fry tank

Question
We set up a separate tank for fry without thinking about that they could get sucked up in the filter.  After the mom, a sunset platy, had the babies, we put her back in the big tank.  I took the babies out of the filter and put them back in the small tank, but I have been afraid to clean it.  I have ~15 fry.  I am planning a partial water changeout and water test today, but I wondered if anyone makes a big suction chamber with a fine mesh that would allow water circulation without sucking up the fish into the filter or the strainer.  Advice on feeding fry would be welcomed too.  I'm using tropical micro pellets as the store didn't have any food labeled "fry food".

Answer
Hi Kathy

There are actually a few choices when it comes to the filter in the fry tank. One, you can use sponge filters...2 large ones, one on both sides of the tank would be sufficient. Two, lift the intake tube just a notch from the impeller, this will decrease the strength of the suction. Finally, put a sponge over the intake strainer. Your fish store should have a sponge that fits directly over your intake strainer.

There are several brands of both powdered and liquid food for the fry. Petsmart, Petco and any quality fish store should have them in stock.

Hope this helps, good luck!

Richard