40 Long

[dirtydogg]

Silly question probably but, would the stocking level for a 40 long be the sam as a 55 G since most Mbunas hang near the bottom anyway. Not sure if the extra height of a 55 G would make a difference for all middle/bottom dwellers. Or am I missing something else?

 

[sylvia]

You are correct in saying that the extra height doesn't realy matter as it is the surface area that is important for gas exchange. The extra volume DOES, however, mean that there is more space for the fish (if you pile up rockwork you can encourage them to swim higher up and occupy all levels more effectively) and also means that waste becomes concentrated much slower so ammonia/nitrItes, nitrAtes etc build up at a slower rate.

What I would say you have overlooked is that mbuna are over-stocked intentionaly anyway to reduce aggression towards any one individual fish. So the stocking levels might be considered quite different based on filtration and maintainance more than one the slight difference in volume.

 

[freddyk]

As long as you tank aquarium maintenance into accound, as mentioned the 15 gallons in volume does make a difference, then the stocking levels of a 40 would be pretty much the same as a 55 for these fish.