How to Care for Pregnant Fish

Depending on the type of fish you own, you will notice changes in a fish's behavior that may be a sign of pregnancy. Some changes include growing very large, hiding behind vegetation in its tank and lack of appetite. Caring for the pregnant fish mostly means knowing when to separate the fish from others in its tank.

Things You'll Need

  • Fish tank
  • Fish net
  • Fish tank heater
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Instructions

    • 1

      Use a fish net to transfer the pregnant fish to another fish tank if there are more than one fish in its usual tank.

    • 2

      Place a fish tank heater in the mother's tank. The water's temperature needs to be warmer than usual for a fish giving birth.

    • 3

      Keep count of the fry being delivered. A first-time delivery can result in eight to 25 fry. Delivery usually takes four hours, but if a mother fish is particularly stressed, it may take up to a week.

    • 4

      Separate the mother from the fry by putting her into another tank or fishbowl after they have been delivered. Some mothers will eat their own young.

    • 5

      Wait 24 to 48 hours after the pregnant fish delivers before putting the mother back in the tank with the rest of the fish.