Hello. I have been struggling for the last few weeks on what to do as far as stocking with my 75 gallon tank. I just got it a few weeks ago and its empty right now but will be up and running in 2 weeks when I move. It will be filtered by a Fluval 406 and a Marineland 350b (currently on a well established tank). I originally bough the 75 because I wanted to do Geophagus Red Head Tapajos. I was dead set on these guys (and their insane price) but was scared off by a post on another forum stating that they "cause you to be a slave to water changes and tank maintenance". Another guy at my LFS also said they need half RO water. I am planning on using straight tap water, and really dont want to mess with RO. I live in Indiana, so our water is fairly hard here but have read posts that says Red Head Tapajos are of the most adaptable Geos. I guess what Im asking for here is that is there any truth to the "slave" statement and RO water claim? Does anyone have experience with these guys? What dithers would go well with them? Ive read that, assuming I can do them without RO, they liked to be in groups of 4-5 and was planning on 4. Help! Any other suggestions of stock are welcome as well. Cheers
Kept them in straight tap with no issues. Though wasn't trying to breed, which is the only case when RO would actually be necessary. Basically, don't listen to those clowns.
One thing I will point out, is that I had for of them ranging in size from 3-4 inches and my 75 Gallon a standard was just not roomy enough for a group that size. They were constantly chasing each other and the stress on both them and me watching them, was no bueno.
After this experience, I wouldn't suggest a group of them in anything smaller than a six foot long tank. Maybe a pair would be better for you. For dithers, any larger high body Tetras are fine. A school of silver hatchets would be cool.
One thing I will point out, is that I had for of them ranging in size from 3-4 inches and my 75 Gallon a standard was just not roomy enough for a group that size. They were constantly chasing each other and the stress on both them and me watching them, was no bueno.
After this experience, I wouldn't suggest a group of them in anything smaller than a six foot long tank. Maybe a pair would be better for you. For dithers, any larger high body Tetras are fine. A school of silver hatchets would be cool.
Thanks for the reply! I figured that the people in question didnt really know what they were talking about but I wanted to check. How many did you try with? A pair might be hard for me because my lfs has a 2 day return policy, and even on day 2 its only half credit. So id be down presumably $100+ in fish just to get a pair once I returned others
Dang auto correct. I had four of them. I didn't realize you already bought yours.... Well just my experience, maybe yours will get along better.
They are dope fish. If you do decide on them, you might try the place where I got mine from. Only $20 each for good sized fish and shipping was like $20. Imperial Tropicals in Florida.
Many other options, just have too decide what you want.
Many other options, just have too decide what you want.
You can make a special request, I did. One male three females. They won't guarantee sex, but may try for you.
I've had redhead tapajos in the past and they would readily spawn. One of the easiest fish to breed in my experience. I started with a group of ~25 fry that I purchased from a member and ended up keeping 7. They were kept on dechlorinated tap water and were fed NLS pellets/market shrimp. Tank mates varied from clown loaches, bichirs, fire eel, and discus. If you want to keep the fry, I'd suggest against bottom feeders like clown or plecos..they'll make a quick snack out of the eggs.