Are there any somewhat peaceful bubble nester species that would be suitable for a 250g heavily planted summer (June-August) pond in the Midwest, with small fish such as Rice fish and White Clouds? Near Lake Michigan, zone 5b, so average day time temps are mid 70s-mid 80s, night time temps generally in the 60s. The pool is next to a south facing wall, but is shaded in the afternoon, so there should be a bit of a microclimate, keeping it warmer at night and not spiking too much in the afternoon from sunlight.
I think average temp will be low 70s, but the fish must be capable of surviving mid-high 60s in case we end up with colder weather than normal at some point.
The only thing that comes to mind are Paradise fish, which I don't think are particularly peaceful, and can be predatory. I've read of a lot of people who keep Bettas outdoors in the summer in this type climate (for breeding), but then everywhere says that they need mid to high 70s so I'm not sure, because that seems a contradiction.
I think average temp will be low 70s, but the fish must be capable of surviving mid-high 60s in case we end up with colder weather than normal at some point.
The only thing that comes to mind are Paradise fish, which I don't think are particularly peaceful, and can be predatory. I've read of a lot of people who keep Bettas outdoors in the summer in this type climate (for breeding), but then everywhere says that they need mid to high 70s so I'm not sure, because that seems a contradiction.