Rio Tapajos paludarium

[Leopardfrogplec]

My W/C L134s are arriving from the Rio Tapajos in 4 weeks and I want to set up a natural aquarium for them. I feel sorry for all W/C fish in Iwagumis and other unnatural aquascapes - I bet they hate it. But hopefully mine will be happy in their new home.
The paludarium would have a suitably-positioned internal heater & filter, and the filter's outlet would be extended with a pipe to create a waterfall, giving maximum oxygenation. A pump would provide extra water movement for the L134s and a shoal of Kitty tetras (Hyphessobrycon heliacus).
Water parameters would be: pH 6 to 7.4 (replicating natural conditions), ammonia and nitrite 0, nitrate <15ppm, temperature 26 degrees C (fluctating between 24 and 28 degrees C in summer/winter).
Would this be OK for all livestock concerned?

- Olivia

[PlecoCrazy]

I think the idea of a paludarium is a very neat one. Your filter idea sounds doable. You didn't mention any tank information and how many gallons of water it would actually hold. I have no experience with that tetra but looks like it could possibly pose a threat to fry.

[Leopardfrogplec]

The tank is a Fluval Roma 90 holding almost 20 UK gallons / 24 US gallons. It's 60 x 35 x 40cm (23.5 x 12 x 16 inches).

[Richard B]

I may be wrong but isn't it a rough guide/recommendation to give these (Hyp's,Peckoltia & similar) a square foot of substrate each to allow them to form adequate territories?

[Leopardfrogplec]

In the Cat-eLog it says a 12 inch square area per L134. That would be enough for 2 in my tank. I'm hoping to get a pair.

[Leopardfrogplec]

I was thinking of keeping a small group (maybe 5) of Corydoras panda with the L134s too. Would that be OK or would they fight? (Edit: I think not because of different food sources, but just in case ...)