Keeping angels with cichlids?

[floriken]

I'm pretty sure they're compatible, aren't they? If so, which angels work well with mixed Malawi cichlids (my LFS only sells cichlids)?

[silvy]

Angels are indeed a type of Cichlid, but that doesn't necessarily make them compatible with other Cichlids. I'd advise against mixing them with other species, except perhaps Discus, and even then it's crucial to have a good understanding of what you're getting into.

[_goldfin]

You can mix angels with SA rams, but that's about it for cichlids.

[floriken]

Think I'll sit this one out for my first cichlid attempt, thanks for the advice though.

[medic23]

To clarify, I'm guessing you're using 'cichlids' to refer specifically to African rift valley cichlids, which isn't uncommon in that particular sub-group of fishkeeping. However, the term 'cichlid' actually encompasses a vast array of fish scattered across the continents, living in diverse water types.

The incompatibility issue here lies in the water type. African rift cichlids tend to thrive in water at the harder extremes of the spectrum, whereas angels are soft-water fish by preference. While farm-bred angels have become more adaptable to different water types, they're not as tolerant as one might think. The significant difference in temperament between the two would likely result in a short-lived angel fish, unless it were substantially larger than the African cichlids – in which case, the situation would probably be reversed.

[wingbeat]

Backing up the others, I'd say Malawi cichlids can get pretty aggressive - some are chill, but others are quite vicious. They're best in biotype setups with just other Malawis. Angels would likely get torn apart.

As silvy mentioned, angels are cichlids, but they need totally different water and tank setups. They thrive in tannin-stained, soft acidic water with bogwood and possibly some tall plants. On the other hand, Malawis want hard, alkaline water with lots of rock piles in the tank.

Hope that helps for future reference.

[medic23]

I've spent way too many hours staring at a screen, my typing speed is now almost on par with the secretaries, though I must admit they leave me in the dust when it comes to spelling.

[nerdy_9]

Definitely a bad idea.
Mixing angels with cichlids is a recipe for disaster. While angels are cichlids themselves, their temperament is generally more peaceful compared to their African counterparts.
My advice would be to skip the cichlids, unless you're looking at South American species like rams or acaras. Those might be a better match.

[floriken]

I think I'll stick with just the mixed Malawi cichlids then, no other types.

[nerdy_9]

I'll stick with the mixed Malawi cichlids, just them, no other tankmates.