Best conditions

[thapsus]

What are best possible contidions to these species: Apistogramma borellii, Gastromyzon loaches, algae eating shrimps? Why?

And what are best conditions when these species are combined to same aquarium? Why?

Thankyouverymuch.

 

[freddyk]

As far as I'm concerned a well planted, natural setup with a sand substrate is the best environment. Most natural for the fish, a planted tank tends to produce excellent water conditions and a nice mazework of natural hiding spots that, in my experience, is difficult to reproduce with the fake varieties. Sand is undoubtedly an ideal substrate for the cichlids, as they are natural diggers, and for the shrimp and loach, which, as scavangers, will comb the bottom of the tank for food - food they will have a harder time finding when it sinks into gravel.

 

[pnyklr3]

Apistogramma like to have a low pH (but it is not necessary, I've kept them in nearly 9), soft, and clam water. These would really only be needed if you were trying to brred them. I have also heard that the natural habitat for Apistogramma is a bit murky (like when you add peat), but mine are fine in clear water. Apistogramma require caves to hide/spawn in. You will actually see more of them if you have a lot of hiding spaces.

 

[thapsus]

Ok thanks, that's my tank. I just thought something could probably be better.

I have lots of plants, hiding places and sand bottom. pH is 6.5, kH is 1 and gH is 3. Temperature is 24C, same as in pantanal river I presume. Currents is probably stronger that borelliis would want it to be but gastromyzon like it. No nitrite or ammonium in tank. Nitrate is 0-5. I use peat filtration. So everything is ok...well I still don't think everythings perfect.