Description
Physical Characteristics
- Size: They typically grow up to 3 inches (7.5 cm) in length.
- Appearance: They have a distinctive black-and-white coloration, resembling panda bears, with black patches around the eyes, a black band across the back, and black markings on the tail and fins.
Habitat Requirements
- Tank Size: A minimum of 20 gallons (75 liters) is recommended for a small group.
- Water Parameters:
- Temperature: 68-77°F (20-25°C)
- pH: 7.0-8.0
- Water Hardness: Up to 25 dGH
- Aquarium Setup: They prefer a tank with plenty of hiding spots, smooth gravel or sand substrate, and a high oxygen level. They thrive in clean, well-oxygenated water
Behavior and Diet
- Behavior: They are peaceful and bottom-dwellers, often hiding among rocks and plants. Juveniles are solitary, while adults exhibit schooling behavior
- Diet: They are omnivores but primarily feed on algae and biofilm in the wild. In captivity, they can be fed sinking algae wafers and small live or frozen foods
Compatibility
- Tank Mates: They can be kept with other peaceful fish of similar size. However, they are sensitive to water quality, so regular maintenance is crucial
- Social Behavior: They are generally peaceful towards their own species but can be shy in new environments
