Considering lake malawi cichlids as pets

[larkside]

Thinking of upgrading to a bigger tank, this one's caught my eye:

http/www.seapets.co.uk/products/aquarium-sup ... r-oak.html

Got a few questions:

1. Will the filter be up to the job? I know some of you guys overstock to keep aggression down.

2. For a tank this size, where's the best place to find decent-sized rocks to keep the pH stable for the fish?

3. How many fish can I realistically keep in this tank? Got no idea, and are all Malawi fish compatible with each other?

Cheers, Paul

[duskraft]

The filter should be alright, I think, that's enough turnover for a tank of that size. If you start noticing dirty water or bad parameters, then you might need to rethink your filtration system. For the substrate, I've heard some people use crushed coral or similar products to help keep the pH stable. There are also products on the market specifically designed to boost pH levels. As for stocking, I'd say you could comfortably keep 30-40 fish in a tank that size. This not only helps to keep aggression down but also creates a visually appealing display. Most mbuna species are compatible with each other, so you've got a lot of options to choose from. Are you planning on ordering your fish online or can you get them from your local fish store?

[codefly9]

The filter should be alright, I think, that's enough turnover for a tank of that size. If you start noticing dirty water or bad parameters, then you might need to rethink your filtration system. For the substrate, I've heard some people use crushed coral or similar products to help keep the pH stable. There are also products on the market specifically designed to boost pH levels. As for stocking, I'd say you could comfortably keep 30-40 fish in a tank that size. This not only helps to keep aggression down but also creates a visually appealing display. Most mbuna species are compatible with each other, so you've got a lot of options to choose from. Are you planning on ordering your fish online or can you get them from your local fish store?

With a tank that size, suggesting Mbuna, 30-40 isn't overstocking, to be honest. I mean, 600l is 158g, so you've got plenty of space. My 72g tank, for example, has 15 Mbuna and 2 haps, and I'm planning to add a few more Mbuna - that's overstocking, if you ask me.

[larkside]

Might check out both online and local options to see what's the most cost-effective. 30-40 fish does seem a bit on the low side for a tank of this size, doesn't it?

[floriken]

You gotta consider the fish's growth, their own space, swimming room, and the space taken up by loads of rocks.

When it comes to rocks, I've just filled my 250L tank with some I collected from the beach - completely free. I washed them twice, rinsed and scrubbed them before adding them in.

If you're looking to buy rocks, you want to fill as much of the tank as you can. I'd recommend visiting a local garden centre and picking up some slate. Spend as much as you can, even if it's just bits and pieces to start with.