Tank Way Overcrowded

[Charlie62]

This is going to sound stupid but whatever.
 
I have a small 5 gallon planted tank. Started with two Coreys to help cycle and both survived and flourished. Next I added a trio of common guppies. The male died and the two female have done very well.
 
Now comes the problem. I am being over run with fry. There have been 3 batches since the male died. I haven't done anything special to keep the fry alive whether in care or feeding.
 
Last count I have 15 fry swimming in the tank ranging in size from 1/4 " up to 3/4". I realize that the tank is way overcrowded and that many fish will stunt the growth an cause other problems. Water quality is good and I am doing a 20% water change every 3rd day.
 
The question is in culling. Do the adults die or do I go after the fry? Adding a tank isn't an option as there is no more room. Fitting a 5 in was a problem

 

[Far_King]

If you can't contain them in the tank you have I'd suggest seeing if your local fish shop will take them off your hands.  Perhaps it may be best to look into giving away all of your livebearers instead of planning a cull.

 

[nic1]

Hi Charlie,
The fry can quite easily be given away, There are many people here who will take guppys, just advertise them and sit back, ask people to come and collect them.
If you keep the fry then you'll have the same problem in the long run, if you sell the females then they can have up to 3 more batches, so, you can give away the females and wait till the fry are old enough (4 months) and pick 3 of the best looking males and advertise the rest.

 

[Byron]

Also keep in mind that the fry will be reproducing too.  Females can be impregnated by males even before you can distinguish them by colouration.  And once impregnated, females can deliver several batches of fry without males present.

 

[the_lock_man]

Byron just beat me to it.
 
I would suggest that you get rid of them as quickly as you can, however you can. It's not going to get any better.
 
Whereabouts in the UK are you?

 

[Charlie62]

Minnesota, United States
 
Was searching for a good forum and this one caught my eye.
 
That no males present I am really noticing
 
Don't suppose any of you would come and get a few?   No charge even. LOLOLOLOL:
 
I just can't believe the fry keep living. When I had a bigger tank I'd lose half trying to keep them alive.

 

[AmtotheBurr]

Hi, I'm in the states too. Some local pet stores will take them off of your hands. I'm in Florida but I have a pet store and a fish store that will take any extras I give away. Another option would be Craigslist or a similar site and offer them there.
Also, side note, that tank is too small in my opinion for cories. They're normally kept in large numbers for schooling but they need a bigger tank. Good luck with your fish
And I forgot to extend a welcome! We are very glad to have you here

 

[ShinySideUp]

Charlie, you have your location listed as UK hence the question from Lock_Man.