Catfish Tank Without A Lighting Hood

[phantomlink]

In order to keep my Pictus, they're going to get their own tank to swim around in. My question is this: Since getting their own tank/filter is probably going to take away the rest of my spendable cash for now, is it ok to build a cheap lid on the aquarium without a light source for now? I know they light low light and they will get plenty of daylight but at night I dont think they need their own light source there will be some light from the TV or living room lights anyways

 

[fishprotector]

You will be fine. Most fish dont need the light anyway, it is mainly for us to see them in their full glory. I agree with you though, my Pictus are most active in lower light.

 

[phantomlink]

how many do you have and how large is your tank? I plan to get 4 more or so ( only have one, his friend died )and they will be going into a 70 gallon/265 liter tank by themselves until I see how large their mouths are when they are adults and debate putting them in my main tank

 

[fishprotector]

I have four which are currently in a 300l tank. They are around 4-5 inches in length and have large mouths now. Recently had to house a shoal of fully grown black neon tetra with them and they swiftly disappeared... Won't be doing that again. Next smallish fish are black ruby barbs but they are pretty much fully grown so should be safe. I plan on getting more pictus when we upgrade.