Wondering if my cardinal is holding eggs - Photo of him attached

[fussoverthis]

I was not sure that I had a pair since I got them so young (about nickel sized). They've grown up very well and are wonderful additions to the tank. The other day I noticed the male not eating and that his mouth and throat were pooching out. Here's a picture of him. Does this look like he's holding eggs?

 

[crzy4reefs]

it looks like he's got some eggs in there. how long ago did you notice this?

 

[argi]

Looks that way to me. My male looked the same when he was holding.

Keith

 

[fussoverthis]

I noticed this on Friday, so almost a week ago. But, I hadn't paid much attention because I didn't know they were old enough to breed. So I was not watching him to see if he was holding.

Very neat! I'll have to keep an eye on him to see how he does. I'm not sure I'll raise this clutch, but maybe in the future...

 

[argi]

Here are some of the babies from my last "hatch" before I had to take down my tank due to a cross country move. Unfortunately I was not able to get any of these guys out and they became food for the tank.

Keith

 

[jacob30]

Looks like he is holding. A sure sign, in combintion with his jaw size, is that he will not eat while holding. Keep an eye on him. Sometimes the first few batches are swallowed or spit out prematurely. Best of luck!

If you want to raise them set up a seperate tank (or place in a refugium) and catch the male around day 22 to 25. Sometimes they will release when caught. If you leave him in the main tank it can be difficult getting the new borns out.

Jacob

 

[fussoverthis]

Hmm, well he may have been holding during that photo, but now his mouth isn't as poochy looking. Also, he ate dinner last night. Sooo, maybe next time I'll be able to tell for certain.

How often do the females lay eggs?

I'll pay attention and let you all know what happens.

 

[jacob30]

My male held several times before taking the eggs all the way to hatching. It may be a learning curve for them before they commit fully.

Best of luck next time.

Jacob

 

[djacob]

what is the best way to get them to pair?

Thanks
Dave

 

[spk]

Good luck with the little ones, when the eventually come out.

Vary the diet of the fish to get a good balance and you are sure to have success.

How long ago did you get the pair. If you say you got them a nickel size, they are looking quite big now.

Steve