Keeping small african cichlids with redtail sharks

[brownox]

I got 2 inch redtail shark and 2 1 inch african cichlids, they're quite a size difference, will my redtail shark bully the african cichlids since he's much larger

[gripit]

I got 2 inch redtail shark and 2 1 inch african cichlids, they're quite a size difference, will my redtail shark bully the african cichlids since he's much larger

What's the tank size here. You've got two highly incompatible species. Redtail sharks and African cichlids require different water parameters and are both pretty aggressive.

[coltin]

To help you better, I'd like to know a bit more about your tank and its conditions. What are the dimensions of your tank, specifically the length, width, and height?

Regarding your water supply, could you please find out the GH, KH, and pH levels? You can usually get this information from your water supply company's website or by giving them a call. If they can't provide you with the information, consider taking a glass of tap water to your local pet shop and ask them to test it for you. Be sure to write down the results, including the units of measurement they use (e.g., ppm, dGH).

Lastly, what species of African cichlids did you end up getting?

[brownox]

Hi there, the water was tested and they said it was fine for both, but to be honest I don't remember the exact readings. I've got a 100l tank at the moment, but I'm planning to upgrade later on. I've got a peacock cichlid and a mauna cichlid, they've grown up together, but they'll be moving to a different tank in a few months.

[radface]

Can you post a picture of the cichlids? Would be good to see them. Not the best tankmates if you ask me.

[brownox]

I've taken the redtail shark out, just thought it best for the cichlids. I have a bigger tank elsewhere for the shark, it's a better fit. The cichlids are only 1 and a half inch max, they're my favourites, so I'll keep them on their own.

[radface]

Just a heads up, adding another layer to this...

Mbuna and peacocks aren't exactly the best match either. While some folks make it work, it's generally not recommended. Mbuna can be pretty aggressive and have different needs - they require more plant-based foods. Too much protein can be detrimental to them, even fatal. On the other hand, peacocks thrive on a diet rich in protein.

Considering the aggressive nature of African cichlids, it's common practice to stock tanks with a larger number of fish, so no single fish gets targeted. With only two fish, it's likely that one will end up overpowering the other.

If you could post a picture, that would help us identify the species you're working with.

[brownox]

I could get a few more cichlids for the tank if you think that'd be a good idea, I just don't want to overcrowd it but I've heard that can help with aggression issues.

[brownox]

When I spoke to the pet shop, they said I could find another couple of cichlids for the 100l tank. They said I could feed them mainly pellets and veggies, and on the odd occasion, give them some frozen shrimp as a treat.

[brownox]

I didn't think it would be an issue as the peacocks tend to grow slightly bigger than the mbuna, but I was just going off what I read online and the pet shop didn't specify the exact types of cichlids I had.