mcdonald.kk

Hello (again) pleco people =)

I posted a thread earlier about setting up an aquarium with a clown pleco. Some of the responses got me thinking about other possibilities for my tank (they seem to be an exceptionally shy species and I would like to see my fish more than a few times a month). I've been looking into the Leopard frog pleco (L134). They grow to around 4" I had a question about re-creating their natural habitat in my tank. These plecos are from the Tapajos river in Brazil. It is described as a "blackwater" stream on some wibesites, where the water is acidic and rich in humus. I had two questions, one, how much of a current do I need to provide for this fish? and two, what's the best way to re-create the water quality? I know Zoo Med sells Mopani wood, which naturally releases tanins, lowers the pH, and consequently acidifies the water (I already have a piece that I had been soaking so that it wouldn't be completely poisonous when I put it in the tank). Another website recommended putting peat in the filter. Also, if anyone knows offhand a good, small schooling fish for high temperature and slightly acidic water I'd be happy to hear recommendations. Thanks! -KK

Barbrella

This species should be fine as long as you're not depending on it to eat algae as it has more carnivorous leanings.

The current from a power filter should be okay. What is your pH? As long as it's not extreme (not terribly under or over 7) I wouldn't do anything to mess with it. Trying to alter the ph results in fluctuations which are more dangerous for the fish.

If you want a fish that comes from the same area as these, you might look at hatchetfish, which also enjoy the surface current created by the filter. Lovely surface dwellers, you need at least 5 for them to behave normally. Some floating plants like Wisteria or water lettuce are beneficial. Also, you must cover any openings in the tank hood, since they can and will fly out of your tank.

You could set up a great Amazon aquascape, with roots, rocks and the floating plants. Keep the substrate dark and you'll have an amazing tank.

mcdonald.kk

Awesome! Thanks for the feedback and tips =) I'm so excited!

susitna-flower

Two suggestions. #1 IF you are using a canister filter use peat granuels in one compartment. You can place these in a bag first for easy change out.

#2. If you really want to add to the "black water" conditions, Kent makes a "freshwater Black Water Expert " product that helps to simulate black water water conditions.

IF your tank was larger than 20 gallons, I would suggest a school of 6-9 Congo Tetras....But that is dreaming...something I would love to have..They are suggested for 77F but can go up to 82, and like 6 -7 ph . I have had as many as 3 in the past, and they are a wonderful community fish, but would really be spectacular as the main attraction in a tank that also has a pleco.

susitna-flower

Take a look at this if you haven't already .

http://www.planetcatfish.com/shanesw...article_id=241

It is an article on breeding L134. It has good information about the current, aeration, and feeding for these plecos.

mcdonald.kk

Awesome, this helps a lot, especially the info about their diet.

susitna-flower

My pleasure, it is always fun to see other people interested in plecos!