Wow, congrats liz. I remember when you got these guys. It's been a while. 14", very impressive. I got 3 that are putting some nice size on, but not close to yours yet.
I have never heard of these guys breeding in captivity, but if this was happening to me i'd probably go with the divider. As long as it is one the babies can't fit through. Babies don't know any better and will probably swim through big holes to the other side, just to become snacks.
I'd take all the lid's and lights off the tank, stand there and wait for just the right moment when they seperate to opposite sides of the tank and have your hubby help you get the divider in there fast and easy. Then sit back and wait to see what happens in a few weeks.
I don't know if that is the right way. But if the eggs are already being held they should already be fertilized... again just guessing from other fish's actions. They might not like the divider but it may help the male? Keep the the lil ones safe after they hatch. And he may even eat them after a short period of time of them hatching.
Just my two cents. Nothing based on past experience.
Again congrat's. And I hope this work's out. That would be incredible.
..notice the one holding mouth open
