how long is an african cichlid pregnant?

Question

my cichlid has babies in her mouth and she has been holding them for about 16-19 days. I can see the babies in her mouth as she cannot close it entirely. Just wondering when I should expect her to spit them out. They are already moving around in her mouth. I have heard that they hold them for about 16-20 days.

Answer 1

Check your tank temperature. If you raise it a bit it might help encourage their Independence.
A

Answer 2

Depends on the species. Most mbuna mouthbrood 2-4 weeks (with the average being 18-21 days); larger african cichlids like frontosa hold for a lot more time. Based on your description though, she'll spit them any day now. If she's the only fish in the tank leave your lights off. It'll relax the fish, and mouthbrooders release fry earlier when relaxed (conversely, they'll hold for an extra week or two if the mother senses danger or is stressed in the tank).

Answer 3

Hi It may be advisable to put her in a tank of her own maybe a 2 foot tank.As she willrelease the babies.Mine had babies last week.I put her in a 2 foot tank with some plastic plants and some rocks.She will release the babies probally behind the rocks.When she has released the babies put her back in the big tank ,as she will be starving and most probally eat them if you dont.The babies will swim around freely.Feed them on Dapnia or baby brine and crushed up flake food twice a day..I use tetra colour bits ground up finely and they are colouring up really nice.Hope this all helps.

Answer 4

That's going to vary based on the species. They should be due to come out any day. Some mothers are a bit over protective.

PS- Mouth mouth brooders don't close their mouth unless they are under attack.

Answer 5

this is very normal, as they are very protective parents. dhe will let them out if she doesn't feel there is a threat. is there lots of hiding places and space?