Peaceful Apistos?

[Elrohirthehasty]

How peaceful are Apistos?

Are they ok in most community setups? Do they become territorial when breeding? If so, could you get just one?

 

[pirate monkey]

Hi, I've just replied to another post about apistos:

http/www.fishforums.net/index.php?showtopic=309244

Unfortunately I can only give advice on cockatoos (A. cactuoides). IME they are peaceful, even shy. I kept 1 male and 2 females (advised for the species, not sure for other apistos. The males can harass the females which is why two females are best), although they didn't ever breed. I never saw them being territorial but then I only kept them with diamond & neon tetra, cories and a BN.

You could easily keep just one, in which case I would have a male as they are more aesthetically pleasing, but IMO it is nicer to keep cichlids in pairs or trios (depending on species) as the 'flirting' behaviours are fascinating, and I believe the males tend to colour up better with females around.

What is the size of the tank they would be going in, and what are the tankmates?

Also, do you have any plants (real or fake) or other hidey holes? Cichlids in general like to have a cave or something similar they can call their own!

HTH

 

[Elrohirthehasty]

What is the size of the tank they would be going in, and what are the tankmates?

Also, do you have any plants (real or fake) or other hidey holes? Cichlids in general like to have a cave or something similar they can call their own!

I have a 29gal with:
-6 lemon tetras
-5 harlequin rasboras
-3 platies
-2 corydoras
-5 kuhlii loaches

I have driftwood with java ferns and moss planted on them as well as some vallis and crypts. I'm pretty sure there would be plenty of places to hide out in. One thing tho; my kuhliis like hanging out under the ferns, which is likely where any apisto would make its home. Do you think there would be a problem? Should I add more rocks and "cavey" things?