group of juvi clowns to establish a breeding pair

[teledog77]

Hi,

I wanted to ask for some input on establishing a breeding pair of true percs. I'm not too concerned about them breeding right away, but I want to make sure that's an option later. I've read you really have 3 options:

1) buy breeding pair
2) buy a group of ~5 juvis and two of them will pair up to form a breeding pair - after which you can remove the remaining juvis or not
3) buy a large one first and add a small (hopefully juvi) one later with the hopes that the large one is female and the small one hasn't flipped yet

I'm leaning towards #2 because it seems like a cheaper solution than #1 and it would be fun to watch the social interaction (assuming they don't duel to the death). #3 is supposed to be non-preferred because of the aggression of the already large female.

I just wanted some input - what do you all think is the best route to take to establishing a breeding pair?

Thanks!
-Bryan

 

[Toddrtrex]

Personally I would go with #4, buy two small ones --- at the same time --- and let them figure it out.

I did that with my pink skunk pair, two years later, they are spawning -- no fighting during the process.

WIth my Clarkii pair, started off with 3, worked for a couple of months, a pair formed, and the 3rd one was killed. They have been spawning for about 7 years now.

I did buy my percs as a pair, but that was because that is how they were offered, and I loved the coloring of them. Have had them since Jan, spend their time together, but haven't noticed any pre-spawning behavior. However, one has clearly become the female.

 

[ocellaris123]

I would go with number three as that is how all of my clownfish get paired but would add them at the same time, or todds suggestion is a good one also.

 

[Toddrtrex]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=14892750#post14892750 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by ocellaris123
I would go with number three as that is how all of my clownfish get paired but would add them at the same time, or todds suggestion is a good one also.

Your way would work too --- at the same time, that is why I didn't go with #3. I personally don't like letting one getting established in the tank. Have the normal "fighting" that will happen with any new addition, plus the possible pairing fighting.

 

[ILLiDaN]

i say pick 2 diff juvis that look completely diff.

 

[mobert]

I also vote for two juveniles.

 

[cubsFAN]

2 juveniles. ive also had luck with #3 with occ.

 

[Rod Buehler]

2 juvies

 

[OrionN]

Just get two small ones and there will be no problem

 

[SDReefer44]

yeah it costs more, but what could be more full-proof then buying a pair already breeding..

 

[SDReefer44]

yeah it costs more, but what could be more full-proof then buying a pair already breeding..