Suitable Malawi Mbuna Tank Mates

verbal said:
I would probably go with your inclination to re-home the auratus and kenyii.

I think labidochromis caeruleus, iodotropheus sprengerae and one of the labeotropheus species would be a good mix. I think you might have competition and/or hybridization issues with both species in the same genus.
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I agree with this. The Labs, Rusties, and Labeotropheus would make a nice mix. I'd go with the Fuelleborni, as I've read the Trewavasae can be a little more on the aggressive side. If you can get a Marmalade Cat Fuelleborni(male OB), it will add even more color variety to the tank. Although I'd still try to get 1m/4f, the m/f ratio may be less critical with these species. I've got multiple males of these, albeit in a 125 with 2 other species, but I've had no major issues beyond some light sparring/chasing. Adding a group of Petricola is a good addition for some bottom dwelling, high energy action. Whatever you decide, good luck!
 
My mbunas only tolerate larger catfish or other species that are too large to harass. They chase/hunt down anything else other than mbunas.
 
Mbuna should be kept only with other Mbuna of like temperament. It's the least hard on all inhabitants. Also avoid any fish same color and shape as they are.
 
I have a Black Banded Leporinus, a Striped Raphael Catfish and two Jewel Cichlid in with my Mbuna and they have been co-habitating for four months now with my Mbuna.

My Mbuna are 1 Red Zebra, 1 Albino zebra, 1 Yellow Lab, and 1 Blue Electric (Melanochromis Johanni.
 
I totally agree with the suggestions of Blue and Rcr.
 
If you definately want some plecs in there get some b/n's, i always had them in my mbuna tanks, great algae eaters and you will get lots of that with no plants in there to fight for the nutrients in the water. Also if you want a really good looking tank, try 5/6 yellow labs with about 15 demasoni, really nice mix of colour and the dems would only be agressive to cospecific fish, so would leave the labs alone. Good luck.
 
chris521957 said:
Also if you want a really good looking tank, try 5/6 yellow labs with about 15 demasoni, really nice mix of colour and the dems would only be agressive to cospecific fish, so would leave the labs alone.
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I really love that combo, too!!! :thm:
 
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