malawi in a 20 gallon long

[heresmike]

I need some opinions please on whether or not you think a 20 gallon long (30x12x12") would be overstocked with these fish.

This link http/www.cichlid-forum.com/articles/cook..._cutter_20g.php has stocking plans. The Lake Malawi plans says:

Select from 2 of the following (interchangeable):
• Labidochromis caeruleus - trio
• Iodotropheus sprengerae - trio
• Pseudotropheus socolofi - trio
• Pseudotropheus sp. "acei" - trio

I'm thinking of going with the Iodotropheus sprengerae and Pseudotropheus sp. "acei". So, that would be 6 fish for a total adult length of 24".

Does that seem overstocked to you?

 

[modernhamlet]

Yeah. That's the one tank out of all the cookie cutters that had me worried about overstocking. I'm sure you could keep the parameters good, but is it enough space for all 6 residents?

Inquiring minds want to know...

 

[heresmike]

Yes... also my concern is with adding rocks etc for adequate hiding places, this will make the tank even smaller. Thanks again for that link

If anyone else has any experience with malawis in a 20 gallon long, would love to hear your opinions.

Thx

 

[thecichlidaddict]

That is basically the maximum stocking levels of an absolute minimum tank size f or any mbuna, smaller then I personally would go with, as none of those mbuna are very small, but it will work fine.