Premature pups just born. Need advice.

[CrAzYNeSs]

I've had premature leopoldi pups make it.

Smooth bottom like you've done is the start.

Salt will be the next step. Take it up to 5-7ppt top start with. I know it's a hot topic to salt or not, but let me explain why it worked for us. Salt changes the metabolic rate (increases). Usually not something I'd do to a freshwater ray, but it helps them absorb the sac quickly in this case. The #1 reason premature ray pups die is from the sac getting necrotic on them - then they are more or less feeding poison to themselves. I've had it happen to rays and sharks born premature. (Also delt with it in croc hatchlings, but that's besides the point.)

Don't feed them right away. It also forces them to absorb the sac quicker.

Good luck.

Wow awesome advice and explination!

 

[polachecksaquatics]

Good luck and stay positive.

 

[BigJ]

Good luck bro, I hope for the best!

 

[skylineiz]

also turning the temp up would increase the metabolic rate? right ?
might be less invasive than salt? but good luck mate,

any pics?

 

[sbrodacz]

Good luck Freddy. Any updates?

 

[Ric]

Good luck on them pups

 

[fastfreddy]

Just lost one pup and the other two arent very active. I've done all I can to keep them alive with the help and good advice of my fellow MFK members. Thanks again for all your help. I'll just have to wait and see if the last two make it.

 

[West1]

Just lost one pup and the other two arent very active. I've done all I can to keep them alive with the help and good advice of my fellow MFK members. Thanks again for all your help. I'll just have to wait and see if the last two make it.

Were rooting for ya big dogg

 

[studd muffin]

keep positive they will make it! good luck bro!

 

[fastfreddy]

My son came home from school today to find the last two pups dead. I expected it but it still hurts. They never seamed very alert and always stayed in one spot. Thanks to everyone for their support and encouragement.