The eleven fish were placed in the bowl in April, 1995. One month later the first fry were spotted. Due to the dense plant growth, courtship displays were not observed. Eggs are randomly deposited in the plant mass with no further care given. Mature males in breeding condition turn almost black with blue iridescent spots along the sides of their bodies and on the fins.
Females remain a pale yellowish- brown.
A positive effect of the sponge filter and java moss is that they encourage the growth of infusoria. The fry are so tiny that they are unable to accept newly hatched brine shrimp when they become free swimming. They feed on the infusoria as their first food. Green water is the ideal first food but microworms are good substitute. The wigglers are so small and transparent that they are invisible.