Jewel cichlids as dithers?

[Akabir47]

Hello,

I was wondering if using jewel cichlids as dithers in my 180 gallon mixed cichlid tank would be a good idea? Would it be comparable to using silver dollars or other small fish to keep the big ones distracted from beating up on each other?

Thanks...

 

[Jakob]

Silver dollars get up to 12" so they are not so small. I wouldnt recommend putting an african cichlid into an american tank (dither or not), i would use Silver dollars, Giant Danios or Convict cichlids.

 

[cichlid2006]

jewels fight back and they fight back hard. they rarely back down and are strong for their size.
i put a jewel in with my midas and within a couple of minutes the jewel was squaring up to my midas who was about 3 or 4 times its size in every way. i think jewels look for trouble but im sure others have had success.

 

[smpage]

jewels are mean especially when they pair up. I'd advise against it.