Pelmatochromis nigrofasciatus spawn

[retro_gk]

So, my fish were showing signs of pairing up and I was planning on getting some RO (LA has liquid rock out the tap)... they decided not to wait and are getting it on as I type Hopefully, I'll get viable eggs!

 

[k98]

i like this fish gl with the fry

 

[retro_gk]

Does anyone know how long the eggs take to hatch? The rock is now covered in empty egg membranes, about 18 hours after spawning.

Pic was taken halfway through spawning.

 

[aquaticclarity]

The eggs from my pair take a little over 2 days to hatch in 80ish degree water. The female then move the wigglers around to several different pits that have been dug in the sand/fine gravel substrate. She is VERY good at hiding the little ones until they are free swimming, another roughly 5-6 days post hatching. I’ve left the fry in with the adults several times. The adults have been excellent parents, allowing some of their offspring to reach a 1 ½†size. This is all taking place in a 20 high tank without any other fish present.

Jeff

 

[retro_gk]

My tank is in the mid 70's (no heater), which is why I was surprised to see the empty membranes at 18 hours. And you'll never see empty membanes when fish eat their eggs... time will tell