The guppy fish (Poecilia reticulata) are one of the most popular species in aquarium hobby due to their ease of reproduction and attractive colors. However, when the babies are born fry, it is essential to pay special attention to their care to ensure their survival and development.
Suitable environment for fry
To keep the healthy guppy fry, it is essential to provide them with a safe and suitable environment. The best option is to keep them in a separate aquarium or in a breeding box inside the main aquarium, since the guppies Adults may eat their young. It is important to consider that each female can have between 10 and 15 offspring, which requires special care in the capacity of the aquarium to avoid overpopulation.
- Optimum temperature: It should be kept between 24 ° C and 26 ° C to promote their growth.
- Filtration and oxygenation: A sponge filter to prevent small ones from being absorbed, since their tiny size makes them vulnerable.
- Plants and shelters: Include java moss or other floating plants helps provide shelter and security for the fry.
Feeding the fry
La feeding the fry It should be frequent and in small amounts To avoid water contamination, it is advisable to offer them the same type of food that adult guppies consume, although in crushed form to facilitate their intake.
- Powdered food: Specially designed for fry, it makes them easier to eat.
- Newly hatched brine shrimp: It is an excellent source of protein for your development.
- Microworms and Daphnia: They help strengthen your immune system.
- Feed them 4 or 5 times a day in small amounts to ensure healthy growth.
Disease prevention and additional care
It is essential to observe the behaviour of the fry and ensure that they are all growing at the same rate. If any of them appear weak or show signs of illness, it is best to isolate them to avoid contagion. Never administer medication to fry without knowing the correct dosage, and in the case of illness, it is best to remove the affected fry.
- Water maintenance: Frequent partial changes to maintain water quality, which is crucial for healthy development.
- Avoid medications: Do not administer treatments without expert guidance, as this may cause more harm than good.
- Growth Monitoring: If any are not growing properly, they may need a more specialized diet.
If the fry receive proper care, they can safely join the community aquarium within a few weeks. Males reach sexual maturity at 45 days., while females take a little longer. Ensuring their proper development will contribute to a healthy and balanced population in the aquarium.
