keeping jack dempsey with african cichlids

[boardwhiz]

I spent 10 bucks on chemicals to get my water to 8.2 pH, now I'm told it's not that big of a deal.

[lowkeeper]

One thing, pH levels aren't that big of a deal. Most fish adapt just fine, even when breeding. I've seen it myself, no need to mess with it. Good luck with your tank.

[fin_frenzy8]

If you're looking to get your pH to 8.2 without breaking the bank, I've got a solution for you. A box of baking soda is super cheap, less than a dollar, and it'll get the job done.

[meta_code]

Thanks for all the advice. I decided not to take any chances and mix the Jack Dempsey with my cichlids. Instead, I went to the local fish store this afternoon and picked up two more African cichlids and a pleco. The new cichlids are a bit smaller than the two I already have, but that's okay. Now the blue cichlid is being aggressive towards all of them - he's a real handful. He won't let any of them get into a hiding place, he just chases them out. As long as they stick to the middle to top of the tank, he'll leave them alone - sometimes, that is. If he keeps this up, I may have to trade him in or get another tank for him to be alone in. I'm assuming he's a male, by the way, because of the egg spots.

[fortuna_4]

What's the plan for the Jack Dempsey now? I'd give him his own tank, and if that aggressive african cichlid keeps causing trouble, maybe consider trading him in for a couple of smaller ones - just kidding. If you did that, the other big one would probably just take his place as the tank's top aggressor and start picking on the others. Anyway, glad you decided not to mix them. Good luck with your new additions.