I'm thinking of converting my Vision 180 into an Mbuna tank once I'm settled in my new place. I've currently got a Fluval 206, but I'm not sure if it's up to the task, so I'm considering adding another one or upgrading to a 406.
If I do go for a dual filter setup, I'd love to know the best placement for the intakes and outlets - any advice on that would be great. I've already got some sand leftover from my previous setup with Corys, so that's taken care of, and I just need to source some rock now.
In terms of stocking, I've been doing some research and I'm thinking of aiming for a male to female ratio of around 1:5 - any thoughts on that or suggestions for stocking levels would be really helpful.
Setting up a mbuna tank guide for beginners
Re: Setting up a mbuna tank guide for beginners
I've had my fair share of experience with filters, and to be honest, I don't rate the Fluval 306 that highly. I've moved on to using an FX6 and a Tetra EX1200, both of which I think are brilliant - they come with media and all that.
In terms of placement, unless you're going for an undergravel filter, it's not that crucial. I've got my FX6 intake on the far left, deep in the tank, and the outflow just to the right, tilted towards the surface for some nice surface agitation. My EX1200 is on the opposite side, with the intake closest to the right and the outflow using the spray bar that comes with it.
Water flow is really important for cichlids, in my opinion, so I also use a Hydor Koralia powerhead to create more movement. This is on the right side of the tank, pushing water towards my FX6 to help collect more waste.
Ultimately, the choice of filter is up to you - these are just my thoughts.
One thing to keep in mind with Mbuna is that you'll want a lot of rock - make sure to check the weight limit of your tank and consider using egg crate if needed to distribute the weight evenly. When setting up your tank, be aware that cichlids love to dig - they'll pick up sand and spit it out to forage for food and redecorate. Make sure your rocks are secure, or you might end up with a rockslide smashing your glass.
The amount of rock you add will also affect the water capacity of your tank, so take that into account when stocking. If you're not planning to breed, a 1-5 male to female ratio isn't necessary - you could even go for a male-only tank.
If you're in the UK, I highly recommend checking out tonysafricancichlids.co.uk - I've ordered from him before, and he breeds some amazing lines of Mbuna and Aulonocara that you won't find in your average pet store.
Sorry for the long post - hope it helped, even if it was a bit more than you were looking for.
In terms of placement, unless you're going for an undergravel filter, it's not that crucial. I've got my FX6 intake on the far left, deep in the tank, and the outflow just to the right, tilted towards the surface for some nice surface agitation. My EX1200 is on the opposite side, with the intake closest to the right and the outflow using the spray bar that comes with it.
Water flow is really important for cichlids, in my opinion, so I also use a Hydor Koralia powerhead to create more movement. This is on the right side of the tank, pushing water towards my FX6 to help collect more waste.
Ultimately, the choice of filter is up to you - these are just my thoughts.
One thing to keep in mind with Mbuna is that you'll want a lot of rock - make sure to check the weight limit of your tank and consider using egg crate if needed to distribute the weight evenly. When setting up your tank, be aware that cichlids love to dig - they'll pick up sand and spit it out to forage for food and redecorate. Make sure your rocks are secure, or you might end up with a rockslide smashing your glass.
The amount of rock you add will also affect the water capacity of your tank, so take that into account when stocking. If you're not planning to breed, a 1-5 male to female ratio isn't necessary - you could even go for a male-only tank.
If you're in the UK, I highly recommend checking out tonysafricancichlids.co.uk - I've ordered from him before, and he breeds some amazing lines of Mbuna and Aulonocara that you won't find in your average pet store.
Sorry for the long post - hope it helped, even if it was a bit more than you were looking for.