advice for good tank mates

[General]

i am looking for good tank mates for Metriaclima estherae (blue). Right now i have 24 juveniles. I have them in 180 gal tank, with a sump filtration system that filters 1100 gph. i have a rocky enviroment and probabyl going to add some fake plants soon.
i would like something that is fun and colorful, maybe a little bigger than the Metriaclima estherae which will get about 4-5 inches, but i want them to get along.
any advice

Thanks in advance

 

[mike dunagan]

Have you search other mbuna? They make great tank mates.

 

[General]

oh i wasnt sure since i thought Metriaclima estherae were very aggressive to other species. but in general are mbuna, compatable or are there things that i should look out for?

 

[greenearthlawns]

just have plenty of rock work and hiding places and you will be fine with a tank that big~ Zebras fight more within their own species from what I've observed and I've had them for a couple years, males of the same size will sometimes fight for dominance especially when they are ready to spawn! you could mix in some golden mbunas (auratus) and or electric yellows or other labidochromis to add some different color. what are your intentions? breeding or just display?

 

[Pharaoh]

I have one in with acei and yellow labs and it does great. Holds its own, but doesn't pick on others.

 

[General]

well just for display, but i want to make sure they aren't over crowed or getting into fights. i guess i will probably build up some more rock work in the tank before i get any more.
thanks for the input everyone