Auratus cichlid digging the substrate

[nitin1986]

Hi, today I observed that one of the active one from the 13 cichlid is digging the substrate specifically at one spot. And not allowing any other to come near by chasing away. I think it's territory issue. As I was unaware of that I tried to pull back the substrate in to normal and again it did it up.. what might be going on with this cichlid? . I have 3 of this size around 1 1/4 inch.

 

[coralbandit]

He is digging a spawning pit. He will allow 1 female to share his spot..
My guess is he trying to get under the ship. Make sure he does not get trapped if you added the ship on top of substrate. He will burrow right under it if he can.
Maybe if you offer a cave he will be satisfied but I would prepare for other to follow suit and start pairing and spawning soon...
Maybe 2 or 3 caves?