Bit concerned about a cichlid

[jaylach]

I have two Smiling Dwarf Cichlids (Laetacara araguaiae) and am concerned about one of them which I believe is, but cannot prove, a female. The thing is that this fish seems totally healthy as eating well and swimming around. Yet, at times I will see it laying on its side totally flat on the substrate but it is aware and will take off like a dart if I get close. As to the two cichlids this beastie is the submissive and the other, which I believe to be male, is dominate and, at times, a bit of a bully. There are times when the fish in question is on its side that the other will sort of hover right above. Other times both will be totally upright and seem to being just hanging out. This has been going on for probably a couple of months.

I have, in the past, kept numerous cichlids but never before this species. The critter shows zero signs of any illness, infection or parasites. It acts totally normal except for the laying on its side at times. I'm coming to believe that this is a submissive action and the fish is actually fine but, as I said, I don't know the behavior of this species.

I'll try to get a photo of it on its side but not easy as, if I approach, it is gone in a flash. Mayhaps I'll try to get a photo with my 300MM telephoto lens at a distance... The first time I saw it on its side I thought I had a dead fish but it was fine and seems to still be so.

 

[Mr Limpet]

I’ve kept and bred the species for many years but have never observed that particular behavior. Are there enough hides in the tank for the smaller fish to stay out of the larger one’s way?

 

[AJ356]

Take a video. So much easier

 

[jaylach]

I’ve kept and bred the species for many years but have never observed that particular behavior. Are there enough hides in the tank for the smaller fish to stay out of the larger one’s way?

Hmmm, A possibility as I thinned out some plants mostly in the back of the tank where the critter usually hung out. It would probably still be considered heavily planted but I may have removed "its spot".