Well it's been over 5 months since an update. The tank has been through various high and low spots. All my rams died within a few months. I think one may have had a disease and infected the others, along with the apisto but I also think the cooler temps and conditions of an aquascape make it a tough life for some cichlids.
One day I came home from work to find a huge leaf stuck on the filter intake. This pretty much stopped all water flow and caused the co2 level to rise and gassed about 10 of my fish! Two rapid water changes saved the rest. Live and learn I suppose but shows how finely balanced these tanks are.
BBA has subsided but it still apparent in the tank although over the last couple of months things seem to have stabilised. The slow growers (buces, anubius, crypts) have been growing rapidly and need constant trimming. Some of the older fast growers became untidy or died leaving the tank lacking a bit of colour in my opinion.
The carpet at the front had too much fallen moss growing in it and I accidently pulled half of it out when trying to remove the moss - so the rest has gone.
Overall, I've been pretty satisfied with my first attempt at an aquarium. I think I've learned enough now to attempt a rescape soon.
Here's a video of how the tank looks today.
