guppy frys all died - Symptom: pointy tails

Question
A new small tank would be setup for each batch.
One gallon tank.
Guppy babies.
45 count.
No filter.
pH is 8. Stable. Ammonia & Nitrite level are not tested for all my guppies (including all sizes and age)
33% water (one third of a gallon) change every two days.

I have had three batches (about 35 counts each) of guppy frys that started to develop pointy tail and had trouble moving the tail at the second week. All would died by the third or fourth week.

I look all over the web and try every possible solution (temperature, medication, water quality, PH, frequent water cleaning and change, different food sources) without any success. No one seems to have a firm solution.

I now have a fourth batch for ten days and they seem to be heading that way. Please help.

Randy


Answer
Hi Randy;

I would test the water for the level of ammonia and nitrite. You will probably find one or both high. A one gallon is awfully small for 45 baby guppies, even if they are very tiny. Change 50% of the water every single day and get them a larger nursery with a sponge filter. I think it will help a lot. When I raised guppies and mollies I used 10 gallon tanks with sponge filters (operated by air pumps) and making a water change every day gets them growing fast and helps keep them healthy. Get larger tanks or more 10 gallon tanks to divide them further as they grow. They really just need more room I think.

Good luck...

At Your Service;
Chris Robbins