getting started with cichlids: stocking advice

[lucyboy]

Hi,

Just got my first aquarium a couple of weeks ago for free, and now I'm picking up a 4ft tank (around 45-55 gallons, still waiting for exact measurements) from a mate at work for £40.

Been researching fish for it and I'm looking at Malawi Cichlids (Mbuna). Narrowed it down to 5 species and I'm wondering if they're all compatible with each other in the tank:

Elongatus Mpanga
Kribensis
Jewel Cichlid
Yellow Lab
Electric Blue Johannii

Also thinking of adding a plec to the mix.

I've read a bit about Mbuna and I know I need a higher pH, my tap water's 7-7.2. Will certain sands increase the pH to the right level? (Preferably black sand, is there a buffering one?)

Can I add plants or will the cichlids just dig them up?

Cheers
wavecrash

[fluxx7]

From what i've gathered, Johannii have a pretty rough reputation. I'm not convinced Jewels and Kribs are a good fit with Mbuna, to be honest, they just don't seem to mix. Yellow Labs, on the other hand, are pretty laid-back from my experience, so you've got to be careful what you pair them with. I'd recommend sticking to one type of African cichlid, especially if you're new to them - it's just easier that way and avoids a lot of potential problems.

[shapetrans]

The only species on your list that I'd be concerned about is the kribs. I have all the other species you've listed, along with a few more, and they get along just fine. Kribs, though, are really better suited to a community tank - they're just not a great fit with mbuna. Jewel cichlids, on the other hand, are pretty adaptable - they can handle a wide range of tank mates, within reason. I've had them in with american cichlids and africans, no issues.