???

[Blueberry]

My cichlids are pushing the gravel off my undergravel filter plate, and are building little piles. Is it okay if a "tidy up" after them and put the gravel back, or will this annoy them?

[William]

It depends. Most/many cichlids dig all the time and you won't disturb them by fixing the gravel. However if the digging is apart of spawning preparations you may disturb their spawning.

[Blueberry]

Hmm. How can I tell the difference?
I haven't done anything particular to get them into "spawning mood".

[William]

Leave the gravel be for a week or two. If they are planning to spawn the most likely have done that by then.

Also you could look at the fish gentiles. If they are swollen it’s a sign that they will sawn soon. This technique might be harder until you master it.

[Blueberry]

I think I'll use the first technique, seems easier and more reliable for a newbie like me. :D