Cave Dimensions
Opening just large enough for the female to enter but too small for the male.
Interior chamber slightly wider than the entrance, ceiling 1 to 1.5x female body height.
Depth 1.5 to 2x female body length.
Materials
Terracotta pots broken in half or with a 2cm hole drilled in the base work beautifully.
Coconut shells with a side notch are free and aquarium-safe after boiling.
Commercial ceramic caves in various sizes available at specialty shops.
Placement
Bury half the opening in substrate so only the top half is visible.
Place in a quiet corner, away from filter output turbulence.
Provide 2 to 3 cave options so the female can choose.
Female Invitation Behavior
A conditioned female displays yellow belly and flares to attract the male.
She enters the cave and spawns on the ceiling while the male fertilizes from outside the entrance.
Guard period lasts 2 to 5 days. Free-swimming fry emerge after day 7.