Panda Dwarf Cichlids

[noodles]

originally posted this in the african cichlid forum by mistake, but wondered if anyone had info on these fish. Saw them in my LFS today, and they look pretty interesting. Any info would be greatly received!

Thanks!

 

[a.d.wood]

Hi there,

Cracking dwarf this one, here's a few links for you to follow:

Apistogramma panduro link 1

Apistogramma panduro link 2

Apistogramma panduro link 3

Regards

Andrew

 

[noodles]

Thanks for that!

So have you kept them? If so what set up? Are they similar to Dutch Rams?

Not likely to be keeping them in my 10UK G set up, but always on the look out for interesting smaller fish to get more info on.

 

[a.d.wood]

Hi there,

Yes, I do have them and currently breeding my own first and second generation fish from the original wild stock I received last year.

Minimum tank for a pair should be something with the equivalent of at least a 15" x 15" foot print. For my fish, water stats are 26 degrees C, GH 1, KH not detectable (100% RO water filtered through peat).

You're right as well, 10g is just a bit on the small side for a pair of these apisto's to survive comfortably. What may be of interest though is Dicrossus filamentosus. I've succesfully bred these guys a few times (and have the juveniles for sale on my website ), as they are a bit more peacefull this may be an alternative...

Please bear the following in mind though:

10 gallons is not a lot to work with! Most cichlid species grow much too large for 10 gallons and so the suitable selection is very limited. We felt that it should be restricted to the dwarf shell dwellers, dwarf julies, and apistos. All of these fishes will feel most comfortable if provided with a fine, sandy substrate. Shells are necessary for the shell dwelling lamprogines. Rocky crevices or ceramic caves are recommended for the julies and apistos. All of these species are egg-layers.

Water changes should be performed religiously - 25% of the water should be replaced every week - because it doesn't require much for a 10-gallon aquarium to get out of equilibrium. A reliable heater is strongly recommended because temperature fluctuations can be quite dramatic with such a small volume. Conversely, if the heater is unreliable, your fish could be cooked in a short period of time.

Filtration should be very simple. A small hang-on-tank power filter is what we recommend. A bio-wheel is a plus. Any submersible filters are discouraged as they take up too much space in a 10-gallon aquarium. An air stone is optional.

Each of these recommended species is compatable with live plants, just don't take up too much already-limited swimming space with too many of them.

Regards

Andrew

 

[noodles]

Thanks for the info. I am happy with my small community at the moment specifically because of the factors you mention. Just into finding out about the more unusual fish that seem to be flooding into fish shops these days!