What is the best substrate for a planted tank with cichlids?

What is the best substrate for a planted tank with dwarf cichlids as a main focus?

I like the idea of using sand so it is easy for the cichlids to do their decorating, but I've heard that it is hard for a plants roots to grow in.

For the dwarfs, it is still a toss-up between the apistos and Bolivian rams, although I am starting to lean towards the rams. I would LOVE to do some kind of shellie, but then I wouldn't be able to play with the green stuff. EBAs are high on my want list too, but the tank will only be 40 gallons.

The other fish I put in probably wouldn't be affected much by the substrate anyway

 

Paging Dr. jmaldo. Paging Dr. Jmaldo please

 

I think with these types of fish, dirted and planted will do great. But I don't know much about these fish myself, but many look very interesting..... dwarf cichlids.

 

I would probably do sand with root tabs and just plant some big swords in there. the cichlids wont be able to uproot a giant root base. maybe coat the very bottom with a thin layer of gravel so they have something to latch on to. thats just going off what i know though, im sure there are other planted setups that would work with cichlids

 

Paging Dr. @jmaldo. Paging Dr. Jmaldo please

LOL,
By no means a Dr., still consider myself a sophomore "Wet Pet keeper/Underwater Gardener" compared to most.
Dwarf Cichlids encompass quite a few species. I only have experience with "Bolivians" my "Favorite" fish. Also, Electric Blue Acara another cichlid, but not dwarf. Mine preferred sand, after all they are earth eaters, they actually sift the sand for food.
I have used Imagitarium Black Sand and Blue Diamond Blasting Sand (Medium grit). Just make sure you rinse very well, then when you think its clean rinse again. If planting make sure you have at the very least a depth of 2" and use root tabs.
I have kept Bolivians and EBA together in a 33L, 29H and also a 55g.
Only issue if you have pairs would be during spawns, they are both
"Great" parents/protectors, no real damage caused just chasing. Here is a pic of the Bolivians when I first got them:




Good Luck.

 

I a

LOL,
By no means a Dr., still consider myself a sophomore "Wet Pet keeper/Underwater Gardener" compared to most.
Dwarf Cichlids encompass quite a few species. I only have experience with "Bolivians" my "Favorite" fish. Also, Electric Blue Acara another cichlid, but not dwarf. Mine preferred sand, after all they are earth eaters, they actually sift the sand for food.
I have used Imagitarium Black Sand and Blue Diamond Blasting Sand (Medium grit). Just make sure you rinse very well, then when you think its clean rinse again. If planting make sure you have at the very least a depth of 2" and use root tabs.
I have kept Bolivians and EBA together in a 33L, 29H and also a 55g.
Only issue if you have pairs would be during spawns, they are both
"Great" parents/protectors, no real damage caused just chasing. Here is a pic of the Bolivians when I first got them:

View attachment 735119

Good Luck.

I am pretty excited for this future build. It is a long way off though

 

I know the feeling, I started thinking about something new once I sold my Discus. Decided on the Africans. The research is key and help/advise from members here was so valuable.
Will be

 

I've heard cichlids like sand better, correct my if I'm wrong I'm not a big cichlid guy. If your worried about the plants floating up or not being able to root, you can try those metal weights, I believe Aquarium Co-op sells them cheap on his store, or you can check eBay and Amazon.

 

I've heard cichlids like sand better, correct my if I'm wrong I'm not a big cichlid guy. If your worried about the plants floating up or not being able to root, you can try those metal weights, I believe Aquarium Co-op sells them cheap on his store, or you can check eBay and Amazon.

I can't find those metal weights Anywhere in China. Very annoying.

My plan is to build a big planted tank and let it really take hold before adding much fish.
The dwarf cichlids will probably shift through the substrate a lot - hence my desire for sand - but they should mostly leave the plants alone. I hope

 

It depends on how heavily planted you want it. A few low light plants here and there sand will be fine but if you want more or medium/high light plants i would get an aquasoil.