A few SRN breeding questions

[GussieFinknottl]

My new pair has already been mating (!) and I have just a few questions:

1) Past posts in this forum have dealt with separating males and females once it becomes too stressful for one the animals involved. Does anyone separate their males and females ofter they breed?

2) My female seems to have good weight but she hasn't had much to eat (she nipped up a few bloodworms once and has perhaps had more to eat, though I haven't seen it). Is this typical of a female who's breeding? I've noticed my Alpine females tend to eat less after breeding and don't start hogging again till after they've laid. I'm just wondering if I should separate my female SRN for a while in case she should be mating but maybe isn't eating because of all the harassment.

3) How long after breeding to SRNs usually lay?

Thanks a bunch!

 

[Mark]

There's no need to separate them unless you want to avoid breeding. I can't say I've ever noticed a reduction in appetite during breeding season with P.waltl. If she's putting effort into egg production she should have a good appetite. Eggs are normally laid a few days after successful spermatophore transfer. Amplexus is a good sign that P.waltl males are interested in breeding but as the saying goes, it takes two to tango, if the female is struggling whilst amplexed it's unlikely she'll be in the mood for the all important spinning finalé. If she has however succumbed to his talents you'll be awash with eggs before you know it...

 

[GussieFinknottl]

Thanks, Mark!

They were at it again last night, so hopefully they "complete the process."

And she had a good meal this morning (nummy nightcrawler). I know a full belly makes me more agreeable.

 

[fishkeeper]

I am quite stumped by this species. Supposedly easy to breed. I've had mine for 4 years now and nothing so far as I can tell. The females are plump and amplexus happens every so often but nothing.

I pulled a pair and have them isolated in a 10 gallon tank right now...maybe that will get them going.

 

[chaimdov]

I have been breeding these guys for a while and I noticed that sometimes the female does not eat when laying eggs or mating. I usually feed mine pellets. However, worms are not refused.

 

[kettering bloke]

Hi have you tested your water hardness and PH (not always the same) mine breed like mad but have always used rainwater regards KB

 

[fishkeeper]

lots of amplexus...no eggs. Female is plump. I am stumped.

Any thoughts?

10 gallon tank.

Water temp varied from 60-75. Currently in the low 60s. Using a mix of tap and spring water.