Here's a breakdown of why this misconception exists:
1. Limited Space and Resources: In overcrowded tanks or natural environments with limited resources, some fish species might accidentally ingest their young. This is usually due to:
* Small size of fry: Newborn fish (fry) are extremely small, making them easy to mistake for food by larger fish.
* Instinctive feeding: Fish are naturally driven to eat anything that resembles food, and the small size and movements of fry can trigger this instinct.
2. Parental Care: Some fish species exhibit parental care, protecting their young. However, this can be a delicate balance. If a fish becomes stressed or overly hungry, it might unintentionally harm its young.
3. Breeding Behaviour: Certain fish species, like the cichlid, exhibit "mouthbrooding," where the female holds eggs and then fry in her mouth for protection. In these cases, it's not eating, but rather a form of care.
4. Cannibalism: While rare, cannibalism can occur in some fish species, where larger fish might prey on smaller ones, including their own offspring. This usually happens when resources are scarce.
It's important to remember:
* Most fish species do not intentionally eat their young.
* Accidental ingestion is usually due to limited space, overcrowding, or poor water conditions.
* Parental care, while important, can be difficult to maintain, especially in stressful environments.
If you're concerned about your fish eating their young:
* Provide ample space in the tank.
* Ensure proper water conditions.
* Consider separating the parent fish from the fry after birth.
* Research the specific species and their breeding behaviours.