Guppies and platies are livebearers, meaning they give birth to live fry instead of laying eggs. One unique trait of these fish is that females can store sperm from a single mating, producing multiple batches of fry over several weeks without needing to mate again.
The gestation period typically lasts between 21 and 30 days, depending on water temperature and other tank conditions. Warmer water speeds up gestation, while cooler water slows it down.
A pregnant female will show signs as she gets closer to giving birth. The most noticeable indicator is a darkened area near her abdomen, the gravid spot. As she progresses through her pregnancy, her abdomen will become rounder and plumper.
To improve the fry’s survival rate, consider moving the pregnant female to a separate breeding tank or breeder box before she gives birth. This isolation protects the newborn fry from being eaten by other fish in the main tank, which is especially important in a community tank setting.
By understanding the breeding habits of guppies and platies, you can ensure a higher survival rate for the fry and gain a deeper appreciation for the breeding process.