The males of some marine catfish and others found in the rivers of South America, carry the eggs in their mouths until they hatch. So far as known, they do not eat at all during this period.
The father’s interest in his duties does not wane even after the young fish hatch. He swims with them for a time and, when danger threatens, holds his mouth open until the frightened youngsters can dash in to safety.
In all fairness to the female sex, it should be mentioned that in the case of some African fish related to the perch, the female rather than the male carries the eggs in her mouth and, in time of danger, allows the young fish to seek safety therein.