What are your thoughts on mixing cichlids?

  • We are currently upgrading MFK. thanks! -neo
Take the advice from the experts here. Slow down. Stop buying fish and get a game plan. Research the fish you have and are interested in.

....Bill

Yep, that's why I'm asking questions now, before anything else is purchased. I know the fish I currently have should do fine together for the long haul if in a properly sized tank and clean water, but the others I wasn't sure about. I do want to make a decision fairly soon though if I'm going to do this, simply because I want to get anything else while it's small for reduced cost, plus they would have a better chance of surviving and get along better if they are introduced young. So far all my current fish get along great.
 
i heard enough reasons here to stop me cold or make me buy a new tank. if you are still considering nothing else will convince you. there are no other compelling arguments or reasons to be said anymore. it obvious you will do what you want to (and have the right to do so) good luck and all that other stuff. good advice isn't always heeded by everyone. some people need to learn on their own.
 
lastly, africans should not be mixed with CA/SA cichlids. can they? they can be....but fronts, those beautiful gentle fish, should never be. CA/SA cichlids are far to agressive to have happy front colony (yes they love living with multiple members of their own kind). go ahead mix all the zebras and peacocks you like. they will make the best of it. i agree it also looks shamelessly tacky. always wonder why you never see more experienced hobbyist doing this
 
Ive always wanted fronts, for as long as I have been in fish keeping. originally they were tooo expensive. now i"m way to experienced not to give them a tank where everything is based around them. I am like you, i like mixing. I rarely keep a species only tank. i just have to add an oddball to it. but when i do, i add them so they do not adversely affect the original inhabitants. if i had fronts i would have added some dithers and maybe some smaller peaceful africans that needs similar water chemistry
 
I think that is the best option. You're going to have some real bruisers in the tank you have right now. Good luck.
 
Yeah they are cool looking, and I've always thought they looked interesting, but I don't want to put them in harm's way just for my amusement. An interesting and mixed tank is definitely what I want, as long as they can all get along nicely and be healthy.
 
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