4 replies to this topic

[Anka]

Hey guys,

I got home this evening after work, after buying 6 beautifully blue coloured lacustris yesterday (3-4cm).

I noticed that two of the fellas had quite badly shredded tail fins.

I thought it could possibly be my cheeky wanamensis males (6-7cm) or the grumpy empire gudgeon who is a bit of a prick.

I then later found out that the male lacustris were sparring - circling each other and trying to nip each others tails - one of them was one of the fish with the shredded tail (which doesn't make sense to me cuz you would think he would be timid).

Anyway, just wondering if this is normal?

I'm gonna buy some fry saver type nets on Saturday morning (I work during the week) to isolate them and let them heal.

Cheers

Andrew

On a side note - the fish are also a bit small and I'm worried that they can't compete for food with the big boys.

Will it be gravy to leave them in the fry savers for a few months while they grow? I've got my quarantine tank cycling so could use that in a couple weeks, although I'd like them to get used to the display tank conditions and the presence of other fish.

[Terry]

Hi Andrew
I would not leave them in the fry savers for more than a few days, they are big enough to be in the main tank.Make sure there are areas where they can hide if they feel threatened. Feeding shouldn't be an issue if they miss out on a feed it will make them more aggresive feeders. Do not try to target feed them, feed the tank not the fish.

[Anka]

Ok thanks Terry - I will do as you say

Also - is it normal to have an empire gudgeon that is severely territorial? He is a big boy - roughly 8cm, and chases anything that comes never his side of the tank. I thought they were meant to be peaceful?

[Terry]

He is peaceful and territorial, he doesn't want other fish in his area. It's unlikely that he would do any damage.

[Anka]

So he's all talk and no bite?