new to dats, looking for help in the selection process

the lion who ate the sun

Plecostomus
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Mar 11, 2014
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Hey guys! I am currently looking for a few datnoids to add to my 180gallon polypterus tank. I am new to datnoids, and have read a lot of contradictory things about their behavior. I would like 3 datnoids but understand that this is a potentially awkward number.
Which are the most peaceful option? The three and four bar varieties interest me.


***Also, is there a vendor you would recommend? I am having trouble finding any in the 5"+ range.***

Current 180 stock:

9.5" polypterus Faranah Lapradei
11.5" polypterus senegalus
7" Polypterus Ornatipinnis
6.5" polypterus Ornatipinnis
3, 4" clown loaches (only active from 12-4am)

Possibly adding a Cichla orinocensis ‘Rio,' in the 8" range, but the datnoids are my first choice if these fish are not as compatible as I have read.
Thanks!
 

the lion who ate the sun

Plecostomus
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Really excited about finding some of these guys. They are truly beautiful fish~!
 

krichardson

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Sometimes they get along in small numbers and sometimes they don't,you just never know until you try them out.I currently have two sets of three dats in two separate tanks and there are no issues between them.At the size you want them at they would have plenty of room to stay away from each other as they get comfortable in your 180.
 

the lion who ate the sun

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Any recommendations for finding them in that range? Particulae vendors, perhaps?
 

UnstoppableJayD

MFK NNJ
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Thats an in between kind of size... usually when vendors sell them they are either really small (2 inch) or big (10inch) I would start by posting a want to buy thread and see what other hobbyist have locally... if not then I would try aquascape or ichiban. GLWS great fish and you will enjoy.
 

the lion who ate the sun

Plecostomus
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How fast do they grow in inches per month? 1/2 inch? More?
 

krichardson

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Dats are among the slowest growing fish....giving them good food and good water is about the best you can do for growth.
 

fuzzlebug

Candiru
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Feb 3, 2014
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Depends, mine grew fron 4" to 6" in 5 months. And that was fairly heavy feeding, when these fish get stable and comfy they are voracious eaters.

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the lion who ate the sun

Plecostomus
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Thats pretty slow :p. Found a few at/around 225 in the 7" range. Anyone have any issues housing these beasts with polys?Any other vendor reccomendations?
 
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