38 Gallon Stocking.

[TwoStonedBirds]

Any ideas for stocking a 36 gallon tank i just got? i was thinking a bunch of african cichlids. i just really want alot of color and personality in the tank thanks in advance!

[rich16]

A 36 may be kind of small for Africans. Personally, I would not keep them in anything smaller than a 4" tank, but that is just me.

If you're going to do this, stick to dwarf mbuna, and be very selective with your choices. Research lots first, to see which may be your favourites. Pseudotropheus saulosi may be a good choice in a species only tank, as both the males and females are brightly colored.

Pseudotropheus demasoni or Cynotilapia afra are two other dwarf mbuna that come to mind.

Lots of rocks and hiding places will be key, as well as an appropriate Male - Female ratio.

I'm not to familiar with the Tanganyikan cichlids, so if there are options there, I'm sure someone more knowledgeable than I can help you out.

Kribensis are another option if you're going away from the Malawi or Tanganyikan cichlids.

Have you considered South American dwarf cichlids as an alternative? Apistos or rams?

Cheers,
Rich

[TwoStonedBirds]

I am very open to suggestions. Honestly it does not matter where they are from as long as they are colorful. Thanks a lot for the advice I'm going to go do some research on all of those fish you just told me! :P