You could separate the males and females for about a week or two. during this time do a couple of water changes and feed with something live or at least nutritious. then you can re-introduce the male to the females. I have talked to some people that have told me a 20 gal is about right of a pair or a trio, the problem with space will probably occur after the spawning. HTH Archie Christian Lab Coordinator/Senior Research Technician NSBRI Radiation Effects Team Phone (443) 287-3053 Pager (410) 283-9300 Email Achrist@jhmi.edu ----------------------------------------------------------------------- -- 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. apisto-digest@listbox.com also available. Web archives at http://lists.thekrib.com/apisto Trading at http://blox.dropship.org/mailman/listinfo/apisto_trader