A174

[Mike Wise]

In my opinion, the 50x50 cm ("20 gallon square") tank is too small for more than a pair of most apistos. I would not put a trio in of Maulbrüter in anything smaller than a 20L. Your tank has a surface area of 2500 square cm. A 20 gallon long tank (85x30x30 cm) has the same volume, and only slightly more surface area, but its lengh allows the fish to be more separated from each other when they want to avoid each other.

 

[cageman]

There is only one pair in the tank.
In the past there were no problems with a few other species.
However I do understand your opinion. I never looked at it that way. And it sounds logical.
Unfortunately I do not have the room to place a 85cm tank.
Could this be a solution:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v726/cageman13/bakindeling.jpg

Not completely divided but only half or al little bit more.

 

[Mike Wise]

If the female is smaller than the male, you should use the same trick that breeders of large Central American cichlids use for breeding their species.

Buy a piece of plastic grid that is used to cover fluorescent light fixtures. Cut it to the size to make a partition in the tank. Then cut several smaller holes through which the female can swim, but the male cannot. In this manner the female can interact with the male when she wants, but can escape to the other side of the partition when she is attacked. Place the breeding cave on her side of the tank, close to the partition. In this way the pair can even spawn without being side by side.

 

[cageman]

Unfortunately the male is smaller. At least for the time beeing

 

[cageman]

Today I decided to take the step.
I took away the barrier and after a short unfriendly welcome they are now swimming peacefully together.
Lets see how the relationship develops.