Population Explosion

[algae eater]

I got my 55 gallon tank about three years ago and have various Africans in it. I have had about 15 fish for the entire period. Within the past four months there have been about ten births. Most were Lemons. I now have about 25 fish. I feel that is a bit much for my size tank. Is that correct? What happens if a tank gets too full. I would expect more fights than normal. Are there any other problems with over population? Do you think I should give some away?

Thanks,

 

[ALEXF]

I got my 55 gallon tank about three years ago and have various Africans in it. I have had about 15 fish for the entire period. Within the past four months there have been about ten births. Most were Lemons. I now have about 25 fish. I feel that is a bit much for my size tank. Is that correct? What happens if a tank gets too full. I would expect more fights than normal. Are there any other problems with over population? Do you think I should give some away?

Thanks,

the ammonia levels would be higher, more aggression, need for more frequent water changes, stress from each other, higher cost of feeding... ummm i wouldnt give them away but i would try to sell them, and if that doesnt work then try to give them away.

 

[kj23502]

I wouldn't think ammonia would be a problem. As the changes have happened over a period of the bacteria in the filter would've had time to adjust. A 55 gallon would be around 16 fish at the high end. You could try posting somewhere that you have the yellows for sale and if noone bites on that see if you can sell them to the lfs for a few $. My store will buy them, maybe yours will too.

I'm really surprised that many babies made it

 

[fish are friends....]

I'v heard that the agression won't be a problem because there is less teritory to fight for.
Just keep an eye on agression levels anyway, along with your water stats and do regualar water changes.

 

[algae eater]

I decided to take some fish down to the local store and give them away rather than try to sell them. I took five lemons and a good size male Peacock. He was happy to take them. I learned why when he put the Peacock in the $35 tank. It kind of made me rethink the whole situation. At least I can visit them on weekends

 

[catfishad]

Hi Guys

I will come up as a newbie as my old user name and password had a problem, but hey I am still here and have registered again, i have a 140ltr tank with africans in and I too have experienced a constant breeding spell over the last two months, I can't tell how many young are in there but I have about 25 spanning three generations, and if watching them this morning is anything to go by more on the way, my lfs is more than happy to take them, and as I keep other tanks I can take some money or goods whichever I choose, I also have a peacock and knowing what I paid for the pair I am not surprised your lfs took it, I have been keeping a milawi tank for about 12 months now and in the past I have had one or two babes survive but I set up a tank for my brother and thinned out the compation in my tank and wham I can't stop the little darlings, I think the ocean rock and good crushed coaral sand might help, also the raised summer temp might have a bearing on it as well, but I know one thing it is a real talking point when people walk in my dining room (well what my wife used to know as a dining room bless her) still you can always put a tray on your lap and watch any of the four tanks I have, enjoy.