The first step in choosing the best bottom feeder for your tropical fish tank is deciding which species to purchase. You can choose a variety of fish, including Corys, Plecostomus, Geophagus, and Pictus catfish. Below are some popular tropical fish for freshwater aquariums. Keep in mind that these fish are not all compatible. Some species will only be successful in your aquarium if you add more than one.
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Pictus catfish
Pictus Catfish are one of the most popular varieties of bottom feeder tropical fish. They are hard to breed in the aquarium, so finding a quality specimen is not easy. Unlike other catfish species, these fish do not produce pheromones. Breeding in the aquarium is not recommended for beginning fish keepers. In order to produce healthy fry, these fish need large tanks and open spaces. They will spawn and reach sexual maturity in about two months.
Pictus Catfish live in groups of several dozens to hundreds of individuals. They respond to hormonal and visual cues to spawn. It is possible that they also respond to seasonal cues. While equatorial rainforest temperatures do not change much from month to month, the temperatures are fairly constant. The Pictus Catfish will spawn in your aquarium as long as you can provide a suitable environment.
Plecostomus
If you want a catfish that won’t be aggressive, opt for the plecostomus. They don’t have scales and are protected by armored plates. The common pleco grows to about 24 inches in length and has a dark brown body with black markings. The candy-striped pleco is smaller, with a pale body and black stripes. You can also choose from the zebra pleco or the sailfin pleco, which have longer fins than the average pleco.
While plecos contribute to a healthy tank environment, they are still susceptible to common freshwater diseases caused by improper water parameters and poor tank conditions. One such disease is ich, caused by protozoan, which causes white spots on the body. Affected fish will lose their appetite and rub against rough surfaces. To kill off the parasites, increase the temperature of the water, which will reduce the risk of infection.
Corys
Corys are easy to care for and can be an excellent addition to your new tropical fish tank. They are generally quite easy to care for and can be kept in a 20-gallon tank. They will thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some useful tips on taking care of your new Cory fish. Once you’ve got them home, you’ll be amazed at how easy they are to care for!
First, make sure you get a variety of Cory species. These fish are social and can get along with most peaceful species. They can also school with other bottom-dwelling fish. They are best kept in a tank that does not get too hot. Those who have them in their home already know how tolerant they are to temperature changes. Bronze Corys are a great choice. They come in different color morphs, including green, bronze and black. Because of their adaptability to a variety of aquarium conditions, they can do well in a community.
Geophagus
As the name suggests, this species of bottom-feeding fish feeds on a variety of prey, although they do prefer worm-like animals that live in mud and sand. They are also capable of eating shrimp and crabs. These fish are commonly found in large bodies of water, including rocky reefs. They can eat prey whole or in small pieces, but you should only consider purchasing Geophagus steindachneri if you want a healthy and interesting fish to keep in your aquarium.
Located in the Amazon Basin, Geophagus species live in various types of water, including lakes and rivers. In the pet trade, the most common variety is Geophagus abalios, which grows to about 12 cm, or about 10 inches long. These fish thrive in water temperatures of 26 to 28 degrees Celsius, a pH range of 6.5 to 8.0, and a general hardness of 10 to 20 dGH.
Tiger Shovelnose Catfish
The Tiger Shovelnose Catfish is a beautiful and unique fish. Its stripes and long, tapered nose make it look like a tiger. When fully grown, it can reach more than one meter in length, making it the ideal choice for those who are looking for a fast growing, large-mouthed fish. Though a catfish can grow large quickly, they will still need a big tank. They require at least 1000 liters / 200 gallons to live happily.
The tigershovelnose catfish has a striking platinum coloration with tiger-like stripes and long whiskers. They live in deep, dark rivers. These fish are best fed pellets and frozen foods, but you can also try shrimp and worms to keep them happy and healthy. However, be aware of their aggressive temperament, as they can eat peaceful fish if they’re not fed regularly.
