View Full Version : Firemouth question...
FishmasteR2002
12-04-2003, 10:48 AM
I have a breeding pair of Firemouths in a 55 Gallon tank with a Blue Crayfish. I read that once they becomea pair they are always a pair but they fight just like they are married. Is this unusual behavior. The male attacks the female but sometimes she stands her ground and he changes his mind but sometimes he just goes at her so quickly she doesnt have time to react. She doesnt seem to be getting dmaged by it but I dont want her to be stressed out. Any ideas? TIA. :)
peifc
12-04-2003, 11:49 AM
Yes...it is normal.
Reiner
12-04-2003, 2:24 PM
You can put some dither fish in the tank that keep the male busy. So he can chase them instead of the female. It might also make there bond stronger.
Tightdog1
12-04-2003, 7:25 PM
yes your firemouths will do this forever. the only way to lessen this is to put in target fish, like maybe giant danios or sumthing equivalent
Here is the definition of dither and target fish.
http://www.geocities.com/cichlid_guy87/dither.html
Giant Danio isn't target fish but dither.
If your firemouths are a pair, they will lock lips and test other strength. It is normal thing for pairs to do this. They gotta make sure each other has the strength and guts to protect youngs. Also, at the beginning of courtship happens all the time. After they have a few batches of fry, jaws locking happened less, in my experience. Keep close eyes on them. Also, make sure there are plenty of hiding places for the female to run to that the male can get to her.
FishmasteR2002
12-05-2003, 9:00 AM
Well I already have one batch of fry so I know they are a pair. The female swims freely so I don't think I need dither fish but target fish. how does 4 tiger barbs sound? Do you think that will take some of the pressure off? Also I keep feeder guppies in the tank(about 4 or 5 dozen right now) will the barbs kill them as well? TIA once again. :D
peifc
12-05-2003, 10:08 AM
Tiger barbs will do alright with the Firemouths.
Do you have another tank for guppies? Maybe a 5g?
FishmasteR2002
12-05-2003, 11:17 AM
Nope. I dont really care if the barbs kill them they are feeder guppies. Besides I dont feed the Firemouths they eat when they want to chase a guppy down. Thanks again peifc.