24 Freshwater Community Tank Suggestions

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24 Freshwater Community Tank
Suggestions
Section 1 -Small Tanks 2-9 gal
A. Bettas1-6 gal. ........................................ 1
B. Small Tank Livestock 2-9 gal ................ 2
C. Planted Nano Tank 5 gal up.................. 3
Section 2- Peaceful Community
A. Neons and Small Community Fish ........ 4
B. Active Tetra Community ........................ 5
C. Guppy Community ................................ 6
D. GloFish Community............................... 7
E. Ram and Dwarf Cichlids ........................ 8
F. Molly Community ................................... 9
Section 3- Active Community
A. Barbs and Active Community ................. 10
B. Angelfish Community ............................. 11
C. Rainbowfish Community ........................ 12
D. Gouramis,Community ............................ 13
E. Mild Mannered Cichlid Community ......... 14
F. Blood Parrot Community ........................ 15
G. Kribensis Community ............................. 16
Section 4- Aggressive Community
A. Cichlids: South American ..................... 17
B. Cichlids: Malawi Cichlids ...................... 18
C. Cichlids: Tanganyika Cichlids .............. 20
D. Oscars & Jumbo Community ............... 21
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Section 5- Specialty Community
A. Discus .................................................. 22
B. Puffers.................................................. 23
C. Fancy Goldfish Community .................. 24
D. Brackish ............................................... 25
Elmer’s Aquarium
4005 William Penn Hwy.
Monroeville, Pa. 15146
412-372-6535
Daily 10-8, Sunday 12-5
These suggestions are also available on-line
at www.elmersaquarium.com
#1A Elmer’s Aquarium Community Tank Ideas
Tank Size- 2 gal or more
Betta Fish
Bettas (Betta Splendens) are beautiful and very popular aquarium fish.
They are available in a wide variety of colors.
They are also called Siamese Fighting Fish.
*Never mix two males together because they will fight.
*They are slow moving and like to hover near the water surface, they do not
like a lot of water flow.
*Bettas normal life span is 2.5 -3.5 years.
*Bettas sold at Elmer’s are normally 2 months old.
Bettas have a special air-breathing organ (labyrinth) that allows them to
live in water with low oxygen content. For this reason they are one of the
only fish that can be kept in small bowls with no filtration.
Bettas in Small Aquariums 2-6 gallons: The best way to keep a betta is a small
filtered aquarium. The filter will reduce your maintenance and provide a more healthy
environment for the fish.
1. Keep the temperature at 70-80 degrees with a small heater.
2. Keep the filter running 24 hours a day, and change ¼ of the water every week. Use
tap water that has been conditioned with a Chlorine neutralizer such as “AquaSafe”.
3. A few live plants are a good addition, but not required. They are decorative and help
provide a more natural system. Banana Plants and Moss Balls are very popular.
Leave the light on 6-10 hours a day for the plants.
4. Tank mates can include nerite snails.
Bettas in Small Unfiltered Fishbowls: Bettas can breathe atmospheric air so they
are one of the few tropical fish that will live in small fish bowls without a filter. If you keep a betta in a small
fishbowl here are some tips:
1. Maintain at least a 1 gallon bowl.
2. Bettas like warmth. Place the bowl in a room in which the temperature does not drop below 72 degrees.
3. Change ½ of the water weekly. Let the new water sit for about 2 hours prior to the water change so that it will
come to room temperature. Add chlorine neutralizer to the new tap water.
Bettas in Community Tanks: Bettas are not recommended for most community aquariums.
Feeding: Feed bettas once or twice a day. Buy a special food that is designed for bettas. We recommend Tetra
BettaMin or Hikari Betta Pellets. They also enjoy frozen or freeze dried bloodworms. Observe your betta at
feeding time. Feed only as much as they will eat in two minutes, and remove any uneaten food with a fish net or
Turkey baster. To avoid overfeeding be sure that only one person in the family feeds the fish. Overfeeding will
make the water cloudy. As a starting point feed two or three small pellets each day.
Problems: Bettas are prone to skin infections if they are not kept under good conditions. If fin rot or "fungus"
occurs change ½ of the water and add "Melafix"
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#1B Elmer’s Aquarium Community Tank Ideas Tank Size- 2 -9 gal or more
Desktop Aquarium (2-9 gal) Livestock Suggestions
Why keep them? Unlike Goldfish bowls of year past, modern aquariums
come with built-in lights and filters to make maintenance easier and keep fish
healthy. You can keep a small desktop aquarium on your desk, in your
kitchen, in your dorm room, bedroom or any place you can watch and enjoy
your fish. If you choose a small aquarium of 2 to 3 gallons be sure to
understand the limits of the fish you can keep. The suggestions below
should help. Best Tank Choices: We like the Aqueon Mini Bow and the
Marineland Contour aquarium sets.
Stocking: Add ½ of the fish the first week, then wait 2-3 weeks before
adding more fish. Always use additional biological starter (Fritz-Zyme) when
adding fish to a tank. This helps counteract the ammonia increase due to
stressed fish Snails and Plants for small Tanks: Add a few nerite snails to any of the above tanks. They will
eat algae. Live plant are decorative and beneficial to the biology of the system.
Our Livestock Selections
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Option 1: Betta (minimum tank size- 1 gal)
Bettas are the most popular fish for small systems. Bettas adapt well to
small tanks. In nature they live in swampy areas and they can gulp
atmospheric air. Feed them betta pellets.
Option 2: Red Paradise Fish (minimum tank size- 3 gal)
Paradise fish are hardy, adapt well to small tanks and do not need a heater..
They are related to Bettas. You can keep about 1 per gallon.
Option 3: Dwarf Frog (minimum tank size- 3 gal)
Dwarf frogs are fun to watch. You can keep one per 2 gallons..
Option 4: White Clouds (minimum tank size- 3 gal)
This is one of the most hardy fish we sell. They are very active and active fish
do not require a heater. You can keep one per gallon.
Option 5: Cherry Shrimp or Amano Shrimp (minimum tank size- 2 gal)
How about a planted tank with cool looking freshwater shrimp. It can make a
fascinating setup. You can choose many other types of shrimp.
Option 6: Dwarf Pea Puffer (minimum tank size- 4 gal)
You can keep up to 2 of these interesting fish in a 5 gallon desktop set.
Option 7: Guppies (minimum tank size- 3 gal)
Guppies do well in small planted tanks. Keep up to one per gallon.
Option 8: Male Dwarf Gouramis (minimum tank size- 5 gal)
A colorful dwarf gouramis can adapt to small tanks. They should have live
plants and a heater. Keep one per 3 gallons. You can mix a few shrimp with
them.
Option 9: Peaceful Tetras or GloFish Tetras (minimum tank size- 6 gal)
There are many Tetras that will do well in these systems. Keep one per 2
gallon. Choices include Black Tetras, Glowlight Tetras, Red Eye Tetra, Pristella
Tetra, Bloodfin Tetra, Gold Tetra. They do best with some live plants.
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#1C Elmer’s Aquarium Community Tank Ideas
Freshwater Planted Nano Tanks 5 gal and up
Why Keep Them? A Nano planted set is a small aquarium with a plant light and live plants. They offer a way to
keep an easy to keep miniature ecosystem on your desktop.
Filter: If a filter is not built-in you can use and air pump with a sponge filter. Another option is an internal power
filter or a hang on the back filter. If you use an external power filter the intake should be secured with a pre filter.
Heater: Use a small submersible heater of 25 to 50 watts. Temp of 76-78 for most fish. Shrimp prefer slightly
cooler at 68-76.
Live Plants: Plants grown in aquaria improve water quality to a great extent. They assist
in reducing nutrients and pest algae while extending the biological capacity. They also
provide additional shelter and oxygen. They are even more valuable in nano aquaria due
to the instability and limitations of very small tanks. Beyond all this, planted aquaria offer
great aesthetic value. As such, live plants in the aquascape are necessary and integral to
the current style of nano keeping. Measures should be implemented to support the
wellbeing of selected species, including light of sufficient strength, supplemental nutrients
(iron), and carbon dioxide (or carbon supplements such as excel.)
Live Plant Choices: Java fern, Anubias, Cryptocoryne, Swords, Moss Balls, Hornwort,
Anacharis, Ludwigia, Banana Plants, Creeping Charlie, leaf litter (almond leaves), drift
wood and leaves give the water a natural color and are beneficial to soft water/blackwater
species.
Substrate: Use a specialty substrate designed to grow plants
such as Fluorite. We carry a variety.
Structure: Driftwood, natural stone.
Tankmates: “Nano” Size Planted Tank: Most of these fish are hardy when kept under
the right conditions, but be sure to study the needs of each species.
Rasbora: Harlequin Rasbora, Chilli Rasbora, Emerald Eye Rasbora, Kubotai Rasbora,
Espie's Rasbora, Harlequin Rasbora, Dwarf Maculate Rasbora, Dwarf Emerald Rasbora.
Danio: Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora), Gold Ring Danio.
Killifish: Clown, Lampeye, Australe, Gardneri.
Tetra: Ruby Tetra, Ember Tetra, Gold Tetra, Neon Tetra, Rummynose, Cardinal, Splash
Tetra, Tucan, Ruby.
Gouramis/ Labyrinth: Sparkling Gouramis, Chocolate Gouramis, Licorice Gouramis,
Betta, Honey Gouramis.
Dwarf Rainbows: Gertrudae Rainbowfish, Furcata Rainbowfish, Threadfin Rainbowfish,
Celebese Rainbowfish.
Livebearers: Endlers Livebearers , Guppies.
Catfish: Pygmy Cory, Otocinclus, Stone Cat.
Misc: Pencilfish, Scarlet Badis.
Shrimp: Cherry Shrimp, Amano Shrimp, Crystal Shrimp (Bee
Shrimp) and other shrimp. Note dwarf shrimp will thrive better
(higher activity and breeding) in the absence of fish. Most fish will occasionally intimidate
adult shrimp and/or prey on juveniles. Dense planting and shelters can help in this regard.
Dwarf Crayfish: Orange Mexican Dwarf Crayfish. (May prey on inactive tankmates)
Snails: Nerite snail.
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Peaceful community with Neons and other small Tetras
Why Keep This Group? Tetras represent a large group of popular aquarium fish. They
are a member of the Characidae family. This community uses some of the small, colorful,
and peaceful varieties including the very popular Neon Tetra.
Housing: This community is for tanks 10 gallon and up. The tank should have a power
filter and heater. Supplement the power filter with a small air pump. Temperature range:
70-76. pH- (6.6-7.2). Stable water conditions are important. Add SeaChem pH Neutral
with each partial water change to stabilize pH, but not required. To bring out the best
coloration use a dark background.
Live Plants: Live plants are highly recommended. Live plants will create a more natural
looking system and these fish love to swim and dart among live plants. Combine live
plants with some decorative driftwood for a great looking tank. Tetras like to swim in the
middle water layers. Provide some bushy plants toward the rear of the tank, and leave
the front open for swimming
How Many? Tetras are schooling fish and do best in groups. Keep them in groups of at
least 3. Groups of 6, 12 or more is even better. Barbs, Danios, and Rasboras should also
be purchased in groups.
Feeding: Fish this community two to three small feedings per day. They have small
mouths so use a soft flake food or small pellets designed for small fish. Frozen Mysis are
a great supplement.
Tank Mates: Here are some choices. Our staff can help you find them in our store.
Neon Tetras: They will only thrive only if they are kept in established tanks with other
small peaceful fish. They are not appropriate for community tanks of larger more
aggressive fish that may scare or harass them.
Small Peaceful Tetras: Many of these fish are great choices for beginners because
they are very hardy: Glowlight Tetra, Flame Von Rio Tetra, Bleeding Heart Tetra,
Pristella Tetra, Black Phantom Tetra, Red Phantom Tetra, Silver Tip Tetra, Lemon Tetra,
Red Eye Tetra, Gold Tetra, Diamond Tetra, Emperor Tetra, Colombian Red Fin Tetra.
Peaceful Rasboras: Harlequin Rasbora, Dwarf Emerald Rasbora, Emerald Eye
Rasbora.
Peaceful Barbs: Cherry Barb, Gold Barb, Checkered Barb.
Small Gouramis: Dwarf Gouramis, Honey Gouramis, Pygmy (Sparkling) Gouramis.
Top Dwellers: Silver Hatchetfish, Marble Hatchetfish.
Catfish: Corydoras Cat, Bristlenose Plecostomus, Glass Cat, Farlowella Cat, Banjo Cat,
Otocinclus Cat, Stone Cat.
Loaches: Kuhli Loach, Sumo Loach, Crimson Loach.
Others: White Clouds, Guppies, Platies.
Other Livestock: Dwarf African Frog, Cherry Shrimp, Nerite Snail, Apple Snail.
Others, but not as “beginner friendly”: Cardinal Tetras, Rummynose Tetras, Chocolate
Gouramis.
If you have a big enough tank (25 gal up) The larger your tank the more varieties of fish you
may be able to include. Tanks that are 30 gallon or more with plenty of plants could include
some of the more active Tetras, such as Black Skirt Tetras, GloTetras, Bloodfin Tetras, Serpae
Tetras. In larger tanks you could also include small Red Tail Sharks, Clown Loaches, Zebra
Danios, Gold Barbs, Scissortail Rasbora, Brilliant Rasbora.
Avoid: Fish that grow large, or fish that could nip fins including: Angels, Tiger Barbs, Rosy
Barbs, and most Cichlids.
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#2B Elmer’s Aquarium Community Tank Ideas
Tank Size: 10 gal or more
Hardy Tetra Community Aquarium
Why Keep Them? This community is our most popular community tank for beginners
with tanks of 10 to 30 gallons. Tetras represent a large group of fish, and many of them
make great choices for a beginner’s community tank. Many tetras are active, colorful,
hardy and get along well with other tank mates.
Housing: This community tank is suitable for tanks of 10 gallon and up. Filtration can
include an AquaClear power filter with a supplemental air pump and sponge filter. They
like to swim in the middle water layers. Provide some bushy plants (live or plastic)
toward the rear of the tank, and leave the front open for swimming.
Water Conditions: Temperature 74-80. pH- (6.6-7.2) Use Seachem Neutral
Regulator with each partial water change.
Live Plants: Live plants are highly recommended for this community, but not required.
Live plants will help bring out the best coloration and behavior in these fish as well as
maintain optimal tank conditions.
Feeding: Feed this community two to three small feedings per day. Feed flakes, small
pellets, and some assorted frozen foods such as mysis shrimp for the most nutrition.
How Many? Tetras, Danios, Rasboras, Barbs, Moons and Swordtails are schooling fish
and should be bought in groups of at least 3 or more.
Tank Mates: Choose other fish of similar size and temperament. Our staff can help you
find them in our store.
Tetras: Black Skirt Tetra, White Skirt Tetra, Serpae Tetra, Glowlight Tetra, Flame
Von Rio Tetra, Bleeding Heart Tetra, Pristella Tetra, Black Phantom Tetra, Red
Phantom Tetra, Silver Tip Tetra, Red Eye Tetra, Gold Tetra, Diamond Tetra,
Emperor Tetra, Glo Tetra, Bloodfin Tetra, Head & Tail Lite Tetra, White Fin Rosy
Tetra.
Rasboras: Harlequin Rasbora, Brilliant Rasbora, Scissortail Rasbora.
Small Barbs: Cherry Barb, Gold Barb, Checkered Barb.
Danios: Zebra Danio, Pearl Danio, Dadio Danio.
Livebearers: Platies, Swordtails, Mollies.
Catfish: Corydoras Cat, Bristlenose Plecostomus, small Synodontis Cats, most
other small cats.
Loaches: Kuhli Loach, small Botias, Weather Loach, Small Clown Loach, Crimson
Loach, Peppered Loach, and most other small loaches.
Top Dwellers: Golden Wonder Killie, Celebes Halfbeak.
Others: Dwarf African Frog, Nerite Snail.
Fish we left out: Here are some fish we kept out of the list above because either they may be too
small and calm to compete with the more active tetras, or they are not very “beginner friendly”. Cardinal
Tetra, Neon Tetra, Rummynose Tetra, Hatchetfish, Emerald Rasbora, Ram Cichlids, Galaxy Rasbora.
If you have a big enough tank (30 gal up) Here are some fish you may be able to put in this
community that may not work in smaller tanks. These may include small Red Tail Sharks, Pearl
Gouramis, Blue Gouramis, Gold Gouramis, Rainbowfish, Roseline Shark, Small Angelfish, Kribensis
Cichlid.
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2C Elmer’s Aquarium Community Tank Ideas
Guppy Community Tank
Why Keep Them? A tank of guppies can make a beautiful community tank. They are active, colorful and do not
hide. You can mix different color varieties. With the right conditions they will give birth to live babies.
Housing Them: Guppies can be kept in tanks as small as 10 gallon. Tanks of 15-20 gallon are good choices. .
Equipment can include outside power filter, air pump with airstone, heater, light. To grow live plants consider a
LED fixture rated for plant growth. When you first setup your tank add a biological starter (Fritz-zyme) and stock
fish slowly to the new tank.
An Ideal Tank for Guppies: Would include a variety of guppies mixed with a few catfish, or some other small
peaceful fish. Guppies enjoy swimming among plants, and for best results we suggest you keep them in a
planted tank.. Plants also provide a protection for their young.
Water Conditions: Guppies prefer warm water. Set the thermostat on the heater for 76-82 degrees. Water in
Western Pa. is typically alkaline and guppies do well with an alkaline pH of 7.2-7.8. A small amount of aquarium
salt is advised. If you are keeping guppies by themselves use one teaspoon per gallon. If you are mixing guppies
in a community tank use one tablespoon per 5 gallon. A partial water change of 25% every two weeks is advised.
Add SeaChem Neutral Regulator with each partial water change. Fancy guppies require excellent water
conditions and proper filtration to thrive.
Feeding: Feed small amounts frequently. A soft flake food or small pellet is good. Frozen Mysis shrimp are
excellent. Feed two or three times a day. Remove uneaten food after 10 minutes. Guppies will not eat off of the
bottom so some corydoras catfish, and nerite snails are advised.
Guppy Males and Females Males have more color, fancier larger caudal fins, and their anal fin forms into a
gonopodium. For best results keep them in groups with females outnumbering males.
Other Tank Mates:
Tetras: small slow moving tetras work well. (Neons, flame, red eye tetra, gold, silver tip )
Rasbora: Harlequin Rasbora, Scissortail Rasbora
Others: White clouds, dwarf african frog
Catfish- Bristlenose plecostomus, Corydoras catfish, Otocinclus
Livebearers: Mollies, Moons. Swordtails
Fish to avoid: Do not mix fish that can be fin nippers toward tiny fish. Tiger Barbs, Bettas, Rosy
Barbs, Angelfish most Cichlids Guppies are slow moving so you are best to avoid very active fish such
as Zebra Danios, Back Tetras.
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#2D Elmer’s Aquarium Community Tank Ideas
GloFish Tetra Community
What are They? GloFish are similar to other fish, except they have a much brighter disposition. GloFish are
available in six colors: Starfire Red®, Electric Green®, Sunburst Orange®, Cosmic Blue®, Galactic Purple®, and
Moonrise Pink™.
Today’s GloFish fluorescent fish are bred from the offspring of fluorescent fish that were originally developed
several years ago. Each new GloFish inherits its unique color directly from its parents, maintains the color
throughout its life, and passes the color along to its offspring.
Where do GloFish fluorescent fish come from? GloFish were originally bred more than ten years ago to help
detect environmental pollutants. By adding a naturally derived fluorescence gene to the fish, scientists hoped to
quickly and easily determine when a waterway is contaminated. The first step in developing a pollution-detecting
fish was to create fish that would be fluorescent all the time. Scientists soon realized the public’s interest in
sharing the benefits of this research, a process which led to GloFish fluorescent fish.
Where does the fluorescent color come from?The fluorescent color in GloFish is produced by a fluorescent
protein gene, which creates the beautiful fluorescence that can be seen when looking at the fish. The fluorescent
protein genes are derived from naturally occurring genes found in marine organisms.
GloFish Web Site: For more information on Glo Fish go to www.glofish.com
Why Keep Them? GloFish are lively, hardy and very colorful They are good choices for beginners. The Glo
Danio was developed from the Zebra Danio. The Glo Tetra was developed from the Black Skirt Tetra. These two
fish represent one of the most hardy fish we sell.
Housing Them: They should have a tank of at least 5 gallons but 10 gallons or more is best. The tank should
have a good power filter and heater. They like to swim in the middle water layers. Provide some bushy plants
(live or plastic) toward the rear of the tank, and leave the front open for swimming. You can keep about 1 Glofish
for each 3 gallons.
An Cool Looking GloFish Tank: Some people like to make a unique looking tank using dark gravel (black), a
dark background and fluorescent color plastic plants.
Feeding: Feed a couple of times a day with flakes or small pellets. Frozen Mysis shrimp are advised.
Water Conditions: Temperature 75-80.
Tank Mates: You can keep them in a community tank with other active peaceful fish of similar size. Good
choices include other Tetras, Rasboras, Danios, GloDanios ,small Barbs and other GloFish.
Live Plants: A variety of live plants are a great choice but not required.
Can I mix them with Neons? Neons are often intimidated by the quick movements of Glo Danios and Glo
Tetras. We suggest you have a separate tank for Neons. If you tank is 30 gallons or more and you have plenty
of bushy plants you may be successful with Neons and GloFish together.
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#2E Elmer’s Aquarium Community Tank Ideas
Rams and other Dwarf South American Cichlids
Why Keep Them? Rams are very pretty and peaceful dwarf cichlids that will show great coloration after you
have them a while. They do not thrive in many traditional community tanks, but they do well if given a separate
tank with the proper conditions.
Tank Conditions: Tank can be 10 gallon or larger. They should have some driftwood and rocks for hiding. An
open space in the front of the tank is advised. Provide a dark background and dark colored or natural gravel. We
advise live plants for these fish to thrive. Some Indian Almond leaves at the bottom give a natural look and help
with water conditions.
Water Conditions: Temperature should be warm, 76-82 degrees. pH 6.5-7.4.
Feeding: Feed two to three times a day. Feed flakes and small pellets. Supplements may include Mysis Shrimp,
plankton, frozen bloodworms.
Tank Mates
Rams: Rams are often found in several color varieties and fin shapes. You can mix any of them
together. The Bolivian ram is a little larger and it seems to be more hardy than the German Blue Ram.
Rams only grow to about 2.5”. Rams inhabit the bottom layers of the tank. They usually will not bother
smaller mid-dwelling fish,
Apistogramma Cichlids: Apistogramma is a genus of dwarf South American cichlids. These often do
best when kept as pairs. They are cared for in similar ways to the ram. We usually stock a few varieties.
Peaceful Cichlid: Small Keyhole Cichlid
Catfish: Corydoras, Pygmy Cory Cat, Glass Catfish, Otocinclus.
Killifish: Golden Wonder Killie - they will stay at the top of the tank.
Dwarf Gouramis: Dwarf Gouramis, Sunset Gouramis. They also like the warm water and are peaceful.
Provide some floating vegetation. Avoid larger gouramis such as Blue, Gold, Pearl, Kissing, Moonlight.
Plants: Moss Balls, Anubias, Cryptocoryne, many others.
Snails: Nerite snails.
Tetras: Rams are not aggressive and they are often compatible with most tetras if the tank is at least 20
gallons. Some good choices include Neons, Glowlights, Red Eye, Silver Tip, Flame, Diamond, Congo,
Emperor.
Loaches: Kuhli Loach, Crimson Loach.
Avoid: Active aggressive fish. Avoid mixing them in most other community tanks as they do not thrive in
most standard community tanks.
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#2F Elmer’s Aquarium Community Tank Ideas
Molly Community Tank
Why Keep Them? Mollies are peaceful, lively fish and popular fish that make good additions to many community
tanks. Most Mollies available in the aquarium hobby are hybrids of the Sailfin Molly (poecilia latpina) and the
Sphenops Molly (poecilia sphenops). They are a livebearer, and easy to breed. They grow to about 3”.
Housing: An aquarium of 20 gallons or more is recommended. Give them bushy plants in the back and an
open swimming room in the front. Plastic plants can be used but live plants are best. Live plants will provide a
hiding spots for babies. Plants that are tolerant of a little salt in the water include Java Fern, Anubias, Vallisneria.
In nature mollies often inhabit brackish water so the addition of some aquarium salt is beneficial. We recommend
one tablespoon of aquarium salt per 5 gallons. Mollies like warmer water so keep the temperature 75-82. (pH6.8-8.2).
Mollies in Brackish Water Tanks: Mollies will tolerate higher levels of salt. They can mix with brackish water
fish such Celebes Rainbows, Scats, Orange Chromide Cichlids, Columbian Sharks, Figure Eight Puffers and
Archers.
A Livebearer only Tank: A nice way to keep mollies is a livebearer specialty tank. The tank would include a
groups of mollies, moons, swordtails and guppies. Maintain bushy plants, keep some salt in the water and keep
the temperature warm.(75-82) They will breed and thrive.
Feeding: Mollies and other livebearers should be fed small frequent feedings. Feed flakes, brine shrimp,
bloodworms, and small pellets (Tetra Bits). They are omnivores and some greens in their diet is important. A
spirulina based flake food will provide greens.
Longevity: Average 2 years.
Breeding: Mollies are easy to breed. They are livebearers. They give birth to 20-50 fry. Males have a spiked
gonopidium fin. Males are usually also smaller and slimmer.
Tankmates: Keep with other small peaceful fish. Some good tankmates include Tetras, Moons, Swordtails,
White Clouds, small Angels. The males like to chase females around so it is best to mix one male for each 2 or 3
females. Larger mollies will also thrive in a larger community tank with with active, larger fish such as Barbs,
Gouramis, medium sized Angels, Sharks, catfish and Silver Dollars.
Natural Range: Mollies are native to Central / South America. All mollies we sell are domestically bred, and
many of the mollies you see at our store are locally bred.
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Active Community Tank with Tiger Barbs and other Barbs
Why Keep Them? Barbs are a group of freshwater fish that are members of the
Cyprinidae family from Asia. Many barbs make great community tank members
because they are colorful, active and very hardy.
Tank Conditions: This community tank is suitable for tanks 20 gallon or more. Larger
tanks can create an even better display. Filtration can include a properly sized power
filter with a supplemental air pump. Temperature range 72-80. Aquarium salt is
optional, but 1 tablespoon of salt per 5 gallons works well.
Live Plants? You can use live or plastic plants. Leave open space in the front for
swimming and some tall plants or driftwood towards the back.
Feeding: They will accept a wide variety of foods. Feed two to three times a day with
flake food, small pellets, mysis shrimp, plankton, or bloodworms.
How Many? Barbs should be kept in groups. Five or more is best. When in groups
they will harmlessly chase each other and usually leave other fish alone. You can keep
several species together, but always buy them in groups.
Tankmates
Barbs: Rosy, Black Ruby, Clown, Gold, Odessa, Rhomba, Cherry. Tinfoil
barbs will require 40 gal or more.
Cichlids: Keyhole, Kribensis.
Danios: Giant Danio, Pearl Danio, Zebra Danio.
Gouramis: Blue, Kissing, Gold, Moonlight, Pearl, Platinum, Sunset Thicklip.
Loach, Botia: Clown Loach, Kuhli Loach, Weather Loach, most Botias.
Livebearers: Moons, Swordtails.
Rainbowfish: Most Rainbowfish of similar size are compatible - buy in groups,
tank should be 30 gal or more.
Rasbora: Brilliant, Scissortail.
Sharks: Small Red Tail Shark, small Red Rainbow Shark, small Tri Color
Shark, Roseline Shark.
Tetras: Choose larger, more active tetras. Large Black Tetra, large Bleeding
Heart Tetra, Congo Tetra, large Serpae Tetra, Glofish Tetra, avoid small slow
moving tetras.
Other Fish: Algae Eaters, Blind Cave Fish, Chilodus Headstander,
Prochilodus, Silver Dollar (do not use Silver Dollars with live plants as they will
eat them) Flying Fox, Panda Garra.
Eels: Fire, Spiney, Tire Track.
Catfish: A wide variety of catfish will work including Corydoras, Small
Plecostomus, Synodontis and many others.
Others: African Frog, Snails.
Avoid: Barbs are very active and sometimes will nip fins of slow moving fish
such as Neons or Guppies. The solution is simply to keep them in groups and
keep them with other active fish of similar size.
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Angelfish Community
:
This community is designed to provide an opportunity to build a community tank around the everpopular angelfish. .
Tank Conditions: Angels should be housed in tanks of 30 gallon or more, or 20 gallons for small
Angels until they grow. You can use live or plastic plants. Some tall plants in the back of the tank
will make these fish feel very secure. Temperature range 75-82.
Feeding: Feed at least twice a day with flake food, brine shrimp, plankton, bloodworms, frozen
mysis shrimp. A variety of frozen foods and pelleted foods will assure good coloration.
Buying Angelfish: Make sure you buy fish of similar size, and you can watch them grow. You can start with
small, medium, or large angels and match them with similar sized fish. Angels look best when kept in groups of 3
or more
Suggestion #1: An Angelfish Only Community: You may want to consider a community tank with only
Angelfish and a few catfish. Put tall plants in the back Keep the Angels in groups of at least 6. They will look
great and will probably breed at some point.
Suggestion #2 An Angelfish Community Tank: Most people want to add some other fish with their angels .
Here are some community ideas;
Tank Mates: Here is a list of some possible tank mates for Angels. Keep fish of similar size.
Barbs: Cherry Barb, Rosy Barb, Gold Barb, best in groups of 5 or more. Avoid Tiger barbs as they may
nip the angels fins.
Rasboras: Harlequin Rasbora, Brilliant Rasbora, Scissortail Rasboras, buy in groups
Livebearers: Moons, Swordtails, buy 3 or more.
Tetras: Some of the more active Tetras mix well: Black Tetra, Bleeding Heart Tetra, Congo Tetra,
Emperor Tetra, Serpae Tetra. Avoid small tetras such as Neons. Buy in groups
Danios: Giant Danio, Gold Danio, Pearl Danio, Zebra Danio, Glo Danios, buy in groups
Gouramis: Blue Gouramis, Gold Gouramis, Moonlight Gouramis, Kissing Gouramis , Pearl Gouramis,
Platinum Gouramis, they should be of similar size to the Angelfish.
Eels and Knifefish Elephant Nose: These can add an interesting addition. Buy as singles and provide
hiding spots on bottom. African Knife, Black Ghost Knife, Fire Eel, Spiny Eel, Tire Track Eel, Elephant
Nose.
Loach: This will add some excitement to the bottom. Small Clown Loach, Kuhlii Loach, Weather Loach,
most of the many Botia varieties.
Catfish: Most catfish
Sharks: Red Tail Shark, Red Rainbow Shark, Tri Color Shark, Roseline Shark buy them as small
specimens, provide rocks on bottom
Top Dwellers Butterflyfish, Golden Killie
Others: Prochilodus, Silver Dollars
Others: African Frog, Snail,
Mild Mannered South American, West African Cichlids: Small Jurupari Cichlid, Keyhole Cichlid,
Kribensis
Dwarf Cichlids: Rams if your Angels are not too big.
Avoid: Aggressive Cichlids, Malawi Cichlids, small fish that the Angels may pick on, aggressive fin
nippers. Do not use Silver Dollars if you have live plants. Do not keep Angels with extremely small fish
such as Neons unless the tank is a very large planted tank (75 gal or more)
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Rainbowfish Community
Why Keep Them: A Rainbowfish community with schools of active rainbowfish and groups of live aquatic plants
makes one of the most beautiful types of freshwater tanks. Rainbowfish are a family (Melanotaeniidae) of
colorful freshwater fish that are found in Australia, New Guinea and some Southeast Asian islands.
Tank Conditions: This community tank is suitable for tanks 30 gallon or more. Larger tanks can create an even
better display. Filtration can include a properly sized power filter or canister filter Rainbowfish like currents so a
supplemental powerhead for water movement is advised. Temperature range 72-80.
Live Plants?- Live plants bring out the best in rainbowfish. They will not harm the plants and the natural look
plants create brings out their best behavior and coloration. To grow plants we advise a plant substrate and
adequate LED lighting to help the plants grow. Leave open space in the front for swimming and some tall plants
or driftwood to the back.
Feeding: They will accept a variety of foods. Feed two to three times a day with flake food, small pellets, mysis
shrimp, plankton, bloodworms. Best coloration is obtained when fed a variety of quality foods including frozen
foods.
How Many? Rainbowfish do best in groups of 3 or more. You can start with smaller specimens and let them
grow or go directly to larger adult sizes. Best coloration is obtained as adults. You can keep several species
together. In many cases adult males are more colorful than females.
Tank Mates: For best coloration and activity we recommend a “rainbowfish only”, community by mixing different
species of Rainbowfish. You can mix in a few catfish for the bottom. . If you would like to mix in some other fish
the list below should work:
Rainbowfish: Here are some of the best sellers: Most grow to about 4 to 5”. Splendida, Boeseman,
Emerald, Furcatus, Trifasciata, Red Irian, Turquoise.
If you would like to mix in some other fish the list below should work:
Barbs: Rosy, Black Ruby Clown, Gold Odessa , Rhomba, Cherry, Tinfoil
Cichlids: Keyhole Kribensis
Danios: Giant Danio, Pearl Danio, Zebra Danio
Gouramis: Blue, Gold , Moonlight, Pearl, Platinum, Sunset Thicklip
Loach, Botia: Clown Loach, Kuhli Loach, Weather Loach, most Botias
Livebearers: Swordtails
Sharks: Small sharks including Red Tail , Red Rainbow ,l Tri Color Shark, Roseline
Tetras: Choose larger, more active tetras. large Black Tetra, large Bleeding Heart Tetra, Congo Tetra,
large Serpae Tetra. Avoid small slow moving tetras.
Other Fish: Algae Eaters, Blind Cave Fish, Chilodus Headstander, Prochilodus
Flying Fox, Panda Garra
Eels: Fire Spiney, Tire Track
Cichlids: Keyhole Kribensis
Catfish: Most catfish will work including corydoras, plecostomus, synodontis.
Avoid: Fish that will disrupt plants such as Silver Dollars or large Cichlids. Avoid small fish that may be
frightened by their activity.
Dwarf Rainbowfish Here are small Rainbowfish that can be kept in small planted tanks of 10 gal and up:
Threadfin, Praecox, Blue Eye Gertrude
Brackish Water Rainbowfish: The Celebes Rainbow is a dwarf rainbow that prefers brackish water. It can be
kept with guppies and mollies.
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Gouramis and Active Community
Why Keep Them? This community includes some mid-sized active fish that are compatible with fish of similar
size. It is based around Gouramis as the focal point.
Tank Conditions: This community tank is suitable for tanks 30 gallon or more. Filtration can include a properly
sized power filter or canister filter. Use a supplemental air pump. Some of these fish can be disruptive to live
plants so plastic plants, rocks and driftwood is typically used for decor.
Feeding: They will accept a variety of foods. Feed two to three times a day with flake food, small pellets, mysis
shrimp, plankton, bloodworms. Best coloration is obtained when fed a variety of quality foods including frozen
foods.
Tank Mates
Gouramis: Blue, Gold, Moonlight, Pearl, Platinum, Sunset Thicklip, Kissing.
Rainbowfish: Most species of Rainbowfish are compatible.
Barbs: Rosy, Black Ruby Clown, Gold, Filament, Odessa, Rhomba, Tinfoil.
Cichlids: Keyhole, Kribensis, Blood Parrot, Jurupari.
Danios: Giant Danio.
Loach, Botia: Clown Loach, Kuhli Loach, Weather Loach, most Botias.
Livebearers: Swordtails, Large Sailfin Mollies.
Sharks: Red Tail Shark, Red Rainbow Shark, Tri Color Shark, Roseline Shark.
Large Tetras: Black Tetra, large Congo Tetra, Serpae Tetra.
Other Fish: Algae Eaters, Blind Cave Fish, Chilodus Headstander, Prochilodus,
Flying Fox, Panda Garra, Silver Dollar, Red Hook Silver Dollar.
Eels: Fire, Spiney, Tire Track.
Catfish: A wide variety of catfish will work including Corydoras, small Plecostomus, Synodontis and many others.
Avoid: Avoid small fish that may be frightened by their activity.
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#3E Elmer’s Aquarium Community Tank Ideas
Active Community with Mild-Mannered Cichlids
Why Keep This Community? Here is a group of active and hardy fish for larger tanks. The Cichlids in this
community may like to dig, but they are more “mild-mannered” than many other South American Cichlids. This
community offers a way to keep some interesting bottom dwellers such as an eel or knifefish.
Housing: These fish can grow large so a good filter system is needed. Some plastic plants and rocks toward the
back of the tank are advised. Driftwood makes an attractive decoration and helps to create a more natural
environment for your fish.
Water Conditions: Temperature-70-80 degrees. pH 6.8-7.6.
Live Plants: Because they like to dig, live plants are typically not used, use plastic instead.
Feeding: Feed Cichlid sticks, flakes or pellets. Supplement with some frozen krill or plankton.
Tank Mates: Here is a list of some fish you can create a community tank with. The fish should all be of
similar size.
Earth Eater Cichlids: These “mild-mannered” Cichlids like to dig.
Geophagus species: Albalios, Altifrons, Surinamenis, Brasilensis, Steindachneri, Tapajos, Parnaibae.
Satanoperca species: Jurupari, Leucosticta.
Other “Mild” Cichlids: Kribensis, Uaru, Severum, Blood Parrot.
Large Gouramis: Blue, Snakeskin, Gold, Kissing, Moonlight - purchase larger species.
Sharks: Red Tail, Rainbow, Tri Color, Roseline.
Rainbowfish: Large Rainbowfish of similar size.
Danios: Giant danio.
Barbs: Tinfoil Barb - Choose groups of large specimens including Rosy, Tiger, Filament, Odessa.
Catfish: Most catfish will be fine including plecostomus and synodontis.
Loaches: Most any loach or botia that is large enough will be compatible.
Eels and Knifefish: A single specimen of most any of these that are the proper size will be compatible.
Polypterus: Most any of these bottom dwellers that are the proper size will be compatible.
Others: Siamese Tiger, Silver Dollar, Prochilodus, Silver Dollars.
Gars: Looking for an unusual top dweller? Hujeta Gar.
How Many? Barbs, Danios, Rainbowfish, and Gouramis are schooling fish and should be purchased in
groups.
Avoid: Do not mix them with larger aggressive cichlids. Do not add small slow moving fish to this
community.
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#3F Elmer’s Aquarium Community Tank Ideas
Blood Parrot Cichlid Community
Why Keep Them? Blood Parrots are a hybrid Cichlid. They are popular because they are hardy, colorful, stay
out front, and are relatively “mild-mannered” for a Cichlid.
Tank Conditions: (Tank Size- 40 gal or larger) Provide standard filtration and heating. Because they can
grow large and are messy eaters the power filter should be oversized. Some plastic plants (not live, as Blood
Parrots may disrupt them) and rocks toward the back of the tank are advised. Some driftwood would be nice.
Feeding: Feed twice a day. Feed Cichlid sticks, flakes or pellets. Supplement with some frozen krill, plankton,
or Mysis Shrimp.
Tank Mates: Blood Parrots are often kept in a lively community tank with active fish of similar size.
Blood Parrots: They can be kept as singles, twos, or groups. Blood Parrots come in a variety of sizes and
colors. We do not sell any fish that have been dyed in color.
“Mild-mannered” Cichlids: Cichlids that are less aggressive than others include: Jurupari, Kribensis,
Uaru, Keyhole, Surinamensis, Brasiliensis, Balzani, Tapajos, Steindachneri.
Large Gouramis: Blue, Gold, Snakeskin, Kissing.
Sharks: Red Tail, Rainbow, Tri Color, Roseline, Black, Iridescent.
Rainbowfish: Large Rainbowfish of similar size.
Danios: Giant danios (in groups).
Barbs: Tin Foil Barb, most large barbs.
Catfish: Most catfish will be fine including plecostomus, and synodontis.
Eels and Knifefish: Most any of these that are the proper size will compatible.
Others: Siamese Tiger, Silver Dollar.
Gars: Gars that are properly sized will be compatible.
Aggressive South American Cichlids: If your tank is big enough, Blood Parrots should fit in a tank with
similar sized Oscars, Firemouths, Jack Dempsey’s and other Cichlids with similar temperaments.
Avoid: Do not mix blood parrots with Malawi Cichlids or extremely aggressive cichlids. Do not mix them
with small, low moving peaceful fish.
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#3G Elmer’s Aquarium Community Tank Ideas
Kribensis Cichlid in a community tank
Why Keep Them? This community is built around the popular Kribensis Cichlid. They are popular because they
are hardy, colorful, stay out front, and are relatively “mild-mannered” for a Cichlid. They fit into a variety of
community tanks. They can adapt to tanks with peaceful active fish and can hold their own in a little more
boisterous tank. They do not grow large so therefore they can live in tanks of 15 gallons or more.
Tank Conditions: Provide proper filtration and heating. Use a power filter with a supplemental air pump. They
stay near the bottom so provide some rocks, plants, or driftwood toward the bottom rear. Provide an open area in
the front.
Feeding: Feed twice a day. Feed Cichlid sticks, flakes or pellets. Supplement with some frozen krill or plankton.
Tank Mates:
Kribensis Cichlids: (Pelvicachromis pulcher) Adult size is about 3.5” They do best in groups of three or
more. They do best in groups of three or more. Kribensis are not particularly aggressive for a Cichlid. They
will defend a territory when spawning, but typically their territories are small and are located at the bottom of
the tank. Mid-water and top dwellers are generally left alone.
Gouramis: Blue, Snakeskin, Gold, Kissing.
Sharks: Red Tail, Rainbow, Tri Color, Roseline.
Rainbowfish: Rainbowfish of similar size.
Danios: Giant danios (in groups), other larger danios.
Barbs: Tiger, Rosy, most other barbs.
Catfish: Most catfish will be fine including bristle nose plecostomus, and synodontis sp..
Tetras: Large tetras in groups (Black Tetra, Congo, Colombian Red Fin, Serpae)
Others: Silver Dollar, Swordtails and large Mollies.
Avoid: Do not mix kribensis with Malawi Cichlids or extremely aggressive cichlids.
Breeding: Kribensis are one of the easier Cichlids to breed. Check the available literature. Mature females
have a more rosy abdomen and brighter colors.
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South American Cichlid Community Aquarium
Why Keep Them? Cichlids comprise a large family of fish native to South America, Africa, and Asia. Many
Cichlids are very hardy, colorful and exhibit interesting behaviors. Some get larger and make good tank mates
in bigger tanks. They accept a wide variety of foods and are undemanding. Breeding behavior can be very
interesting.
Aggression in Cichlids - Many of the Cichlids listed on this page are more aggressive toward their tank mates
than most other tropical fish. This aggression is rooted in the natural territorial behavior. In nature many Cichlids
defend a territory from other competitors for breeding purposes. So when you see displays or fighting among
these fish they are exhibiting adaptive behaviors that help them survive in the wild.
Housing: Provide a large tank with good filtration. Provide rocks or driftwood. Large Cichlids often uproot live
plants so plastic plants attached to gravel bases are the most popular form of decor. Standard water conditions
are acceptable. The addition of some Cichlid salt is advised.
Foods: Feed Cichlid pellets, sticks or flakes. Supplement with frozen foods.
Compatibility Tips: Maintaining a harmonious tank is the biggest challenge to Cichlid tanks. Here are some
tips:
* Aggressive behavior is rooted in “territoriality In nature they defend a territory for breeding purposes.
* They are more likely to fight with fish that have similar shape. Fish that do not resemble the existing fish will be
perceived as less threatening For example it may be easier to add a large tin foil barb, or silver dollar, or gar.
* If you get them small and let them grow they may do better.
* When you add a new fish feed everyone first. Try re-arranging the aquarium décor to confuse the existing fish.
* Keep the Cichlids similar sizes
* Bigger tanks will reduce aggression.
* Provide lots of rocks, driftwood, decor for hiding and territory establishment.
* Adult Cichlids can be purchased as singles, juveniles can be purchased in groups.
* Tankmates: The list below list some species you may want to choose for your community. The Cichlids are
mostly South American or West African.
Cichlids, Most Aggressive: These fish represent some of the most aggressive fish we sell. Some
adults in this group may have to be kept by themselves.: Red Devil, Festae, Managuense, Peacock Bass,
Green Terror, Nicaraguense, Flowerhorn, Jewelfish, Buttikoferi, P. Bleekeri, P. Polleni
Cichlids, More “Typical” Behavior: Oscar, Jack Dempsey, Firemouth, Salvini, Pike, Convict,
Chocolate, Texas, Port, Heckelii
Cichlids, More “Mild”: Blood Parrot, Jurupari, G. Steindachneri, G. Surinamensis, G. Brasiliensis,
Severum, Keyhole, Uaru, Kribensis
Catfish: Large Plecostomus, many other large catfish
Others: Anostomus, Leporinus, Alligator Gar, Red Tail Chalceus
Sharks: Large Black Shark, Large Red Tail Shark, Iridescent Shark
Knifefish: Large Knife Fish
Active Fish: Use Dither Fish to Mitigate Aggressive Behavior Add groups of active fish to the tank.
Choices can include groups of Giant Danios, Tin Foil Barbs, Silver Dollars, Pink Tail Chalceus, Large
Barbs, Large Gouramis, Large Rainbowfish.
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Lake Malawi African Cichlid
Community
Why Keep Them? Lake Malawi in Africa contains a
wealth of colorful freshwater cichlids. Many of the fish in
this lake are found nowhere else in the world, and today
they have become very popular aquarium fish. They are
hardy, active, and very colorful. Today most of the
cichlids offered for sale have been bred in domestic
aquariums. A well stocked African cichlid tank will rival
many saltwater aquariums in brilliant colors.
Housing: Most of these fish grow to an adult size of 5
to 8”. To keep these active and colorful fish we advise
at least 55 gallons. A 60 to 100 gallon is even better to
allow for future growth. Small specimens can be
housed in a smaller tank such as a 30 gallon temporarily until they grow bigger.
Maintain good filtration with one or two power filters or canister filters. Supplement
the filters with an air pump and airstone. Do regular partial water changes of 20%
about every 2 weeks. Provide plenty of caves and hiding spots. You can create
natural looking settings by piling up lava rock or coral rock (tufa rock). The fish may
disrupt live plants so plastic plants are the most practical. Large cichlids may
rearrange your decorations by digging and tunneling. Maintain a temperature of 7080 degrees.
pH: Best results are obtained if you keep the pH alkaline (7.6-8.4). Purchase a pH
high test kit such as "Aquarium Pharmaceuticals High Range Test Kit " and check 12 times a month. We recommend Seachem "Malawi Buffer" to help maintain the
proper pH. Add some with each partial water change.
Aquarium Salt: Some aquarium salt is beneficial. For best results use salt designed
for African cichlid tanks. We recommend Seachem- "Cichlid Lake Salt." Follow label
directions.
Substrate: You can use standard aquarium gravel, or you could use one of the
specially designed gravels for African Cichlids. Specialty gravels look natural, and
help maintain the alkaline pH. Keep about a 1-2” layer.
Tank Mates: These fish are lively and aggressive fish and are not suitable for a
traditional community aquarium. You should purchase only other African Rift Lake Cichlids of similar size. Here
are some tips to help create a compatible tank.
Stocking: Keeping a tank of African cichlids is different than a traditional
community tank.
1. Keep them crowded so they will not fight- If the tank is populated properly they
do not defend territories.
2. Add them in groups of 4 to 6 and stock the tank fully by 8 weeks.
3. Be sure to have plenty of rocks and hiding spots in the tank.
4. Use a biological starter such as Tetra Safestart to assure that the biological filter
is ready for the fish.
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Stocking Guidelines:
55 Gallon Tank- Keep 15- 20 Small Fish ( 2-4”) buy in groups of 6 or 8, over an 8 week period.
90 Gallon Tank- Keep 25-35 Small Fish ( 2-4”)
125 Gallon Tank- Keep 30-40 Small Fish ( 2-4”) or 20-25 Medium/Large Fish (5-8’)
Tips for keeping fish compatible: These fish live in great numbers on the rocky shores of Lake Malwai when
they must compete fiercely for food and territories. They maintain very small territories but will attack other fish
that come in their territory. To maintain harmony keep plenty of rocks with hiding holes. A well stocked (and
crowded looking) tank will reduce fighting because the fish will lose their tendency to defend specific territories.
Tanks that are only sparsely populated have more compatibility problems because one or two fish will come to
dominate the tank and all others will be harassed and kept hiding. Because of the high bio-load in
plants will provide a diet supplement.
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Lake Tanganyika Cichlid Community (smaller varieties)
Why Keep Them? Lake Tanganyika, Africa is the 6th largest lake in the world
and home to numerous species of Cichlids. Cichlids fill most every niche in the
lake and live in rocky shorelines and deeper open water. Some are substrate
spawners, some use snail shells for breeding, and the majority are
mouthbrooders. Many of these fish make excellent aquarium fish, and they are
both beautiful and interesting to observe. We stock a variety of these Cichlids. If
you want to keep these beautiful fish we suggest you research each species
before you buy, and plan your tank properly. Best results are obtained when you
devote the entire tank to their specific needs. This community is designed to
house only the smaller varieties.
Housing: The tank should include plenty of stacked rocky areas in the rear with
an open swimming room in the middle. Araganite gravel designed for African
Cichlids is recommended in order to help maintain the proper mineral content and
alkaline pH. When you start a new tank purchase a biological starter such as
"Fritz-Zyme" to establish biological filtration quickly. Add some empty snail shells
to the bottom to create a more natural environment.
Water Conditions: Water in Lake Tanganyika is high in mineral content and has
a very alkaline pH (about 8.0) Use pH buffers to maintain the proper pH a couple
of power filters on the back and frequent partial water changes is recommended.
Temperature: 72-80.
Feeding: Many species graze on algae on rocks. In an aquarium feed a variety
of foods including flakes, pellets, and freeze-dried or frozen foods. A high
percentage of their diet should be greens. We recommend an African Cichlid
specialty flake. Mysis shrimp and bloodworms are also good choices. Frequent
feeding of 2-3 times a day is best.
How many to buy? Mouthbrooding species can be purchased in groups. Some
of the substrate spawners can be purchased in pairs.
Tank mates: Some planning will have to go into your selection. One method is to
purchase small fish and let them grow. The tank should contain only African Rift
Lake Cichlids. It is not recommended to keep these fish with South American
Cichlids or other freshwater tropical fish.
Tank Mates: The following list includes some fish that can be housed in tanks of
40 gal or more.
Tanganyika Cichlids:
Julidochromis species: Ornatus, Reganni, Dickfeldi, Marleri
Neolamprologus species: Brichardi, Leleupi, Brevis, Sexfasciatus
Altolamprologus species: Calvus
Tropheus species: Dubois
Catfish: Various Synodontis cats
Larger Tanganyika Cichlids: These species grow larger and require a tank of at
least 50 gallons:
Frontosa, Compressiceps.
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Oscars and Other Large Cichlids Community
Why Keep Them? Larges Oscars are true personality fish. They learn to recognize their owners and make a true “show
fish.” This tank contains a hardy collection of fish for large tanks. Many of these fish grow over 12” in length and can make
an attractive display in tanks of 100 gallon or more.
How Many? You can keep Oscars singles or groups of two or more. They should be the same size, and if you keep more
than one add them both at the same time.
Housing: This community is suitable for tanks 75 gallon or more with proper filtration and heating. These fish are messy
feeders so use one or two large power filters with a supplemental air pump. Plastic plants are best because these fish may
uproot live plants. Temperature range 75-80. It is advisable to maintain 1 tablespoon of aquarium salt per 5 gallon. If fish
get too big you can return them to our store. You can purchase cichlids in singles or groups.
Feeding: One advantage of this community fish is that you don’t have to feed them as frequently. Feed once a day with
standard foods such as Cichlid sticks brine shrimp, plankton, bloodworms; krill, algae tablets for your catfish.
Fish Choices: (Fish should be of similar size)
Barbs: Large Rosy Barb, Tinfoil Barb, Filament Barb. (Keep in groups)
Catfish: Plecostomus Catfish, Shovelnose Catfish, Ashara Cat.
Cichlids: Blood Parrot, Green Terror, Jack Dempsey, Managuense Cichlid, Firemouth, Jurupari
Eels: Large Fire Eel.
Knifefish: Large African Knife, Clown Knife.
Daios: A group of large Giant Danios may add activity and cut down on fighting.
Sharks: Black Shark, Red Tail Shark, Red Rainbow Shark, Large Roseline Sharks.
Other Fish: Annostomus, Wolf fish, Silver Dollar, Leporinus, Polypterus.
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Discus Community Tank
Why Keep Them? This fish is often called the King of the Aquarium fish because of its beautiful colors and
majestic behavior. Discus are members of the cichlid family. They are native to South America. All discus sold at
Elmer's are domestically bred.
Compatibility/ Behavior: Slow moving, peaceful and shy fish. Discus are one of the most beautiful tropical fish
and should be given a tank designed for their special needs. They should not be put in a traditional community
tank. They are best kept in a "Discus Only" tank.
Tank mates: Best results are usually achieving when you devote the entire tank to discus only. If you would like
to mix some fish with them here are a few fish that we have seen in discus tanks: Clown loaches, Farlowella
catfish, small schooling tetras such as Cardinals, and Rummynose.
Housing: Tank size: (40 gal or larger juveniles, 55 gal or larger adults) Keep the water sparkling clean with good
filtration, but not too much water flow.. We recommend the use of activated carbon or ChemiPure in your filter.
They require warm water. Keep the temperature 85-88 degrees. Maintain a pH of 6.6-7.0. Do partial water
changes (25%) weekly. Optionally you can soften your water by mixing some freshwater RO (reverse osmosis)
water with you source water. Elmer's sells RO water in 4 gallon jugs.
Size: Grows to 10"
Feeding: Pay special attention to feeding. Feed 2-3 times a day with flake food, brine shrimp, beefheart, or
bloodworms. We sell some frozen foods designed for discus.
Longevity: 6-9 years.
Scientific Name: Symphysodon aequifasciata
Discus Sold at Elmer's: Elmer's sells only domestic bred discus from a selected breeders.
Natural Habitat: South America, Amazon River Basin
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Freshwater Puffers
Why Keep Them? Puffers are interesting fish that often do best when keep in a specialized aquarium. Most are
difficult to fit into a community tank so a single species tank usually works best. The Dwarf Pea Puffer can be
kept in a tank to themselves as small as 5 gallon.
Green Spotted Puffer (Tetraodon nigroviridis) (Grows to 6’) Housing: Provide an aquarium of 10 gallon
or more. 15 to 30 gallon is idea. Provide standard filtration Maintain a temperature of 70-80 degrees. You
can use any aquarium gravel, or a marine based aragonite gravel. Decorate with plastic plants. If you use
live plants you may try some anubias, java fern, or moss balls. Tank Mates: These puffers are aggressive
and are ideal candidates for “species only” tank. They can even be aggressive toward their own kind in the
form of nipped fins. They seem to be less aggressive when young and more aggressive as adults. If you
have a big enough tank and want to try some other fish choose: Bumble bee gobies, or larger mollies. Water
Conditions. These fish live in brackish water and should have some salt in the water. We recommend you
use Instant Ocean Sea Salt at about 1 tablespoon per gallon. The hydrometer should read 1.005 to 1.015.
Feeding: Feed a variety of meaty foods. Bloodworms, Mysis shrimp, frozen squid, krill, and freeze dried
shrimp are good choices. They like to eat snails. Crunching on some snails periodically will help them keep
their teeth properly trimmed. They also enjoy live ghost shrimp. Adults will even eat fiddler crabs. Behavior:
They will spend a lot of time near the bottom of the tank. They will quickly come to the surface when you feed
them.
Figure Eight Puffer (Tetraodon biocellatus) (Grows to 3.5”) Same care as Green Spotted Puffer
Dwarf Pea Puffer (Grows to 1.5") (Tank size- 6 gal and up.) Our best selling puffer. One of the smallest
puffers, but still is can be aggressive. Does not need salt in the water like other puffers. Best conditions are a
small planted tank with slow moving water. Some small live snails are good food supplement. Feed mysis
shrimp and bloodworms. Best kept in single species small tank with filtration. Keep one per 3 gallons.
(Carinotetraodon travancoricus)
Abei Puffer (Grows to 4") A freshwater puffer native to China. They are aggressive and territorial
(Tetraodon abei). Best kept in a single species tank.
Amazon Puffer (Assel Puffer) (Grows to -5")(Temp- 76-82) A true freshwater puffer. Will tolerate brackish
water, but does not require salt in water. Interesting fish with lots of personality. They can be fin nippers, but
they are more peaceful than most other puffers. Ideal setup is in a planted aquarium. Feed plankton, krill,
bloodworms, frozen mysis shrimp, frozen squid. adults can eat snails and ghost shrimp. Adults can be
aggressive toward each other. (Colomesus assellus) Also called Parrot puffer , banded puffer.
Fugu Puffer: (Grows to 6") Very aggressive, Best kept in a small tank (10-30 gallons) by themselves. Feed
krill, plankton, snails, ghost shrimp. A pufferfish from japan. Poisonous to eat. Fugu is the Japanese name
for Pufferfish. Tank size- 40 gal and up (Tetraodon ocellatus)
Fahaka Puffer (Grows to- 16")(Temp- 75-80) Very aggressive puffer will bite at anything especially as it
grows. Prefers a Ph above 7.4 with at least 2 tablespoons of salt per 5 gallons of water. Feed frozen Krill and
Silversides, will eat live foods such as ghost shrimp. larger ones will eat crayfish Requires large tank
(Tetraodon lineatus)
Tankmates: Bumblebee gobies seem to be suitable tank mates for green spotted and figure eight puffers.
23
Goldfish Community
Why Keep Them? The modern aquarium stocked with fancy goldfish makes a very beautiful addition to any
room. Goldfish have been bred in captivity for over 1,000 years. The result of this is a wide variety of colors and
sizes of goldfish. A fancy goldfish tank is low maintenance, and you don’t have to worry about them hurting each
other. They will entertain you with some incredibly beautiful fins and form. To truly enjoy them, design your tank
for goldfish keeping only, and do not mix in tropical fish.
Housing: Goldfish are very hardy, just do not crowd them. The bigger the tank the better. Long low tanks (16" or
lower) are preferable over extra tall tanks. Give them plenty of swimming room. The tank must be kept clean and
well filtered. Use one or two good power filters, or a canister filter. A supplemental air pump is advised. Fancy
goldfish do not like excessive water movement. Water output from filters should be directed away from the center
of the tank. Follow all normal aquarium maintenance procedures such as a partial water change every week or
two. Keep pH 6.8-7.2, and change filter cartridges regularly. The addition of some aquarium salt is helpful .Add
one tablespoon of aquarium salt for each 5 gallons of water.
Temperature: Goldfish prefer cool water and should be kept at temperatures of 60-74 degrees. Goldfish are not
good choices for rooms that are not air conditioned in summer.
Goldfish in small fish bowls? No. A small fishbowl is a very undesirable place for a goldfish, and success
rates are extremely low. For two small goldfish you will need at least 15 gallons. If you want to keep a fish in a
small bowl we advise a Betta.
Feeding: Goldfish have different nutritional requirements than tropical fish so use a goldfish specialty food such
as Hikari Goldfish Pellets, Tetra Goldfish Pellets, Omega Goldfish Flakes. Some good supplements are brine
shrimp, tubifex worms, frozen bloodworms, and even a group or two of live anacharis plants. Feed goldfish twice
a day. Goldfish like to feed from the middle and bottom. Be sure to carefully observe feeding and remove any
extra food after 5 minutes.
Live Plants: Live plants are optional. Most goldfish communities are decorated with plastic plants toward the
rear of the tanks. Goldfish like to nibble on soft leaf plants. If you want to try live plants choose thick leaf plants
like Anubias, Sagittaria, Banana Plants, and Sword Plants You can supplement their diet with a group of
Anacharis Plants.
How Many? A rule of thumb is about 1” of fish for each gallon of water. They are social and you can mix
different varieties and sizes.
Goldfish with Tropical Fish? If you want to keep goldfish and tropicals use two separate tanks. Goldfish have
different nutritional and temperature requirements and do best in tanks to themselves. Their gentle nature also
makes them a target for more aggressive tropicals.
Tankmates
Fancy Goldfish: Many colors and fin shapes are available.
Loach: The Gold Dojo loach mixes well with goldfish, since it does not mind the cooler water.
Snails: Nerite snails.
Avoid: Tropical fish, Koi.
24
Brackish Water Community Tank
What is a Brackish Water Tank? Brackish fish originate from areas in which freshwater and saltwater meet.
Fish that have adapted to these areas typically can tolerate a wide range of salinities.
Housing: Add 2-4 tablespoons of salt per gallon. We advise Seachem Brackish/Livebearer salt or Instant Ocean
Marine salt. The salinity should be around 1.010 to 1.015. (The salinity of seawater is 1.025) . Keep pH 7.2-7.8.
Use a marine substrate such as Araganite sand to help maintain an alkaline pH. Maintain standard filtration and
heating.
Decor: Driftwood and plastic plants create hiding spots. It is a challenge to grow live plants in a brackish setup.
If you want to try live plants use Java Fern.
Mangrove Plants: Some interesting displays can be made with the use of Mangrove Plants.
Feeding: Feed 2-3 times a day with standard foods a variety of quality foods. Use flake foods, frozen mysis
shrimp, frozen bloodworms, Formula One, and plankton.
Brackish Water Fish: Here is a list of some brackish water fish you may see at our store: Be sure to study the
individual requirements when you are establishing your tank.
Active Fish for Larger Tanks: 75 gal and up: Mono, Scat, Columbian Shark Catfish.
Eels: Freshwater Moray Eel, (Gymnothorax tile)
Gobies: Sand Sifting Sleeper Goby, Knight Goby, Dragonfish Goby, Bumblebee Goby, Purple Spot Goby.
Others: Pike Livebearer (belonesox), Black Molly, Archer, Flounder.
Cichlids: Orange Chromide.
Puffers: (Typically kept in a species only tank) Spotted Puffer, Figure 8 Puffer, Fahaka Puffer
Suitable for smaller tanks: (10 gal or more) Bumblebee Goby.
Suitable for smaller peaceful tanks: Black Mollies, Ghost Shrimp, Celebes Halfbeak, Celebes Rainbowfish.
25

24 Freshwater Community Tank Suggestions

Transcription

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