Diego - I don't have any C. Spilurus babies either. I tried the simulated dry season method, and they started displaying vigorously, but they didn't spawn. Next time I'll make the dry season longer and tougher.
Heiko - I'm glad you're on the case. I really look forward to seeing pictures of this new variety. I found an article in Polish that discusses their infrared capabilities and mentions you in several places. I had originally thought the weird head shape was for display purposes, but it makes sense that it is for infrared sensing. It's great that someone of your stature has taken an interest in this genus. Perhaps you'll find a Crenuchus bleheri? :-)
I only have a couple of new observations...
- perhaps it was a coincidence, but increasing the carbonate hardness of the water a little caused the fish to start displaying within about ten minutes (I used a teaspoon of Seachem Alkaline Buffer, but baking soda would probably work as well).
- they have no interest in caves, despite what the literature says. I cut up some PVC pipe and put it in the tank months ago, but they never go near it. They don't use the driftwood caves either. They prefer to hide in the roots of thick vegetation during the day, usually while facing upwards at a 45 degree angle.
Here's a video I made a while ago that shows a crenuchus spilurus display (around 0:32). I have another video that shows some other displays.
YouTube- Crenuchus Spilurus (sailfin tetra) display
Bookmarks