tetras and cichlids

**ActionRoc** · 09-06-2011, 02:04 AM

From the sounds of it this is not a good combination. Then again I've seen the combination listed in other members signatures and such.

I'd like to keep 20-30 neon tetras and 6-10 yellow tail acei cichlids

the info I've found on the cichlids says they are moderately aggressive but that they are herbivores.

they're about 2.5" now and will grow another 2" they appear to have quite small mouths compared to other cichlids I've seen.

then theres the water parameters the acei like harder water and a higher ph than the tetras.

and for the tetras its recommended to have a planted aquarium but the cichlids are likely to eat the vegetation. argggg

My hope is that some one has had some success keeping similar fish together and might have some advice for me.

Thx for your time every one who read this post and any one who might have some advice for me.

**WaMiss** · 09-06-2011, 02:17 AM

I have ACEIs, but not mixed with neon tetras. It's my understanding the ACEIs will max out around 7ish inches. I'm pretty certain they will eat neons and any other smaller fish. I keep mine with other Malawi Cichlids. I did a fish in cycle on my tank with guppies and after I added my cichlids all the guppies were gone overnight.

**openbook** · 09-06-2011, 02:34 AM

You could use larger 3 inch tetras. Columbian, Congo to name a couple.

**ActionRoc** · 09-06-2011, 03:59 AM

I had looked at the columbian, I really like the look of them. unfortunately none of the stores around here have them. one of the shops will special order most things but it'll cost a small fortune.

**ActionRoc** · 09-06-2011, 04:02 AM

Originally Posted by WaMiss

I have ACEIs, but not mixed with neon tetras. It's my understanding the ACEIs will max out around 7ish inches. I'm pretty certain they will eat neons and any other smaller fish. I keep mine with other Malawi Cichlids. I did a fish in cycle on my tank with guppies and after I added my cichlids all the guppies were gone overnight.

I'm gussing you added other cichlids at the same time? maybe it was one of the other breeds?

Maybe I should buy my cichlids and a few neons. if they get eaten they get eaten. if they dont I could always add more.

or maybe just go with a cichlid only tank. what do you have for tank mates with the acei?

**WaMiss** · 09-06-2011, 04:10 PM

We have Yellow Labs, Aceis and Blue Dolphins.
Everything is going great so far! Not a lot of aggression, but they are still juvies. I was told all 3 species are known for being a more peaceful african.

**ActionRoc** · 09-06-2011, 10:15 PM

Originally Posted by WaMiss

We have Yellow Labs, Aceis and Blue Dolphins.
Everything is going great so far! Not a lot of aggression, but they are still juvies. I was told all 3 species are known for being a more peaceful african.

Thats good to hear. it sounds like a very beautiful combination. I've decided to go with an all cichlid tank as well.

I was in a small store today run by the owner who is obviously a huge fish lover not just a business man. I put a deposit on 10 yellow tails and then I was looking at the tetra's and he was adamant that I not put the two together. He was quite clear that the tetras would be dinner and that the cichlids may get sick from eating them. I was quite pleasantly surprised that he cost himself some money in order to save me the loss of fish. I'll be buying all my fish from his store as long as his doors are open.

thx for your help :)

**kaybee** · 09-06-2011, 10:55 PM

Acei's are among the most peaceful of the mbuna species, but are still capable of aggression. (Note: "peaceful" by mbuna standards, not tropical community fish standards).

Within a group of mbunas, from my observations, acei aggression is almost entirely directed toward their own kind (mostly male vs. male). Even then, their aggressive behavior manifests only after they surpassed the 5" mark and is irregular.

I've rarely seen them threaten or challenge other mbuna species (which are usually much more aggressive). They can be kept with other/more aggressive mbuna species and may benefit with a larger group size (being near-identical with each other it's hard for aggressive mbuna's to single out an acei which is part of a group).

**ActionRoc** · 09-06-2011, 11:22 PM

I'll definitly go with some yellow tail acei. And If I can find them these crazy looking giraffe cichlids.
http://www.aquariumlife.net/profiles...lid/100008.asp
If i can't find them I think I'll just have the yellow tails.