What are the prettiest African Cichlids?

What type of african cichlids go together?

• I am setting up an african rift tank. I did my research and all but i'm still confused on the compatability of the different cichlids in the different lakes. can you mix cichlids from different lakes? My vision of the tank i'm setting up is like this: only medium size fishes..proabbly 4-5 inches?..colourful ones likes the yellow lab...i'm gonna paint the back of the tank black with white sand. Any suggestions? Thanks!

• Answer:

  cichlids of the same lake usually find harmony with eachother. Mixing the different lakes is still ok though. cichlids need a lot of hiding spaces. The are extremely smart and territorial, so they will fight over who gets to hang out in what hole. Sand is a good idea, I think. I use gravel, and my cichlids move it around continually. They dig holes, and move plants around. Bury your plants REALLy GOOD! Also, some cichlids like to brood at the bottom and stay in the holes. Some cichlids pace at the top. Some in the middle. Make sure to have a good mix of brooders and top feeders. The pet stores are usually really knowledgable about cichlids and habitats. Except for chain food stores. You might get lucky there. Good Luck with your tank! I have a : Venustus Red Jewel Yellow Lab Borleyi Auratus BumbleBee Blue Zebra I also have a Rapheal Catfish, a tiny plecosamus, and a Yo-Yo Loach. :)