Quick answer

A fish hatching jar, also called an egg hatching jar or Zug jar, is a conical container used to incubate fertilised fish eggs. Water flows upward from an inlet at the bottom, keeping the eggs suspended, well oxygenated and free of debris. It is used for tilapia, trout, carp and catfish eggs and improves hatch rates when properly managed.

A fish hatching jar (also called an egg hatching jar or Zug jar) is a specialized container used to incubate fertilized fish eggs. Water flows continuously upward through the jar, keeping the eggs gently suspended, well-oxygenated, and free of debris.

Common uses

  • Hatching tilapia eggs
  • Trout and salmon eggs
  • Carp eggs
  • Catfish eggs (in some hatchery systems)
  • Many other freshwater fish species

Features

  • Transparent plastic or glass body for easy observation
  • Conical (funnel-shaped) design
  • Water inlet at the bottom
  • Overflow outlet at the top
  • Gentle upward water flow to circulate the eggs without damaging them

Typical sizes

  • 1–2 liters: Small-scale or hobby hatcheries
  • 5–10 liters: Small commercial hatcheries
  • 20 liters or larger: Commercial fish farms

Benefits

  • High oxygen levels for developing eggs
  • Reduces fungal growth by keeping eggs separated
  • Removes dead eggs and waste through water circulation
  • Improves hatch rates when properly managed

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About Maimun Fishing Tackles. Serving Kenya's fishing community since 1975 (founded as Asma & Sons in Old Town Mombasa) — fishing tackle, nets, aquaculture equipment and farm netting, with branches in Mombasa (Nehru Road), Nairobi (Darosa Plaza, Karen Road), Malindi and Naivasha. Questions about this guide? Call or WhatsApp +254 706 903 465 or email [email protected].