Setting Up A Separate Fry Tank

[Lizzie71]

One of my platies is very obviously pregnant at the moment. I had intended to let the fry be born in the community tank and take their chances with the other fish, with any survivors eventually being taken to the lfs for resale. But my soft hearted 7 year old daughter is horrified at the thought of the babies being eaten and wants to set up a separate fry tank with an old 30l tank we have in the shed.

So some questions:

1. Does the fry tank need substrate?
2. Will it need a filter and will I need to cycle it?
3. Should I leave mum in with the babies or take her out when she gives birth?

Any advice welcome!

 

[KittyKat]

In my experience™...

1. It is easier to provide a clean environment without substrate. It is "nicer" to have substrate.
2. Yes, use a sponge filter. You might be able to get away without cycling properly because you won't be feeding the fry very much and for best results should do 10-15% water change every day, taking the water from the bottom of the tank.
3. Take her out or she'll eat them.

I also like having a ball of Java moss floating around in there.