Since we're on the subject.....

[Mbuniac]

Since we're on the subject of mixing cichlids I could use some help. I'll soon be moving from a 29 gal to a 125. I currently have 8 subadult mbuna (in my mind they'll always be "oombuna". I've pronounced it to long that way to change). I intend to get more mbuna and stick with fish from Malawi, but would also like to get an Aulonocara sp. "Rubescens" and my son wants to give me one of his mature male Protomelas taeniolatus. I know it's not good to mix the Haps and Peacocks with others similar to them because of inbreeding, but I'd like to know how you feel that the above mentioned mixture would work.
Thanks for your help, Sam

[Scotty]

IMHO- You have a lot more leeway in a big tank. My 6' long 80 gal. contains assorted Mbuna, a group of peacocks and P. nyereris (Vics). All get along swimmingly :wink: I did try to set the tank up with a mixed community in mind. There are large rock piles in each corner and a smaller one in the middle. The piles are all over 1' apart to create distinct territories and the middle is wide open for the open water fish. The only negative to your setep is something you already seem to be aware of. I don't think you should add the extra male Peacock if you're planning on saving, and distributing any fry. Good luck with the new tank though. That's quite a gallonage jump. You're gonna have a blast with it :D

[Mbuniac]

Thanks for the info Scotty! I will have it set up with large rock formations at each end, and a smaller formation of slate pieces in the middle. And of course, a few well tended and healthy plastic plants for esthetics sake.
In the event of an inbreeding incident, I would never save the fry. That includes the mbuna as well.
Thanks again, Sam