Fish Pregnancy Periods
The pregnancy period of fishes varies depending on species, living conditions, and way of reproduction. Some fishes like livebearers have 3 to 6 weeks of pregnancy. However, some fishes have longer gestation. Basking fish keeps her babies for 3.5 years.
Signs of Pregnancy in Fish
You can recognize if a fish is pregnant by signs like refusal to eat, nesting behavior, and appearance of an abdomen bulge.
- Swollen abdomen: Pregnant female fish will often develop a visibly swollen abdomen as the embryos grow inside them.
- Changes in behavior: Pregnant fish may exhibit changes in behavior, such as increased aggression or decreased appetite. They may also become more reclusive as they approach their due date.
- Gravid spot: Some species of fish, including platy and guppy fish, have a dark spot near their vent called a gravid spot. This spot will become larger and more prominent as the female fish nears delivery.
- Distended or enlarged vent: As the female fish prepares to give birth, her vent may become distended or enlarged.
Identifying Male and Female Fish
You can determine the sex of your fish by inspecting its gonads (reproductive organs), which are located towards the top of the gut cavity. White testes will be found in mature male fish while orange testes will be found in mature female fish.