Is my Cichlid brooding?

[PunkRock050]

The other day, I just noticed that one of my Blue Zebras had a very puffy mouth, like it was full of food or something. She is about 4-5" long now, so is that big enough to start mouth brooding? Ive tried to look in her mouth and it looks like something is definitely in there.How long will it take for the eggs to hatch? Any links to help me out if she does have eggs in there? Thanks in advance.

 

[aernympha]

sounds very kool

 

[PunkRock050]

Well, I have a new 10 gallon tank setup just for her and her babies now

I will have to get some pics of it when she releases them. Anybody want some Cobalt Blue Zebras?

 

[smb]

Be careful moving her when she's mouthbrooding. She might eat them if she's stressed by the move.

 

[PunkRock050]

Be careful moving her when she's mouthbrooding. She might eat them if she's stressed by the move.

Yeah I figured something like that may happen. What would be the best way to move her? Or should I just leave her in there? There are about 10 othr Africans in there with her. Will they pose a threat?

 

[PunkRock050]

Anyone got some good links for this? Im having trouble finding any info on how shes going to react to her young (i.e. take care of them, eat them, etc.) I also need to know what to feed the fry. Im thinking finely crushed flakes.

 

[smb]

Anyone got some good links for this? Im having trouble finding any info on how shes going to react to her young (i.e. take care of them, eat them, etc.) I also need to know what to feed the fry. Im thinking finely crushed flakes.

Sorry, not sure about any links but the female will carry the eggs in her mouth until the male fertilizes them. The eggs will hatch and then it will take 2-3 weeks or so for the fry to eat their yolk sac. You can feed them fine crushed flakes or some Daphnia.

The female will take VERY good care of her young. When there is danger around they will all swim back into her mouth for protection.

 

[PunkRock050]

So since shes waiting on the male to fertilize it I guess its a bad idea to move her into her own tank? How do I know if the eggs have been fertilized or not. Should I just leave her B?

 

[fam1197]

Be very careful when you move her, If you scare her she is likely to spit the fry out and your out of luck, Also use the same tank water from the old tank so you don't shock her when she is moved. When you do move her get a container and keep her submerged in water at all times..