Aquarium Breeding Tank Calculator
Created by: Ethan Brooks
Last updated:
Calculate the optimal breeding tank setup for your fish species. Get detailed recommendations for tank size, water parameters, spawning triggers, and fry rearing requirements to maximize breeding success.
Aquarium Breeding Tank Calculator
AquariumCalculate tank size and equipment needs for successful fish breeding
Related Calculators
What is an Aquarium Breeding Tank Calculator?
An Aquarium Breeding Tank Calculator helps you set up the optimal environment for breeding fish. It calculates tank size requirements, equipment needs, and provides species-specific recommendations for successful fish breeding.
Whether you're breeding livebearers, egg-layers, or cichlids, proper tank setup is crucial for spawning success and fry survival. This calculator considers species requirements, breeding method, and expected fry numbers.
Breeding Methods by Fish Type
Livebearers: Guppies, mollies, platies, swordtails. Give birth to free-swimming fry. Easy to breed. Need hiding spots for fry.
Egg Scatterers: Tetras, barbs, danios. Scatter eggs that fall to substrate. Parents often eat eggs. Remove adults after spawning.
Substrate Spawners: Many cichlids. Lay eggs on flat surfaces. Often exhibit parental care. May need caves or flat rocks.
Mouthbrooders: African cichlids, bettas. One parent holds eggs/fry in mouth. Provide stress-free environment during holding.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size tank do I need for breeding fish?
Tank size depends on species. Small livebearers (guppies, mollies) can breed in 10-20 gallons. Egg-layers like tetras need 10-20 gallons. Cichlids require 20-55+ gallons depending on size. Larger species like discus or angelfish need 55+ gallon tanks.
Should I use a separate breeding tank?
Yes, for most species. Separate tanks allow: controlled conditions, protection from tankmates eating eggs/fry, proper nutrition for breeding pairs, easy monitoring, and better fry survival rates. Some species like livebearers can breed in community tanks with adequate hiding spots.
What equipment do I need for a breeding tank?
Essential: sponge filter (safe for fry), heater, thermometer, gentle lighting. Optional but helpful: breeding mops/caves, air stone, bare bottom or fine substrate, dividers for aggressive pairs. Avoid strong filtration that can suck up fry.
How do I condition fish for breeding?
Feed high-quality, protein-rich foods (live/frozen brine shrimp, bloodworms) for 1-2 weeks. Perform frequent water changes to simulate rainy season. Gradually increase temperature 2-4°F. Extend photoperiod slightly. Separate sexes then reunite when conditioned.
When should I remove parents after spawning?
It depends on species. Egg-scatterers (tetras, barbs): remove immediately after spawning. Mouthbrooders: let female hold eggs. Substrate spawners (cichlids): many guard eggs/fry - observe behavior. Livebearers: remove female after birth or provide dense plant cover.
What should I feed newly hatched fry?
First 2-3 days: fry absorb yolk sac. Then: infusoria, vinegar eels, or commercial liquid fry food for tiny fry. After 1 week: baby brine shrimp (BBS), microworms. Gradually introduce crushed flakes as they grow. Feed small amounts 3-5 times daily.
Why do my fish eggs keep getting fungus?
Unfertilized eggs fungus first and spread to viable eggs. Remove white/opaque eggs immediately. Use methylene blue (2ppm) as antifungal. Ensure male is mature and properly fertilizing. Good water quality and gentle circulation help prevent fungus.
How many fry will survive to adulthood?
In well-maintained breeding setups, expect 50-80% survival for livebearers, 20-50% for egg-layers (with proper care), and higher rates for parental species like cichlids. Wild survival rates are much lower (1-5%), so aquarium breeding is already greatly improved.
Sources and References
- Aquarium Co-Op, "Fish Breeding for Beginners", 2024
- Tropical Fish Hobbyist, "Breeding Tank Setup Guide", 2024
- Seriously Fish, "Species Breeding Profiles", 2024