Timid/Shy Arenal Barred Midas

[Wharf]

So this is the thread before the "hey I got this new fish" thread lol. I received a new 10inch Arenal Barred Midas from Dan a couple days ago via Southwest Cargo. Actually, I was initially worried because the bottom of the box was wet and it looked like maybe one of the seams maybe had given during the pressure changes or SW Cargo was somewhat careless with the package. Despite this, when I looked in the box at Southwest there was still 2/3 of the water left...so ample to for survival. I am glad I decided to pick up the package when I did. Dan said this fish had an attitude and somewhat of a menace to his other stock; however, he has been hiding for a few days and is behaving more like a Frontosa lol. He is either under the stump or flat up agianst the back of one of the rocks. He swims fine when he decides to move...so I don't think he has any swim bladder issue (although I was worried, maybe something happened in transport) Before the water para question is asked, water is great do a 50% pwc every 3-4 days.

I know that he could of experienced a little trauma in transport, and that he is adjusting to the new environment, and I am a 6.5 foot Ogre staring at him...but I expected him to be a little less timid. Now here are the questions.

1. I truly want to give the 180 to him only, but should I throw a male Convict or dither/target in there to flip the switch?

2. Remove any of the tank decor? I figured this would simply stress him more

3. Should I hold off feeding?

4. Should I just leave him alone for 4-5 days and then offer food to see if he comes out of his shell?

5. He doesn't appear to like the lighting, but should I keep it on its regular cycle so he gets used to it or just keep it off for 4-5 days until he is comfortable?

Anyways, when I did add him and saw him...he's a really nice fish. I always wanted a true Barred Midas or a chunk Chancho.

 

[duanes]

Very bright substrate, I would imagine the only place it feels secure, and inconspicuous is under that log.
A couple sacrificial cons may possibly help.

 

[Rocksor]

I would keep the overhead lights off for at least a week. It might even take a few weeks for his attitude to come back. If the tank is too dark with the lights off, then remove the canopy over the tank

 

[Wharf]

duanes Thanks for responding. Yeah, I had changed the black substrate several years ago when I had Frontosa...it was making them too dark. I left some of the black sand in to give somewhat of a peppering, but that Oolitic stuff is bright. I have had the light off, I just turned it on to take the pic. Do you think I should try some food or frozen food?

I am close to my LFS owner so I could probably get some cons. Dan did say this fish was a menace toward some others...so I would try to take out the Con before he became a sacrifice.

 

[Wharf]

I think he is discovering that the big Ogre isn't going to eat him...might not need the Cons. Started playing in the airstone when he saw his reflection. These are some quick pics sorry for the reflection

View attachment 1456502View attachment 1456502

 

[Wharf]

sorry for the double post couldn't resize them in time.

 

[duanes]

That was a quick turnaround, guess it just needed a minute to adjust..
About sand, I agree black sand, bright white sand, blue or red, even no sand, almost all seem to produce un-natural, less than desired results (especially with chameleon like cichlids) where blending in, is the natural order of the way they make a living.
That's why, natural color is always my choice