Cave spawner; the male guards and fans the eggs inside the cave.
Buy a group of 6-8 young fish and grow them. Only a few pairs spawn in captivity. Wild fish exports are banned.
A 20-40 gallon (75-150 L) tank with caves and rocks, 29-30 C and very clean, well-oxygenated water.
Warm, clean, well-oxygenated water and big water changes.
Usually 7-15 eggs; they hatch in about a week.
Males guard the cave. Feed baby brine shrimp and fine foods. Fry are tiny. Keep water excellent.
Mature males have odontodes (small bristles) on a thicker first pectoral-fin ray and a broader head seen from above; females lack the odontodes.
Typical for cave spawners
Give one cave per pair or female, plus a varied diet.
Eggs are laid inside the cave and guarded, usually by the male.
Eggs hatch in 3–7 days depending on the species and temperature.
Feed baby brine shrimp and crushed food. Plecos need wood and vegetables.
Fry grow on in their own tank.
A general guide for this breeding type. Days change with temperature and species.
Give one cave per pair or female, plus a varied diet.
Set up a virtual breeding tank and see what would likely happen.
An educational estimate from the breeding rules, not a promise.