Apistogramma GH requirements

[lavenderbug]

I'm setting up a 20 gallon for Apistogramma cacatuoides and wanna get the GH right. My tap water's around 6 dGH, but I've heard they prefer softer. Should I cut it with RO or just roll with it? Tank's got sand, driftwood, and some Java fern. No tankmates yet.

[Bolton]

6 dGH ain't bad, but yeah, they do better softer. I'd mix in some RO if you can. Mine are in 4 dGH and breed like crazy. Just watch the pH swings if you go that route.

[BronzeKey]

6 dGH ain't bad, but yeah, they do better softer. I'd mix in some RO if you can. Mine are in 4 dGH and breed like crazy. Just watch the pH swings if you go that route.

Yep, RO's the move. I messed with peat before but it's sketchy. What's your KH at, lavenderbug? That'll mess with stability too.

[lavenderbug]

Thanks for the tips. My KH's around 3, pH stable at 6.8. Gonna grab an RO unit this weekend. How often do you guys water change with RO mixes?

[Bolton]

I do 20% weekly, but my tap's harder than yours. With RO, you might stretch it to 10 days if params stay chill. Just test often at first.

[BronzeKey]

Same here, 20% weekly. Don't slack on the remineralizer though. Forgot once and my apistos got all stressed. Salty Shrimp GH+ is solid.

[Bolton]

Same here, 20% weekly. Don't slack on the remineralizer though. Forgot once and my apistos got all stressed. Salty Shrimp GH+ is solid.

Second that. Salty Shrimp's clutch. Also, toss in some almond leaves if you wanna go full blackwater vibe.

[lavenderbug]

Got it, thanks y'all. Ordered the Salty Shrimp and some leaves. Appreciate the help!