Constant digging

[Wildfire]

I just wanted to know if digging is normal. I have one of my zebra that is digging all the time. I have come to the point were I don't bother fixing the gravel because he starts all over again... Does anyone have the same problem?

 

[thecichlidaddict]

Digging is normal, they are basically 'nesting'. It's a part of owning these fish, and the only way around it is to use a substrate that they can't dig in, but then you lose a part of their natural behavior.

 

[Wildfire]

I don't mind the digging, I'm just scared that the rocks will one day fall and squish one of my chiclids! Shall I not worry?

 

[thecichlidaddict]

That is a legitimate concern. What I do, and always recommend others to do, is place the rocks directly on the bottom glass of the aquarium and then add the substrate, that way they can't undermine them and cause a collapse.

 

[Wildfire]

Sorry for my ignorance but what is substrate? I should post some pics for you to see the actual setup of my habitat... I have some lava rocks and they are in balance however when Z starts digging they get unsteady and risk of collapsing... You also mentioned that substrate will have them stop digging. I want their habitat to be as natural as possible.

 

[thecichlidaddict]

Substrate is what you use to cover the entire bottom of the tank, usually either sand or gravel. Sand is the most natural.