Compatibility between elassoma and dario dario

Emeraldtarpon said:

Hi Gats, welcome to the forum.
The Dario Dario males can be quite aggressive towards each other. Having 2 to 3 females to 1 male is preferred.
Im not sure about the Elassoma so i dont know if id try keeping just one of each species in the same tank...especially if they were both males.
A 180ltr tank has enough space to create two seperate territories with a bit of distance in between...that would be an absolute must if you were going to attempt this. It can be quite successful but it can also be a complete disaster too.
I dont know if i would advise anyone to do this as again,im not sure what the Elassoma's temperament and tolerance is like...I think it would probably be a bit iffy.

When we talk abotu creating different territories, how you do that? Using big rocks? A lot of plants?
I know that both nales are aggressive with males of same species, but pacific with others, the problem is that they are very similar in dimension and in territory solutions... That's why I am scared. Maybe I could try with 4 Dario Dario and 4 Sphaerichthys Osphromenoides

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Emeraldtarpon said:

Hi Gats,
yes, rocks that block view, lots of plants to block view, driftwood etc.
Both fish having similar territory needs is going to result in them crossing paths and thats where the danger lies.
Being territorial, i dont think the dario dario would accept this, i may be wrong but they are pretty edgy guys when their territory is established and a similar fish invades it.
They are cool with mid to top swimmers, will tolerate peaceful bottm dwellers too but if youre going to introduce another fish that basically has the same dimensions and teritorial habits, i think you're asking for trouble.
There's too many negative points compared to positive ones.
I think the chocolate Gourami would be a better choice with the Dario Dario.
They both occupy different areas of the tank...although the Gouramis like to go exploring but i doubt very much whether the Gourami would be aggressive toward the Dario Dario, just inquisitive.
Having Dario Dario's with Sphaerichthys Osphromenoides would be a lot safer option out of the two.

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