Live Bearing Aquarium Fish: A Comprehensive Guide for Enthusiasts

Introduction

Live bearing aquarium fish, which belong to the suborder Cyprinodontoidei, have gained immense popularity among hobbyists due to their unique reproductive strategy. Unlike egg-laying species, these fish give birth to live fry, making them an ideal choice for beginners and experienced aquarists alike.

This comprehensive guide delves into the fascinating world of live bearing aquarium fish, covering various aspects such as species selection, tank requirements, breeding, and care.

Species Overview

The suborder Cyprinodontoidei encompasses a diverse array of live bearing species, each with its distinct characteristics and origins.

Common Species:

Tank Requirements

Live bearing fish thrive in well-maintained aquariums that mimic their natural habitats.

Tank Size: The minimum tank size for live bearing fish depends on the species and the number of individuals kept. However, a 10-gallon tank is generally recommended for small species, while larger tanks are required for larger varieties.

Water Parameters:
- pH: 7.0-8.0
- Hardness: 10-20 dGH
- Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C)

Filtration: A reliable filter is essential to maintain water quality and remove waste products. Choose a filter that is appropriate for the size of your aquarium.

Plants: Live plants provide shelter, hiding places, and oxygenation for fish. Consider adding easy-to-care-for plants such as Java Fern, Anubias, or Vallisneria.

Breeding Techniques

Live bearing fish are prolific breeders, and they can produce multiple broods throughout their lifespan.

Sexing: Female live bearing fish are generally larger and have a darker coloration than males. Additionally, females possess a gravid spot, a dark area near the anal fin that indicates pregnancy.

Mating: Male fish will actively pursue females, attempting to mate by inserting their modified anal fin (gonopodium) into the female's vent.

Gestation: The gestation period varies depending on the species and water temperature. For example, guppies typically have a gestation period of 21-30 days, while swordtails have a gestation period of 30-45 days.

Fry Care: After giving birth, the female fish may continue to carry the fry in her mouth or scatter them throughout the tank. The fry can be fed infusoria, baby brine shrimp, or specialized fry food.

Care and Maintenance

Proper care is essential for the well-being of live bearing fish.

Feeding: Feed fish two to three times a day with a high-quality diet consisting of live food, frozen food, or commercial pellets.

Health: Monitor fish regularly for signs of illness, such as lethargy, loss of appetite, or discoloration. Quarantine sick fish and treat them appropriately.

Water Changes: Perform regular water changes to remove waste products and maintain water quality. Replace 20-30% of the tank water weekly.

Cleaning: Vacuum the substrate regularly to remove debris and keep the tank clean. Also, clean the filter media as per the manufacturer's instructions.

Effective Strategies

Experienced aquarists utilize various strategies to enhance the health and well-being of live bearing fish.

Water Conditioning: Use water conditioners to remove chlorine, chloramines, and other harmful chemicals from tap water.

Quarantine: Quarantine new fish for two to three weeks before adding them to the main tank to prevent disease transmission.

Breeding Tank: Set up a separate breeding tank to isolate pregnant females and prevent overcrowding in the main tank.

Live Food: Include live food, such as brine shrimp or Daphnia, in the fish's diet to promote natural feeding behavior and provide a nutritional boost.

Tips and Tricks

Small changes can make a big difference in the care of live bearing fish.

Avoid Overfeeding: Overfeeding can lead to water quality issues and health problems. Feed fish only as much as they can consume within a few minutes.

Limit Handling: Live bearing fish can be sensitive to handling. Avoid unnecessary handling, especially when they are pregnant.

Provide Hiding Places: Provide plenty of hiding places in the tank with live plants, driftwood, or rock formations. This will reduce stress and promote natural behaviors.

Maintain Consistent Water Conditions: Avoid drastic changes in water parameters, as this can shock fish and compromise their health.

Humorous Stories and Lessons Learned

Aquarium keeping is not without its humorous moments. Here are a few stories that provide valuable lessons:

The Overzealous Guppy: One enthusiastic aquarist accidentally introduced too many guppies into his tank. The population exploded, and the fish became stressed and unhealthy. The lesson: Control the population size to prevent overcrowding.

The Mollies' Love Connection: A group of molly fish developed an intense romantic connection, resulting in continuous breeding. The result was an abundance of fry that outgrew the tank. The lesson: Separate breeding pairs or provide ample space to accommodate the growing population.

The Platy's Hide-and-Seek Adventure: A playful platy fish loved to hide under the filter intake. The owner would often find the fish stuck inside, unable to escape. The lesson: Ensure that filters are securely covered to prevent fish from getting trapped.

Step-by-Step Approach to Establishing a Live Bearing Aquarium

Follow these steps to set up a successful live bearing aquarium:

1. Choose the right species and determine the appropriate tank size.
2. Cycle the tank for several weeks to establish beneficial bacteria.
3. Add live plants, hiding places, and a reliable filter.
4. Introduce the fish to the tank gradually and monitor their health.
5. Feed fish a high-quality diet and perform regular water changes.
6. Observe fish closely and address any health issues promptly.

Call to Action

Live bearing aquarium fish offer a fascinating and rewarding hobby experience. By following the tips and techniques outlined in this guide, you can create a thriving environment for these beautiful and prolific fish.

Remember to always prioritize the well-being of your fish and enjoy the joy of watching them flourish in their aquatic home.