Water chemistry isn't critical, but yes, soft and slightly acidic (5-10 degrees dH, pH 6.5-7) would be ideal. Much more important is what I said above: they are hopeless at competing for food. So you want a gentle water current (so food isn't sucked up) and no competitors. You *will* be feeding them live food initially, and afterwards wet-frozen foods. Even if they take pellets (highly unlikely) they won't thrive on them. Most specimens of this species die from starvation and/or stress by being bullied.
As I said, read up on
Badis. What applies to that genus applies to this species. Both are territorial, slow, colourful, and easy to kill if you don't know what you're doing. I kept four in a 20 gallon tank and that seemed to be fine, together with various small fish (hatchets, kuhli loaches, etc.) that didn't pose a threat. I dare say cardinal tetras and the like might be used, too. But get your climbing perch feeding first.
Cheers, Neale
Oh, as for price, if £3 seems good to you, then it's a good price. The whole "how much is a fish worth" idea is silly, in my opinion. A healthy fish from a good retailer you can trust is worth more than a flaky specimen from a generic pet store with no idea about fish. A small but rare fish you have wanted for years is worth more than a much than a big fish you don't want. As Margaret Thatcher said, the value of something is what someone is willing to pay for it. Look at the fish, see if they're healthy, double check they're what you want and can keep, and then balance the cost against your fishkeeping budget.
yeah, so would they need similar conditions to species like chocolate gouramis and some of the bettas etc??
just got a call of the guy from the lfs saying they will be around £3 each, is that a decent price? and also are they best kept in groups or pairs??
cheers
Dave
