Mixing tinfoil barbs with african cichlids

[dempsey6]

Is this a bad idea?

The scenario is I have 3-4 tinfoil barbs to add to either a South American or African tank. I don't wanna add them to the South American tank because it is already a bit crowded and I also feel as if their non-stop movement will be better suited for similar tank mates like the african cichlids (as opposed to the calmer South American tank).

 

[jpappy789]

Which african cichlids are we talking about here? It's a large and diverse group...also what size tank?

 

[dempsey6]

Which african cichlids are we talking about here? It's a large and diverse group...also what size tank?

I'll be honest I dont know too much about the african types but I believe what I am shooting for are the Malawi types but I will probably just end up mixing them.

The tank is an 120 gallon (5 feet long). I built a rock pile about 4 feet long and 16-18 inches tall (tank is 2 feet tall).

 

[rufioman]

They should be fine in an African as long as they are the same size and have been living with aggressive temperament fish.

 

[efors]

Maybe I would try them with Malawi Haps and/or Peacocks, but not with Mbuna. Just my opinion.

 

[rufioman]

Yeah probably not mbuna. They'd look cool with some peacocks ><

 

[RiVerfishgirl]

I guess it really depends. The schooling fish movement might trigger the africans to pick on them. But on the other hand tinfoils can defend themselves adequately against a lot of fish.
I've not known anyone to keep tinfoils with africans, but my friend was keeping silver dollars with a few mbuna and their temperament and movement is similar (if anything I'd say silver dollars are more aggressive though, and more equipped to defend themselves. Not to mention smarter, IMO). The 3 silver dollars would actually defend the females against the male's mating advances lol. They would surround a female and chase the male off.