Tank setup

I currently have 8 Lamprologus ocellatus in a 20 gal. Im going to setup a 40 breeder later today and soon want to move my shellies into that tank. My plan was to make the back two corners setup with rockwalls, so its shaped like a V with the front part of the tank open for the shellies. I was thinking for tank mates julidochromis marleri but not sure if there a good choice. If anyone is keeping shellies what is your thought for tank mates if not juli's.

Are you putting your shells into the 20? Or the 40B with your lamps? If so how big are your lamps? They might both make it well in a 40B...

Juli's should be fine. I don't currently have shellies, but I would recommend dwarf cichlids (Kribs), birchardi, or some Calvus...

Right now ive been keeping my shellies in the 20 for lil over 2 months, but when the 40 breeder is cycled I want to move them into the 40B but would like to add some juli's, ive heard mixed responses on keeping them with shellies. Shellies usually only get 2" mine are around 1 to 1.5" right now. I have birchardi's also but I would think since they can get 6" and there aggressiveness they would either kill or eat the shellies.

Juli's do get big, but their mouths are smaller than most... As long as they can't fit it in in the juli's mouth they won't view it as food. They also dont grow as fast as others, so you should get some that are smaller than your shellies. As long as cover for both species is provided (ie shells, caves, rocks, etc.), I think you could be fine...

Other input is needed though, because I haven't tried this...

about mixing your shellies with other lamps or julis is really a big...N O N O!!!!!! I have done this before and most of the shellie fry made great snacks! Set yourself a 30 gallon tank and scatter as many shells on the bottom and watch the shellies build and steal shells from on another. Try it and have fun! Enjoy the show!!!!!