Cardinal fish eggs

[Vincent100]

So I have a single cardinal fish which is a good size
This morning before lights on I saw what looked like a pinkish sack with loads of eggs in it hanging from underneath
As I went closer to the tank to get a better look I spooked her and the sack detached from her
Straight away she swallowed the eggs into her mouth
What's going on here ?
I know the eggs can't be fertilized as I've only the one cardinal
Do they just do this once they get to breeding age ?
Thanks

 

[bo0sted2g]

So I have a single cardinal fish which is a good size
This morning before lights on I saw what looked like a pinkish sack with loads of eggs in it hanging from underneath
As I went closer to the tank to get a better look I spooked her and the sack detached from her
Straight away she swallowed the eggs into her mouth
What's going on here ?
I know the eggs can't be fertilized as I've only the one cardinal
Do they just do this once they get to breeding age ?
Thanks

Mine has done this a few times also, I only have one cardinal. I have seen her put the eggs in the rock or swim around with them in her mouth. They are naturally mouth brooders, I just assume the eggs end up as free food to my wrasse