Preparing for Spawning:
1. Water Conditions: Black moors prefer well-conditioned, clean, and oxygenated water for breeding. The water should be kept between 68-78°F (20-26°C) to stimulate spawning behavior.
2. Males: Male black moors, known as "milters," develop breeding tubercles on their gill covers and pectoral fins during the breeding season. These tubercles help them hold onto the female during the spawning process.
3. Females: Female black moors, called "spawners," develop a rounded belly as their eggs mature. They may also exhibit a darker coloration or have a slightly swollen vent area.
Spawning:
4. Courtship: When the water conditions are suitable and the goldfish are ready to spawn, the male will chase the female, displaying courtship behavior. He may circle around her, nudge her gently, and display his breeding tubercles.
5. Egg Release: Once the female is receptive, she releases her eggs into the water. The eggs are usually small, round, and adhesive. They may stick to plants, gravel, or other surfaces.
6. Fertilization: The male black moor follows closely behind the female, releasing his sperm, known as milt, to fertilize the eggs. Fertilization occurs externally as the milt comes into contact with the eggs in the water.
Post-Spawning:
7. Egg Development: The fertilized eggs hatch within a few days, depending on the water temperature. The young black moors, known as fry, are tiny and transparent initially.
8. Parental Care: Black moor goldfish usually do not provide extensive parental care. The eggs and fry may fall prey to larger fish, snails, or other predators in the aquarium. It's essential to remove the adult goldfish or set up a separate breeding tank to protect the eggs and fry.
9. Feeding Fry: As the fry grow and develop, they will need appropriate food. They can be fed live food like brine shrimp, micro worms, or finely crushed flake food until they are large enough to eat regular goldfish food.
Proper water quality, nutrition, and careful monitoring are crucial for the successful reproduction and survival of black moor goldfish.