Cichlid Relationships

[Scrotius]

Hi all, I've got a bit of a sentimental dilemma on my hands...

About 18 months ago I bought 5 Keyhole cichlids, as they grew up, 4 of them paired up and one was left on her (female) own. I was able to separate the two pairs so that they would not fight, but the odd one out was being picked on by the other females had nowhere safe to go. I ended up giving her away to a local fish store, where she still inhabits one of their display tanks.
Recently, one of my remaining females succumbed to an internal bacterial infection and died.
Now I am unsure what to do. I would like to get back the female that I gave away, but I don't know how the widowed male will react.
Does anyone have any experience or knowledge of how cichlids behave after their partner has died?
Will it be safe to reintroduce him and her?

 

[KittyKat]

It should not be a problem with Keyholes.

 

[snowflake311]

It all depends on the fish. There is a chance they will not pair up with a new mate. Then again it could be love at first site. No way to tell unless you try.

 

[Scrotius]

thanks guys,
I'm not worried about them pairing up, as long as the big male doesnt try to eat her, I will be happy
Although she is comfortable in the LFS, I think I can definitely offer a better environment, plus I feel pretty bad for having to give her away in the first place

 

[snowflake311]

YeS I would go get her back if I where you.

 

[Scrotius]

got her back today, the transition went very well, the big male seems more intimidated by her than she is of him
hopefully they will be friends

 

[snowflake311]

Sounds good.

 

[the biffster]

give them time they
will be ok