Lip locking juvies...

[TriLamb13]

I have tried to search for other threads about lip locking before I posted this but was unsuccessful in location the info I needed. I was looking for a little help in regards to a 50 gallon tank with all juvies (appx 15). Two of my OBs, who are both appx 1 to 1.5 inches long, will not stop lip locking. When they release they circle and then one goes in and sort of t-bones the other and they circle in the t-bone position. I have read up about mating and aggression but everything that I've found has been with more mature cichlids. I actually purchased these two together and they have been in the same tank since day 1. This is the first time I have seen this behavior from them.

If I need to separate them I can since I have a 20 gallon nursery where I grow my own plants but I'd hate to have to segregate them. Any advice would be much appreciated.

 

[jonclark96]

I'm assuming the fish are OB peacocks. I'd guess that it is two males trying to assert dominance in the tank. Most like it just started as they are beginning to reach maturity. I haven't kept a lot of peacocks, but I'd think that the loser may be in trouble if the tank isn't big enough for a subdominate male.

 

[TriLamb13]

That was what I was afraid of. I was just surprised because they are so young and small. I just checked on them again and they seem to have separated and have calmed down. I will keep an eye on them and if it continues I will have to relocate one of them to my nursery tank.


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