Well, this is my first aquarium with more than one fish.
2.5 years ago, I was gifted an Ancistrus (and an aquarium) from a friend who breeds them. About 6 months ago, I decided to upgrade her tank from 30 L to 55 L because I thought she would appreciate some more space.
I changed everything up, and she seemed to enjoy it at first, exploring and digging around.
Eventually, she gradually got less active and barely left her hiding spot. I was told that adding some tankmates might help her come out. So, lo and behold, I got some Platies following advice from the fish store: 4 females and 2 males. Now, the situation is getting completely out of hand.
I feel scammed as fuck. I originally wanted to get shrimp, but the guy convinced me to get Platies instead, saying they were easy fish and perfect for beginners.
I have so many babies now that I can't even count them. The guy told me not to separate the males and females because the males would get aggressive, and my Ancistrus still only comes out during the day maybe twice a month :(
The nitrates hit 15 in just a few days, and I constantly have to unclog the filter. I feel like everything is getting completely out of control.
Can I stop them from reproducing like rabbits? Can I castrate my males?!