About Christy Expertise I can answer some questions regarding freshwater fish ranging from their care to diagnosing common diseases or problems with the fish. I can also answer questions regarding the care and maintenance of an aquarium. I haven't had much luck with live plants, so can't help in that area very much. Not real good with explaining salt water or brackish set ups too well either. Also regarding goldfish, I have some comets, and have a little experience with them but mostly just general info on them. I AM NOT THAT FAMILIAR WITH ANY OF THE FANCY VARIETIES OF GOLDFISH. YOU MIGHT BE BETTER DIRECTING THOSE QUERIES TO AN EXPERT MORE FAMILIAR WITH THEM. If I can't answer or don't know something, I'll let you know, so don't be upset if I reject your question, I'll always explain why. I would just rather not answer then give an answer I'm not confident about.
Experience All personal, first hand, general fishkeeping experience. I've had fresh water aquariums now for about 7 years. I've had tropical/community fish tanks, African cichlids, South American cichlids, brackish water puffer fish, and a lot of other varieties in between.
Education/Credentials None, all personal experience
Question Hi, I currently have 5 buenos aires tetras in a 30 gallon tank and am planning on adding 5 serpae tetras and 4 otos.
1. Do I need to buy the fish in smaller groups with a few days in between or can I buy them all at once?
2. Have you heard of any of these being incompatible?
Thanks for your time!
Answer Hi Keriann
I have read quite a bit, that serpae tetras are sometimes known to be fin nippers. So, something to keep an eye on if you get them.
Oto cats are very peaceful, but the problem with them is they are very sensitive. I bought two awhile back, and one died within 45 minutes of putting him in my tank-and I even took a full hour and a half to let him adjust to my tank water. The other lasted a little bit longer-a few weeks. I would say try them, and if they don't last, save your money and don't buy them anymore.
I would buy the serpae tetras-or other group of fish, then wait at least a week or two for the beneficial bacteria to catch up with the extra fish. Then add the last group. A group of 3-5 smaller community fish is usually safe to add at a time.
