gymnogeophagus balzanii

[jworth]

A little info please. I know basics but I want first hand experience. anyone can use google but i really want to hear from those who have kept/keep these. I just ordered 4 from Ken (fish farm). Do these really need a wintering period? has anyone kept them at a constant 77-78 degrees before? Looking to keep this group to breed, however i think they would be awesome in my 125, but i dont have a wintering period.

 

[gnuisance]

I have read if you keep them at the same temp as other cichlids is causes them to waste away slowly. If you really want to enjoy them I recommend devoting a tank to them and possibly other gymnogeos. BTW 666th post so take my advice with a grain of salt.

 

[FSM]

They are a bit more northern than some of the other gymnogeophagus. The water still gets very warm in the summer where they are native to, but in the winter it gets pretty chilly. I have mine at about 80 right now but I'm going to let the temperature drop to around 68 in the winter.

 

[jworth]

i think i will just dedicate a tank to them but, with most of these being domestic wouldn't they be tolerant of not having winterizing?

 

[abarilot]

I highly recommend the cool down period. Gymnogeos have a tendency to "burn out" with a year or 2 years if you dont. Also this should get them ready to breed as well!

Just saw your post. I believe they need the wintering period to produce some enzyme or protein (can't remember right now) and this is triggered by the cooler water.