apistogramma nijsseni aggression

[RLHam3]

Hey i just picked up a trio of apistogramma nijsseni. They are now in my 29 gal heavily planted tank. Their only other tankmates are two male guppies and 3 whiteseam ancistrus plecos. The plecos are all still very young and inbetween 1-1.5". I have been told that they are one of the most aggressive apistogramma. Has anybody kept these? Or does anybody have an opinion on whether or not these could cause harm to my young plecos?

 

[Mike Wise]

They are moderately aggressive and will attack plecos if they come near protective parents. I doubt that they can do much damage to these armored catfish - other than attacking the eyes. Many apisto species are known to remove/damage eyes of armored catfish (corys/plecos) if they can't stop them from entering their territory. If this is a breeding tank, then remove all bottom-dwelling fish except the parents.