Help starting a cichlids tank,

rrcoolj

It would be better to add them at the same time. That way the fish wouldn't claim the tank before the new guys arrive. It allows them to stat on an equal setting as far as dominance goes. 5 1-2" angelfish won't affect your bioload that much.

BarbH

I agree with rrcoolj, once you have the new tank cycled I would add all the fish at once, the two that you already have along with 3 new ones. You want to add them all at the same time so that they are able to establish territories and pecking order in the tank. With the size that you have I would put no more than 5 angels in there. Also when you get the new fish try to make sure that the new fish are around the same size as the ones that you already have. If you have not thought about it already you might also want to add some live plants to the tank. There are quite a few choices that are available that are easy, and are both benificial to the fish and also the tank. If you decide this is something that you are interested in exploring we can help you with any questions that you may have.

Christople

becareful with beach rocks... no salt.

ScarlettAngel

Well hopefully by the end of today my cichlid tank will really be taking shape. All the pebbles, slate, wood and plants are going in. Everything's been scrubbed, tested, soaked etc so it's all ready......... Very exciting.