One thing that makes them split is stress. When A bubble tip feels like its in danger it splits to ensure at least part of it lives.  I had my heater break and my tank dropped a few degrees, they all split.  I moved the rock they were on into a new flow area, they all split so I did some reading and sure enough its a way of ensuring survival, make more of yourself. 
 
Not the only reason for sure but a big one. 
		
	
		
		
		
		
		
	
		
		
	
	
	 |