Male Cacatuoides Trio in Community

[TKoebel42]

I have a 55g planted community tank, not densely planted, but getting more dense. Current stock in the tank includes 12 Cardinal Tetras, 9 Rosy Tetras, 6 Panda Cories, and various guppies (10-12). I'd like to add some Apistogramma Cacatuoides as a centrepiece, not interested in breeding in this tank. I'm interested in breeding, but I will likely set up a separate tank, or series of tanks for that.

Would a group of up to 3 males work in this setup? As an alternative, I'm considering German Blue Rams, also up to 3 males.

 

[Mike Wise]

It might. It all depends on the lay-out of the tank. I, however, would not do it. Instead, I would add 3 males of different species with different body and fin shapes ... and in a properly laid-out tank of course. They would display to each other, but not be as aggressive as 3 of the same species.

 

[TKoebel42]

It might. It all depends on the lay-out of the tank. I, however, would not do it. Instead, I would add 3 males of different species with different body and fin shapes ... and in a properly laid-out tank of course. They would display to each other, but not be as aggressive as 3 of the same species.

Thanks Mike, I really appreciate the input. That might actually work out better because I really am torn between the Cacatuoides and GBRs. Would you stick to all Apistos, or mix in Rams? For example, a Cacatuoides, a GBR, and perhaps a Panduro or Macmasteri? Or maybe a Borellii?

 

[Aquaticloch]

Stick to all apistos, GBRs require much higher temperatures. It'll be a compromise for both species, which is never good.