Too many babies?

Question
Karen, you weren't exaggerating about guppy fry instinctively knowing how to hide. We were surprised by the sudden appearance of eighteen new fry--and from the look of them, they were not newborns. They managed to escape detection for at least a week.

Funny how fry have group-think. They made their appearance as a group, and instead of swimming here and there, they usually hovered together "in formation." Then after a few days, they broke up the group and struck out on their own, pretty much simultaneously. They must have strong programming!

I know that females can store sperm long enough to produce several clutches (is this the correct term for one birthing of guppies?). Do they have any control over the timing, i.e., can they cease producing fry in the case of overpopulation, scarce food supplies, etc.?

Finding homes for all these babies is going to be difficult. If we keep them, will the females stop producing fry? I don't have the heart to "depopulate" the tank.

Janet

Answer
Hi Janet,
It's wonderful you are able to experience the natural schooling instinct in baby guppies. It's just amazing how they "know" where and how to hide and when it is safe for them to come out.

~I'm not sure about gravid guppies being able to control the timing of their broods. But I would imagine they would be able to "hold off" like some other animals from having their young if the area was not safe. Of course factors can influence the size and health of the guppy broods. Whether it be lack of sufficient food source, or water conditions can control how many babies they will produce and perhaps even the frequency. As with any animal when the "season is plenty" there will be lots of babies!

I understand you don't have the heart to depopulate the tank. One of the first options you can consider is asking the local fishstore if they would be able to take your brood. Most petstores are usually happy to take your healthy guppies. Keep in mind that letting the babies live with the grown fish will not prevent the females from producing fry. If you are not careful, you can have an overpopulated aquarium in just a couple of months when it comes to guppies and other livebearers.

Having a good plan for the babies is best. Preventing overpopulation is the best way is to seperate the males from the females. This also gives the females a well-deserved rest.

Well, I hope this helps!

Best wishes,
Karen~