Who Gives A Fish Forums

Considering my 55 Gallon tank's dimensions (48" long x 14" deep x 18" tall) and its over filtration (2x Ehiem classic 2215, 328gph, almost 6x turnover), I'm deciding on a stocking list. I'll likely use hollow ceramic rocks with real rocks mixed in for hiding spots without much water displacement.

I'm leaning towards less aggressive species. I've got my eyes on 4 Electric Yellow (Labidochromis caeruleus / Labidochromis tanganicae) and 4 young peacocks (Aulonocara) - still unsure of the sub species, though. For the next batch, I'm torn between 4 colorful Otopharynx or blue tursio (haplochromis moori).

I'd love some suggestions for catfish. Synodontis Njassae or bristle nose are on my radar, but I'm unsure of the ideal number or which one suits my tank size better. Does this sound okay, or should I adjust the numbers or species?

Bump.

I'll start by saying I'm no expert but I'll give you my two cents.

1) I think it's worth noting that Yellow Labs and Peacocks/Haps have different dietary needs, so it might be better to choose one or the other. I was planning on adding some Yellow Labs to my all-male Peacock tank, but I decided against it because of their different requirements. Also, Yellow Labs seem to do better in larger groups, so four might not be ideal.

2) If you're set on keeping Peacocks, an all-male setup could work well in a tank this size. Just make sure to get one male of each species and avoid similar-looking fish to prevent conspecific aggression. It's a great way to create a visually appealing display, but be prepared to make changes to your stock as some Peacocks can be quite aggressive. I've had good luck with an all-male setup, including some Zebra Obliquidens, and haven't had any issues.

3) A single male Otopharynx, like a lithobates, would be a good choice. Some smaller Haps, such as Placidochromis Electra, might also work well. However, I think Moori are too large for a tank of this size.

4) I've had success keeping Synodontis and Bristlenose together, but feeding them can be a challenge. Malawis are aggressive feeders, so I use long tweezers to place food in front of my Plec and Syno.

If I were you, I'd choose between keeping Peacocks or Mbuna – that way, you can provide exactly what they need. With your tank size, there are some great options available.

I've had no issues keeping a group of ten labs in my main tank with aulonocara. I just stick to a single food type, like NLS or New Era Green, and both groups of fish do just fine.

slyzen wrote: ↑Mon Jan 16, 2023 2:55 am I've had no issues keeping a group of ten labs in my main tank with aulonocara. I just stick to a single food type, like NLS or New Era Green, and both groups of fish do just fine.

My apologies for the initial response, but I think I may have overstated things. Slyzen's got this one covered, and his experience with a similar setup speaks for itself. I'll just take a step back and let him guide you from here.

I'm leaning towards sticking with the Electric Yellows and peacocks, but I'm still keen on adding a third species to the mix. Labs and haps seem like a solid combination, so I could just up the numbers if I couldn't find a suitable third species.

Haps and Aulonocara will mix fine with the labs, just stick with a good quality flake like NLS, it'll provide a balanced diet for all your fish.

slyzen wrote: ↑Mon Jan 16, 2023 2:55 am I've had no issues keeping a group of ten labs in my main tank with aulonocara. I just stick to a single food type, like NLS or New Era Green, and both groups of fish do just fine.

I'm thinking the 12 fish I've got planned will be alright with the setup I've got, lots of hiding spots from the rocks and sand, but I'm open to adjusting the numbers if needed. I'm getting them young, about 1.5" or a bit longer, and I'm planning to adjust the ratio as they grow.

Tank's taking shape, got the fake rocks and pool sand in - it's looking alright. Thinking of mixing in some real ones, maybe some limestone to give it a bit more character.