Interesting behavior

[bielbugs]

At times a couple of my tiger barbs do this strange behavior that is hard to describe. They get right up against each other (side to side) and shimmy there bodies against each other... sometimes into some of the plants. Does anyone know what they are doing?

[Abbeys_Mom]

I am sure someone will have an answer for you. I haven't had barbs before, but I know when my fish "rub" themselves on things (like the driftwood) it means the water conditions aren't right. Have you tested your water?

[bielbugs]

water is fine..... and they aren't rubbing on anything. Its kinda like they are pushing each other around

[Glasstapper]

mine do that, too. Do you ever see them bump their noses together, too? Here's a video of mine doing both. I can't decide if they're fighting or if they like each other. :)

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[genitor]

That's typical mating behavior. The shimmying motion causes the female to release her eggs.

[Severus]

Yea, nothing to worry about

[bielbugs]

Yeah, I wasn't worried... just curious as to what they were doing. I've never seen them lay eggs. Do conditions need to be right for that to happen?

[Severus]

Yes, if you get lucky enough for them to spawn, chances are they may not survive.

[Glasstapper]

On second thought, I'm convinced mine are flirting and not fighting at all. I saw one today sort of dip their nose down a little and "flutter" it's fins in front of some others. The stripes on it's body also faded then back bright again back and forth a few times. It's pretty cool, actually. Too bad their babies probably won't live long enough for me to even see them just once.

[Incredulous_Ed]

Yeah, they are preparing to spawn. Nothing to worry about, but the chances are the eggs will get eaten