How concerned should I be with this spawning behavior?

[JeffInKentucky]

After 2 weeks the male borellii has gone into full spawning mode with a somewhat smaller/younger female. He is aggressive, but not too much actual contact. She runs off and hides in the tight space behind the heater, while he darts around aggressively looking for her. She seems stressed during those times. However, at other times she comes out, follows him around, and does her own display. I can’t figure her out (just like human females!) My first times with apistos so I don’t know if this is somewhat normal or if I need to get her or him out for awhile. The tank is 16 gal with lots of caves and hiding places. I’m cycling another tank if I absolutely need to remove one. Any advice is appreciated. Thanks.

 

[Mike Wise]

As long as the female is not damaged, chased continually, nor hiding at the top of the tank, I let nature take its course. Depending on the size of the tank, you might want to add an extra female to spread around the 'ardor' of you male.

 

[JeffInKentucky]

As long as the female is not damaged, chased continually, nor hiding at the top of the tank, I let nature take its course. Depending on the size of the tank, you might want to add an extra female to spread around the 'ardor' of you male.

Thank you. I feel much better about things now. I left the lights off for an extended period and today she has turned a brighter yellow, is hanging out under a rock, and seems to be the one “in charge” now.
All good signs!

 

[Samala]

today she has turned a brighter yellow, is hanging out under a rock, and seems to be the one “in charge” now.

Sounds like she is guarding eggs. Especially if she is now bossing around the male and making him keep his distance.