Update on the mahachaiensis: Last week or so, I realized that I had ended up with 2 males. Thankfully, I got them from a local breeder who was happy to swap him for another female. The second the extra male was removed, the existing pair spawned and they have been spawning ever since. I think they’re on bubble nest #3 now? The tank is full of fry ranging from “tiny” to “extremely tiny”. He seems like a very devoted father, I just hope he’s looking after himself too and eating. Those instincts can be strong!
I was worried about keeping a species from the splendens complex together but knock on wood, things seem to be going just fine. The females are fairly elusive but when I see them, they look healthy and happy. The male is usually pretty easy to find, just find the latest bubble nest and he is there!