INPUT ARTICLE: Article: Guppies, mollies, swordtails, and platies are probably the most common live-bearing aquarium species. The males and females of these species mate, after which the females form eggs within their bodies. Over the course of a month or two (for most aquarium species), the eggs hatch into fish, and the mother gives birth. Search for the name of your species online to discover whether it is egg-bearing (oviparous) or live-bearing (viviparous). As a general rule, male fish of live-bearing species are brighter or more elaborately colored, and have a narrow, long anal fin on their lower side next to the tail. Females tend to be more drab, with a triangular or fan-shaped anal fin. If you can identify their sex, you'll have an easier time telling whether two fish are fighting (typically two males or two females), or whether they are mating or preparing to mate (one male and one female). Some species are more difficult to tell apart, and may require an expert from an aquarium store. Different fish species can behave very differently during pair-bonding, amplexus, and other mating-related behaviors. In many species, including most gouramis, the male chases the females around energetically, sometimes even causing scrapes, bites, or other damage. In others, such as discus, a male and a female will work together to defend one area of the tank from other fish. In either case, when actual mating occurs, this may involve the male and female gripping each other, turning upside down, wriggling around each other, or more subtle activities that are difficult to see. The female fish will grow a bulge at the back of the abdomen. The abdomen typically grows over the course of 2040 days, either into a large, rounded shape or a "boxy" shape. Some species such as balloon mollies have a natural bulge further forward, just below the gills. Overweight males may develop a bulge in the front chest. If you skip feedings for two or three days, an overweight bulge may shrink, while a female's pregnancy bulge will not. Pregnant female fish often develop a "gravid spot" on the abdomen near the rear vent. This is typically black or bright red, and grows more pronounced over the course of the pregnancy. Some fish always have this spot, but it will typically grow brighter or darker during once the fish is pregnant. Raising young fish, or fry, can be extremely challenging, and usually requires an entire separate tank so the adults or water filter does not harm them. If you are not ready for the task, try contacting an aquarium store or an experienced aquarium hobbyist who might be willing to help you or take the fish from you. If you do decide to take care of the young, you can start with the section below on raising young, but researching your specific fish species as well is recommended.

SUMMARY: Use this method for live-bearing species. Identify the males and females. Look for mating rituals. Check for a pregnancy bulge. Look for a red or black spot. Decide how to prepare for the young fish.

INPUT ARTICLE: Article: State your intention as clearly as possible. For example: I want a solution to my problem with ... It could be anything that is troubling you. This is important because doing this you instruct your subconscious and all other parts of yourself to pay attention to your sincere wish of solving your problem. You may also say a short prayer or smudge yourself, depending on which faith you adhere to. Closing your eyes and reflecting or taking a simple bow are other nice ways to begin the process. Decide whether you will walk barefoot or with shoes on. With bare feet, you can feel the texture of the earth beneath your feet and connect to its grounding forces. The first step sets the pace for your walk. It can be fast or slow. Choose your intention for the walk. Are you being spiritual, reflective, mindful, playful, creative or something else? If you're problem solving, your walk becomes a meditation when you surrender all your problems and just walk. Other parts of you have now a chance to process your request of a solution. If you are very upset: fast walking in lets the emotions dissipate easier. Most people try slowing down their mind by slower walking, relying on the mind and body reflection. Keep your mind quiet, and still pestering thoughts each time they arise. Concentrate on the placement of one foot before the other and rhythmic, gentle and regular breathing. If you're problem solving, walk as you didn't have any problems at all, let it all go. Surrender to the activity of attentive walking. Let the burden (your problem) fall off your shoulders. Various parts of your being are now processing your wish for solution. All you have to do is to let it incubate and not interfere, let it be and let go of any expectations. Continue to walk as you didn't have any problems at all, let it all go. If you're going on a spiritual journey or seeking creative inspiration, again let it all go and just surrender to the experience of walking the labyrinth. You may stop here for a while, sit or lay down if you feel like it and meditate or reflect. The main thing is to let yourself surrender totally to your inner process. It feels so good to have all the time you need. If you don't have a problem, question or quest for inspiration, just sit quietly and let things be. When you are ready, just walk out. Accept the insights and gifts you may have received. Adopting a sense of gratitude will always facilitate resolutions. Offer your thanks for what you have learned.

SUMMARY:
Stand in front of the entrance to the labyrinth. Center yourself by taking a couple of deep breaths. Acknowledge your coming meditative or spiritual journey within the labyrinth. Begin your walk. Continue to walk. Pause on reaching the center. Walk out.