Anyone running an african tank with substrate only, no decor?

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Juice79

Jack Dempsey
MFK Member
Oct 20, 2008
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Just curious if anyone was running an african tank with no rocks, driftwood, etc. Curious how you liked it and if you have pics. Figured it would give the viewer a chance to see all the fish without any hiding. Also, I know it cuts down agression since they cant claim territories. I know it may not be the nicest showtank but i am the one looking at it most of the time anyway. And if I dont like the way it looks I can always put the rocks back in.
 
I only have sand and base rocks in my Acei tank. They're a little more on the less aggressive side when it comes to Africans, but they do well.
 
My mbuna tank was like that for a few hours while I changed things around on Sunday. I didn't like it but that was mostly because the dominant male could find the sub dominant easier and there was more fighting. Of course this was only for a few hours.
 
The pet shop near my work keeps there mbuna tank like that. I know it is technically a holding tank but the fish move slowly and it is always full of mbuna.
 
You might reduce the fighting over territory, but you would also eliminate any hiding places for your sub fish. I do not think it is a good idea long-term for the majority of Africans. Mbuna means "rockfish" and do best with lots of rocks. What species do you have?
 
Its a mixed african tank I would say 60% Haps and peacocks the 20% Mbuna and 20% Misc Fish (Parrot Fish, Monos, Scats and Cats)
 
Is this the 175 you have in the media lounge? No way I would remove your rocks. That tank looks great as is!

Yes it is...I guess I just get bored looking at the same old setup, and constantly want to change things around...im sure im not the only one!!!
 
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