View Full Version : Compatability, need a quick answer please!
erin14
01-18-2008, 6:41 PM
Would a Blue Cobalt ( Maylandia callainos ) and a Powder Blue Socolofi ( Pseudotropheus Socolofi) be okay together? I was just thinking that I'm doing all males and the 2 look really similar in color so I don't want them to kill one another, since I've read that males of the same species will often beat up or kill the other. I have the Blue cobalt at home in my tank already with 3 yellow labs and 1 johanni and I was just wondering if the socolofi would be okay too. Thanks.
ibr3ak
01-18-2008, 7:21 PM
I have both in my tank and aside from a few "run in's" they're both doing fine, their body types are different even though the two might look similar in color, socolofi is longer and slender, while cobalt is basically a zebra. But you never know for sure how it'll turn out, if anything be prepared to take out one or the other.
might be fine - all depends on the disposition of the individual fish. socolofi are peaceful relative to other mbuna, the zebra usually a little less so. just keep any eye on them and as always with africans, have a plan B (remove to different tank/return to store).
Rbishop
01-19-2008, 7:16 AM
It has worked for me in the past, but as Coler mentioned, always have a plan "B".
I find it odd why I tend to remember only now what I have done before. I would have answered earlier. It did work for me before. No issues with the mix. Just separate whenever necessary as previously mentioned.:)
kay-bee
01-19-2008, 9:01 AM
Despite the color similarity, the cobalt blue zebra and powder blue socolofi won't view each other as conspecifics. However 'general' mbuna 'interaction' (i.e., pecking order disputes) can occur with any two mbuna's, regardless of species. My sole cobalt blue zebra has completely ignored and is completely ignored by my group of socolofi.
....socolofi are peaceful relative to other mbuna....
Experiences vary, I guess. I've found socolofi's, particularly the males, and especially multiple males, to be rather rambunctious.
absolutely - the disposition of the individual fish plus tank mates is far more significant than a perceived species tendency.