Lamarck's Angelfish Behavior

[shellsea]

Not sure if this is the right forum since many don't think the Genicanthus lamarck to be "Reef Safe" anyway but I am not seeking info on reef compatibility as much as general behavior. I have had my Lamarck since Sept. 2014 and she has been a perfect tank mate to my other fish, HUGE derasa clam and various coral. Just two days ago she started hiding in with the cleaner shrimp. Getting groomed and just hanging out in and near the cave the shrimp has in the tank. She has not come out to eat or hang out. she appears to be doing some spawning type moves, stirring the sand and wiggling around in it. From what I can see of her in the shadows she looks healthy. No tail or fin damage I can see. Normal or not to act like this periodically? I welcome your thoughts.

 

[BeanMachine]

Not sure if this is the right forum since many don't think the Genicanthus lamarck to be "Reef Safe" anyway but I am not seeking info on reef compatibility as much as general behavior. I have had my Lamarck since Sept. 2014 and she has been a perfect tank mate to my other fish, HUGE derasa clam and various coral. Just two days ago she started hiding in with the cleaner shrimp. Getting groomed and just hanging out in and near the cave the shrimp has in the tank. She has not come out to eat or hang out. she appears to be doing some spawning type moves, stirring the sand and wiggling around in it. From what I can see of her in the shadows she looks healthy. No tail or fin damage I can see. Normal or not to act like this periodically? I welcome your thoughts.

Itching and scratching usually indicates a parasite... maybe flukes?

 

[shellsea]

She is not itching and scratching. More like shaking a tale feather or fin in this case and being reclusive.

 

[BeanMachine]

She is not itching and scratching. More like shaking a tale feather or fin in this case and being reclusive.

Angelfish are broadcast spawners... I dont think that is what your are seeing.

 

[shellsea]

Ok thanks. Good to know. I will watch her and see what happens.

 

[JoeVandal49]

Do you have any fish in the tank that are showing aggressive behavior to the lamarcks?

I have two females, and my largest will occasionally have a spat with my chocolate tang over territory and go into her "cave" for a day or two afterwards.

If scratching or bumping gills/fins on rocks and sand i would say likely some sort of fluke like parasite.

A fresh water dip could confirm if you are able to catch your Lamarcks and feel comfortable dipping...