Betta fish are one of the most beautiful and engaging pet fish you can own. They’re also known for being a bit mysterious. If you’ve had your female betta fish pregnant for some time, he has likely kept his secrets from you since the beginning. Betta fish tend to congregate in small schools called “peepers,” which makes mating especially challenging for an individual male. It is not uncommon for a betta to be shy and hidden until they feel safe enough to mate with a chosen female—and this kind of behavior is all part of their natural cycle, which includes giving birth. Here is everything you need to know about when your betta fish is about to give birth and what to expect when your betta begins the process:
What to Expect When Your Betta Fish Is About to Give Birth
Betta fish eggs have a gestation period of about three to five days. This means that your fish may only have been pregnant for a few days before she begins to give birth. To be prepared, it’s a good idea to learn how to recognize the signs of impending birth. Betta fish will begin nesting by curling her fins around her eggs. She may also create an “egg bed” by rubbing her eggs against the sides of the tank.
Betta fish will also appear to be swimming in a very methodical, almost ritualistic pattern. This is a good indication that she is in the process of giving birth. The final sign that your fish is about to give birth is a decrease in appetite. This is because the female betta is beginning to focus a lot of energy on her eggs. If you notice any of these signs in your betta fish, it is best to prepare for birth.
Why Does a Betta Fish Give Birth?
As is the case with all living creatures, betta fish give birth to continue their species. Once fertilized, the fish eggs will begin to develop in the female’s body until they are almost ready to hatch. Once the female feels the eggs are ready, she will instinctually begin giving birth.
Where Does the Betta Fish Egg Go During Giving Birth?
A betta fish will “drop” her eggs into the water surrounding her. This is called broadcast spawning, and it is a common method of reproduction for fish like Betta splendens. The eggs are very small and will float freely on the surface of the water. Once they are in the water, they are extremely vulnerable to predators. The best way to protect your fish’s eggs is to gently scoop them up before they have a chance to hatch. Once the eggs have been removed from the water, they will die and be harmless to other fish.
How Long Does it Take for a Betta to Give Birth?
Betta fish eggs have a gestation period of about three to five days. When they are fully developed and ready to hatch, your betta fish will begin her nest-building process. This nest-building process is a sign that she is ready to give birth.
A Guide to Finding and Identifying Eggs After Giving Birth
Once your betta fish has given birth, you will want to quickly but carefully scoop up the eggs. At this point, the eggs will be very small and transparent. They may be difficult to spot, but they should be present in the tank near your betta fish’s nest. If you are unable to locate the eggs, don’t worry—you can still help your fish succeed at birthing her offspring. Betta fish typically prefer to nest in an empty corner of the tank, so you may want to remove any decorations.
If possible, you should also turn down the water temperature to about 76 degrees Fahrenheit, which is a more natural temperature for incubation. Be sure to monitor the tank temperature and avoid letting it get too hot, or you risk killing your eggs. After you have found the eggs, you should carefully place them in a separate tank with water from the original tank. This will give the eggs a safe environment to develop while keeping them away from the other fish in your tank.
