How to Use a Floating Breeder Net for Fry

By Pro Shrimp | Published: 2026-10-26

Category: How-to Guides

Learn how to set up and use a floating breeder net to safely raise fry in your aquarium. Step-by-step instructions for acclimation, feeding, and maintenance.

Quick Answer

Set up a floating breeder net by rinsing it, attaching it to the aquarium rim, and acclimating fry gradually to the new water. Use the internal partition to separate adults or different fry groups, and feed small portions multiple times daily to keep water quality stable.

Why Use a Floating Breeder Net

A floating breeder net keeps fry safe from adult fish while letting them share the same filtered water as the main tank. This avoids the need for a separate cycled tank and reduces stress during transfer.

The self-adjusting design of products like the Hobby Nido 1 means the net rises and falls with the water level, so fry always stay submerged even during evaporation or water changes.

Choosing the Right Net Size

Floating breeder nets come in various sizes. A small net (around 19.5 x 11 x 9 cm) is ideal for a single batch of livebearer fry or a betta spawn. Larger nets can hold more fry but may crowd the tank surface.

If you plan to separate pregnant females or aggressive males, a net with a removable partition helps manage multiple fish without extra equipment.

Step-by-Step Guide

Rinse and Attach the Net: Rinse the floating breeder net in dechlorinated water to remove dust. Attach the suction cups or hooks to the aquarium rim so the net floats freely. Make sure the net is fully submerged and the opening is above the waterline. A common mistake is attaching the net too tightly, which prevents it from floating freely and adjusting to water level changes.
Acclimate the Fry: Float the bag or cup containing the fry in the net for 10-15 minutes to equalize temperature. Then slowly add small amounts of tank water from the net into the container every 5 minutes. Finally, gently pour the fry into the net. Never pour the transport water directly into the net — it may contain ammonia or different water parameters that shock the fry.
Feed Small Portions Multiple Times: Feed fry-sized food (infusoria, micro worms, or crushed flakes) 3-4 times daily in very small amounts. Uneaten food decays quickly in the confined net space. Overfeeding is the #1 cause of poor water quality in breeder nets. If you see food settling at the bottom, reduce the portion size.
Clean the Net Regularly: Gently lift the net out of the tank once a week and rinse the mesh with dechlorinated water to remove algae and debris. Use a soft brush to clean the corners without damaging the mesh. Avoid using soap or bleach — even trace residues can kill fry. Stick to warm water and a dedicated aquarium brush.
Monitor Water Flow and Fry Development: Ensure the net has good water circulation by positioning it near the filter outflow or adding a small air stone. Check fry growth weekly; when they are too large to fit through the mesh, it is time to move them to the main tank. Poor circulation leads to low oxygen and waste buildup. If fry gasp at the surface, increase flow or move the net to a more current area.

Product Facts

Hobby Nido 1 Floating Breeder: Floating breeder which adjusts itself to the water level. Also suitable for use as breeding tank. With partition for keeping apart two viviparous fish. Dimensions: 19.5 x 11 x 9 cm. The self-leveling feature keeps fry safe during water changes, and the partition lets you separate a pregnant female or two different fry groups in one net.
Hobby Nido 1 Floating Breeder