Pairing Liopropoma Basslets -- Possible?

[SkullV]

I was wondering if it was possible to pair Liopropoma (specifically rubre) basslets after you already have one established fish. I love my Swissguard and wholeheartedly regret not purchasing a pair in the first place.

Is there a way to determine sex? Can they change sex like some other fish when another of the same species is introduced? Any other pairing tips?

 

[philter4]

As far as I know they are all functioning hermaphrodites, which means they have both ovaries and testes and can function as either male or female. Wrasses and angels are similar but normally start life as a female and change to a male as they age, clownfish are non-functioning until dominant then they assume the role of either male or female.

I have collected several species of basslets and they are found either alone or in pairs and I have paired them up in tanks by just introducing them like I do pygmy angels, I put the new one in a small pals clear container for a week or two and allow the established one to see it and get used to it being there before I try to put them in together. Release the new fish on a day where you can sit and watch them and even though there will probably be some chasing they will eventually settle down.

Good luck and if I can ask, what species are you thinking about getting?

 

[SkullV]

Looking for a mate for my existing Liopropoma rubre.

 

[Maximus]

I'm in the same predicament as you. I have a single rubre and it's one of my favorite fish (when I see it, lol). I wish I would have bought a pair.

 

[cwoods8]

I have once paired up a rubre with a swalesi.....(with no intentions of doing so)
For months the rubre would dominate the swalesi, but surprisingly after, they would co-exist, never leaving each other's side.....really weird...

 

[SkullV]

So are we pretty much at a consensus that I should add the second rubre in a specimen container for a week or 2 and release it with caution?