Is Mandarin Love Fleeting?

Mushroom Boy · Apr 8, 2017

I have a mated pair of spotted mandarins who until recently were mating monthly. Lately (for the past week or so) it seems that every time they see each other it becomes battle royale. Is this just a love tiff, or should I separate the two permanently? Have you ever had a pair of mated mandarins that have gone through periods where they seem to hate each other? Should I just let it play out? Nothing in the tank has changed. No additions, no losses. Thanks!

Here they are in happier times...

Paul B · Apr 8, 2017

I haven't seen that. Mine spawn, then when they don't feel like spawning ignore each other completely. I don't think I ever saw them fighting.

Meccaman96 · Apr 8, 2017

I wonder what she said to him to tick him off

Mushroom Boy · Apr 8, 2017

I think it's the other way around. Hell hath no fury like a female mandarin scorned :) I'm going to keep a close eye on them. Hopefully they'll be able to rekindle their romance.

Mushroom Boy · Apr 10, 2017

Well, I think I need to separate them. I came home from work today and the male (smaller) had the female by the gill and wouldn't let go. I chased him away from her and 2 minutes later, she had him. I'm so bummed. They were getting along so well and mating. Anybody in the Seattle area want a free spotted mandarin?

Lionfish Lair · Apr 10, 2017

:-( that's sad.

Mushroom Boy · Apr 13, 2017

Well, it's official, I clearly mis-named them when they paired up. They are not Westley and Princess Buttercup. They are hence forth known as Sid and Nancy. Love affair is back on.