Marigold platy won't leave blue gourami alone?

Question

I just added a neon blue gourami to a 55 gallon tank that contains 5 black neons, 2 diamond tetras, 2 corys, and a marigold platy. As soon as I added the gourami to the tank the platy started stalking him in the tank and won't leave his side. Is this going to stress out the gourami and does anyone know why this is happening?

Answer 1

I would tend to agree with tiki, but you may be able to do something about the platys behavior. If it's being territorial, try removing it (temporarily) and rearranging any decor you have in the tank. Give the others some time to get to know the new layout, then reintroduce the platy. Since the "boundaries" of the territory have changed, the two fish will be on more equal ground, with the gourami having a slight advantage of knowing where the escape routes and hiding spots are.

I'd also add a few more of the tetras - these are another schooling fish that should be in a school of at least 5.

Once your gourami becomes settled into the tank, I doubt he'll put up with the platy.

Answer 2

Probably just being territorial. Sometimes they do that. I'm surprised the gourami's taking it lol, mine shoos everyone out of his way. Try adding a few more platies similar to that one. Maybe it'll take it's mind off the gourami. I'd also add a couple more cories to your tank, they love being in shoals.