How large did it get? Do you think a 6' 125g would work for a breeding pair?
Looking for input on tank size for Veija/Paratheraps/Oscura
- Thread starter RyanM
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How large did it get? Do you think a 6' 125g would work for a breeding pair?
If a Vieja pair has securely bonded, many will tolerate a 6 ft tank, especially if there is a tank nearby, where they can see other cichlids, seems the others help to distract the pair from hurting each other.
I've had bifas, guttalata, and fenestratus, spawn in those tanks, but any cichlids in the tank, were killed if I did't get them out soon enough.
For a community Vieja tank of adults something in the 300 gallon range would be more suitable.
I've had bifas, guttalata, and fenestratus, spawn in those tanks, but any cichlids in the tank, were killed if I did't get them out soon enough.
For a community Vieja tank of adults something in the 300 gallon range would be more suitable.
Mine got around a foot long. I did sell it eventually due to a move, so it may have continued to grow. I had it for a couple years. I think a 125 could work as long as you provide ways for the female to escape if need be (divider or flowerpots with female-only sized hole). I think duanes' idea about ther fish close by is probably a good idea if possible.
I'm hearing OP wants a Vieja Community tank. MAYBE you'd get lucky and keep one of each in a 6 foot tank--it'd be real cramped, but it might work. What you really need is a bigger tank.
A breeding pair of Vieja in a 6 foot tank -- they might tolerate each other, but I think a 3rd or 4th fish in the tank with them while they spawn would get killed. What you really need is a bigger tank.
I have a real big tank, and it's still not like I can just go put whatever Vieja I feel like keeping in there. Zonatus always end up beating on all the other fish. Regani are always mean to other Regani. I have a Melanurus in my sump because he was fighting too much. Even in a big tank, it's a crap shoot.
A breeding pair of Vieja in a 6 foot tank -- they might tolerate each other, but I think a 3rd or 4th fish in the tank with them while they spawn would get killed. What you really need is a bigger tank.
I have a real big tank, and it's still not like I can just go put whatever Vieja I feel like keeping in there. Zonatus always end up beating on all the other fish. Regani are always mean to other Regani. I have a Melanurus in my sump because he was fighting too much. Even in a big tank, it's a crap shoot.
And even if you DID get 3-6 Vieja to live together in a 6 foot tank, they'd be stacked in there like firewood. If one moves, the others would have to move to accommodate it. It'd be THAT crowded.....don't do it.
Get a bigger tank.
https://www.midwestcustomaquariums.com
Get a bigger tank.
https://www.midwestcustomaquariums.com
My initial plan was just for one Melanura and 3-4 Het's. I'm essentially wonder if the Melanura would get too large for 180g.
The problem with a custom tank is that the longest I can go is 84" which is only an extra foot compared to a 180g. Paying 3x the price over a standard 180g doesn't seem worth it for just an extra foot.
Melanura would be fine in a 180, I would be concerned for the hets being a similar shape, might work might not. A group of 8 Thorichthys and a male melanura might stand a better chance.
I think there is a decent shot of this working out because in my experience the melanura are not one of the more aggressive vieja, and the het's stay on the smaller side and are quite different in coloration, so may not be seen as a threat. Of course, not to beat a dead horse, but it is still a risk in a 180 mixing any kind of vieja. But, if you have another tank to separate refugees, I would think it's worth a shot
I agree with Dan. A 125 is limited by it's width of less than 18" inside dimensions. A 180 is better suited, for a pair, or as you are considering a single specimen, with tankmates.
Above is a link to a video of Rusty wessels fish house-
The big tanks are 180’s & 265’s
Take a look a look at the levels he stocks his tanks too. The way he decorates etc.
These tanks are amazing and actively breeding. He describes his water change regimen as well.
There are many diff approaches to tank stocking- no one way is correct- if you look this guy up he’s done wonders for the hobby and is clearly an expert.
