Lake Malawi Species • What Lake Malawi Cichlids should I get for 29 gal?

[Blakers123]

Hi all,

Was recently given a 29 gallon/110 litre tank by some friends and am thinking about putting some Lake Malawi Cichlids in it. I was just wondering if you could recommend me as to what species I should consider. I would prefer having at least 2 different species but a tank with one species I am fine with. Would be very grateful if you could respond with some guidance.

Kind Regards,

Blakers

[DJRansome]

The tank is 30" long and really too short for Malawi cichlids. They are better in tanks that are 48" long or longer.

The only species I would even consider is Chindongo saulosi (formerly Pseudotropheus saulosi) as single species. The males and females are 2 different colors, so while not two species, you get two different looks

[Mudkicker1]

Personally I would never attempt any Malawi Cichlid in anything smaller than a 48" 55 gallon. Look into Tangyanika shell dwellers.

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[GuitarShark]

Ok. In my opinion, some mbuna could work if kept under EXTREME supervision. I would stick to smaller species such as demensoni and kenyi. I do agree with mudkicker about the shell dwellers, but I personally find shellys boring. If you do Mbuna cichlids, watch their health to make sure they are not stunted as far as growth. I think your best option with your sized tank is to set up a nice community tank though. If you like aggressive fish, I would go with tiger barbs, pea puffers, or Bettas. Bettas get a bad rep, but a large betta tank with one male and a couple females is stunning and arguably more colorful than a Cichlid tank if planted and done right. Again, cichlids could work but are definitely not your best option.

[DJRansome]

I prefer a 48x18 tank or larger for an aggressive mbuna like kenyi.

[Iggy Newcastle]

29 gallon is a fry- growout tank for Malawians. A member did have a C. Saulosi colony in a 29 for a bit, but not sure on the long term.

[leftover710]

Personally I would never attempt any Malawi Cichlid in anything smaller than a 48" 55 gallon. Look into Tangyanika shell dwellers.

This! I love shellies! All the personality of Mbuna at a fraction of the size.

I prefer a 48x18 tank or larger for an aggressive mbuna like kenyi.

And this. Kenyi are mean little buggers! Best in a 55g or bigger.

[jcover]

Aren't Kenyi fairly large species for mbuna????