I have a theory i can't prove. I believe if 2 fish are potential pair they dont need group around. I believe the group only increases the odds of finding that pair that jives. Many times i have had a single midas or carpinte or trimac or umbee or freddy, etc in a community tank and threw in an other of the same and they basically immediately paired (even fenistratus veija which may be relevant). On the other hand i have many young groups of central/south americans not pair. To be fair more often than not the group technique of juveniles did work and many times throwing in second adult ended badly, but my point is it can be done. I recommend have the desired male dominating his tank, hopefully large amount of water 200+ gallons. Have the female in seperate tank also dominant pumping her full of protein so she produces eggs. Example krill, i dont like beef heart. Have smaller males in with her that cant chase her but get her estrogen flowing and when she is fat with peek color (tube down obviously best case scenario) throw her in with the dominant male you're hoping takes a liking to her. Cant hurt to do small cold water change as well but dont shock them. You'll know almost instantly if they feel loving or kill this intruder. Remember you can always divide them but if thats the answer you were seeking there was no reason to start this thread, right? Keep us posted
