Male l. curviceps bullying female

[curviceps]

Hi all

I have a pair of l. curviceps. Everything seemed fine with the pair attempting to spawn twice, and till recently have been peaceful and enjoying each other's company.

However, just after the 2nd spawn attempt, ie after the pair turned dark, started chasing other fish away from their territory and taking turns guarding the "site", the male is continuously harassing the female. The female immediately swims away, even to the point of hiding at one of the top corners of the tank. This happens each time the male finds the female.

What is the reason for this behaviour? Is it normal?

Thanks!

 

[Zapisto]

male is not satified.

 

[Mike Wise]

Zapisto is right. Not all males and females form compatible pairs.

 

[curviceps]

Things are back to normal now. Peace is kept and they are following each other around... wonder what will happen next time...

Thanks for your response!

 

[Zapisto]

problem between male and female curviceps show up most of the time during pre-breeding period , breeding period or post breeding period.

do you know why the breeding tentative failed ?
do you know if they at least laid eggs ?

 

[curviceps]

Hi Zapisto

I have had the curviceps for slightly more than a month. During this time, there has been two breeding attempts.

During the first time, eggs were actually laid. Both fish took turns to guard them. However, after a couple of days, the male ate them.

During the second time, I'm not sure if eggs were laid - I didn't notice any. However, I noticed the female in an almost horizontal position against the face of the rock.

As to why the spawning failed, I'm not sure. Maybe they are still inexperienced? Also, they are in a community tank, so I wonder if they are getting too much disruption?

Thanks again!