Compatibility in the Tank

Once the decision has been made to add a fish tank to the family, how do you know which fish to get? There are hundreds of species, after all, and certain ones are incompatible. How do you know you haven't just created a recipe for disaster when you put gourami in with your bettas?

Well, first of all, don’t buy any fish without doing some pre-planning and research to figure out which breeds the fish you're interested in are compatible with. Sometimes, you’ll see a fish that’s practically begging to come home with you. You fall victim to its lures without knowledge of what it is, what it feeds on, how large it will get or whether any special care is required, and, most importantly, how likely it is to tear the other fish you want to shreds (or vice versa). Buying fish on impulse is almost always a bad decision.

There are a few things to think about before adding a fish to your tank. For instance, species that require a specific environment may not do as well in a tank that is different from their natural habitat. However, fish that adapt easily in a wide range of conditions are more likely to thrive.

If you decide to introduce more than one species in a tank, you need to make sure that they are compatible. Most beginners keep a community aquarium with a large assortment of colorful fish. Usually, they originate from different parts of the world and thus have adapted to different conditions. According to experts, their behavior patterns and food preferences may also vary. That being said, if they are not compatible, there will be challenges.

Peaceful fish do not harass each other. Fish that are exposed to continuous bullying are so physically stressed out that they are prone to getting sick.

Get lost!

The condition of the water may also play a factor. One species may thrive in a hard, alkaline environment while a new fish introduced fares better in soft, acidic water. The species least compatible with the water chemistry may not do so well in the tank.

Experts also advise that behavior patterns play a significant role. Fast swimmers may disturb the slower ones. Aggressive species often eat up the food supply more quickly, leaving very little for their introverted tankmates. Additional food to make up for it may increase the amount of uneaten food in the water, reducing the water quality.

Some fish are also territorial, which may increase conflict even among the ones with peaceful dispositions. Territorial species can limit the amount of space for others, especially if there aren't enough hiding places.

Behavior differences can be very disruptive. Even when fish have peaceful dispositions, conflict over things such as food, territory, and, in some cases, fin-nipping may arise. Even if you're absolutely sure the breeds you picked out are compatible, it's better to be safe than sorry.

Next week I'll post compatibility charts. That’s it for this time!

References:

http://animals.howstuffworks.com/pets/choosing-aquarium-fish.htm

http://tropicalfishandaquariums.com/Compatibility/index.php

http://saltaquarium.about.com/od/livestockcaretopicsindex/ss/fishcompatibilitychart.htm