ancistrus spawning

[mcaquatic]

I have a group of L184s. Looks like four females and one male. They probably spawn about every two weeks or so. Is this too frequent for my male? I assume the don't eat while protecting the eggs? Should I be separating him at any point for break or is this time frame ok? I never really get to see him since he is always in his cave. The little I have seen he appears healthy, just a little smaller then all the ladies in the tank. Thanks

[.Plecomania.]

feed at night he might leave the caves sometimes but its rare. it's important for there to be food when he does.
and get another male if you have plenty of caves and tank room.

[Barbie]

Don't worry about him, they leave the cave and eat, they just rush back when they see any movement. I had a male Ancistrus on solid eggs/wigglers/fry for about 5 months at one point and he never lost condition at all.

Barbie