Cichlids and algae questiosn?

Question

What cichlids are compatable with neons and ottos in a 20 gallon! I wanted rams but the petstores near where I live don't have them (petsmart and petco). Is there a more popular species ( no gouramis) that I can keep just one or two of in a tank full of little fish??? Also, there is an algae of some sort in the tank. It is against the glass, it is green, and it is tiny dots, not bunched together. My ottos don't eat it. Scrubbing it off...it is to tough my arms hurt when Im done. What could it be? How could I kill it?

I clean the tank weekly and I feed the fish less than what you guys suggested...

Answer 1

Apistogramma will also work well in the type of tank you are describing (provided it is decorated suitably), as well as keyhole cichlids. That's it. I highly recommend not attempting any other type of cichlid - not Kribensis either which, while small, are too feisty for neons.

As far as the algae goes, if you have no plants try limiting direct light to the tank to just a few hours per day - ambient room lighting is fine for the fish and you can simply turn the tank light on when you are home to view the fish. If you have plants, try adding faster growing ones, or more in general, to help use the nutrients before algae can.

Answer 2

Don't buy fish at the "big box" stores anyway. Look for a locally owned pet store,for good quality fish and sound advice. The Rams (Apstogramma Ramirezii) are a good choice The strain known as German Rams are particularly attractive, and fairly easy to keep.
As to your algae problem, algae requires light and nutrients. The light is easy to control,the nutrients require a little more work. The two most likely problem nutrients are phosphates(found in the food) and nitrates (produced from fish waste and uneaten food). The way to control these chemicals is through frequent, small water changes,and of course avoiding over feeding. Cut the number of feedings to one or two small feedings per day,and begin to do small water changes every two or three days,along with careful siphoning of the gravel. You will still have to scrape the glass for a while,until the water is cleaned up, a scraper that uses a razor blade might be easier than a scratchy type on your arms.
If you can't find a local pet store,you can get Rams from several Internet sources.