Help me get started with Apistogramma

[FaRnieGuy]

Hi people...

I'm very new to Apistos. Recently see alot of our brothers successfully breeding their apistos, really feel happy for them. I just cleared my shrimp tank... don't want to leave it empty, so decided to keep a pair of Apistos.

1. Can anyone suggest which type should I start off with? Good for beginners?

2. What do I have to take note of?

3. What are the water parameters?

4. Do I need it to be planted? Anyway, my tank is a 1.5ft tank...

I know hiding places for them are important... Will definitely add hiding places...

[yorky]

Hi Farnie,
Yes the lure of apistos can be quite strong..

You might want to read this sticky by one of our expert here.

http://www.aquaticquotient.com/forum...ad.php?t=19566

I think it gives you a good grasp of what is needed to start.

As for recommended species, it depends on your preference.
What finnage type, colours and body shapes do you like?
I am sure you have seen some picture postings to build a preference by now..
Narrow down to a few, and then some of us can advise you if its 'easy' enough to start..

[sheng]

Welcome to the Apistogramma's Family

[FaRnieGuy]

oh.... think its time i narrow my search down...
must do some research for apistos already...
really beautiful fishes...

[benny]

You can consider Apistogramma cacatuoides, Apistogramma trifasciata or Apistogramma agassizii. These are great entry level fishes and can be found in a lot of shops for a decent budget.

Cheers,

[FaRnieGuy]

You can consider Apistogramma cacatuoides, Apistogramma trifasciata or Apistogramma agassizii. These are great entry level fishes and can be found in a lot of shops for a decent budget.

Cheers,

thanks... will take note...
will be dropping by Biotope and some other LFS one of these evenings...
for the time being... need to prepare my tank first.. before i bring in my new friends...

[sheng]

Hi there,
if possible, try to use ADA soil, it will be good for your Apistogramma
It will help to get your water parameters right.

BTW, be prepare to be get addicted by Apistogramma, you may ended up having to add more tanks for this hobby, hahaha

[FaRnieGuy]

Hi there,
if possible, try to use ADA soil, it will be good for your Apistogramma
It will help to get your water parameters right.

BTW, be prepare to be get addicted by Apistogramma, you may ended up having to add more tanks for this hobby, hahaha

alright will take note...
thanks for the tips...

so i assume you too have quite a number of tanks at home?

[sheng]

I got only one 2.5ft , one 1ft (partition it) & managed to add 1 more 1ft plastic holding tank, haha.

Trying to squeeze out as much room for more tank as possible.

Please Beware !!! Apistogramma will bite holes in your pocket $$$ !!!

[benny]

Please Beware !!! Apistogramma will bite holes in your pocket $$$ !!!

Sheng,

I know this species can be quite aggressive, but I didn't know they are so aggressive as to bite pockets!!!

Cheers,

[Wackytpt]

Sheng,

I know this species can be quite aggressive, but I didn't know they are so aggressive as to bite pockets!!!

Cheers,

I think I know this species. SUch beauty and full of character species,.

[genes]

IF you can resist the temptation of buying more apistos and instead, focus on just one pair. I should say, minimum 2 tanks. One tank for the parents to breed in and another to hold the fries.

[FaRnieGuy]

would like to ask if it's possible to keep yamatos or even otos in an apisto tank?

i'm using guppies as dithers... will that be ok too?

[ash]

IF you can resist the temptation of buying more apistos and instead, focus on just one pair. I should say, minimum 2 tanks. One tank for the parents to breed in and another to hold the fries.

once you start, it is very hard to stop.