Panduro Pairing Process

[svtcanuk]

How long is it recommended to allow Panduro to attempt to pair before introducing other potential mates? I have a good size pair that are nicely colored but the male doesn't seem to care for the female. For the most part he isn't overly aggressive but at times he will chase the female, usually when she's trying to get his attention. They are in a nicely planted 20 gallon on their own with lots of oak leaf litter, wood and caves. The pH is approx 5.5 and the conductivity is 89µs.

 

[Mike Wise]

Your water conditions seem fine. A. panduro and other nijsseni-group species tend to be more "picky" about their mates. I have always been more successful with having several females for the male to choose from. Just keep an eye out for aggression. Once a pair forms a bond, they work together to drive other fish from their breeding territory. If you're lucky, the male might choose to breed with 2 females. A 20 gal. tank is often too small.

 

[svtcanuk]

Am I better to leave them on their own or should I introduce some dither fish? If necessary I can get another female but I was thinking that some tetra's might give them a common threat to focus on.

 

[Mike Wise]

I'd try some dither tetras first. If this doesn't work, then try another female. In many respects nijsseni-group species tend to behave much like Pelvicachromis.