malawi cichlids

[martin]

This maybe a stupid question but can loaches live in the same tank as malawi cichlids. im just wondering because i have a serious snail problem

[mickthefish]

i'd say no mate, the ph and hardness differences between the two types is vastly different plus a good number of malawi's do have a bad reputation for aggression.
you have a thumbs down from me bud.

mick

[martin]

i thought as much but thanks for your reply

[mickthefish]

there is a product that you can use against the snails it's called wormer plus.
it does take a while to eradicate the snails but eventually it will get rid of them.

mick

[Ashleigh]

Hi Martin,

Welcome to LOL.

Unfortunately loaches are not ideal tank mates for malawi cichlids even on a temporary basis because of the different water requirements required by each.

Below is an excellent article written by Emma Turner, explaining in detail why these two types of fish should not be mixed

http://www.loaches.com/articles/why-loa ... erm=malawi


Loaches are not ideal for 'dealing with snail problems', yes they enjoy the odd few snails here and there, but they are not viewed by many on this forum, including me, as a means of ridding your problem. Loaches require a specific setup in which to thrive, if that cannot be met, then there is no point in housing them. Your hardly going to put malawi cichlids in with community fish due to neither thriving when kept together.

There are a number of other ways that you can rid your tank of snails, or at least control it. Do you know what species of snail you have?
If its Malysian Trumpet Snails that you have, there is a species of snail that will hunt these down and feed upon them called the 'Asassin Snail', Anentome helena , and while these do breed in the aquarium, eggs can eaisly be removed as can the yonger individuals-these can be traded in as they are becoming quite popular.

Another way would just to put in some cucumber/courgette and let the snails gather and feed, and remove them when you feel is necessary, obviously this will not get rid of them entirely but it will control them. Vac the gravel to remove some of the smaller snails.

Also reduce the amount your feeding-snail populations rapidly increase when a good food source is avaliable. Only feed what your fish will consume-no leftovers on the tank floor.

Hope this helps


Ashleigh

[martin]

Thats really great help many thanks. Any advice as to where i can buy these assasin snails - i am in surrey

Martin

[Ashleigh]

Im afraid I have no idea about shops around Surrey (Im i North Wales),
they are avaliable to order from wildwoods mail delivery is thats any help?

http://www.tropicalfishfinder.co.uk/sto ... ish&cat=60

Also a post about Anentome that may interest you

http://forums.loaches.com/viewtopic.php ... t=anentome


Ashleigh