I'm Starting a New Aquarium - African Cichlids!

Usually it's recommended not to mix South American or other cichlids with African cichlids. I would stick with a species only tank and go with strictly the Africans or strictly South American cichlids. Firemouths really aren't that aggressive unless they're mating/breeding. I have one, and he's got his little space that he defends-like you mentioned more of a territory thing. And, also with the Africans, a lot of people that keep them also recommend keeping the individual lake varieties separated as well, like Tanganyikan and Malawaian's. They come from different lakes and have different preferences/requirements. Most fish now a days are bred on a fish farm, so they can handle almost any ph, but most Africans prefer a higher ph. I'd check with the store also and see what kind of environment/ph etc. they have them in. I used to go to this really great store in Florida, they specialized in Africans. I got some really hard to find species there. Good luck!

This sounds so exciting. I have always wanted to have a really nice aquarium with lots of fancy colorful fish. I dont know very much about fish. Fish tanks are so expensive and the fish are too. It would be a great hobby and I hope you enjoy it. sound like you are having a wonderful time with your new hobby.

If you are going to put those types of fish together maybe do it at the same time so no one has established dominance yet. If the tank is large enough they shouldnt bother eachother. Good luck with your tank!