Clown pairing?

[hogfanreefer]

My black ocellaris were the first additions to my tank 7 months ago. Both were small, one 1.5" and the other 1". For several weeks they almost ignored each other but then the larger one got very aggressive about two months ago. She runs the smaller one (now male?) in to a cave that's small enough she can't get in. He is allowed to come out and eat and occasionally he swims with her but most of the time he is relegated to his tiny prison.

Then about 3 weeks ago they were best buds. She would lay on her side in front of him and shake violently every so often. Then a few days ago she has gone back to running him in his cave anytime she sees him out.

Is this normal pairing behavior? I thought we through this until the second round started. Is there a chance they won't become a pair? They have approximately doubled in size in this time frame.

 

[fishfandanman]

They are probably still fighting to see who becomes female. They will probably still become a pair.
Good luck

 

[davocean]

As long as the small one gets to eat and there isn't excessive fin tearing I'd continue to let them work it out.

 

[hogfanreefer]

Thanks guys. He doesn't have a mark on him and there seems to be a truce at feeding time. Hopefully he'll convince her he's submissive enough for her tastes.