Question on apistogramma nijessini?

[gex18]

I am interested in purchasing a harem of these for my juwel rio 400 (dimensions 60"x20"x24"high)! Are they easy to look after/breed? They will be housed woth discus (10 to be exact), whiptails, 1 pair of rams and a few L-numbers! So how many do you think i could house in a 5 footer? Also what pH do they prefer? As i have pH control on my co2 system!?

 

[Neil]

gex18,

WELCOME TO THE FORUM

The tankmates for A. nijsseni should be fine, but you should know that there probably won't be much success in breeding, if that is an interest.
Nijsseni is a durable apisto and can handle a fairly wide range of water conditions. They are most happy in slightly acidic and soft water though(6 pH, 2-3ºKH). Breeding performance will depend on this. They are an aggressive species and can be tough on conspecifics, as well as anyone else in their territory when they decide to get mean. A harem is acceptable and desirable (according to some), but I have found pairs to be the best way to go with them.

Good luck,

Neil