Breeding profile
| Scientific name | Method | Planning level |
|---|---|---|
| Pelvicachromis pulcher and related forms | Cave spawner with parental care | Intermediate |
Why keepers choose this species
Their visible parental behaviour makes them educational, and the fry are often easier to feed than tiny tetra or gourami fry.
Set up around the fish
Provide more than one suitable cave, visual barriers and enough floor area. A dedicated tank reduces conflict with community fish.
Spawning and parental behaviour
Pairs select and defend a cave. Watch for one partner being excluded or injured before the pair settles.
Fry and grow-out
Parents may herd fry through the tank. Offer small foods across the group and maintain gentle, consistent water care.
Important limit: Parental aggression can endanger tank mates. Community spawning is not automatically humane or practical.
Before you start
- Confirm the exact species or strain and its adult care requirements.
- Prepare a cycled fry-safe filter and separate grow-out capacity.
- Arrange appropriate first foods before pairing adults.
- Record parentage, dates and any uncertain hybrid ancestry.
- Identify realistic, responsible homes for juveniles.