Platy fish are livebearers, which means that they give birth to live young rather than dropping eggs into the water like many other fish. These young are capable of swimming and fending for themselves from the moment they are born. The young usually hide in aquatic plants and rocks after birth to avoid being eaten.

How do you know when a platy fish is about to give birth?

The Eyes of the Fry and Signs of Impending Birth

To accommodate the developing eggs, the mother's body expands, becoming deeper and broader. A few days before delivery, she develops a bulge below the gills, her outline becoming fairly square in this region, while the gravid spot has enlarged its area.

How long does it take for a platy to give birth?

Like other live-bearing fish, she carries her fry until they are fully developed. The gestation period typically lasts for around 28 days.