breeding feeder fish?

Question

i have a 90 gallon water through thing for horse. i was wondering if i can get some goldfish or minnows in there to breed, so i can feed my other fish. the trough is about (45" x 20" x 23"). its all metal. what do i need to do to this thing for breeding minnows?

Answer 1

You would probably have more luck with rosy red minnows than goldfish. Goldfish need a pretty large area, although they will sometimes spawn in a larger aquarium.. Rosys only need a 10-20 gallon tank. They're more nutritious to use as feeders, also.

Apart from the tank, fish, and water, you'll need a filter and "caves" or rock overhangs, pieces of PVC, or flowerpots turned on their sided. These spawn much like convict cichlids. Some plants are also appreciated, although don't be surprised if your rosys eat them.

You can find more info on spawning and sexing these in the links below:

http://www.fishpondinfo.com/rosy2.htm
http://www.nanfa.org/archive/nanfa/nanfadec00/0063.html - breeding info partway down page
http://www.calgaryaquariumsociety.com/archive.php?path=91
http://www.aqualandpetsplus.com/Live%20Food,%20Fathead%20Minnows.htm - photo of breeding set-up

Answer 2

First answer hit it right on the only thing I can think of in addition to previous posters excellent advice is to steer clear of goldfish as they carry the hole in the head disease. You did not mention what type of fish you are raising these feeders for but cichlids that are fed a goldfish diet often end up with hole in the head. Also it is not nutritionally suitable so minnows is your best and safest bet.
Best of luck to you