Stocking Order

[Bobby2415]

I’m getting a Blue Acara, Gold Severum, and a Blood Parrot. Should I put them all in the tank at the same time?

Thanks!

 

[Colin_T]

If you can then yes, put them in at the same time.

If you can't put them in at the same time, then rearrange the tank and move ornaments/ decorations around just before adding new fish. this will break up established territories and give the new fish a chance to find somewhere to live instead of going into another cichlids home.

 

[Bobby2415]

If you can then yes, put them in at the same time.

If you can't out them in at the same time, then rearrange the tank and move ornaments/ decorations around just before adding new fish. this will break up established territories and give the new fish a chance to find somewhere to live instead of going into another cichlids home.

Thanks! I was able to add them all at the same time. The Blue Acara and Severum seem to be doing well but the Blood Parrot seems very skiddish and hides most of the time. I’m guessing that is somewhat expected with new fish at first? They are all about quarter size to half dollar size.

 

[Colin_T]

Fish act nervous and skittish for several reasons including poor water quality, chemicals poisoning them, schooling fish on their own, no hiding places.

Your fish are all juveniles that would still be hanging out in a group so being moved into a new tank without any friends will stress them to some degree.

Make sure the water quality is good and do a 75% water change if there is any ammonia or nitrite, or a nitrate reading above 20ppm. Make sure any new water is free of chlorine/ chloramine before it is added to the tank.

Add some plants and caves so the fish have somewhere to hide. Floating plants are good and Water Sprite (Ceratopteris thalictroides/ cornuta) is one of the best plants. It naturally grows on the surface but can also be planted in the substrate.

Turn the tank light off until tomorrow. The fish will feel more secure in a darker tank and it can give them time to settle down. this is especially important if you don't have many plants or hiding places. If you have the room light on or the curtains open, there should be plenty of light for the fish to see.