African and south cichlids

[smokeythebair]

Im still new to all this but i messed up big time by overstocking with 14 cichlids in a 55g tank. I now have 7 cichlids. 4 african and 3 south. The south american are a convict which is full size with the africans and the jag and red devil are still only 4inches. I know the jag needs its own tank of its own of 75g or more but i plan on keeping 7 fish for a month or two. Also i know they need different ph but i had no problems and they are all healthy. For the most part they get along the jag is picked on the most but i have plenty of places to hid. The yellow lab is the king of the tank taking on everyone even the 7inch hap. Any comments??? Will it be ok for alittle?? They red devil isn't bad either. Stays to himself and doesn't start with anyone (YET)

 

[smokeythebair]

I wish i never got african. I'm thinking of going down to 3 south american but its just hard going from 14 to 3. Im glad i got rid of 7 right away after hearing the good advice on this site

 

[fishticuffs]

that jag will eventually need a 125 at least- males get up to 24 inches. my female got 14inches in like 18 months. a 55 is only 12 inches wide. you will definatley need 6to up grade asap. if you are keeping cichlids in a 55 i would got for stuff that maxes at 6 or 7 inches.

 

[smokeythebair]

so pretty much south american are out? Jaguar fish is awesome i hate to lose him.

 

[smokeythebair]

almost all sa get 12 or more that i know of except convicts.

 

[Cichlaholics Anonymous]

neither jags, red devil, or convicts are South American. They are Central American. In that tank you are better off with just the Africans, although the convict most likely can live with them...the main issue is diet not pH, especially when it comes to more herbivorous mbuna.

 

[Valous]

as stated they are central american. As far as what fish you can keep in a 55 the african and convicts. there is also a firemouth but the convict will most likely beat him up. I recommend that you look on craigslist for 125 if you want to keep the jag. You will not be disappointed if you like that fish.

 

[Dreamsing]

If you're looking for attractive fish to keep in the 55, I'd suggest firemouths. I've got one and he's really entertaining. They are supposed to get to 5 inches.