Q's & compatibility!??!

[secuono]

I have a 55G that I want to stock with Cichlids, but I want a mix of colors. They can't grow much bigger than 5-6in and I will not be upgrading the tank.
I like the Yellow Labs and the Blue guys. So which Cichlids can go with whom? Thanks!

"in general, most SA/CA will grow larger than 6-7". there are dwarf cichlids but alot require special care, very acidic and soft water. i'f recommend africans. they generally stay smaller and are very colorful. you generally want to overstock with africans to cut down on aggression. too little in the tank and you will end up with one fish." HiImSean

Oh, ok. What Africans do you recommend then? How many of each kind and do I need to have a certain # or males and females?

Anyone who can help??

Also, I am guessing I can choose from these fish below, any others? Can they all go together? What other fish, if any, can live with these guys?
What kind of decorations do they need? Plants are ok in their tank or not?

Albino Zebra Cichlid
Electric Yellow Cichlid
Elongated Mbuna
Red Peacock Cichlid
Red Zebra Cichlid
Snow White Socolofi

 

[Blue2Fyre]

Usually for a 55 gallon it's best to pick 2 species and get 5 of each. Hopefully with 1 male and 4 females. Electric yellows and snow white socolofis are a good start. You could also look into regular socolofis since they are blue. For a different blue fish I suggest cynotilapia "white top hara" The males are a white blue with black stripes and the females are blue/purple. Ps. Acei is also a nice peaceful choice for a mbuna tank. I would stay away from peacocks since they can't handle the mbuna aggression very well. I've also had horrible experiences with red zebras. They can be really aggressive.

 

[secuono]

Oh, they are all cute too. Are these guys all easy to find or will I have to order off the internet..?

 

[Blue2Fyre]

Most like the electric yellow, socolofi, and acei are pretty easy to find at the lfs. Depending your area white top haras might be a little harder. I got mine from a local breeder. I would try and find some sort of local fish forum or check craig's list to see if you can find some people breeding mbuna in your area.

 

[dawnmarie]

I would start with Yellow Labs and Demasoni and get 1 male 4 female each

 

[Blue2Fyre]

^Great idea


This creates a beautiful tank but demasoni can be a little pricey. I would get at least 12 since they are very aggressive towards each other. Having less can result in one killing the rest.