New tank

#21
Much better. Although there still are some minor (that could become more) concerns if not watched for.
The rubberlip plec is somewhat hardy, and will tolerate many conditions, but it thrives best in cooler, fast moving water. Subtropical, temps in the high 60's to low 70's. The dwarf gourami could deal with the lower temp though they are not so fond of too much flow. The bolivian rams are great, they can adjust very well to many conditions so they'd be the last I'd worry about in that area, but they'll likely turn out to be your most aggressive or assertive rather. They will be territorial and might end up targeting their aggression on the gourami if they choose to pair up. If this happens I would highly recommend a few foating hiding places for the gourami (out of sight, out of mind) and/or 6-8 small tetras (neon, glow-light, black neon) to act as dithers and keep the Bolivians distracted.
The point of this is to let you know that you certainly can mix them, just letting you in on what the deal is. Keeping an eye open to make sure everyone's getting along (in regards to temperament and water conditions) is all you need to do. Otherwise it's a very workable situation. *thumbsups

BTW I think Bolivian rams are a great choice. I suppose they'll always be second to blue/German rams but they're number 1 in my book! I love them! :p
 

UP UP AND GUPPY

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Mar 14, 2006
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#22
Aww thank, Bolivian Rams are really kool but I found out they aren't on the list anymore for fish at petsmart and they are sold out. So now I figured something like this and all the cichlids I am getting are babys:

#1 option
1 Blue Kenyi Cichlid
1 Electric Yellow Lab
1 Rubber Lip Pleco

#2 option
2 Blue Kenyi Cichlid
1 Rubber Lip Pleco

#3 option
2 Electric Yellow Cichlid
1 Rubber Lip Pleco

Wich one do you think works best? And I apologize for making this so confusing and changing my mind all the time.
 

#23
Unfortunately I'd advise against any of those 3 options.
Malawi cichlids, in my most honest and humble opinion, should not be housed in any tank smaller than 30 gallons and even then there are very few species that would be happy in a 30 gallon as a permanent situation.
These fish simply get too large and too aggressive. Kenyi have a reputation for being very aggessive fish, even in proper numbers and sex ratios and that reputation is not undeserved. Bad behaviours in kenyi are not restricted to males either. Females (those who remain blue/white barred) can still be very territorial and aggressive. Labs, in general, are much less pugnacious but they are still aggressive fish and are not exception to basic mbuna stocking guidelines. Both can reach an average of 6".