Help Liquid rock - suitable variants

[Xeon]

Hi everyone,

Wanted to get peoples recommendation on what Apistogramma’s would go well in my liquid rock tap water.

it’s around 7.7 ph + 260 ppm hardness (total as CACO3).

Based off my reading I’m looking at white water variants- so most likely cacatuoides, A. borellii, A. trifasciata and maybe A. macmasteri?

I’m looking to long term keep the male in a 50g community, and use a existing 10g as a breeder/grow out for some fry and the female (introducing and removing the male as required) - so ones that could ideally spawn in this hardness naturally would be preferred.

Any recommendations of which fish? - I’d ideally want macmasteri if possible but if that’s not going to work would appreciate any other suggestions ?

Thanks in advance!

 

[MacZ]

With what you just wrote here, I'd say it's down to your personal preference.

I would possibly chose the species ultimately by the quality of the fish at your LFS.

 

[Xeon]

Ok great thank you ! - any recommendations on when you would remove the male to minimise stress/maximise fry chances? - I’m assuming relatively soon after the fry are swimming?

 

[MacZ]

Ok great thank you ! - any recommendations on when you would remove the male to minimise stress/maximise fry chances? - I’m assuming relatively soon after the fry are swimming?

Actually when you are certain the fish spawned. But the female will start to chase and fight the male very obviously, so you will know when to remove him.

 

[Xeon]

Got you ! - sorry (hopefully) final question , is there any dither fish you’d recommend for the 10g that won’t eat the fry?

 

[MacZ]

Not for a 10 gallon, no. But they are not absolutely necessary either.

If it was a more soft water setup with a bit more room I'd very much recommend pencilfish.

 

[CRD]

If you'd like to make life easier on yourself, use the 50 as the breeder tank, and let the male use the 10 should he need a time out.