Offer suitable choices
A cave spawner needs an appropriately sized, stable cave; angelfish need a vertical surface; other cichlids may clean flat rock or leaves.
Respect territory
Parents may defend a large area. A community tank can become unsafe even when it seemed peaceful before spawning.
Decide on parent-raised or artificial care
Some keepers leave eggs with parents; others move eggs. Each choice changes oxygenation, fungus risk and behaviour.
Limit disturbance
Repeated flashlight checks, cave lifting or egg movement can trigger abandonment or predation.
Plan the family stage
Parents that guard eggs may later herd free-swimming fry. The tank layout must allow observation and safe maintenance.