options for my 20-gallon tank

[vedant_7]

I'm currently deciding on what to do with my 20g. I've got a multifasciatus colony in a 15g tank, and a brichardi colony in a 55g tank. I'm thinking of another colony-style cichlid that could thrive in a 20g. If not, it'll just become another grow-out tank for my fry. I tried a pair of rams and they're nice, but I'd prefer a species where I could keep more than a pair. My other tanganyikan tanks have a PH of 8.2, and they're breeding well. Any suggestions are welcome, thanks.

[lanky_bark]

Honestly, I'm skeptical about keeping more than a pair of cichlids in a 20g. Most species just need too much space and territory. Shelldwellers might work, though - they're generally more laid-back and could potentially coexist in smaller groups.

[vedant_7]

Yeah, I figured as much. Likely gonna be a group of shell dwellers. Trouble is, I'm on a budget, so I'm hoping someone's had some experience with a particular species that's worked out well for them.

[juloxy]

A pair of Kribensis could work well in a 20g, but you mentioned wanting a species where you could keep more than a pair. If you're open to shell dwellers, I've had some experience with them.