how can I tell if a fish is pregnant?

Question
I have 4 white mollies. One is very round and the stomach is HUGE! I think its pregnant as I didnt notice this before. How can I tell if it is pregnant and how can I tell when its about to give birth if it is?

Answer
Hi Marla,
Thank you for your question. The fish is either pregnant (good) or sick (bad). So, the best way to tell is to look at your tank. Is the water clear and fresh? Or is it cloudy and viscous?
If your fish is pregnant, congratulations, you will soon have a tank full of little fries. If that happens, it's beyond my scope, because that has never happened to me.
However, if your water is cloudy and your fish is bloated, you will soon have a dead fish. Problem!
The leading cause of cloudy water and dead fish is over feeding. Generally, you want to feed one flake per square inch of fish per day. If you suspect that you have been over feeding, follow the energency care procedure at the bottom of this page:
http://steamboats.com/aquarium.html
Buy a bottle of Cycle and follow the directions on the label. Keep it in your refrigerator and use it with each water change.
If you want to discuss further, please write back.
Nori