clown question

[mrhaaksma]

This is probably a very stupid question......but here it goes anyway. I have one perc clown and one black and white clown. I have no anenomes in the tank. They (the clowns) decided to host a clump of green hairy mushrooms. They have been in the tank together for two years and now suddenly they start hosting the shrooms. Now I see they are cleaning the crushed coral right behind the shrooms. Are they trying to breed? Is this possible?

[pnut]

It's possible but highly unlikely. Mine does that and it is by itself. I believe they are just "house keeping".

[Mike O'Brien]

I've seen both black and white percula's and occelaris. If you have a percula, they might just try to breed. Clearing a spot is what they do before depositing egg's, but it's usually on a rock, not the substrate. But they are not too smart, often it takes them a few times to get it right.

[Byeager14]

the offspring would look really cool though

[mrhaaksma]

It has happened!! Behind the hairy mushrooms is an exposed piece of base rock. Both clowns are defending a clutch of eggs. Pretty cool in my book! I haven't a clue of what to do, the only fish store that isany good is over two hours away. How often do they spawn? Maybe I can be better prepared next time. Any suggestions?

[pnut]

I stand corrected, good deal!

[mrhaaksma]

I looked with a flash light this morning and about a 1/3 of the eggs are gone. The black and white still on gaurd. The eggs are tucked back under a ledge a bit so who know what will happen. I will get some pics tonight if they are still there.

[Mike O'Brien]

I know.

[mrhaaksma]

Let me guess ---- LUNCH TIME.

[Mike O'Brien]

Watch close, you'll probably see the male eating more. It just takes them a while to get it right.