Blue eye cichlids and bristlenose

[Rick147]

Hi,
Few questions in one post here.

I have 5 blue eyes who have grown up together along with 4 bristles

The largest blue eye has excavated a cave and hides there, does this mean they will breed soon? I would hope there is a mix of M/F

Also in this particular cave the bristlenose like to hang out. Is there a reason they all spend time together? It doesn’t seem to bother the blue eye. I don’t think he can really do much about it anyway

How will I know also when the bristles are ready to breed?

I will attach some photos

 

[AmyKieran]

From the picture the BN’s appear very small and I imagine they are no where near sexual maturity.

In terms of the Sajica (blue eye) you will probably see aggressive behaviour of the area they are trying to dominate. They will try and push the plec out and keep others away from the spot.