Urgent Care :: Do RES lay eggs, if they don't have a mate(that i know of)?

[Mitsubiotchie717]

I've had my RES for 7 years now, and she has never laid eggs before. But i was cleaning the tank this morning and noticed two large eggs. I didnt know if RES could have a false pregnancy or what. She has been outside but in an enclosed area, so I doubt if any males would have been near her, but who knows. I don't know if i should just put the eggs back or if I should incubate them, or what I should do period. I definitely need some info on what to do, I'm lost

[sonyj]

Female RES will lay eggs upon reaching maturity whether a male RES is present or not (just like chicken). That is why it is extremely important to have a good nesting area setup for her that she can get to when she needs it. If she is forced to remain in the water she may hold them inside for extended periods knowing she is not supposed to lay the eggs in water. If they should rupture while she is doing this she could die.

Here is a great website on creating nesting areas: Nesting Sites

[jenaero]

A nesting area should be provided even if you don't intend to incubate the eggs. Even if there was a male around and the eggs might be viable, I still wouldn't incubate/hatch them. There are just too many unwanted res out there.