Kaligono Breeding Guide

Breeding Overview

Kaligono, a rare and delicate aquatic species, has a mostly peaceful nature and mildly territorial behavior. Breeding them in captivity can be challenging due to their specific environmental needs and rare nature, making the process best suited for experienced hobbyists or scientific purposes.

Breeding Conditions

To encourage breeding, maintain a stable environment with water temperatures ranging between 24°C and 28°C and a pH level between 6.0 and 7.5. The tank should be well-established with an abundance of live plants and hiding spots to mimic their natural habitat, reducing stress levels and encouraging natural behaviors.

Spawning Process

Kaligono prefers social groups, so maintaining a minimum school size of six is essential to stimulate breeding interactions. They may exhibit slightly more aggressive behavior during this time, so ensure the tank is spacious enough to allow for territorial disputes without significant stress or harm to individuals. Spawning typically occurs in the early morning. Introducing specific spawning sites, such as flat stones or broad-leaved plants, can encourage egg laying. It's crucial to observe the fish during this process to safeguard eggs against any aggressive behaviors exhibited by other tank mates.

Egg and Fry Care

Post-spawning, it's recommended to transfer the eggs to a separate rearing tank to prevent adults from preying on them. Maintain optimal water conditions similar to the breeding tank to ensure the viability of the eggs. Upon hatching, the fry are extremely delicate and require careful monitoring. Initial nutritional needs can be met with high-quality infusoria or commercially available fry food until they grow large enough to consume microworms or finely crushed flakes.

Raising the Fry

As the fry develop, ensure frequent water changes to maintain water quality at optimal levels and prevent ammonia build-up, which can be detrimental to their health. Gradually introduce a varied diet, including tubifex worms and brine shrimp, to promote healthy growth and vibrant coloration. Throughout the rearing process, provide plenty of hiding spots to reduce stress and support natural social dynamics among the young fish. As they mature, observe for any signs of increased aggression or territoriality, ensuring space and resources are adequate to meet their growing needs.