zambize

I have a new 1.25" juvenile RTBS in my Q tank awaiting permanent residence in a 37 gallon tank. Not the best size tank, I know -- but I didn't know that it's on the small side for an RTBS before I bought Valentino (my RTBS), even though I did research first. So many sites are just so unreliable. I also have 5 Julii Corydoras in the Q tank with him that will move to the 37 gallon. My tank is heavily planted with many nooks and crannies that should make any territorial fish happy.

I'd like one more fish to go in the tank. I understand that it needs to be semi-aggressive to keep the RTBS in line, but I can't seem to find a tank mate that stands out as a really good choice. I have read that the tank mate needs to be about the same size as my RTBS, not long and slender because the RTBS doesn't like that, and it needs to be a mid-top dweller.

I've researched this for HOURS and HOURS and I still don't have a decent understanding of any potentially good tank mates, except the Cory. I recently came across the profile for a Paradisefish (Gourami) that sounds like it may work. Does anyone have experience with this fish? Does anyone know of another single fish that would be suitable with an RTBS and not harass the docile Cories?

I appreciate your time, I don't want to make a big mistake with this.

Zambize

platy ben

Well most male paradise fish will have red on them and RTBS's are known for teasing other fish with red on.

angelfish220

Wait, what does RTBS stand for?

zambize

RTBS = Red-Tailed Black Fish

Platy Ben, I didn't think about the Paradise Fish having red. Glad you mentioned that, thanks. I have some Platy but I've heard that an RTBS won't do well with Platy so I'll be moving them. Do you know why RTBS don't like harmless Platy?? Do you know of any fish that may be good with my RTBS?

Thanks again,
Zambize

angelfish220

wait the S stands for Fish?

I'm confused!

zambize

Oops....LOL....I typed too fast. RTBS *actually =* Red-Tailed Black Shark

Zambize