Adding a second Percula?

[Michaelmarc]

I had a wonderful pair of percs. Unfortunately ICH took the male, leaving the female all alone.

I've been told two opposing opinions about adding a smaller male with this female.

1. She will kill any perc smaller then herself.
2. It shouldn't be a problem adding a smaller male; but she might beat him up a bit to show her dominice.

Anyone know what typically happens here....I'd appreciate some guidance.

Thanks

 

[Eldouble]

There will be some dominance issues, and nipping, but if you want them to pair up, then get something smaller. Two the same size will most likely be female (if they are large) and 2 females will fight worse than a male/female. You can always introduce the smaller one in a breeding net, so they can see each other and work out some aggression w/o the ability to do damage. After a week or two, they should get along fine. But keep in mind, a true pair still looks like they fight a lot.... just like a married couple

 

[Aquadam]

I would agree with going with a smaller male, otherwise the aggression will be much greater. They will battle eachother to establish dominance if they are of similar size. Good idea about the breeding net too.

 

[reefbegood]

did the same thing the male died years ago. i just got a baby perc and it was love a first site went right to the 8 yr old big mama, never seen them even chase each other around always side by side

 

[reefbegood]

it might help if there are larger or same size fish in the tank. i had gotten 3 cardinals the week before