Tilapia Question

[Teh Teong Chian]

Hi,

I have 7 tilapia in my fiber glass tub. Lately i noticed 3 fish kind of chasing away other fishes that goes near its area. One of the larger ones even got bit till one part of the scale drop out. I have no idea what was happening and kind of worried this might injured other fishes as well. Anyone able to advise me on this?

thank you

[Jeff S]

I'm not an expert but I'd say you have females with eggs or babies. If they aren't eating then it's for sure. I would separate them into separate tubs (or at least one of them) and in a few days you might see the fry. Otherwise you may never see them before they're eaten by the other fish. Make sure when you move them they have their mouths closed like there's something in there or you might leave the little ones. 2-3 days after you see the fry put the mother back with the others and keep the fry separate. They have them by the hundreds. Good luck.

[Teh Teong Chian]

Hi Jeff.

thanks for the reply, so you are guessing those defending the area are actually pregnant females?

[Jeff S]

Sounds like it to me. That's the way they act. Once you put them in a separate tank they will bang against the side when you approach it.

Teh Teong Chian said:

Hi Jeff.

thanks for the reply, so you are guessing those defending the area are actually females?