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I have a space for a tank that is 36" long and 12" wide
And a 30 gallon long seems like about the largest tank that fits. I would like to start up a cichlid tank. I like the firemouths and the severums but I think they get to big. I was also thinking of yellow labs, aurutus and Mbuni types. I am probably killing the names. Would those three be able to be combined or would they be better in a species only tank. I think they come from the same area. Of those fish I showed what be a good stock list.
1-pair to a group. Just trying to get some ideas. I have never kept the more aggressive cichlids.

I can't help you much with the African cichlids, but I can tell you that a firemouth (and possibly two) will fit in there. They don't get as large as certain other Central American cichlids, as the firemouth typically tops out at six and a half inches. In addition, they aren't super aggressive, and can be kept with other fish. A stocking list like this might work:
1 firemouth
6 tiger barbs
6 black skirt tetras
1 bristlenose

The above fish are all very hardy, and shouldn't have any problems with compatibility, water or temperament-wise. Though the above setup would be close to overstocked, a good schedule of water changes will help ensure that few problems occur.

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And when he gets to Heaven, to Saint Peter he will tell: "One more Marine reporting, Sir! I've served my time in Hell."

Thanks Sirbrooks. I was thinking of doing a barb tank as well. Maybe I can do both.

yellow labs rnt that aggressive compared to other mbuna types
in a rocked up 30
4 yellow labs 1m 3f
3 red by reds 1m 2f
4 johonii 1m 3f
this may seem over stocked but it helps with aggression levels in mbuna type tanks this set up is all african n gives yellow blue black n orangy red colours very active fish all of which r hardy is u choose to go african

brybenn, are you suggesting all those fish, or just one species?

I would also steer clear of the aratus. Pound for pound they are one of the most aggressive africans. Just not an easy cichlid to find compatible tank mates for and they will have no problems attacking other fish much larger than themselves. Some people do have success with them and but for the most part not. They are a lot of fish IMO better colored and better temperment.

After doing alot of research I am leaning toward the Firemouth/Barb tank. I think my water is more suited for them. How is this stock list I don't want to be to overstocked but I do do weekly water changes.

2-firemouths
6-tiger barbs(can you mix green,albino,standards)
4-6 small corys

Or should I stick to just 1 firemouth

1-fire mouth
6-8 tiger barbs
4-6 small corys

I think you'd be fine with 2 firemouths. just watch out if they pair up and start breeding. they may start bullying the other fish. they'd probably just chase the barbs around but keep an eye on them. I'd get 6-8 cories instead of 4-6 though.

Last edited by jason_r_s at 12-Feb-2005 00:01

To answer your question from another thread you posted that was locked I think you need a combination of rocks, bogwood, and plants for a firemouth/barb combo tank. I would also use sand as the substrate because the firemouths like to sift throug the substrate for leftover food tidbits.

Last edited by cichlidiot at 23-Feb-2005 03:05