Spitting Sand

[Nanogasm]

Hi all,

Curious question...

I own an orchid dottyback who has plenty of places to hang in the rockwork. I've noticed she (such a beautiful colour must make it a her) picks up sand from behind her rocky home by scooping it into her mouth, and then proceeds to swim out and away from the cave to spit it out. Rinse and repeat for five or so rounds. I've caught her doing this now on three occasions this past week or so.

Was wondering why. Is it a housecleaning behaviour of sorts? Misplaced instinct? Something to do with spawning?

 

[Anonymous]

Hi all,

Curious question...

I own an orchid dottyback who has plenty of places to hang in the rockwork. I've noticed she (such a beautiful colour must make it a her) picks up sand from behind her rocky home by scooping it into her mouth, and then proceeds to swim out and away from the cave to spit it out. Rinse and repeat for five or so rounds. I've caught her doing this now on three occasions this past week or so.

Was wondering why. Is it a housecleaning behaviour of sorts? Misplaced instinct? Something to do with spawning?

Just excavating a home to his liking - common behavior in many fish species.

 

[SnowManSnow]

my tomato clown does the same thing around his BTA

 

[Nanogasm]

Yeah, I noticed my percula giving it a try too. At first I thouht he was mimicing the orchid, but I think I'm giving him too much intellectual credit. Funny to watch though.. he hovers, then points his nose down vertically, grabs a mouthful, spins 180 and faces up, then spurts it out. It's almost like I can see him do a 'heh' after it.

Thanks for the replies.

 

[Tackett]

My orchid dotty used to do the same thing, would leave the tank bottom showing in many places.

perfectly normal. Gotta occupy yourself somehow.

 

[Sugar Magnolia]

Yep, perfectly normal and sometimes more than a little bit annoying. My YWG doing what it does best.