Min. Tank size for festae pair?

  • We are currently upgrading MFK. thanks! -neo
I know firsthand that females can get at least 11"...and males can get over 13". And that's grown out in a tank, not a big pond. I think they're still growing too.

My pair are in a 156g, (5'L x 2'W x 25"T). It's plenty of room for now. I'm lucky my pair seem to have a very strong bond.

Can you think of or have any theories as to why your pair has bonded so well? Did they pair naturally? What size were they again when introduced? You have for the most part had tank mates right?
 
Can you think of or have any theories as to why your pair has bonded so well? Did they pair naturally? What size were they again when introduced? You have for the most part had tank mates right?

I introduced them in Jan 2009 when they were both 7-8". I'm not sure what you mean by pair naturally, but as soon as I put them in a tank together, they took an immediate liking to one another...like love at first site. I have to say they're a much more spectacular site to behold as a pair than individually.
 
I introduced them in Jan 2009 when they were both 7-8". I'm not sure what you mean by pair naturally, but as soon as I put them in a tank together, they took an immediate liking to one another...like love at first site. I have to say they're a much more spectacular site to behold as a pair than individually.

Man... I sure hope I get me a pair that looks like yours out of my group!

-Rich
 
Personally, I think something like 180 gallons would be ideal, but a bit smaller has worked for people. I think balton's (gorgeous) pair are not the norm for the species as for how well they get along (lucky! ;)). I think a 125 (with 6 foot length) would be the minimum I would personally try with a festae pair. It's not even a bioload issue, it's just a space thing. A 4 foot tank with a 12-15" fish doesn't leave much room.
 
Personally, I think something like 180 gallons would be ideal, but a bit smaller has worked for people. I think balton's (gorgeous) pair are not the norm for the species as for how well they get along (lucky! ;)). I think a 125 (with 6 foot length) would be the minimum I would personally try with a festae pair. It's not even a bioload issue, it's just a space thing. A 4 foot tank with a 12-15" fish doesn't leave much room.

That's understandable.
 
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