Live Bearing Aquarium Fish: A Comprehensive Guide for Enthusiasts

Introduction
Live bearing aquarium fish, a diverse group of species capable of internal fertilization and live birth, constitute an overwhelming 80% of the aquarium fish population. These fish offer unparalleled ease of breeding and a fascinating glimpse into the reproductive behavior of aquatic life. This comprehensive guide will delve into the intricacies of live bearing aquarium fish, equipping you with the knowledge and expertise to thrive in their care.

Physiology and Reproduction

Types of Live Bearing Aquarium Fish

Mollies

Mollies are known for their vibrant colors, hardy nature, and prolific breeding. They come in various species, including the Black Molly, Dalmatian Molly, and Balloon Molly. Mollies require a minimum tank size of 20 gallons and prefer a slightly alkaline pH level with plenty of live plants.

Guppies

Guppies, renowned for their dazzling tail finnage, are highly adaptable and prolific breeders. They come in a rainbow of colors and patterns, making them a popular choice for beginner aquarists. Guppies thrive in tanks of 10 gallons or larger, with a neutral pH level and a variety of live and artificial plants.

Platies

Platies are smaller and less colorful than mollies and guppies, but they are equally hardy and easy to breed. Они предпочитают немного жесткую воду с pH 7,2-8,0.

Swordtails

Swordtails, characterized by their elongated lower fins in males, are active and sociable fish. They require a larger tank of at least 30 gallons, with plenty of swimming space and live plants. Swordtails prefer a pH of 7.0-8.0 and a higher water temperature of 78-84°F (26-29°C).

Care and Breeding

Tank Setup:

Feeding:
Live bearing aquarium fish are omnivorous and require a balanced diet of flake food, frozen foods, and live prey. Feed them regularly, but avoid overfeeding.

Breeding:

Fry Care:

Effective Strategies

• Provide a varied diet: Offer a mix of food sources to meet nutritional requirements.
• Maintain optimal water parameters: Monitor pH, temperature, and hardness regularly.
• Create hiding places: Plants, caves, and driftwood provide shelter for pregnant females and fry.
• Monitor female maturity: Gravid females exhibit a swollen abdomen and dark gravid spot.
• Separate aggressive males: Remove overly aggressive males to protect females and fry.

Tips and Tricks

• To induce breeding, increase water temperature slightly.
• Use a breeding net or floating corral to isolate pregnant females and protect fry.
• Avoid overcrowding the tank to reduce stress and promote breeding.
• Observe fry behavior for signs of illness, such as lethargy or white spots.
• Be patient and allow fry to develop at their own pace.

Humorous Stories and Life Lessons

Story 1: A guppy owner discovered that his fish had escaped the tank and taken up residence in the bathtub. He chased it down with a net, only to find that the tiny guppy had outmaneuvered him and was now swimming freely in the bathroom sink. Lesson: Never underestimate the agility of live bearing fish!

Story 2: A platy breeder noticed that one of his pregnant females had given birth to a litter of unusually large fry. Upon closer inspection, he realized that one of the fry had eaten its siblings! Lesson: Even in the gentle world of live bearers, survival can be a matter of size and appetite.

Story 3: A swordtail enthusiast set up a separate tank for his breeding pair. To his surprise, the male swordtail immediately began chasing the female around the tank, ramming her into plants and décor. Lesson: Not all live bearing fish are as romantic as they seem!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overfeeding: Excess food can pollute the water and lead to health problems.
• Poor water quality: Neglecting regular water changes can cause stress, illness, and stunted growth.
• Insufficient hiding places: Lack of shelter can lead to aggression and cannibalism.
• Mixing incompatible species: Some live bearers, such as bettas, can be aggressive towards other species.
• Overcrowding: Too many fish in a tank can create stress, competition, and poor water quality.

FAQs

1. How often do live bearing fish give birth? The frequency of childbirth varies depending on species, but most females deliver every 1-4 months.
2. How can I tell if a female is pregnant? Gravid females typically have a swollen abdomen and a dark gravid spot near the anal fin.
3. How many fry can a live bearing fish produce? Litter sizes vary greatly, but some species can produce over 100 fry per birth.
4. Can live bearing fish breed with each other? Some species of live bearing fish can interbreed, creating hybrid offspring.
5. What is the lifespan of a live bearing aquarium fish? Lifespans vary depending on species, but most live 2-5 years with proper care.
6. Are live bearing aquarium fish easy to care for? Yes, live bearing aquarium fish are generally easy to care for, making them suitable for beginner aquarists.

Conclusion

Live bearing aquarium fish offer a captivating glimpse into the fascinating realm of aquatic reproduction. Their ease of breeding, hardiness, and diverse appearance make them an ideal choice for hobbyists of all levels. By understanding their physiology, providing optimal care, and employing effective strategies, you can create a thriving underwater ecosystem that will bring joy and fulfillment for years to come.