females - how many each time?

[marcusbacus]

First of all, happy new year to everyone!...

I'm planning to add some females to my 19G but I don't know how many should I add at once, not only due to the problem of overpopulating but also because of the possible fights. Just one is out of question, but I'm afraid that more than 3 can mess up with the parameters of the tank. Right now I still have the same 2 rams and the 3 corys but I've ordered 5 ottos (the brown algae are starting to get a bit out of control and I can't add more lights right now), a couple of colisa lalia and 3 rasbora maculata today. The females will be the next, hopefully in a week or so.

[starlight]

The females should all be about the same age and size. Put them in at the same time, otherwise there will be problems. Odd numbers 3 (is good) are best. Expect some fighting until they determine who the alpha female is. Eventually they will settle down and small nips usually heal quickly. It's good to have plenty of plants for the less aggressive females to hide in. Even aggressive females like to sleep protected by plants.

Good luck and let us know how they did.