very enlightening. Thank you! Glenn
I watched tonnes of videos on african cichlids for a whole year before I bought my first mbuna....I found African cichlid hub extremely helpful...+ the others you named.
+ORANGE FISHHEAD Very wise of you O.F. The African cichlids are so pretty that it's easy to want to rush in and start enjoying them. Then you end up having to re-home a few that shouldn't have been in the mix to begin with. Thanks for watching and commenting!
Thank you! As a newbie to the world of cichlids I appreciated your attitude and positivity!! I just lost 2 of my originals to bullying and tomorrow I am visiting a breeder to purchase some more to over stock my tank. Take care and thanks for sharing!
Ree Simmons Thank you for watching Ree and if you want some on going advice come on over to our Facebook group, "Ben O'Cichlid." Lots of friendly fish keepers willing to give advice.
Ben, thanks for the call out to HalfMan HalfCichlid, I appreciate your channel too. After 50+ years in the hobby, and 25 years with Africans I am still tweaking a number of aspects of keeping africans. Two that I am continuously trying new things on are cichlid agression and Malawi bloat. Some of my trials and experiments will be in my future videos. I tend to not mix mbuna with peacocks and haps because of cross aggression, but this seems to work ok for you.
+HalfMan HalfCichlid I might be going in the direction of peacock only tank. We'll see. The yellow lab and yellow tail seem very peaceful but the rusty struggles and the other two (cobue and chewere) can get testy. I'm keeping a close eye on it. Thanks for watching and commenting. You are appreciated.
Great tips Ben 👌🏼👌🏼. I have learned more from this 13min video than I have in 3 hours of google searching. Tip #10 is something I’m working on. I stress a lot about my cichlids because I want them to be happy and healthy. And also because I’m only 1 month new to the hobby. Your videos have helped me so much. Thank you 😊
Great tips sir. Love that you mentioned Pondguru, I found him early after starting this hobby. I feel his knowledge of filtration is second to none. His products are worth more, they never wear out. This is a very rewarding hobby. I always remind myself it's not about me, it's about my babies.(fish) Thanks for sharing.
Thanks Joel. You're right, PondGuru made canister care simple for me. And I agree, it's about creating the best living conditions for the fish (our babies).
Some of the best advice I have heard, and I don't even keep Africans. This goes across the whole hobby. Ive heard so many opinions in videos, social media, and in person and you got it right lol.
Great video. I'm currently buying a new 180g after selling my last one 2 years ago which I regretted moments after selling it. So can't wait for my new one and getting back into African cichlids. I miss sitting down after a long day at work and watching them
Yes, it's very relaxing. It will be fun getting a new tank going. You might want to share the set up on RUclips. It will give you a video record of the journey and help others embarking on a new tank. Giod luck and thanks for watching.
second to last tip is the best, but all tips are on point. Ben you are such an inspiration. Love all the info and amazing fish! Keep up the good work bro!
+Corey Hecker Corey, I shout out to you was missed...sorry. Is the second to last the #9, #10 or #11 bonus tip? Just curious as to which one you thought was best. As always, thanks for watching. Your input is appreciated.
Thanks for the reply Corey. I included that tip because I read so many comments on fish blogs from people agonizing about points that are not always that vital. Seems it would take some of the fun and joy out of the hobby to worry so much. I also have very little patience for people who are mean spirited. There are polite ways to convey, "If you do that all your fish will die!" Be well.
fantastic advice... I have been watching videos for the last three hours as I am new to the hobby, and I must say.... I sure learned a lot from your video. congrats... awesome... from san Francisco
I bought my first tank and Cichlids in 1993, and I have learned so much since then but still feel like there is so much more to learn. Good musicians like to get together and have jam sessions, good aquarists like to get together for finned friend talk, we all learn from each other.
+RobertLee Cichlids Thank you sir. He's really blossomed and he's a real ham when I'm filming. Always flashing and challenging the German Red but they never really hurt each other. Thanks for watching and commenting.
Hey Ben, Just wanted you to know that I think you make some nice vids. While I've kept fish for more than 30 years, 25 of those years with cichlids, I'm new to east African Rift Lake cichlids (less than a year) and love to hear other people's tips and tricks. I'll keep watching!
I have been in the hobby for 3+ years great tips. Regarding water changes, I fill 3 five gallon water jugs, treat the water, and let it sit for one week to adjust the water to the temperature of my tank works great for me
Mr Ochart I'm a new subscriber. I have a African cichlid tank. Great channel, you're easy to listen to. Some of these guys voice is annoying. Keep up the great work sir.
thank you for your tips, I'm really inspired by the beauty of your fish, clarity of your water and over all tank setup. I'm brand new to the cichlid world and loving every minute! Thanks again, you've gained a new subscriber :) Peace!
Thanks for sharing Ben. Just bought an aquarium and plan on cichlids. Funny, I'm already obsessing over the tank and water and don't even have cichlids yet. Great video!
Very good tips especially on not having anxiety or stress about it and enjoy it. It’s sad when people attach others especially when someone is learning.
I don't know if anyone has mentioned it yet but I would suggest going with a good pump and your garden hose with a quick attachment coupling for water changes. This makes it so much easier and you can use the water in your garden if you have one. I refill with my tank via aquarium tubing and faucet. This has made a world of difference with my back and it saves time. One other quick suggestion, instead of using Prime water conditioner you can get the same product in powder form , it's called Safe. This powder dissolves instantly and goes nearly 4 times as far as the liquid, it will save you a ton of money.
I always wondered how the stores had so many aggressive fish in one tank. I am looking to get back into a larger tank (75 gal). I think you have inspired me to try African cychlids. Love all the fish colors. Thanks
I learned that, as well as size. Keeping fish with similar needs of diet and water perameters makes it easier to balance the tank for all its inhabitants. Having those requirements met, its easier for the fish to achieve full potential size, color, and lifespan.. Good stuff sir.. Thanks !
Great video! I just recently, yesterday, lost my last Butterfly. Had it for almost 10 years! Wish I would have watches videos like this before setting up my tank. I'm a former Oscar and Pacu hobbyist, but had to switch up species because my wife was getting afraid of having these monsters in the house, LOL. So I'm still learning about African Cichlids. Keep the videos coming!
Sorry about that Butterfly, but very well done to you for giving it such a long life in a tank! I'll keep the videos coming and I thank you for the encouragement.
37 gal will be good for growing them out, but you'll want a bigger tank in a year. In the meantime, with some sand and rock work (hiding spots) you could go with 7 - 8 Mbuna, maybe Electric Yellow Labs, some Yellow Tails, and a few more of the more peaceful labs. Gotta think long term, just in case you don't get that bigger tank. Peacocks and Haps would outgrow that size very quickly. If you don't mind the sound of water, a good HOB filter (hang on back) would do the trick and they are easy to clean. If you're pH needs buffering, go with crushed coral or aragonite as a substrate to help raise pH. Go to Jehmco.com and get an Eheim-Jaeger 200 watt heater on sale. You'll be set to go.
Brother I am with you there! I watch an extensive amount of videos on whatever fish I am looking into next. I thought I was just crazy, but I see I am not.
I love your fish aquarium. I had a mixture of African Cichlids with a few Angel Fish. I added them in at the same time and they actually grew up together. I also had some snails that had babies. Unfortunately. I lost them all due to a power outage during an ice storm. Thank you for the tips. They are very useful.
Thank you for the tips. Cichlids are just a tiny thought in my mind right now. You made a comment down below somewhere about adding salt when doing water changes. I thought, "salt?" Clearly I have to do a lot more research before this tiny thought about setting up a cichlid tank gets any bigger! LOL. So, thanks very much for the great tips. This was a good place to start!
I have a African cichlids tank and now I’m thinking 🤔 of going for my second tank with South America cichlids tank just waiting on some info and advice before I take on this challenge love this hobby it has helped me get throw a lot
Hi Ben, I'd just like to say I think your tank and your fish are stunning one of the best that I follow on YT. I also love your insight and the way you deliver your videos. Kept up the great work. Merry Christmas!!
Beautiful tank and Very good video! Filtration and overstock is the main things with cichlids. I’ve had cichlids for almost 10 years been through it all. Theyre very aggressive and don’t even think about trying to do a nice aquscape with live plants. I’ve tried about 3 times and nope nope nope hahaha
That was an expensive lesson for me. Respected authorities in the hobby assured me that cichlids would leave anubias and java fern alone. They told me that they tasted sour to cichlids. Well my fish didn't get the memo. As soon as they put on size they destroyed the plants. I salvaged what I could and put them in the grow-out tank. The smaller fish seem to ignore them.
Thanks for the tips! I was thinking about getting into cichlids, b/c I was given a 55 gal from a friend and I wanted to put something colorful and active in there. However after listening to what you said about them, they are not for me. I was also able to pick up some good general insight for running a large tank too! Thanks again!
Great tank and pointers thank you! I am just starting my first Cichlid tank, she just finished cycling yesterday and my fish are arriving tomorrow !!! thank you again.
+Kayla Ramos Kayla, watch my tank set up videos. There are fast simple techniques you can use to get a healthy tank going, especially if you can get a hold of some filter media from an already established tank.
+Ben Ochart yes unfortunately I have filter media because a few days ago I killed all of my boyfriends cichlids. he is on vacation so I wanted to change the water because it was very cloudy and green. I removed 95% of the water then refilled with tap water that want treated and most likely hot in temperature. I also poured the water in super fast so maybe I knocked them unconscious because they immediately fell to their sides and then bellied up and died one by one. I was so hurt and my boyfriend is super passed and upset
Hey it's me again, lol. I was just watching some vids on acclimating fish and I do basically the same thing as you describe here. The only difference for an extra safety precaution is that I dump the fish into one of those cheap mesh breeder boxes after I float the bag for half an hr. then just hang the breeder box in the tank and watch. I did this because I almost lost 2 fish that got stressed by the water difference and on top of that having to deal with the others as "the new guys". In the breeder box, they are in the tank water but there is a separation between them and the established fish in case they need an hr or so to be ready to deal with their tank mates.
Hey, we each come up with bright ideas that work for us. I've starting feeding everybody before adding fish, then, after adding, turning the lights out. That tends to mellow things out. By the way, be sure to watch my next video, I'm gonna throw out there the subject of our last conversation and see what kinds of comments I get. It's entitled, "Are We Killing Our Fish!" It should generate some lively conversations. Thanks for watching and commenting Ron!
Want more tips and tricks to care for your fish? Check out these playlists!
Best Fish Keeping Tips Playlist is here: ruclips.net/p/PLr8ew8o8WXoDLeItfzOiRG8DV-1W9qNX4
Lowering and Controlling Nitrates Playlist is here: ruclips.net/p/PLr8ew8o8WXoD-pzZaHgtIFqurG9HZn2zz
Every Live Stream is Here: ruclips.net/p/PLr8ew8o8WXoApHjaPfc6rdr7oipfEbZ-k
The Water Change Tips & Tricks Playlist is here: ruclips.net/p/PLr8ew8o8WXoCdEYkD0rQa0OWejFk5-bHD
SunSun Canister Filter Playlist is here: ruclips.net/p/PLr8ew8o8WXoCiMWEpBFJFJGxTqJH_MdMg
Fluval Canister Filter Playlist is here: ruclips.net/p/PLr8ew8o8WXoC8gSuqdG1c4nOzlAMFTmiD
This actually first video I ever watched about African Cichlids. Great video Ben.
Thank you so much MnM and welcome to the RUclips cichlid universe. It is loaded with content. Some accurate and informative and some a total waste of time. All fun regardless.
I appreciate you stopping by my channel!
It is a pleasure. If you get a moment drop by and watch one of my videos. I would really appreciate some constructive criticism Thanks Ben.
Me too!
The tip number 1: don't have African cichlids !
Terrible Terrible Terrible
I don't see any reason to have these aggressive animals.
Really appreciate this video. I’ve been in the hobby for about 4 months now, and have experienced a lot of negativity...but this really brightened my day! Thank you!
Happy to hear that!
Absolutely beautiful tank! Your tips were on point! I have a 55 gallon cichlid tank and adore it. This hobby is so satisfying! Hope to watch and see more from you 😊
Thank you Holly. Your kind words of encouragement are greatly appreciated.
What fish did u go with and how are they doing? I want a 50 for my daughter's tank and my 75 for my flowerhorn
your advice, your attitude, the comments you make....excellent....a true asset to the hobby
Thank you so much curly!
Beautifull cichlid tank you got there! Also love the clown loaches. Makes a nice color contrast!
Those clowns are still going strong. "Los Tres Amigos." Thank you for watching.
Ben Your Tank's Always Look Superb, Kudo's To You My Mentor Of this Hobby.
This is one of the best advice videos I've stumbled on. Great job!
Love ur cichlids and that purple plants
Thank you Eric!
good vid, good advice. just getting started and will keep those tucked in the back of my mind. thanks
You're welcome Daniel. Come back and rewatch after you're up and running.
My new cichlid tank is progressing very well!!! Thanks for the help!
Awesome and you’re welcome😀👍🏻
If you can’t sleep at night, I guarantee you put on one of Ben Ochart videos and his smooth, relaxing voice will put you to sleep, while teaching you a thing or two! 😁😴
Wow I can't believe in my eyes that tank is tooo perfect
Thanks Farhan.
Ben Ochart where's the water
IOS Game Reviews they are flying fish they live in air the tank is like a cage 😂🤣
Farhan ok thanks I might buy me some soon
Gorgeous fish!
Thank you!
Rutherford chiclid fish is good 🐟
Beautiful tank. Great tips. Your video is inspirational. Soon I will be starting the hobby again after 20 years of retirement. 20 years ago I had a 30 gallons Truvue African Cichilds tank and was very successful. My kids enjoyed as well. Now it is turn for my grandchildren . This time I want a 50 gallon tank. With all the info on YT, FB and other forums. I have no doubt that I will be back on track. Again. thank you for sharing your video.
I just bought an established 90g Cichlid tank to help my cancer recovery. Thanks so much for your posts. We are never too old to learn.
Thank you for watching and I hope your recovery goes well.
I second positive thoughts for awesome recovery !!
your community is beautiful! why did you call that fish what sounded like 'frontosa'?
I have two very large convict cichlids that look very similar. I'm a novice and trying to learn. thanks for all your tips as well as the lead on sites and forums to learn from.
much appreciated
Hello Juli. The Frontosa (Cyphotilapia frontosa, sometimes called "front" for short) is a Lake Tanganyika (east Africa) fish. They get very large and can live many years, like over 20 under excellent conditions. I ended up giving mine, "Eeyore," away to a friend that had a Front only aquarium. I believe he will be much happier and thrive in an environment that is specific to Tanganyika fish. Fronts prefer to live in groups of other Frontosas. Also, it's not a great idea to mix lakes since conditions and diet requirements can be very different. I am now 99.9% Lake Malawi.
Thanks for watching and good luck in the hobby.
I just want all your rocks... and that one OB with all the beautiful oranges, pinks, and the blue head. It wants to live with me.
LOL! Thanks for watching and commenting Avy!
I am in the process of setting up a cichlid tank and very excited about the knowledge you have shared. I mirror everything you have stated as I have been listening carefully to many people on the net who have these fish. I am up for the challenge and so appreciate your advice. Great advice, thanks so much! 😊 😊 😊
Good luck Rita and welcome to a great community of fish keepers.
So Ben just had to let you know, add 5 new fish today and damned if everyone isn't chill and just hanging out! My two big boys just swimming around, no aggression, everyone just being cool.
Thanks man, so excited.
Richard C Great to hear!
Leuke clip, kan ik veel van leren...
Thank you and I'm glad you feel that way.
Snarfhimself 8b.
Great looking set up. Just got back into keeping African Cichlids myself. Hoping to get a breeding set up going. Thanks for the Info!
You are welcome and good luck with your new venture.
I just converted our Community Tank to a African Cichlids Tank. This is a good start for me. Thank you for sharing your knowledge-it can be intimidating.
You're in for a adventure. The best advice I can give is: patience and research. If you'd like, come over the Facebook page, "Ben O'Cichlid" where a lot of fish keepers of all levels get into friendly discussions and share tips.
Hey Ben, I really enjoyed this video. It is very much obvious that you learned a lot about African Cichlid fish keeping when you filmed it. Thanks very much for sharing
You're welcome Dennis. I appreciate you taking the time to watch my videos.
Ben, I am getting back into the larger tank part of the hobby, after decades of being away. Your videos are a pleasure to watch and are very enlightening. Thank you! Glenn
I always love to hear of someone getting into (or back into) this wonderful hobby! Thank you!
Ben Ochart i just got a 54 gallon corner tank and am going to do a Peacock Cichlids tank. Any advice is appreciated.
I watched tonnes of videos on african cichlids for a whole year before I bought my first mbuna....I found African cichlid hub extremely helpful...+ the others you named.
+ORANGE FISHHEAD Very wise of you O.F. The African cichlids are so pretty that it's easy to want to rush in and start enjoying them. Then you end up having to re-home a few that shouldn't have been in the mix to begin with. Thanks for watching and commenting!
Great video Ben. Thanks for the shoutout!
+Steve Poland Cichlids You're welcome Steve and thanks for watching and commenting.
Thank you! As a newbie to the world of cichlids I appreciated your attitude and positivity!! I just lost 2 of my originals to bullying and tomorrow I am visiting a breeder to purchase some more to over stock my tank. Take care and thanks for sharing!
Ree Simmons Thank you for watching Ree and if you want some on going advice come on over to our Facebook group, "Ben O'Cichlid." Lots of friendly fish keepers willing to give advice.
Ben Ochart Thank you. Yes. I have already done that too 😃
Very nice tank. I just set up a 75 gal after a 10 year break and will be stocking it with Africans . Looking forward to it. Thanks for the info.
You're welcome Chris. Feel free to come over to the "Ben O'Cichlid" FBook group if we can be of any assistance.
Some great tips. 👍 I have been keeping fish for almost 30 years but I am sure I still bend a few of those tips.
Thank you for stopping by, watching and commenting Peter.
Ben, thanks for the call out to HalfMan HalfCichlid, I appreciate your channel too. After 50+ years in the hobby, and 25 years with Africans I am still tweaking a number of aspects of keeping africans. Two that I am continuously trying new things on are cichlid agression and Malawi bloat. Some of my trials and experiments will be in my future videos. I tend to not mix mbuna with peacocks and haps because of cross aggression, but this seems to work ok for you.
+HalfMan HalfCichlid I might be going in the direction of peacock only tank. We'll see. The yellow lab and yellow tail seem very peaceful but the rusty struggles and the other two (cobue and chewere) can get testy. I'm keeping a close eye on it. Thanks for watching and commenting. You are appreciated.
A very good example of how to keep African cichlids good job!..
Thank you for the kind words Ian. I appreciate it.
Great tips Ben 👌🏼👌🏼. I have learned more from this 13min video than I have in 3 hours of google searching. Tip #10 is something I’m working on. I stress a lot about my cichlids because I want them to be happy and healthy. And also because I’m only 1 month new to the hobby. Your videos have helped me so much. Thank you 😊
Great tips sir. Love that you mentioned Pondguru, I found him early after starting this hobby. I feel his knowledge of filtration is second to none. His products are worth more, they never wear out. This is a very rewarding hobby. I always remind myself it's not about me, it's about my babies.(fish) Thanks for sharing.
Thanks Joel. You're right, PondGuru made canister care simple for me. And I agree, it's about creating the best living conditions for the fish (our babies).
Some of the best advice I have heard, and I don't even keep Africans. This goes across the whole hobby. Ive heard so many opinions in videos, social media, and in person and you got it right lol.
Thank you Andrew, I appreciate the kind words.
Great video. I'm currently buying a new 180g after selling my last one 2 years ago which I regretted moments after selling it. So can't wait for my new one and getting back into African cichlids. I miss sitting down after a long day at work and watching them
Yes, it's very relaxing. It will be fun getting a new tank going. You might want to share the set up on RUclips. It will give you a video record of the journey and help others embarking on a new tank.
Giod luck and thanks for watching.
second to last tip is the best, but all tips are on point. Ben you are such an inspiration. Love all the info and amazing fish! Keep up the good work bro!
+Corey Hecker Corey, I shout out to you was missed...sorry. Is the second to last the #9, #10 or #11 bonus tip? Just curious as to which one you thought was best. As always, thanks for watching. Your input is appreciated.
+Ben Ochart tip number 10, but 11 is great too.
Thanks for the reply Corey. I included that tip because I read so many comments on fish blogs from people agonizing about points that are not always that vital. Seems it would take some of the fun and joy out of the hobby to worry so much. I also have very little patience for people who are mean spirited. There are polite ways to convey, "If you do that all your fish will die!" Be well.
Beautiful fish Ben. Good suggestions. Love the rocks and plants.
fantastic advice... I have been watching videos for the last three hours as I am new to the hobby, and I must say.... I sure learned a lot from your video. congrats... awesome... from san Francisco
Well, this is why I post. Thank you for the kind words.
I bought my first tank and Cichlids in 1993, and I have learned so much since then but still feel like there is so much more to learn. Good musicians like to get together and have jam sessions, good aquarists like to get together for finned friend talk, we all learn from each other.
Watched a lot of videos as a new comer to cichlids. Yours was one of the best I've seen, thanks for the info.
It pleases me that I was able to provide you with some help. Thanks for watching and for the kind words.
Your a good man. We need more ppl like you in the hobby
Ryan Cabonce Thank you Ryan, I appreciate the kind words.
Thanks For The Shout Out... Great Video and Points... Water Looking Crystal Clear... That Sunshine Benga On Fire...
+RobertLee Cichlids Thank you sir. He's really blossomed and he's a real ham when I'm filming. Always flashing and challenging the German Red but they never really hurt each other. Thanks for watching and commenting.
The crystal clear water is breathtaking . I envy you so much now. :)
Thank you. In other videos I talk about how I got the water to be like that. Thank you for watching.
Your 10 reasons not to get African cichlids got my African Cichlid tank started! Beautiful fish as always keep up the excellent work.
This was a great talk! I feel more comfortable knowing I'm still learning everyday. Thank you from Australia
Hello friend down under! Thank you for watching and I'm glad that you enjoyed it.
Nice Video. Been keeping Africans for 3 years and found some good tips in your video. I also agree with your tips.
Thank you. I'm glad you've been helped, that is the purpose of my channel (and to have some fun).
Hey Ben,
Just wanted you to know that I think you make some nice vids. While I've kept fish for more than 30 years, 25 of those years with cichlids, I'm new to east African Rift Lake cichlids (less than a year) and love to hear other people's tips and tricks. I'll keep watching!
Thank you for the kind words. I'm always watching and learning as well. Lots of good ideas out there. Thank you for watching and commenting.
I have been in the hobby for 3+ years great tips. Regarding water changes, I fill 3 five gallon water jugs, treat the water, and let it sit for one week to adjust the water to the temperature of my tank works great for me
If it works, keep doing it. I think some are too quick to change things. If it works, why change? Thanks for watching.
Mr Ochart I'm a new subscriber. I have a African cichlid tank. Great channel, you're easy to listen to. Some of these guys voice is annoying. Keep up the great work sir.
Thank you very much!
@@BenOchart you're welcome sir.
thank you for your tips, I'm really inspired by the beauty of your fish, clarity of your water and over all tank setup. I'm brand new to the cichlid world and loving every minute!
Thanks again, you've gained a new subscriber :)
Peace!
Thanks you Tony, much appreciated.
Hey man just wanted to let you know I'm getting cichlids and this was so helpful I watched all your videos in your description. Thanks so much. :)
I'm very happy that you found the videos helpful.
Good luck with your cichlids and do let me know when you've posted a video 😀
Ben Ochart I will. 👍
Thank very much. Great tank! I have a 55 Gallon Mbuna tank. I have been in the hobby for a few years and just took on 9 mbuna ciclids in my tank.
Thanks for sharing Ben. Just bought an aquarium and plan on cichlids. Funny, I'm already obsessing over the tank and water and don't even have cichlids yet. Great video!
The hobby should relax you, not stress you out, right!?
Thanks for watching and commenting.
Very Nice, great looking collection bro.
Thank you Jerome, much appreciated!
Very good tips especially on not having anxiety or stress about it and enjoy it. It’s sad when people attach others especially when someone is learning.
I have no patience for people who discourage new fish keepers by making them feel stupid.
Great video. Your fish are beautiful and your tank is spotless.
Thank you Tiffany.
i learned everything from youtube fishkeeping community..especially kgtropicals..great video bro...respect
Thank you. Yes, there's a wealth of great info out there on RUclips.
I don't know if anyone has mentioned it yet but I would suggest going with a good pump and your garden hose with a quick attachment coupling for water changes. This makes it so much easier and you can use the water in your garden if you have one. I refill with my tank via aquarium tubing and faucet. This has made a world of difference with my back and it saves time.
One other quick suggestion, instead of using Prime water conditioner you can get the same product in powder form , it's called Safe. This powder dissolves instantly and goes nearly 4 times as far as the liquid, it will save you a ton of money.
THANK YOU for your videos 😜
LOL, you absolutely must watch my most recent video. It's like you read my mind, or I read yours. Thanks for watching and commenting.
I've started using Safe. So far so good. Thanks for the tip.
You're fantastic, man. Earned a very fast sub.
Very kind of you😀👍🏻
Great tips Ben...thanks for the shoutout :)
+Mbuna Marcus - Aquariums, Cichlids and More You're welcome Marcus and thanks for watching and commenting.
GREAT VIDEO!!!! I'm fixing to start my own 135 gallon African Cichlid tank.
Thank you Wes. In the next few weeks I'm going to put out a full, piece by piece breakdown of the 135. You might want to tune in.
I always wondered how the stores had so many aggressive fish in one tank. I am looking to get back into a larger tank (75 gal). I think you have inspired me to try African cychlids. Love all the fish colors. Thanks
Hello Randall, Come over to the FB page and you can get some advice along the way. Good luck.
I learned that, as well as size. Keeping fish with similar needs of diet and water perameters makes it easier to balance the tank for all its inhabitants. Having those requirements met, its easier for the fish to achieve full potential size, color, and lifespan.. Good stuff sir.. Thanks !
Thanks FS.
Beautiful aquarium 🥇
Thank you for your information 🙏
Thank you 😀👍🏻
Excellent content my friend!!
Love your videos. You have such a genuine desire to help others by sharing your knowledge and experiences.
Thank you Andre, I appreciate your kind words.
I love those electric blue Nagarra they’re amazing
Cool tank love the simplicity of your tank and love this yellow fish.
Thank you Salem!
You have a few of my favorite Malawi Cichlids in this tank, #1 Labidochromis caeruleus, # 2 Crytocara Morrii (Blue Dolphin) #3 Pseudotropheus Sp. Acei
Great video! I just recently, yesterday, lost my last Butterfly. Had it for almost 10 years! Wish I would have watches videos like this before setting up my tank. I'm a former Oscar and Pacu hobbyist, but had to switch up species because my wife was getting afraid of having these monsters in the house, LOL. So I'm still learning about African Cichlids. Keep the videos coming!
Sorry about that Butterfly, but very well done to you for giving it such a long life in a tank!
I'll keep the videos coming and I thank you for the encouragement.
Yes, keep them coming! I want to restart my African Cichlid tank any ideas on substrates, community size (I have a 37 gallon tank), filters, etc?
37 gal will be good for growing them out, but you'll want a bigger tank in a year. In the meantime, with some sand and rock work (hiding spots) you could go with 7 - 8 Mbuna, maybe Electric Yellow Labs, some Yellow Tails, and a few more of the more peaceful labs. Gotta think long term, just in case you don't get that bigger tank. Peacocks and Haps would outgrow that size very quickly.
If you don't mind the sound of water, a good HOB filter (hang on back) would do the trick and they are easy to clean.
If you're pH needs buffering, go with crushed coral or aragonite as a substrate to help raise pH.
Go to Jehmco.com and get an Eheim-Jaeger 200 watt heater on sale. You'll be set to go.
Awesome! Thanks.
4,000th like, baby! fascinating fish! great tips.
Thank you Bo!
Brother I am with you there! I watch an extensive amount of videos on whatever fish I am looking into next. I thought I was just crazy, but I see I am not.
Thomas McAllister It's a GOOD kind of crazy :-)
Thanks for watching!
+Ben Ochart Haha! No problem.
Great video I always learn so much from you thanks
Beautiful tank and fish. Quality video. My goal is a large cichlids tank sometime next year. I just setup a 29 gallon community. Thanks.
Feel free to ask questions during your set up process or come to the "Ben O'Cichlid" Facebook group page where other fish keepers can provide advice.
Will do. Thanks.
I'm getting back into the hobby. Thanks for this video upload.
You are very welcome.
I love your fish aquarium. I had a mixture of African Cichlids with a few Angel Fish. I added them in at the same time and they actually grew up together. I also had some snails that had babies. Unfortunately. I lost them all due to a power outage during an ice storm. Thank you for the tips. They are very useful.
Sorry to hear about that ice storm. Did you start over?
Thank you for watching and commenting.
Thank you for the tips. Cichlids are just a tiny thought in my mind right now. You made a comment down below somewhere about adding salt when doing water changes. I thought, "salt?" Clearly I have to do a lot more research before this tiny thought about setting up a cichlid tank gets any bigger! LOL. So, thanks very much for the great tips. This was a good place to start!
Yes, watch a lot of videos before starting. There's lots of great advice out there. once you're under way it's very easy and a lot of fun.
great stuff Ben, fish & tank r looking flawless!!!
+T-Man 428 I appreciate the compliment. Thanks for watching and commenting.
You have a very nice set up. I enjoyed watching your video.
Thank you Rita! :-)
I have a African cichlids tank and now I’m thinking 🤔 of going for my second tank with South America cichlids tank just waiting on some info and advice before I take on this challenge love this hobby it has helped me get throw a lot
Excellent video and some really useful tips for any fish keeper 👏👏👏👏🤗
+PsychedelicBabe Thank you. Some of it, like a lot of us, was learned the hard way. Thanks for watching and sharing, you are appreciated.
Hi Ben, I'd just like to say I think your tank and your fish are stunning one of the best that I follow on YT. I also love your insight and the way you deliver your videos. Kept up the great work. Merry Christmas!!
jon mcmanus Thank you very much Jon.
Beautiful tank and Very good video! Filtration and overstock is the main things with cichlids. I’ve had cichlids for almost 10 years been through it all. Theyre very aggressive and don’t even think about trying to do a nice aquscape with live plants. I’ve tried about 3 times and nope nope nope hahaha
That was an expensive lesson for me. Respected authorities in the hobby assured me that cichlids would leave anubias and java fern alone. They told me that they tasted sour to cichlids. Well my fish didn't get the memo. As soon as they put on size they destroyed the plants. I salvaged what I could and put them in the grow-out tank. The smaller fish seem to ignore them.
Ben Ochart wow that stinks! And yes I learned that lesson a couple times lol frustrating but that’s a cichlids for ya! Haha
Excellent presentation and very useful tips. Many thanks
You are welcome Alex. Thanks for watching.
Thanks for sharing! Just started a 60 gallon cichlid tank and appreciate any knowledge.
You are welcome and good luck with your new tank.
I never acclimate any of my fish. Never had any problems. Great video. 👍🏻
great advice ben. your tank and fish are beautiful
Thank you Fred, I appreciate the kind words and your support of my channel.
Wow, beautiful fish! Healthy and very clean!
Thank you Mitch and thank you for watching and commenting.
Thanks for the tips! I was thinking about getting into cichlids, b/c I was given a 55 gal from a friend and I wanted to put something colorful and active in there. However after listening to what you said about them, they are not for me. I was also able to pick up some good general insight for running a large tank too! Thanks again!
One Bad Banana They are amazing fish, but they're not for everybody. Good luck with whatever you end up with.
You video was great.. Thank you.. for a bunch of great tips that I will definitely use.. Good job keep it up
Thank you very much for the encouragement!
Beautiful tank Ben. Thanks for the upload.
You are welcome and thank you for watching and commenting.
Hi Benny
Love your vids, tips and information you provide for us all. Keep up the good work.
Cheers
Great Video! Thanks for your wisdom! I love your relaxing and informative style. I'm looking forward to watching more of your videos.
+Dave Woods Thanks Dave I'm very glad you liked it. I received a lot of help early on from RUclips vid's, so I'm just playing it forward.
Great tank and pointers thank you! I am just starting my first Cichlid tank, she just finished cycling yesterday and my fish are arriving tomorrow !!! thank you again.
Very exciting. Enjoy!
how do you cycle your tank before you add fish?
+Kayla Ramos there are tons of articles on "fishless cycles" I used ammonia and continued to add ammonia until the tank fully cycled
+Kayla Ramos Kayla, watch my tank set up videos. There are fast simple techniques you can use to get a healthy tank going, especially if you can get a hold of some filter media from an already established tank.
+Ben Ochart yes unfortunately I have filter media because a few days ago I killed all of my boyfriends cichlids. he is on vacation so I wanted to change the water because it was very cloudy and green. I removed 95% of the water then refilled with tap water that want treated and most likely hot in temperature. I also poured the water in super fast so maybe I knocked them unconscious because they immediately fell to their sides and then bellied up and died one by one. I was so hurt and my boyfriend is super passed and upset
Great video. Helpful advice and some beautiful fish. Thanks for posting it.
Thank you Ed!
Thank you for all your advice. It was much needed by me.
You are very welcome.
Great mentor! Thank you for your videos
Glad you like them!
Hey it's me again, lol. I was just watching some vids on acclimating fish and I do basically the same thing as you describe here. The only difference for an extra safety precaution is that I dump the fish into one of those cheap mesh breeder boxes after I float the bag for half an hr. then just hang the breeder box in the tank and watch. I did this because I almost lost 2 fish that got stressed by the water difference and on top of that having to deal with the others as "the new guys". In the breeder box, they are in the tank water but there is a separation between them and the established fish in case they need an hr or so to be ready to deal with their tank mates.
Hey, we each come up with bright ideas that work for us. I've starting feeding everybody before adding fish, then, after adding, turning the lights out. That tends to mellow things out.
By the way, be sure to watch my next video, I'm gonna throw out there the subject of our last conversation and see what kinds of comments I get. It's entitled, "Are We Killing Our Fish!" It should generate some lively conversations.
Thanks for watching and commenting Ron!
Sounds good!
Incredible water quality!! Those are lucky fish!
Thank you Newerafrican!