Ideal water conditions for Apisto Cauc.?

[Markusi]

Hi,

I've moved my community fish to a 20 gal, and want to make my 10 gal a tank for a pair of apistos. Besides pH under 7 (6.6-6.8?) what else should I do to make it hospitable to Apistos (besides keeping it clean of course).

Markus

 

[Neil]

Markusi,

WELCOME TO THE FORUM

Hardness (carbonate especially) is probably a more important value than the pH for you. Not so much for cacatuoides, but mainly to keep the pH where you want it, if you are using anything but tap water. If the water you are talking about is your tap water, than I expect that you are all set.

Cacatuoides are a relatively undemanding species. Their health and optimum breeding capacity will be aided by regularly changed water @ about 78 degrees which is slightly south of neutral pH and a little on the soft side. A varied diet of good food is important for both breeding conditioning and general husbandry. The tank can be simple, but should include several caves eeding and some structure (plants, rocks, wood, etc) for aggression avoidance. I typically use a thin layer of sand or small gravel for easy cleaning and a foam filter, which is sufficient when complimented with a good water change schedule.

More information on these subjects and general experiences with cacatuoides can be found in a search of previous posts. You will find a ton of info.

Good luck,
Neil

 

[farm41]

You have soft water up there don't you? Most in the portland area have very soft water 2-3Kh I think.