Shortly after they are picked up by the female, which broods them in her mouth.[3][8] The young are released after about two-and-a-half to five weeks when they are 0.8–1.4 cm (0.31–0.55 in) long.[2][4][8] Brooding time depends on water temperature; it takes about twice as long at 20 °C (68 °F) compared to 27.5 °C (82 °F).[4][8] Sometimes the young are allowed to return to the female and seek security in her mouth for a couple of days after the release.[4][8]