When Do Cichlids Start Breeding?

If you have a large enough tank, do your water changes, and have the correct male female ratio (for breeding purposes at least 1 male for every 3 females), they will breed as soon as they reach sexual maturity. This can take anywhere from 4 months to a year, sometimes even longer.

How often do cichlids breed?

Females will spawn approximately every 6 weeks if well fed. Most females will eat while incubating, but all usually lose weight during that time. It is important to feed a variety of high quality and palatable foods to keep your breeders in condition.

How do I get my cichlids to breed?

Mouth-brooding African cichlid mating occurs something like this: the male digs out a cave (nest) for the female and lures her in by doing this silly fin shaking dance (there's also a disturbing "kissing" version). She lays her eggs in the nest and he fertilizes them.