Doug, I, too, had multiple spawns go "bad". When the male matured enough to ACTUALLY fertilize the eggs, the problem stopped. I hope this turns out to be your real problem too. Unlike others who've responded, I found the females to be pretty poor protectors and will pull or siphon out the next spawn I find. Kevin Korotev Milwaukee, WI USA ------------------------------------------------------------------------- This is the apistogramma mailing list, apisto@listbox.com. For instructions on how to subscribe or unsubscribe or get help, email apisto-request@listbox.com. Search http://altavista.digital.com for "Apistogramma Mailing List Archives"!