45 gallon mbuna tank stocking ideas?

[hollyfish2000]

thanks to Tony's fabulous yellow labs, I'm now on a bit of a mbuna kick. I currently have these in my 45 gallon tank with one male blue orchid peacock -- who's not really digging the new guys and looks sort of out of place. So I'm going to remove him. I can leave the tank as a lab colony OR I can toy with adding something? ideas? Rusties come to mind, but I've never been thrilled with their coloration. Tony suggested afra, but I don't know much about their personality. Other suggestions welcome . . .

 

[verbal]

The footprint of 45 is pushing it a bit for mbuna, but I think afra are one of the best options. If you want to replace the yellow labs, Labidochromis chimulsae is a nice fish that could work also.

 

[hollyfish2000]

not replacing the yellow labs! they are the :wub:new guys in the tank and causing me much happiness

 

[verbal]

not replacing the yellow labs! they are the :wub:new guys in the tank and causing me much happiness

Then afra would be the way to go

 

[Andrewtfw]

I really like the look of pseudotropheus 'elongatus chewere. I had one male with some labs and acei in a 54 corner and had no problem. I have no idea how more than one or a m/f pair would work out. Perhaps others can chime in.

 

[hollyfish2000]

I'll look that up, Andrew. You always give me good suggestions.
I was also thinking p. acei until they get too big and then moving them.

 

[hollyfish2000]

I"m loving my new addition -- some white tailed acei from Tony! The "gang" is quite happy in the tank, which is sort of my first "community" mbuna tank.

 

[dogofwar]

Awesome Holly - acei are perfect for you!

Matt

 

[Tony]

Looking great, Holly.