RE: artificial hatching

[Tom Mroz <tmroz@art-inc.com>]

I have nearly always had poor luck keeping the fry with the female.  In 
attempting this with at least six different species, I have consistently 
observed egg eating in all cases.  This is true for some species after 
allowing them 3-5 consecutive opportunities to "do well".  Alternately, by 
pulling the eggs, I can ensure 90+% hatchrates, and propagation of the 
species.  I have had too many cases where I loose a male or female of a 
difficult to obtain species right after spawning to allow the female the 
opportunity to hatch fry (or eat the eggs) herself.  In these cases, I 
never get that second change.

I would like to see results of a side-by-side study that conclusively shows 
the link between parent quality and fry history.  I tend to think we 
anthropomorphise these things too much, and that much of the female's 
caretaking is instinctual.  I think the problem with egg eaters is related 
more to the environment than their own upbringing.  So, perhaps if I gave 
my pairs 40 gallon tanks, or if I diligently removed males, I might have 
better luck, regardless of where the fish came from.  Of course, I could 
certainly be wrong.....

I DO think that fry tend to grow much faster in the presence of the female 
in many cichlid species - apistos included.  I don't know why this would 
be, but I have certainly experienced it firsthand.  It would be my first 
reason to allow apisto females to keep their spawns - if only I could be 
certain they would not snack on them.

Tom