managuense and buttikoferi

[Karl]

i have 2 managuense, 2 red evils and 1 buttikoferi. One of the managuense rule the tank along with the buttikoferi. so i am planing on keeping those 2. in the newspaper i have found a 140 gallon tank with everything for it. would i be able to keep the managuense and buttikofferi together in it with a few clown loaches and silver dollars? both are males.
thanks. I wrote this already but it was in the wrong place.

[Chet]

Can you post the dimensions of the 140 gallon tank? That will have an impact on how well this setup could work. Having two males is always risky, but it might work, provided you have target fish to help disperse aggression.

[Karl]

im not really sure? Do u think a 125gallon tank could hold them 72 long- 18 wide- 20 high? ill try to find out the 140 dimensions.

[Chet]

I think the 125 dimensions are pushing it, especially when you consider the size and potential destructive power of a male jag and male butti. The 18" width is alright, but the length give them a limited amount of territory to claim, when compared with their full grown size. 180 gallon dimensions would be a better bet, but you're talking a lot more money. I would definitely give it a try in the 140, as it will probably have dimensions comparable to a 180, but just be a little bit shorter. Make sure you have silver dollars and other target fish also. You may be able to mix in some smaller, semi-aggressive cichlids to dispurse the aggression of the tank. I still think blue and gold gouramis make excellent target/ dither fish, although they may be consumed once the fish reach their full size. A group of six or so clown loaches would add tremendously to the look and feel of the tank. Hope this helps.

[Karl]

thanks chet. i guess i'll get the 140 gallon and complete setup. I found it in the paper for a really good price $450. those two really get along the jag and buttikoferi. today them 2 teamed up and ripped apart my other jag. And killed him in a couple minutes.