Panduro's vs. Nijsseni

[jimmy]

I really like how the these species look and im considering getting some. Can any one tell me some pro's and con's of each??? Any reccomendations would be apppreciated

 

[Neil]

jimmy,

WELCOME TO THE FORUM

Both fish are members of the same complex (Nijsenni complex) and share many characteristics. They both are very nice looking animals in both the female and male genders, which is not always the case with Apistogramma. Panduro males often have a triangular mark on the base of the caudal fin, whereas nijsenni have little or no marking (sometimes an oval caudal spot). Female panduro do not have quite as much "panda"-like markings, nor have I noticed the nijenni females' greenish imposing coloration on those marks. Both species females are variable in the size and placement of their markings (especially the panduro). They are very interesting fish!
Both, however, are also pretty aggressive fish and have to be managed fairly carefully in order to keep the sexes together. That said, they are not particularly difficult to breed, but many people do record difficulty with them.
They do not require extremes in water management or in values, but will give better results if they are kept in the low 6 pH range, little hardness, 78 - 80 degrees, and clean, regularly changed water. I support you getting ahold of either of these two fish. Good luck! Neil