i got him some snails and they didn't last long, I'll have to try some more or maybe the black worms or guppies. The information I have says this species will get to be about 3 inches long. right now he is about an inch and a half and seems perfectly healthy not breathing heavy or anything and no signs of sickness. the water is good, just a little hard but from what I've read they aren't terribly sensitive to hard or soft water provided they are acclimated properly. i think I may change the substrate so he blends in more and hopefully isn't so shy.