A Breeding Trick I Learned

[kribensis12]

Well, about 1 month ago, I noticed that my tank's temperature was at about 70 degree's F ( I usually have it at 80). Well, it turns out my heater isn't performing as it should. As soon as I noticed this, I put in another heater( smaller one) to share the load. The tank temp is now at 78 degree's. A week afterwards, I noticed a female fattening up. Then, I could see an eggs tube. Now, she has been holding for a week. Just figured I'd let you know that temp changes do work for Labs( and other Lake Malawi inhabitants I would suppose)

 

[lalo99]

Higher temps will increase the fishs metabolism. They will be more active. More liekly to mate, ect. 70 deg was alittle low for malawi cichlids.

 

[Cichlid_Crazy]

I heard the best way to get them to breed is to pour cold water in the tank and add a non Mbuna.

 

[kribensis12]

I didn't purposefully take the temp down that low. It was an accident.

I heard the best way to get them to breed is to pour cold water in the tank and add a non Mbuna.

Who did you hear that from? What would the non Mbuna do?

 

[Cichlid_Crazy]

To act as a dither/Target fish...alot of people on a Malawi site i use, use Convicts,Jewels,Giant Danios,Clown Loaches etc.....I'm not sure why..haven't' asked them....but after my idiotic Jack Dempsey experience...I wouldn't like to try it

I'm not sure why Mbuna like cold water either...maybe i should ask on the other sitte and post the answer here.

 

[kribensis12]

The drop in temperature makes then think it's rainy season, I believe. Dithers are used to spread out aggressive, not get fish to breed.

 

[Cichlid_Crazy]

LOL you know best brother

 

[kribensis12]

haha, if you say so!

 

[kaztaz]

50% cool water change then live or frozen brine shrimp works for me