Laetacara and Biotodoma

[Muskies85]

Hey guys. New member. Diving into the world of South American cichlids and having a heck of a time! Was looking for someone experienced to possibly answer some questions that I have. I got my first “big” tank a few months ago and now I’m filling it. Picked up a gorgeous red tiger Severum and now I’m trying to finish out my stocking.
Anyone have experience with Laetacara fulvipinnis or Biotodoma wavrini? These are the two species I was really drawn too. Looking for any possible info on group size, social behavior etc…
also I’m a bit of a nut job when it comes to research and all that so I get a little excited. Who wants to help me stock my new tank?! Thanks so much. Alex

 

[duanes]

Both the Laetacara and Biotodoma come from tannin inundated, low pH, and soft water, the color of tea, so may be very susceptible to bacteria evolved to live in hard or above neutral, mineral rich water like that found in most of the U.S.).
If your water is naturally soft and low pH, no problem, but is at all hard, an RO system might be a good investment.
And or collect rain water.
I would also layer the bottom of the tank with couple inches leaf litter, constantly replacing it as deterioration occurs.
I would also use Rooibos tea bags in HOB or other filters to add more of the antibacterial tannins.
In a 6 ft tank, aggression might be at a minimum if the two species are able to divide territories .

 

[Muskies85]

I do have a RODI unit that I cut with tap so my water is fairly soft. I saw some articles online by ryansmith83 so I was hoping he may chime in. I believe he has kept both species. Not much info online on either of these. Trying to figure out if I should buy small groups or pairs. 75 gallon tank with juvie red tiger Severum, a few various plecos and 20 cardinals. I am looking for a few small cichlids to keep with the Severum so he has some friends!

 

[Muskies85]

Hey P PhishMon84 i see you have also kept fulvipinnis. I was going to private message you but I don’t think I have the ability to do that yet. What is your take on how many i should get for my 75 gallon? Thank you for any advice

 

[Muskies85]

What size group should I get duanes?

Both the Laetacara and Biotodoma come from tannin inundated, low pH, and soft water, the color of tea, so may be very susceptible to bacteria evolved to live in hard or above neutral, mineral rich water like that found in most of the U.S.).
If your water is naturally soft and low pH, no problem, but is at all hard, an RO system might be a good investment.
And or collect rain water.
I would also layer the bottom of the tank with couple inches leaf litter, constantly replacing it as deterioration occurs.
I would also use Rooibos tea bags in HOB or other filters to add more of the antibacterial tannins.
In a 6 ft tank, aggression might be at a minimum if the two species are able to divide territories .

 

[duanes]

I'm not adept at either species enough to say.
Maybe PM Ryan.
There is also a guy in Milwaukee name Jeff at Aquaticclarity.com that may be a good source.

 

[Muskies85]

Thank you man. I don’t think I can PM yet. I tagged Ryan on an earlier post so hoping he will respond