How many is too many?

[Jon-AL]

I have a 55 gallon tank that I have put live bearers in, guppies and platys. I started with around 8 adult platys and about the same on guppies. After about 4 months I have alot of fry in the tank. When do you think I should get concerned of over population? I am having a great time raising them and it has also been wonderful for my kids to see. But, I also know that I don't want to let it get out of hand. I have a new lfs here in town that made a comment of having someone local to get fish from would be beneficial to her. So that may be an avenue. But the fish have to get big enough before I can let them go. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

[Harlock]

Well, howmany is too many depends on a lot of things. Planted tanks benefit from situations like that to a point. I think it really depends on water testing and the like. If you can keep he water quality fine, then it's not too many. When water quality starts becoming an issue, obviously you need to get things in hand, and fast. If you can give them away (or trade for store credit) to a new fish store, I would certainly do it. That way your kids would know that they are providing a service and that other people in their town are raising their fish. Pretty cool when you factor in free booty as well!

[Jon-AL]

I have only planted half of the tank. The other side has plastic plants. I have three different types of live plants in there now. I have hornwort, and another that looks close to the same but a different plant, and I have java ferns. I am about to get some java moss this week. It will help keep the fry from getting eaten. That is my plan. My water quality seems fine. All fish seem to be as healthy as can be. I also have about 9 neons and a pleco in there with everyone else. I am cycling a 5 gallon that I want to use as a nursery for a while. I am putting java moss in it as well. Of course this is the 5 gallon that has given me fits. So we will see if it will work this time.

[Harlock]

Heh, okay. ALo, keep an eye on the Pleco if he's a common. He'll eventually outgrow the 55.