Getting the opportunity to capture a piece of a hobbyist’s cichlid journey is a privilege that I don’t take lightly. And today’s interviewee, Mike Helford, has had quite the journey.
Mike Helford interview
Labidochromis caeruleus
Dave Schumacher interview (#2)
As a long time cichlid keeper, I have sourced my fish from a variety of vendors – both online and my LFS. I have made it no secret here on the blog that one of my favorite online sources is Dave’s Rare Aquarium Fish. Owned by Dave Schumacher and specializing in African cichlids (mostly the rift lakes), this San Antonio, TX based business is first class. From the quality of the fish to expertly bagged, boxed, and shipped orders, Dave does it right. Some of the best fish I have ever had (and still have) came from him.
Tank reshuffle & decisions
If you recall in August, I posted about reducing my Julidochromis dickfeldi stock. That effort is actually just a component of a larger plan, which is to reduce my total number of occupied tanks, replace a couple of tanks, and restock with some species I have not worked with before.
Keeping mbuna and shell dwellers together
I very often hear of cichlid keepers with mixed tanks. Some keep New World and Old World cichlids together. Some keep Tangs with Malawis and some even keep West Africans with East Africans. Does it really matter? Sure….sometimes. It depends on several factors.
What about keeping mbuna with Tanganyikan shell dwellers? “Blasphemous!” some might say. I would say, “Not so fast.” Different lake origins and water parameter requirements aside, it can be done. I know because I do it. But should you?