bolivianbaby

I got a convict cichlid on Friday (working on the pics). I think it's a female-when I post the pics I hope a convict cichlid expert can tell me for sure. Until then, her name is Karma. She's a baby. She has the whole 20 gallons to herself.

Every time I come near the tank, she's very interested in me and watches me closely. Good thing she's next to my bed.

Here comes the threat to my sanity-could I safely put a ping pong ball in there or something for her to play with? She seems to want interaction of some sort, but I don't know how to entertain her.

Any suggestions besides me going to see a psychiatrist?

Amanda

Haha, a ping pong ball would work well.
Cons are great fish, a lot of personality. Are you going to breed her?

bolivianbaby

So, a ping pong ball would be okay? What should I do to sterilize it? I'll be buying it brand new. Can I just wash it in dechlorinated water?

No, I'm a spay and neuter girl. I don't like any babies born unless I have homes for them ahead of time. Plus, I would want to get a lot of experience with convicts before I thought of breeding. I know, kinda weird, but I used to be a foster for a lab rescue and have seen what happens when animals breed and there aren't enough homes for them. Plus, I wouldn't trust an LFS to find the babies appropriate homes.

Amanda

I breed mine b/c my LFS like to use them as feeders.

bolivianbaby

I used to do that with mice. My LPS would buy them from me for their snakes.

I hope I didn't offend you. As far as I'm concerned, everyone has the right to make the decision that is best for them and I do not judge you for yours, so please don't think I do. That's what's so great about America. We all have the right to decide what's best for us.

Amanda

I also worked at a humane society for 7 yrs. so I know all about the homeless animals.

aquarist48

Hello. I think you could just rinse the ping pong ball and all should be fine. If you want to dip it in a bleach solution of 1 part bleach to 19 parts water should be fine as well.