How to Raise Betta Fry

The Siamese fighting fish, or betta fish, is one of the most popular fish available in pet stores today. They are brightly colored and graceful, yet relatively easy to care for. If you buy a male and a female betta, you can breed them and raise the betta fry, to possibly sell. Raising betta fry, however, can be much trickier than caring for an adult betta.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Fish tanks
• Infusoria or brine shrimp
• Sponge filter
• Snails

1. Watch the eggs. Baby bettas will hatch within 24 to 48 hours, after the eggs are laid. Once they have hatched, they will feed off of their yolk sac for another 36 hours and after that, they're free-swimming fry.

2. Remove the male from the tank within 2 days of hatching. If you don't, the male might eat the fry before you get a chance to raise them. The female betta should have been removed after spawning.

3. Feed the fry. Infusoria is a successful food source, but you'll need to start your cultures at least 2 weeks before the fish start breeding. You can also feed them newly hatched brine shrimp, which you can find at your local pet store.

4. Dump about 80 percent of your best culture of Infusoria into the tank with the fry. If you are not using Infusoria, pour in some newly hatched brine shrimp.

5. Add the sponge filter in the second week so that scum doesn't cover the water surface and drown your fry.

6. Clean the tank by adding some snails. Change the water frequently.

7. Remove the males and place them in separate containers after 2 to 4 months.

8. Change the water weekly and put the fry in larger containers. This will help them grow faster. Feed your fry frequently and in small amounts.