Keeping jewel cichlids with african butterfly fish, a good idea?

[onetask]

Thanks for the input, I think it's pretty clear that aggression in jewels usually stems from defending territory, which being cichlids, they're naturally inclined to do. The fact that the congos took weeks to even notice the butterfly and the tetras aren't a threat either, I think that's a big plus. I'm hoping the jewel will see them as non-competitors, and therefore won't feel the need to get aggressive.

[darkaxe]

My advice is to have a backup plan in place. If you're set on trying this out, make sure you've got a spare tank ready to go, just in case things don't work out as hoped. It's always better to be safe than sorry, especially with a setup that's a bit unconventional. What's the rest of your tank's population looking like, by the way?

[onetask]

I've got a backup tank ready just in case, and also a tank divider handy if needed. The other tank mates are a lone butterfly fish and a small school of 8 yellowtail congo tetras.

[ocean4]

I think the setup could work, given the robust tetras in the upper levels and the lack of competition in the lower third. The fact that you've got a good mix of fish that aren't likely to trigger aggression in the jewel is a plus. I've found single males, specifically Hemichromis lifalili, to be quite placid and even shy when kept on their own. Of course, you've got to be prepared for some level of aggression, but it's worth a shot. Having a backup plan in place is always a good idea, just in case things don't work out.

[haven_9]

Hold up, what's the tank size here? The pictures make it look like it's only around 2-3ft, and I'm surprised no one's asked about it yet. I've had some experience with a female Jewel and congo tetras, and let's just say it didn't end well. She was the dominant one in a 4ft tank, and it was just her and the congos - she tore them apart. From what I've seen, males tend to be a bit more laid-back, but sexing them when they're young is tricky.