Breeding help

larantrow · Post by **larantrow** » 13 Aug 2003, 16:50

OK I know how I'd answer someone with this question on a betta forum but here goes...

I would like to get into breeding plecostomus. I use large 500 gallon cattle troughs for my growouts on betta fry. 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch fry. Tanks are kept between 78 and 80 degrees.
Would these be good for breeding?
Before I set out to find plecos, where's a good place to look and what kind should I look into? (I don't trust pet stores.) What should I look for when buying?
I give peolpe a long list of things they should think about before getting into betta breeding. What should I think about here?
Tips I should know? If I do this (yes I said if), I want to do it right. I'm prepared for the extra work. I prefer a challenge or I'd raise guppies primarily instead of betta.
Thanks in advance

Post by **Silurus** » 13 Aug 2003, 16:58

What kind of pleco do you want to breed? The breeding requirements vary with species.

larantrow · Post by **larantrow** » 13 Aug 2003, 17:00

That's exactly why I posted.
Is there one recommended to start with?
Easier to find?
Easier to learn?

Post by **Silurus** » 13 Aug 2003, 17:02

Bristlenoses are fairly easy plecos to breed and probably the best for starters.

larantrow · Post by **larantrow** » 13 Aug 2003, 17:07

OK so Wher do I look for good breeders? what do I look for? Any tips other than set it up with several males and hiding places? In a 500 gallon trough how many should I put in and what ratio male to female? Would I be better off havink a special tank made or using my 55 gallon?

Post by **Silurus** » 13 Aug 2003, 19:28

Read this.

larantrow · Post by **larantrow** » 13 Aug 2003, 20:38

Thank you. Sorry about the lousy typing last post.

Is there a good place to order quality or do I just stick with the" large plecos" I bought a year ago at the lfs?
How do I know how old they are?
From what I've read on this site my two largest (approx 6 inches) are female and my little guy (approx 5 inches) is a male. ( I've examined them quite closely.) Should I only put one male and female together since there is only one male?