Ziss Aqua Breeder Boxes
Ziss Aqua Breeder Boxes – Complete Product Guide
Ziss Aqua Breeder Boxes for Fish, Fry and Shrimp
Ziss Aqua Breeder Boxes create a protected enclosure for fry, juvenile fish, shrimp and selected breeding livestock inside the main aquarium. This allows the occupants to remain in the aquarium’s established water instead of being transferred to a separate, uncycled container.
The core Ziss EZ Breeder range includes the BL-2, BL-3 and GL-1. Each model uses a clear 2.4-litre body measuring approximately 14 × 14 × 15 cm, but the bottom and stainless-steel mesh arrangements are designed for different breeding applications.
Compare All Ziss Aqua Breeder Box Models
| Model | Base and mesh arrangement | Recommended use | Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| BL-2 | Solid plastic bottom with two stainless-steel mesh sides | Eggs, small fry, shrimp and feeding methods where food should remain on the base | 2.4 litres |
| BL-3 | Stainless-steel mesh bottom with two stainless-steel mesh sides | Fry and juveniles that benefit from increased passive water circulation | 2.4 litres |
| GL-1 | Stainless-steel mesh bottom with a livebearer separation platform and funnel arrangement | Guppies, livebearers and protecting newborn fry from the adult female | 2.4 litres |
Choose the model according to the size of the fry, feeding method, required water circulation and whether a livebearer separation system is needed.
Ziss Aqua BL-2 Breeder Box
The Ziss Aqua BL-2 combines a solid plastic bottom with two stainless-steel mesh sides. The solid base helps retain fine foods and allows small fry to rest without sitting directly on a mesh floor.
The two mesh sides permit passive water exchange with the main aquarium. An external airlift can provide additional circulation when connected to a compatible aquarium air pump.
The BL-2 is a versatile option for fish eggs, small fry, juvenile fish and shrimp, particularly when keeping food inside the box is important.
Ziss Aqua BL-3 Breeder Box
The Ziss Aqua BL-3 uses stainless-steel mesh across the bottom and two sides. Its three mesh panels provide more open surface area for passive water exchange between the breeder box and the main aquarium.
This model is suitable for fry and juvenile fish that benefit from strong circulation and frequent water renewal. The mesh bottom also allows some fine waste particles to move out of the enclosure.
Check that the mesh size is appropriate for the eggs or fry being housed. Extremely small eggs, fry or live food may require a finer-mesh model or a different enclosure.
Ziss Aqua GL-1 Guppy and Livebearer Breeder Box
The Ziss Aqua GL-1 is designed primarily for guppies and other livebearing fish. Its internal platform and funnel arrangement allow newborn fry to move into a lower protected area, helping separate them from the adult female.
A stainless-steel mesh bottom supports water exchange, while the clear 2.4-litre body makes it easier to observe the adult fish and developing fry.
The adult female should be monitored closely and removed after giving birth. The GL-1 should not be used as long-term housing for an adult fish.
How Ziss EZ Breeder Water Circulation Works
Stainless-steel mesh panels allow aquarium water to move through each breeder box. Because the enclosure sits inside the aquarium, its occupants share the tank’s established temperature and general water parameters.
The external airlift adds active circulation when connected to an aquarium air pump. Airflow should be adjusted so fresh water moves through the box without pushing small fry continuously around the enclosure.
Choosing the Right Ziss Breeder Box
Choose the BL-2 when:
- You want a solid bottom for retaining food.
- You are raising small fry or shrimp.
- You want mesh circulation through two sides.
Choose the BL-3 when:
- You want increased passive water exchange.
- You prefer mesh across the bottom and two sides.
- Your fry are large enough for the mesh openings.
Choose the GL-1 when:
- You are breeding guppies or livebearing fish.
- You need an internal system that separates newborn fry from the adult female.
- You want a clear enclosure for close observation.
Setting Up a Ziss Aqua Breeder Box
- Rinse the breeder box and its components with clean aquarium water.
- Assemble the box according to the instructions supplied with the selected model.
- Secure the breeder box inside the aquarium using the supplied mounting system.
- Position the box so aquarium water can move through the mesh panels.
- Connect the airline and airlift to a compatible air pump when active circulation is required.
- Begin with gentle airflow and confirm that the occupants are not being pushed around.
- Transfer the fish, fry or shrimp carefully and continue monitoring them after setup.
Feeding and Caring for Fry in a Breeder Box
Feed small portions appropriate for the species and stage of development. Observe whether food remains accessible to the fry and remove uneaten material before it accumulates.
The BL-2 solid base may retain fine food more easily, while food and waste can pass through the mesh bottom of the BL-3 or GL-1. Adjust feeding methods to suit the selected model.
Avoid overcrowding. Move the fry to a suitable grow-out aquarium once the breeder box no longer provides adequate swimming space.
Cleaning Ziss Aqua Breeder Boxes
Inspect the breeder box regularly for waste, uneaten food, algae and restricted mesh panels. Keeping the mesh clear helps maintain water circulation between the enclosure and the aquarium.
Clean the box gently with aquarium water and a soft, aquarium-safe brush. Do not use soap, household detergent or chemical cleaning products.
Check the mounting system, airline, air-control valve and air diffuser regularly. Replace any worn or damaged components before using the box again.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ziss Aqua Breeder Boxes
What Ziss Aqua breeder boxes are available?
The core Ziss EZ Breeder range includes the BL-2, BL-3 and GL-1. The BL-2 has a solid bottom and two mesh sides, while the BL-3 has a mesh bottom and two mesh sides. The GL-1 is designed for guppies and livebearers and includes a fry-separation arrangement.
What is the difference between the BL-2 and BL-3?
The main difference is the bottom panel. The BL-2 has a solid plastic bottom with two mesh sides, which helps retain fine food. The BL-3 has a mesh bottom and two mesh sides, providing additional passive water exchange but allowing some fine food and waste to pass through.
What is the GL-1 breeder box designed for?
The GL-1 is designed primarily for guppies and other livebearing fish. Its internal platform and funnel arrangement allow newborn fry to move into a protected lower area away from the adult female. The female should still be monitored and removed after giving birth.
How large are Ziss Aqua breeder boxes?
The BL-2, BL-3 and GL-1 use a large 2.4-litre clear body measuring approximately 14 × 14 × 15 cm. The usable internal space can vary slightly depending on the mesh, platform and internal components fitted to each model.
Can Ziss Aqua breeder boxes be used for shrimp?
Yes, the BL-2 and BL-3 may be used for breeding, separating or selecting shrimp when the mesh is suitable for their size. Very small shrimplets may pass through larger openings, so inspect the mesh carefully before placing them inside.
Do Ziss Aqua breeder boxes need an air pump?
A compatible aquarium air pump is required to operate the external airlift or supplied air diffuser. The mesh panels provide passive water exchange, while the air-driven system adds active circulation. Check the individual product listing to confirm what tubing, valves and diffusers are included.
Which breeder box is best for very small fry?
The best model depends on the fry’s size and the mesh specification. A solid-bottom BL-2 may help retain fine food and prevent fry from contacting a mesh floor. However, always confirm that the side mesh is fine enough to contain the species being raised.
How long can fry remain in a breeder box?
Fry should remain in the breeder box only while it provides suitable swimming space, water circulation and access to food. The appropriate period depends on the species, growth rate and number of fry. Move them to a grow-out aquarium before the enclosure becomes crowded.
Can adult fish live permanently in a breeder box?
No, a breeder box is intended for temporary separation rather than permanent adult housing. Closely monitor any adult fish placed inside and remove it when the breeding or isolation period is complete. Long-term confinement may cause stress and restrict normal swimming behaviour.
Are all Ziss breeder box models available in Australia?
Availability can vary between models. The Ziss Aqua Australia category currently displays the GL-1, while the wider manufacturer range also includes the BL-2 and BL-3. Check the website or contact Ziss Aqua Australia in Sydney for current stock and ordering information.
