i have 17cichlids.i dont have a "mating" basket.so how do i know if one is pregant and if expecting,what do i need to do if anything.
2007-03-05 05:41:25 · 4 answers · asked by fishin for answer 3 in Pets ➔ Fish
You must be more specific regarding what types of cichlid you have, because different species can differ greatly in breeding habits, among other things.
Are they assorted mbuna? This is my first guess because they tend to comprise 'assorted africans' which typically draws the beginner. If so then they are likely mouthbrooders and you can tell when they are 'pregnant' because they don't eat, their throats are swollen, and they will look kind of like they're chewing gum. These fish raise the babies in their mouths until the yolk sac is gone and the fish are free swimming, about 3 to 4 weeks. Then they spit the firy and they will be left to fend for themselves.
2007-03-05 07:12:09 · answer #1 · answered by Ghapy 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Some cichlids carry their eggs in their mouth, but many cichilds do it the old' fashioned way :)
I really don't konw how you can tell if your cichild is pregnant. My cichilds haven't really shown that much difference in size of the belly than normal.
Once the eggs are "layed" you will know, because the parents will be very protective....fighting off all of the other tankmates.
2007-03-05 06:20:37 · answer #2 · answered by to be announced 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
They carry their eggs in their mouth, so I don't really know how you can tell. Make sure you have lots of rocks and little spaces in case babies are born. My female ciclid built a cave and had her babies in there. Only a few survived b/c the other fish will eat them and the female will eat some as well. Once she had her first batch though, she hasn't stopped. I have baby ciclids everywhere!
2007-03-05 05:48:46 · answer #3 · answered by gizmo 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The adult females will regularly produce and lay eggs. They don't get "pregnant" as such.
2007-03-05 05:47:30 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋