Torpedo Barbs Or Scissortails With Sharky

[VickiandKev]

I currently have a 4 x 2 300L tank, and in it various loaches, plecs and a Ruby shark. I also have a shoal of 13 Phantom Tetra but in my local LFS yesterday saw some absolutely stunning Scissortails and also Red Flash Torpedo Barbs. I know these look a bit shark-like in shape and was wondering if I would run into problems if I had a small shoal of one or the other in my tank. I would probably be upgrading to a 5ft 600L tank in a month or two so could leave getting them until I have done that.
My shark is actually very tolerant of the other fish, I think because most are bigger than him in the tank. I have a Flying Fox as well and they each stick to their own bits of the tank and I've never had any issues.

Any thoughts appreciated

 

[bricko]

I have 7 red line torpedo barbs currenlty and they get on ok with the false algae eater in there also.

I have read that they can be agressive to other members of the shark family but I have not seen this with the algae eater.

Beautiful fish though and mine seem to shoal very well together and are very active in the tank.

You will need a large tank though as they get to around 6in.

Sorry i cannot be of more help, these fish are quite expensive need to be in groups of 6+ and require fast flowing well oxygenated water to thrive. Make sure you have an adequate setup as it may prove a costly error if you don't.

Regards,

Mark

 

[VickiandKev]

Thanks for your reply It's nice to know it could possibly be done. Our tank currently has well oxygenated, flowing water, as we have two internal filters, one oversized external and a bubble wall at the back so it might suit them. It's nice to have some advice from someone who knows first hand - you never get that kind of info in shops!!

I will have a good think and possibly buy another filter to circulate the water as well just to be sure.
I think if the Torpedo Barbs can stick up for themselves they'll be fine - it's my shark I was worried about as he's a good size

 

[drobbyb]

I will have a good think and possibly buy another filter to circulate the water as well just to be sure.

If you wanted to go for a cheaper option, you could use a powerhead with sponge attachment to circulate the water more. Another filter isn't bad, but with a powerhead you get to direct the flow a little more.