AboutNathan Expertise I can answer all questions related to freshwater aquariums. If I am not available because I am maxed out, you can find me on the Aquarium Plants category. Fish care, fish behavior, feeding, breeding, and diseases are my specialty. To be specific, I am most familiar (though I am familiar with most species) with Livebearers, Tetras, Barbs, Danios, Loaches, Goldfish, Angelfish (freshwater), Catfish (corydoras, plecos, etc.), Bettas, shrimp, and even snails. I can help out with new tank setups, the cycling process (nitrogen cycle), acclimation of fish, and general care. I can also answer questions regarding many species of freshwater plants, including fish compatibility with plants. Additionally, I can lend a hand when it comes to aquarium support equipment questions, such as those regarding filters, heaters, lighting, and thermometers. Questions about aquarium water conditioners and products are also accepted. I will try to answer your question to the best of my abilities, and if I do not know an answer, I will do my best to find out.
I do not have much experience in saltwater aquariums, or pressurized CO2 systems, so I cannot answer any such questions. Best wishes, and good luck to your fish!
Experience I have kept freshwater fish tanks for many years, and I am experienced with a variety of different freshwater species and invertebrates, such as Tetras, Barbs, Loaches, Danios, Livebearers, Cichlids, Goldfish, Bettas, Catfish, Shrimp, and Snails. I have helped people set up aquariums, and I am very familiar with aquarium products and equipment. I have also bred many fish, and I always care for my fish in the best way possible.
What makes a good home for tropical fish? Well, all tropical fish, like guppies and Bettas, require filters, heaters, and a good-sized tank. Healthy fish should be actively swimming and feeding, with defined fins and clear eyes. Take a random check of some of your fish daily, to make sure they're thriving!
Education/Credentials I own an extensive collection of aquarium-related books and magazines, and have read all about, and I am experienced in, many aspects of humane and proper fishkeeping. Through these books and other articles, from reliable internet sources, and from personal experience with fish, I have a thorough knowledge of freshwater aquariums, fish, and freshwater plant species.
Question Sorry to bother you..I really worried about my new balloon Mollies with big fishes around and they are getting ready to release eggs. Do I have to use the breeder tank with or without the air pump? Is it ok to put balloon Mollies with other large fishes? Can I use sponge to keep the fry or egg in there for a temporary safe place?(I am lazy to buy breeder box) Thanks:)
Answer Hi Toby,
Mollies CANNOT be kept with Goldfish. Goldfish are cold-water fish, which means they need temperatures of 70F or below. Mollies are tropical fish, and they are one of the higher-range tropicals requiring a temperature of at least 78F, preferably 80F, for best health. The iridescent shark would be OK with the Mollies, but it would eat any Molly fry.
You can place the pregnant female Molly into the breeding tank to separate it from the other fish, so that they cannot eat the fry. Provide some floating plants at the top, because Molly fry naturally have the instinct to swim to the top and hide. Using an air pump would be great, since the female Molly likes good oxygenation during birth, as this takes a lot of energy!
When you say "Is" it OK to put Balloon Mollies with large fish?", how large are they? It's actually not a matter of size, but rather, a matter of species. Things like large Plecos and Bala Sharks would be fine, but smaller things like Tiger Barbs may actually not be a good choice! As long as the large fish are classified as 'peaceful community', it should be fine with the Mollies. You should introduce the large fish last, to reduce any possible aggression.
Mollies are Livebearers, which means they give birth to live babies, instead of laying eggs like most fish. You can remove the female after she gives birth. Keep in mind that the whole birthing process can take a whole day (from first baby to last baby!)
You can use a separate breeding tank or box to house the fry in until they are larger not to get eaten. A sponge filter would be perfect.
