platy overbreeding

Question
Howdy,

I was wondering what I can do about my platy over breeding situation.  I started with 5 about 6 months ago and now the total number is around 100.  I've given most away but now I have no where to give them.  i bought 4 giant danios to help eat the fry but that didn't seem to help.  I'm almost to the point of getting some tinfoil barbs to stop the breeding completely but i don't want them to bother the other fish.  I have a 46 gal tank with about 50 platys with fry, 20 corys 4 danios and 2 gold gouramis.  nothing is stopping them from breeding.  help.

Answer
Hi Skip,

The only way to prevent more breeding is to seperate males from females. Livebearers are really great fish, but the overbreeding part is always a problem. You also have to keep in mind that female platies like almost all livebearers, can store sperm from a single mating to produce several broods of fry from.

The only way I got out of a terrible molly overpopulation problem was to give a lot to a local petstore. Have you tried that yet? You could even offer them as feeders. I know that sounds bad. But if you are in a desperate situation with horrible water conditions from the overpopulation something must be done.

I know larger angels are very well-known fry eaters. But try all the petstores and offer them the platies. This is probably your best bet.

I hope this helps and best of luck!!!! I know how bad it can be! ;-)
Karen~