problem with territorial Socolof's Mbuna

[powers]

I'm new to keeping African Cichlids. I bought a Socolof's Mbuna and another multi-color Cichlid (name escapes me now) a couple weeks ago. The Socolof's proceeded to claim the entire 20 gallon tank as it's own and subsequently terrorized the other fish into hiding behind the lip of the power filter. Taking pity on the multi-color, I returned it to the pet shop in hope that it will find a better home.

I then, mistakenly thinking that same species might be more tolerant of one another, bought another Socolof's Mbuna. When I introduced the new fish to the tank, the pattern repeated itself. The new Socolof has now taken to hiding behind the lip of power filter, only coming out to eat (and is promptly pounced upon by the older, larger Socolof).

Is there a chance that the larger Socolof will ever let up and allow the smaller Socolof some space? Or is the larger Socolof just not going to allow anyone into it's territory (which he / she thinks is the entire tank)?

Thanks....

[valerie]

Your tank is too small for the african Mbuna you chose. If you want to keep african then you will need a bigger tank(55g min.).

IN your 20 g you could keep a couple yellow labs, since they are less aggresssive then most MBuna. Read this article it will help you understant what type and how many fish you can get. http://www.cichlid-forum.com/articles/cookie_cutter_20g.php

but idealy a 20 isn't a good tank for mbuna,try shell dwellers instead.