apisto´s for 40ltr/10gallons

[apisto85]

I've just restarted my aquarium hobby and have acguired a somewhat small aquarium for apistos, but really want them.

Can i keep a pair of them in such a small space, and if so, which species would be peaceful enough?
Should i buy a pair or a trio?
Can they breed in such a small habitat?

Thanks

 

[Mike Wise]

A pair of A. borellii or A. cf. caetei Rotwangen will do very well in a tank this size. With experience many other species can be safely housed in 40 l/10 gal aquarium.

 

[apisto85]

thanks
I dont think caetei has been in stores in finland yet. Borellii is sold currently. Are there any more?

I have kept apistogramma geisleri in a tank that size in the past and they spawned, but i dont now where to get thows anymore.

Can i keep a few tetras in the tanks too as dither fish so the apistos wont get timid?

 

[Mike Wise]

If you have experience with apistos, pairs of many other species can be housed in small tank. Many, however, might need to be separated - espexcially while the female has fry. If you can do this, I would try - pairs only - of any apisto except: A. atahualpa, A. huascar, A. martini, A. pantalone. Most species related to A. nijsseni will do well if they have already formed a bonded pair. It is important that there are many hiding places - not just 2 or 3 - and that the aquarium aquascaping does not permit a fish to see across the entire length of the aquarium. Two or 3 small surface-dwelling tertas, as target/dither fish, will help. Avoid schooling tetras that do not act normally if not in a school. These are often very efficient fry predators (no Red Neons or Red-head tetras!). The best are pencilfish or hatchetfish.

 

[apisto85]

I think i'll stick with cacatuoides or borellii, just so there wouldn't be any trouple.
I dont have another tank(atleast yet) that i could seperate the male to.