converting a 29-gallon community tank to african cichlids

[fruity1]

Just finished the conversion of my 29gl community tank to a Mbuna setup.
Using an Aqueon Quietflow 30, API Filstar Canister XP-M for filtration, a 100w Submersible Heater for temperature control, and a Topfin 3000 airpump for water circulation.
Substrate is Caribsea African Cichlid Mix, which seems to be working well. Decor includes river rocks, artificial driftwood, and some colored glass rocks and seashells for visual interest.
Current residents are 2 Pseudotropheus cyaneorhabdos, 3 Pseudotropheus acei, and a single Metriaclima estherae.
Planning to upgrade to a 60gl tank in March when I move, so open to any suggestions on the setup or potential new additions.

[bark9er]

Here's my take on it. I think you should consider rehoming the Pseudotropheus cyaneorhabdos. They can be pretty feisty and I've found that they just don't do well in community setups. I've kept Africans for years and my experience is that they're best in a species-specific tank. I've had issues with them stressing my tanks to the point of getting white spot. Now, if they're all juveniles, you might be okay, but keep a close eye out for aggression as they mature. When you upgrade to the 60gl, I'd recommend adding more of the species you already have, and do it in groups of at least three to minimize any one fish getting picked on. Your tank looks great, by the way, and I'm looking forward to seeing the 60gl when it's all set up.

[fruity1]

Simpledog, I appreciate your input. Initially, I was concerned about aggression, but the Red Zebra has only displayed mild aggression towards the acei on a regular basis. However, the male cyaneorhabdos has been the most aggressive towards all, except for the female cyaneorhabdos and the Red Zebra - this leads me to believe the Red Zebra is likely a female.

To address potential aggression, I created two territories of rocks separated by the large driftwood. Now, regarding the Red Zebra's identity, my LFS classified it as an "assorted African cichlids (sm) Pseudotropheus or Melanochromis spp." I'm curious - do you think it's a Red Zebra or possibly another Pseudotropheus species?

[bark9er]

To me, it's a Red Zebra. As it grows, you'll notice those teeth and the potential for serious damage. If it's calm now, keep a close eye on it. Since it's still young, you might not see any issues. I had a real beast on my hands, though.

[fruity1]

Yikes, not exactly what I was hoping for. Maybe I should consider returning it to the LFS while I still can.

I just caught a glimpse of it, and sure enough, I saw the distinctive bars that are characteristic of the species. It swam under the light and for a brief moment, I saw the vertical "bars" or strips. I'll take a deep breath and adopt a wait-and-see approach. Wish me luck.

[bark9er]

You can give it a shot, see how things go. No current issues, might not have any at all. Just sharing my experience, that's all.

[fruity1]

Thanks for sharing your experience, SD. I really appreciate it, especially since I'm new to all this. It's great to have members like you who are willing to share their knowledge.