So far so good!

[AVenom]

So we're up to 7 fish total now in our first cichlid tank, and everything seems to be ok.
We have 2 yellow labs, 2 zebras, 2 what look like OB peacocks, and a pleco in a 55gal.
The peacocks are the newest, got them yesterday. The others have just kind of chased them around a little, no nipping or anything.
What is it called when they turn sideways, and hit their side on things? Flashing? The peacocks seem to do this alot.

I'm very happy with these fish, they are great to watch. They are finally feeling more comfortable in the tank, and are eating like normal now.

It also seems that one of the zebras is starting to be the dominant one over the tank.
It is normal for just 1 to be the dominant one? He (I think) is bigger than the others, and his colors are fuller.

Thanks for everyone's help!
Dave

 

[JNevaril]

woohoo!!!



IME, the big one is going to chase, bully, and be rowdy until everybody has a bit of territory established.

Then, he'll chase, bully, annoy and torment them still.

It's cichlids. It's what they do. Just be sure to provide a lot of nooks and crannies for the littler guys to hide in, and they'll be fine.

 

[phOOey]

Good to hear everythings going well

yeah that behaviour sounds like flashing/ displaying whatever you want to call it, perfectly normal.

most people would have more africans than what you have, therefore they would not normally be a dominant fish as there is no room to establish territories. but because you only have 6 you will probably find that one will rule over the others.