Hello--

I have two small albino red zebra cichlids in a 20 gal tank. The bigger of the two seems to have fun "digging" a hole in the gravel. (is that mating brhavior?) The smaller of the two stopped eating a week or two ago, and I think she has a brood in her mouth! The bottom of her mouth/jaw? is distended a bit and she makes little mouth movements. She has also been hiding around the rocks or plants or hanging out in the top area in the anacharis plants. If she spits out fry, what do I do??? Do they get eaten by dad if he stays in the tank? Will the golden algae eater munch on them? Will they get sucked into the hanging filter?

I don't know what to do, and oddly, I've had a hard time finding info online. I read that you have to cover the filter with foam, but what kind should I use? Should I get some baby brine shrimp? I don't have another tank or the room to set one up-- will they all get eaten?

Sorry for the rambling-- I am just at a loss! Thanks in advance for any help!