Pregnant silver molly

[glolite]

My siver molly has been pregnant for about 7 weeks, she's HUGE. Today she started resting on the gravel and seemed a bit agitated. I've popped her into a breeding net which is about 6 inches square. How long can I safely leave her in there? Should she be put back in the main tank overnight if she hasn't given birth?This her first batch of fry. Can't leave her in main tank because I have large tetras who eat small fish.

 

[Annastasia]

She can stay in there for a maximum of three days, then she should get at least a 12 hour break from being in the net. After that, you can put her back in, if you like. Also, if you really want to save the fry, you might consider getting a birthing tank, as these are much better for Mollies then the tiny little nets.

 

[glolite]

Ok thanks for the speedy reply! I have a 30 litre coming spare soon, so she can go in there till birthing takes place, then back in main tank.If I do a small water change daily the 30l should be ok for fry?

 

[Annastasia]

30 litres is about 8 gallons, correct? Yes, that will work for a bit, as long as you don't have hundreds of fry and it gets over crowded. If you do a daily water change, it will be fine for the first few months.

 

[glolite]

Thanks Annastasia. I've got about 30 guppy fry in a 6g as well but also have an 11g with 3 ancient zebra dannios and 3 otos. Phew, trying to make space for fry is hard work but worth it. Love babies!!