Platy Pregnant?

[JeffsTank]

Hi everyone, I'm new to the fresh water aquarium hobby and have a wonderful setup with 41 happy fish. One of my Platies may be pregnant and I'm finding it difficult to tell. Sorry the photos are a little blurry. She wouldn't sit still hahahaha. Any info/advice is much appreciated.

 

[emeraldking]

Still some time to go before dropping fry...

 

[JeffsTank]

Still some time to go before dropping fry...

So you think she is pregnant? That's what I'm trying to determine.

 

[gwand]

Yes. She is pregnant.

 

[emeraldking]

So you think she is pregnant? That's what I'm trying to determine.

She's at an early stage...

 

[fishorama]

She has what is called a "gravid spot". As emeraldking said, it's early, the dark spot will get much bigger before she gives birth. If you have lots of plants or other cover the fry might survive. But almost any fish, including the mom, can & will eat them given the chance. Not to worry, she may carry enough sperm for another fry or more. The joy of livebearers, the gift that keeps giving, lol. Good luck!

 

[JeffsTank]

She has what is called a "gravid spot". As emeraldking said, it's early, the dark spot will get much bigger before she gives birth. If you have lots of plants or other cover the fry might survive. But almost any fish, including the mom, can & will eat them given the chance. Not to worry, she may carry enough sperm for another fry or more. The joy of livebearers, the gift that keeps giving, lol. Good luck!

Thanks for the detailed advice, fishorama. Much appreciated. I bought a separation thank to put her in closer to the time she'll give birth. After that I'll try and raise the fry.

 

[fishorama]

Good show!

If you want to save the fry, you'll need to have some extra space for any fry to grow. It sounds like you have the right equipment. It's just a matter of good luck & an extra tank when she gets close to birthing the fry. If not this time, you'll have more opportunities soon. Make a plan for next time.

& that's why many of us have several tanks, lol...& why I don't keep livebearers anymore, lol! Enjoy it, it's very fun for a while...