Re: [Killietalk] Aplocheilichthys normani

[Wright Huntley <whuntley at verizon_net>]

Jeff,

Jeff Ludwig wrote:

> Hello everyone...
>
> I just had five Aplocheilichthys normani (fairly certain on ID, are 
> there similar looking species?) donated to me, very cool fish.  

There are many similar-looking species. Don't ID by appearance alone.

> I hope 
> to breed these, would a spawning mop setup similar to a Fp. gardneri 
> spawning setup be appropriate?  If so, floating or bottom?  Any tips or 
> tricks with this species?

They need a bigger tank than GAR, but similar water (moderately hard is 
probably OK, but not dead soft). These are a lowland savannah species 
that schools in open waters, spawning on plants and any place they can 
shove eggs into a tight space in a good current. Give them schooling 
space in the front of the tank, with lots of side lighting from a window 
to catch their irridescence. [100% top lighting makes most Lampeyes look 
dull and plain.]

Lots of oxygen is usually provided by keeping them in a heavily planted 
tank and/or with air stones. Getting enough oxygen is tough as they like 
warmer water (75-82F). Don't crowd too much. For your 5 fish I would use 
at least a 10G tank, but a 15 might be better.

Mop spawning can be done with floating mops. I wrap the mop into a tight 
ball with a couple of rubber bands, which gives them a structure for 
"crevice spawning." The mop(s) should be in a current from the air 
stones or a filter, as the eggs seem to need a lot of oxygen, too. I 
have also gestated eggs from similar species in a pilsner glass with a 
rigid airline providing bubbles to keep the eggs in supension, much like 
hatching bbs.

Floating hornwort (if it will grow in your water) is another good way to 
trap eggs. You can pick the eggs out of the intersection of the side 
fronds and the stem.

An egg trap made of two PVC pipe caps and a rolled plastic canvas 
cylinder stuffed with filter floss (polyester pillow stuffing) may also 
work. Stand where current from the filter keeps the water flowing gently 
through it.

Lampeyes are great fun, but their breeding is a bit different.

Wright

--
Wright Huntley -- 760 872-3995 -- Rt. 001 Box K36, Bishop CA 93514

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