breeding chromis

[kootenayreefer]

Hi there,

I have three chromis is my tank, I believe they are called yellow tail chromis, one is fairly large and two other smaller ones, I have observed one of the smaller chromis doing what I think is laying eggs, it rubs its underside along the inside of a bowl which is placed in the tank for hiding, then the larger chromis scoots it out of the way and then rubs its underside along the bowl, what I would guess is the fertilizing of the laid down eggs. After a few days I can see greyish dots (eggs) all on the inside of the bowl, the large chromis hangs out in there and dines on them constantly, this has been going on for some time, the eggs are eaten then more laid down. Is there any point to try to hatch these eggs, are they even eggs?, how would I hatch them?

thanks

[crlkeep]

You could try removing the eggs, but this will cause more trouble than not. Like many egg layers, they may eat their spawn if they feel their is trouble or stressful situations in their homes ( Other tank mates that would eat the eggs given the chance), They may be eating them because they did not fertilize ( or not in sufficient enough numbers).

Here is a link that should provide you with more information.
Captive breeding article for marine animals (http://www.reefsuk.com/CaptiveBreeding/Articles/Articles1.asp)

Their is an article specifically on raising Yellow-Tailed Damsels. Should apply to you quite well... :)