Idea for 55g African: Cichlids + Congos?

joel.uejio

joel.uejio

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Jun 1, 2009
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Joel
I have some threads in the newbie forum and a blog about a 55g I'm setting up. Had an idea for another community tank, but now starting to get interested in a Mbuna set-up. How does this sound for a basic plan:

3 types of African cichlids: 4 each (I find out what cichlids are available here, pick the 3 least aggressive types I like and get 4 each)
1-2 synodontis catfish
10 Congo tetras (dither fish too big to get eaten)

Tank Stats:
55 gallon, AC110 and Rena Filstar xP1, Sand substrate, Rocks & Plants, Low Light, Temp = High 70's, pH = 7.9

Thanks in advance for the comments!
 
im not sure if this is possible. although after seeing that thread about the julidochromis and the glowlight tetras that really threw me off. so it may be possible, although mbunas in general arnt the nicest in personality. if not i know that kribs (which are also a african cichlid, just not a riftie) can be kept in a community style setup. wait until jpappy, PB or efors get on (sorry if i forgot anyone who commonly helps me) . they can usually awnser your questions
 
Hi, joel!
3 Mbuna species for a 55gal is a good idea, but I would make it 5 fishes of each species. 2 or 3 Syno catfishes as S. petricola or multipunctatus are also great; but skip the Congo tetras, mbunas are very active and don't need any dither fish. Also, water parameters for mbunas and those tetras are very different and mbunas may even kill them; not a good idea that mix, IMO. Your Tank Stats seem to be great for mbunas!
 
For best results mix Mbuna only with other Mbuna that are not Yellow.

You will otherwise end up with environmentally incompatible fish among other reason. Labidochromis Caerleus will mix with other Mbuna of a different color. Breeding time may cause problems if they don't have their own territory and caves.
 
he could go with my planned EVENTUAL stock for my 55 and add 5 more of another species or is that not possible since the syno cats are in there?

also on another note. i thought that congo tetras came from africa meaning that they perfered water a little more hard than that of the south american tetras
 
No, Austin. Congo tetras are from the Zaire River region. They need soft and slightly acid water. About the Syno catfishes, they can be added first and later the Mbunas without any problem.
 
Thanks, all, for the tips!

The Synodontis petricola look pretty cool, so maybe I'll see if I can find 3 of those.

I'll skip the ditherers and then do 3-4 species at 5 each. Should I aim for 1 male & 4 females, or does it depend on the particular species of cichlid?
 
For most mbunas, 1M/4F ratio is the best way to go. But with yellow labs (L. caeruleus) and yellow tail aceis (Ps. acei) this ratio is not so important due to the more "docile" nature, in general, of these 2 species.
 
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