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.
I have this little Platy fish in my 10-gallon tank that someone gave to me. It think it's a male, since it's got a pointed anal fin or whatever it's called. I'm interested in trying to breed them (My mom has a large 50-gallon tank which only has 2 Otocinclus in it!). So, we have lots of space for baby fish. How many females or more males should I buy, and is it hard to breed them?
Thanks!
ANSWER: Hi Randy,
You'll be happy to hear that they will breed VERY easily! Platy fish give birth to babies, instead of laying eggs like most fish. They are one of the four 'main' species of Livebearers, which include Guppies, Mollies, and Swordtails.
Keep Platies in groups of more females than males. One male per every 2-3 females is best. This is because males can get a bit aggressive during breeding, and more females will disperse the behavior, so the male can't pick on one individual. remember, one male can fertilize multiple females.
You can also buy a breeding net or breeding box, and this holds the female separately, and the breeding box has a 'v-insert' which separates the fry from the mother, who may sometimes eat her own fry! The box or net will also serve as a fry maturation tank.
You don't have to do anything to get them to mate, they will do so normally under normal conditions.
Good Luck, and Happy Fishkeeping!
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QUESTION: Hi Nathan,
How many times should I feed Platy fish? I'm currently using Nutrafin Max flakes, and do I need another type? Thanks, Randy.
Answer Hi Randy,
Since you are going to be breeding them, it's best if you feed them a varied diet. A varied diet ensures optimal health, and most importantly, the health and quality of both the mother fish AND the new fry.
Feeding them flakes is a good staple diet, but you need to incorporate at least one or more of the following, in addition to the flakes:
*Frozen foods must be defrosted prior to serving.
^If using Daphnia, only feed 1-3 times a week. It can cause digestive problems if fed too much. (constipation, etc.)
You can feed them two times, with small servings each time. (One in morning, one at night). Remember, your flakes are STILL the 'staple' food, so they will be served most often. Here's an example of a complete feeding routine:
(M-morning E-evening)
Monday: M-Flakes E-Algae Wafer (1)
Tuesday: M-Flakes E-Brine Shrimp
Wednesday: M-Flakes E-Algae Wafer (1)
Thursday: M-Flakes E-Brine Shrimp
Friday: M-Flakes E-Algae Wafer (1)
Saturday and Sunday... so on.
