Conditioning cichlids for spawning

[nano cichlids]

So what do you think is the best way to get your cichlids into condition for breeding? I Feed my jacks and other cichlids blood worms in the morning and night them for lunch high protein cichlid sticks and an alge wafer. I also change about 50% water every night and put cooler water -5° in. Along with plenty of spawning sites (flower pots, flat rocks, slate, etc) I will put a mirror on part of the tank to induce the male into thinking there's competition in his tank, he flares away and the female gets more into the spawning 'mode'. What are your secrets? :thm:

[steakman]

I set them up this way and it works all the time for me.

- I feed them very well for a period of 2 weeks. I mean 2-3 times a day. You can see their body get into good shape and their bellies are rounded.

- Stop feeding them for 3-4 days.

- During this time, lower tank temp a couple of degree. And do not change the water. Keep it dirty as long as it's not too harmful to the fish.

Then the next few days you'll see them ready to breed. In case of the mouth-brooder, you'll see they are holding eggs in their mouth. I then raise the temp back to normal.

Repeat this cycle if you have not seen result. I got it works all the time.

If I don't want them to breed, i keep feeding normally every day.

SM

[Pittbull]

Up the feedings 3 to 4 times a day i agree with Steakman