Re-mating a Clarkii pair ?

[Atrus]

I recently obtained a mated pair of Clarkii's and a hosting BTA from a RC reefer. In the process of picking up the clowns and BTA we were unable to catch the male and in fact after a while couldn't even locate the male in the tank. Eventually I had to leave with the female and BTA and they seemed to adjust very well to my tank.

Eventually the male was located (worked his way into sump!) and I picked him up several days later. Surprisingly when I put him in my tank the two clowns have not gotten along. The female chases the male and doesn't let him near the BTA. The male is also not eating much, eventhough I obtained the homemade frozen food from the previous owner.

Is anyone familiar with this type of behavior and how long is a reasonable period for them to get back together. I am afraid the stress and lack of eating will eventually get to the male. Its been about 3 days now.

Thanks

Joe

Tank Info
75 gal / 30 gal sump / 5 months old

NH3 = 0 ppm
N03- = 0
PO4 = < 0.03
pH = 8.2
sp gr = 1.025
Ca++ = 390 ppm
Alk = 11.4 dKH
Temp 78-81
140 lbs LR Shallow Sand Bed
No other fish, Frogspawn/torch/Zoa's/Sinularia sp. / GSP

 

[graveyardworm]

I have no idea how fast this happens, but a clown alone if sexually mature will become a female. So it it may be possible that the change has begun in which case they will possibly never get along.

 

[stykthyn]

how long was eventually? If less than a month I doubt he has made the transition to female. more than likely the bond has merely been broken and must be re-established. give them some time. as long as the female doesnt do any fatal damage to the male, there is a good chance they will pair back together.

 

[rylin123]

my 2 clarkii took something like 3 weeks before they got along

 

[dantodd]

sounds normal. He's getting put back in his place by her for leaving home without calling.