Possible problems?

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HerCrenVie

Feeder Fish
MFK Member
Sep 21, 2007
1,090
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Singapore
Hi all. Yesterday I introduced an 8" long Polypterus retropinnis into my tank containing an 11"+ Polypterus bichir lapradei. I noticed a lot of biting from the Lap, but somehow the Retro has not sustained any visible wounds. Nonetheless, because the Retro has a body thickness less than half that of the Lap, I'm worried the Lap will eat it. Am I worrying for nothing given the mere 3" size difference?
 
I'm still kind of new at this but I'll give it a shot.
How big is the tank? Do you have alof of hiding spots?

It could be dominance issues. Mine went through that. But someone else here who is more knowledgable will be able to be of more help to you, I'm sure.
 
moonchild1970;1594680; said:
I'm still kind of new at this but I'll give it a shot.
How big is the tank? Do you have alof of hiding spots?

It could be dominance issues. Mine went through that. But someone else here who is more knowledgable will be able to be of more help to you, I'm sure.
No hiding places, unfortunately. I'll try to add some. I just found bite marks and torn fins on my Retro. Evidently the Lap hates it. Is this a sign that the two are just incompatible?
 
the lap will eventually outgrow the retro, so it might only get worse.
 
Druu;1595853; said:
Just because it may be not be consumed does not mean there will not be fighting, injury, and possibly death.
I know. Now I'd like to ask if my Lap's belligerence towards my Retro will mellow after a few weeks?
 
keep watchign for a while.
it may just be dominance issues and may or may not continue.
if the lap really hates the retro i'd remove the retro.
 
I have had this problem many times with most Bichirs species. P.Lap Kolibe and P.Endlicheri. the Endie 3in bigger was a biter 3 days later nothing. at the time they were 8in lap and 11in Endie then I put in a Senagalus later when the fish were 16 and 20 inch,s and the Sengalus was 8in not a problem same when I put in the 9in Weeksii. hiding places cover of plants and dim light rearrage decor also feed well but some time the fish do not like a little fish around.
 
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