Considering A Malawi Set-up

[chishnfips]

hi folks,

I am thinking of setting up a malawi tank, the tank I have for this is measures 60" long 15" high and 12"wide. first of all is this a good size for them, its definatley got the length but the width doesn't leave alot of room for a good set up of rocks. I think its about 36 uk gallons or there abouts.

I am unsure about what cichlids to put in it and how many. I won't be stting this up till after chrimbo as pressies come first lol, but as long as I have all the info I need I can just go and get it done when the time comes.

So just any info would be great considering fish types and decor ideas because of the width


cheers chish

 

[Matt Gleadow]

I used to have a tank that was that width. I couldn't get a very good rock stack in there so I got rid of it for one that was twice as wide.

I find this quite good for getting ideas on stocking etc. http/www.cichlid-forum.com/articles/

 

[adambrum]

How about a Tanganyikan tank you may get away with a lot less rockwork.

Your choices are either mbuna or a tang tank most go for the mbuna/malawi tank as i did so i cant really offer much advice on Tanganyikans but before you even think about stocking find out what are avaliable to you and which species you like.

Also your tap water can make a difference with african cichlids do better in a high ph around 8 and hard water so best to check that aswell.

 

[Ferris]

Despite the 5 ft length, the 12" width limits your options a little - you don't really want any fish exceeding 8" because of this.

Sounds perfect for a highly stocked Mbuna tank with loads of possibilities for species combination

 

[chishnfips]

sounds good ferris.

So whats the difference between a malawi set up and a mbuna one?

Aren't mbuna from lake malawi?

There are that many different types of cichlid to get.

 

[Matt Gleadow]

Mbuna are a sub group of Lake Malawi. Peacocks and Haps are other sub groups from Malawi.

 

[chishnfips]

ah cool, cheers matt. also thanks for that link, it was very useful.

So when you guys say an overstocked tank, how many fish do you mean, I know its better to have more fish to keep the agression down but how many is too many?

 

[Ferris]

I'm suggesting Mbuna because of their size, very few exceed 5-6" - Most Haps will get too big for the depth of your tank.

This doesn't limit your options much though, there are loads of species and colour variations to choose from. In your tank i would say you could comfortably have 15 adult fish plus a couple of Syno's or BN Plecs as bottom-feeders.

You could also consider a mixed Auolonocara (Peacock) tank as again size wouldn't be an issue and there are plenty of stunning examples. Just be aware though that in most cases only male Aulonocara show the striking colours that make the species desirable - females are usually a rather drab brown.