[Loucon]

I need to know how long clowns hold their eggs be fore laying them and how long is the gestation period.

[The R/C Man]

Welcome to Reefland!!!!

I personally don't know but here is a link with some info about breeding the little guys.... http://www.netpets.org/fish/referenc.../brdclown.html

I hope this helps some....

[Ninong]

Originally Posted by Loucon

I need to know how long clowns hold their eggs be fore laying them and how long is the gestation period.

According to Joyce Wilkerson in Clownfishes, the eggs usually hatch about eight days after they are laid, within two hours after darkness. That's assuming water temperature of 80 degrees Fahrenheit and assuming that the lights don't come on again after they have gone off. Turning on the lights after "sunset" on the expected hatching date can sometimes delay the hatching by a day but this varies by species. Unexpected light after "sunset" on the expected hatching date is particularly troublesome with Amphiprion ocellaris but not so with some other species.

Breeding pairs of clownfish will usually spawn every two weeks.

[The R/C Man]

Loucon,

Let us all know how everything goes. One day when my big tank is up and running I would like to try and raise some clowns. If it pans out I may be able to make enough cash to pay for frags and water changes....

[marxsman]

My fish hatched anywhere from 9-14 days. (maroons) but the best way to judge it for me was watching them change color. the eggs will change to a silver, almost clear color and the eyes will be very obvious. Then watch them because they will hatch soon. Contrary to what the books say mine have always hatched mid-day.

[The R/C Man]

I am glad to hear it went well. I am sure it was interesting to watch. Keep us up to date on their progress. Are you going to try and raise them via feeding and seperating them so they don't become food for the othe inhabitants?