Kivstev

I notice my male GBR is scratching intermittently against a rock in my 55 gallon. I introduced a new red-bellied female 2 days ago.They never seem to leave each others side and their colors are excellent.

I'm wondering if anyone has seen this as a spawning behavior or should I treat the male for parasites. I seem to recall Kribs doing this before spawning, but am not sure. Thanks.

aquarist48

Good afternoon Kivstev...let's get some more responses before you treat for parasites. As long as the fish isn't flashing over and over and over it might just have an itch. I'm not certain that I've ever heard of flashing being part of the mating ritual. I like to suggest adding medications only as a last resort. Best of luck!

Kivstev

OK I'll hold off a bit longer and be patient. Thanks.

Edit: What I did for now is a 60% WC, added 8 TBS of salt to the tank. It was previously unsalted. I also and raised temp to 84F. Now I'll wait and see.