hoplarchus psittacus expected size

[bbortko]

I know these guys can get big but just how big is typical. I have a standard 125 and dont want to place myself in the situation where I have to upgrade or relocate the fish.

 

[baldtaxguy]

My pair ended up in a 125g. Male about 10 inches and the female about 8". They do run bigger.

 

[bbortko]

My pair ended up in a 125g. Male about 10 inches and the female about 8". They do run bigger.

Thanks, I actually revisited your gcca thread this afternoon and it is the reason I've taken interest in them again.

 

[Modest_Man]

I've seen some in public aquaria that were between 14" and 16".

 

[bbortko]

I've seen some in public aquaria that were between 14" and 16".

This is what I've always seen listed as max size. I'm wondering what percentage actually achieve this size, if 75% are in the 12-14" range I may roll the dice the next time I have room.

 

[Mel O]

I had a pair in the 80's about that size. You must do massive water changes and have a nice low PH (around 6)
to make them happy. Lucky for me Seattle water was perfect for them.

I've seen some in public aquaria that were between 14" and 16".

 

[baldtaxguy]

Thanks, I actually revisited your gcca thread this afternoon and it is the reason I've taken interest in them again.

Just sold my pair today.

 

[ryansmith83]

My male was only 3 years old when I lost him a few months ago due to water issues. I measured him after he died and found he was just at 14". I didn't do anything special -- I raised him out in a 210 with mostly pellet food (Hikari and NLS) and a large weekly water change. They grow fast. Females will run a bit smaller but I would guess most males should make it to 12" given good water quality and food. There will be some that go over, some that stay under, but that's probably a good average.