Live bearing aquarium fish

Live-bearing fish are a popular choice for aquarium enthusiasts. Unlike egg-laying species, live-bearing fish give birth to live young that are immediately able to swim and fend for themselves. This makes them an excellent addition to any aquarium, especially for those just starting in the hobby.

One of the most significant benefits of keeping live bearing fish is that they are relatively easy to care for. They are hardy and can adapt well to a variety of water conditions. Additionally, they come in various colors and sizes, making them a beautiful sight to behold.

Different Types of Live Bearing Fish

There are several varieties of live-bearing fish that you can choose from. Some of the most popular ones include:

1. Guppy Fish: One of the most common and colorful species of live bearing fish is the guppy. These fish are small and easy to care for, making them ideal for beginners. They come in bright colors such as red, blue, yellow, and green. Guppies require a temperature range of 72-82 degrees Fahrenheit with a pH between 6.8 and 7.8.

2. Molly Fish: Another popular live-bearing fish is the molly. Mollies are a little larger than guppies and come in various colors such as black, gold, and silver. They thrive in a temperature range of 75-80 degrees Fahrenheit with a pH level between 7.5 and 8.5.

3. Swordtail Fish: The swordtail is another live bearing fish species that is easy to care for. These fish are named after their elongated tail fin, which resembles a sword. They come in various colors such as red, orange, and black and require a temperature range between 72-82 degrees Fahrenheit with a pH level between 7.0 and 8.4.

Water Conditions and Feeding Strategies

To keep your live bearing fish healthy, you need to maintain the right water conditions. Ensure the aquarium has a proper filtration system to keep the water clean and fresh. Additionally, you should change the water regularly to prevent the buildup of nitrates.

Feeding your live bearing fish is also essential. They require a balanced diet with a mix of protein and fiber-rich foods. You can feed them flake or pellet food, but you can also supplement their diet with live or frozen food such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms.

Breeding Live Bearing Fish

Live bearing fish are incredibly prolific breeders. If you have both male and female fish in your aquarium, it is highly likely that they will mate and reproduce. When breeding, ensure that the water conditions are optimal, and there are plenty of hiding spots for the young ones to hide.

Recommended Selection of Live Bearing Fish for Beginners

If you’re just starting with live-bearing fish, here are some excellent species to choose from:

  • Guppies
  • Mollies
  • Swordtails
  • Endlers livebearers
  • Platy fish

In conclusion, live bearing fish are an excellent addition to any aquarium. They are easy to care for, come in various colors and sizes, and are highly prolific breeders. With the right water conditions and feeding strategies, you can keep your live bearing fish healthy and create a beautiful and vibrant aquarium.