1. Freshwater & MarineFreshwater & Marine
Aquarium fishes/organismsAquarium fishes/organisms
Sameer G. Chebbi Ph.D
Dept. of Zoology
Karnatak Science College,
Dharwad
2. Aquarium fishes can be generally classified
into egg layers and live bearers
• Cardinal Tetra (Cheirodon axeirodi)
3. • The Cardinal Tetra brings delicate beauty to
any home freshwater aquarium.
• It has a bright blue stripe contrasted by a
lower red stripe that runs the entire length of
its body.
• This coloration differs from its cousin, the
Neon Tetra, which has a red stripe that runs
only halfway down the body.
• Equally as peaceful as Neon
Tetras, Paracheirodon axelrodi will school
together for a brilliant display of activity and
colour to dress small to large aquarium
systems.
4. • Breeding the Cardinal Tetra requires very
soft water in the 1-2 dH range, a pH of 5-6,
and low lighting levels.
• The female may lay as many as 130 eggs
and the adults should be removed at this
time.
• The eggs will hatch in about 24 hours and
will become waterborne in approximately
five days.
• Feed the fry baby brine shrimp and other
suitable small foods.
• The Cardinal Tetra will accept many small
foods such as brine shrimp or daphnia,
freeze-dried bloodworms and tubifex, micro
pellet food, and high quality flake food.
6. • The Black Widow Tetra is a very peaceful, schooling fish that
comes from the regions of South America.
• Receiving its name from its black translucent coloring, the
hardy Black Widow Tetra is great for any community
aquarium.
• These Tetras are silver in color with black stripes and long
flowing black fins.Hiding spaces such as rocks, plants, and
driftwood are recommended to give this fish a sense of
security.
• Taller plants should be used to coincide with its mid-level
swimming habits along with plenty of rock formed cave
structures.
• Black Widow Tetras will breed occasionally in an aquarium
setting and a hospital or "breeding tank" will be necessary.
Slightly acidic water is best for optimal breeding habits.
• After the eggs have been fertilized, removing the parents will
be necessary to reduce the number of lost fry. Feed the fry
baby brine shrimp or crushed flake food.
• The Black Widow Tetra will accept many small foods such as
brine shrimp or daphnia, freeze-dried bloodworms and tubifex,
micro pellet food, and a high quality flake food.
8. • The Neon Tetra is often described as the jewel of the
aquarium hobby. It is easy to see why it is one of the most
popular freshwater tropical fish. With their iridescent blue
bodies and bright red tails, Paracheirodon innesi creates an
exciting splash of color in any aquarium, especially when kept
in schools of six or more.Native to the clear water streams of
South America, the Neon Tetra prefers densely planted
systems with plenty of low light areas to hide. To best recreate
its natural habitat, place rocks and driftwood amongst the
plants for added areas of refuge. However, the Neon Tetra will
tend to swim or remain suspended in the water column in
schools to create a breathtaking display of color. Extremely
peaceful, the Neon Tetra should be kept with similarly non-
aggressive tank mates of a similar size.
• This member of the Characidae family thrives in slightly acidic
water with stable water parameters. To breed Neon Tetras,
separate a pair into a "breeding tank" with no lighting at first,
and gradually increase lighting until spawning occurs. Water
hardness should be less than 4 dH and live foods such as
mosquito larvae are great inducers. Be sure to remove the
adults after the eggs have been laid, as the adults will eat
them. The eggs should hatch within 30 hours.
• Neon Tetras will accept many small foods such as brine
shrimp or daphnia, freeze-dried bloodworms and tubifex,
micro pellet food, and a high quality flake food.
10. • The Hockey stick Tetra comes from the tributaries and rivers
of South America and makes a wonderful addition to any
community aquarium.
• They are pale to golden in color, and have a black vertical
stripe that extends down the bottom half of the tail, giving an
appearance similar to a Hockey stick.
• The Hockey stick Tetra can be housed in an aquarium with
other soft water fish.
• Tetras are a schooling fish that work well in groups of six or
more fish of the same species.
• Live plants, rocks and driftwood help to enhance its natural
habitat and provide hiding spaces.
• Hockey stick Tetra breed occasionally in an aquarium setting
and a hospital or "breeding tank" will be necessary. During
breeding time, the females will display a fuller looking belly,
which help distinguish them from the males.
• Slightly acidic water is best for optimal breeding habits. After
the eggs begin to hatch, 12 to 15 hours after being laid,
removing the parents will reduce the number of lost fry.
• The Hockey stick Tetra will accept many small foods such as
brine shrimp or daphnia, freeze dried bloodworms and tubifex,
micro pellet food, and a high quality flake food.
12. • The Piranha is an ominous looking fish with a long, slender,
silver body with a bright red tail.
• Piranhas are indigenous to the Amazon basin, in the Orinoco,
in rivers of the Guianas, in the Paraguay-Paraná, and the
São Francisco River systems.
• The most distinguishing characteristic of this fish is the large
sharp teeth that are easily seen.
• Often referred to as the Dog Characin, Freshwater Barracuda,
Spotted Cachorro, or the Amazon Cachorro, this fish is a
Characin related to both tetras and the piranha.A 70 gallon or
larger aquarium that is well established is ideal for this
species.
• Provide the Piranha with driftwood in order to maintain a
neutral to slightly acidic pH and soft water. There should be
plenty of open swimming areas.
• A vicious predator, the Piranha should only be housed with
other more aggressive predacious fish of similar size. Ideally,
it is best to not place this species with territorial species of
Cichlids.
• The breeding habits of this species are unknown, and the
Piranha has yet to be spawned in the home aquarium.
• The Piranha is a carnivore and should be fed a variety of live
foods such as small fish and crustaceans.
14. • The Rosy Barb is one of the larger Barbs that can grow up to
6 inches in the wild. The male is red and gold with black spots
near the rear and at the dorsal fin.
• The female lacks the red color and is mostly golden.They
prefer a well-planted tank of at least 30 gallons with soft,
slightly acidic water.
• Rocks and driftwood can be added to the aquarium, but leave
plenty of space for swimming. The Rosy Barb is a schooling
fish and enjoys being in numbers.
• If in a large enough school, they typically will not bother any
other fish in the aquarium.
• It is best, when trying to breed the Rosy Barb, to house two
females with one male. Provide a coarse gravel in the
breeding tank and after the eggs have been laid, remove the
parents.
• The fry will hatch in approximately 3 days, at which time, they
should be fed baby brine shrimp until large enough to accept
crushed flake food.
• The Rosy Barb needs to be fed a variety of foods including
vegetables as well as meaty foods.
• Feed a quality flake food as well as live and frozen foods such
as brine shrimp and bloodworms.
16. • The Tiger Barb is silver/gold with black stripes and orange
accented fins.
• They are a very lively, playful fish that prefers to be in schools.
• They prefer a well-planted tank of at least 30 gallons with soft,
slightly acidic water.
• Rocks and driftwood can be added to the aquarium, but leave
plenty of space for swimming.
• The Tiger Barb is a very active fish that may pester or even
nip the fins of larger, slower moving fish.
• It is best, when trying to breed the Tiger Barb, to house a
number of Barbs in the same aquarium until they pair off. After
a pair has developed, the female will lay the eggs and the
male will follow behind to fertilize.
• The fry will be free-swimming after about 5 days. Feed the fry
newly hatched brine shrimp until large enough to accept
crushed flake food.
• The Tiger Barb needs to be fed a variety of foods including
vegetables as well as meaty foods.
• Feed a quality flake food as well as live and frozen foods such
as brine shrimp and bloodworms.
18. • The Zebra Danio boasts an instantly recognizable striped,
zebra pattern.
• A perennial favorite of freshwater enthusiasts, Danio rerio is
either silver or gold with five uniform blue/purple stripes that
stretch horizontally from the gill to the end of the tail.
• The Zebra Danio is a highly active swimmer, especially when
kept in small schools.Native to the Ganges region in Eastern
India, wild Zebra Danios are found in a variety of habitats,
ranging from fast-moving streams to slow-moving, nearly
stagnant ponds. In the home aquarium, this member of the
Cyprinidae family prefers a well-planted aquarium with large
open swimming areas.
• For best care, keep this peaceful fish in small schools with
equally non-aggressive fish. Since they are omnivores, feed
the Zebra Danio a varied diet of flake and frozen foods.
• Male Zebra Danios are generally more torpedo shaped, while
females tend to have a larger belly. Generally, male Zebra
Danios spawn with and remain loyal to one female. A
breeding pair should be placed in a breeding aquarium with
fine-leaved plants for them to spawn over.
• Roughly 300-400 eggs are produced and hatch within two
days. The fry should be fed small pieces of live foods, such as
brine shrimp.
20. • Red Oranda is one of several varieties of what is commonly
known as the Goldfish; Carassius auratus auratus. Originally
from parts of Asia, Japan, and China, Goldfish now enjoy
worldwide distribution due to controlled breeding programs.
The Red Oranda is a metallic-scaled fish. Resembling the Veil
Tail varieties, the Red Oranda's distinction is in its color and
the "hood" that covers its head.
• In the case of the Red Oranda, the entire body and hood are a
bright red or orangish-red. All Goldfish are members of the
carp group and generally quite hardy.
• The Red Oranda will do well in a tank of 30 gallons of water or
more with a fine gravel bottom and hardy, cold water plants,
as well as backyard garden ponds of 180 gallons or more.
Goldfish are diggers and will scatter the fine sand onto leaves,
injuring thin and less hardy plants. Roots and well-rounded
river rocks are appreciated.
• There appears to be a definite courtship ritual when Goldfish
breed. Breeding often results in up to 1,000 eggs, with fry
hatching in five to six days. They should be fed small pieces
of live or prepared foods designed for egg-laying fish.
• Goldfish are omnivorous, and will eat all types of dried and
live foods. Limit protein, however, to 30% of the diet. A
Goldfish flake or pellet food will provide these fish with the
proper nutrition.
22. • Domestic Koi are praised for their hardiness and variety of colors and
patterns. For this reason, Koi are often regarded as the "kings" of
pond fish. These farm-raised members of the Cyprinidae family are
available in a variety of colors and patterns, but are most commonly
white, yellow, orange, or a combination of these colors. Originally
from Japan, Domestic Koi are bred in fish farms in the southern USA.
While Koi are rumored to live more than 200 years in the wild, their
typical life span in captivity is between 25 and 35 years.The ideal
setup for Domestic Koi is a 1,000+ gallon pond with a fine gravel
substrate, rocks, and hardy plants. Because these Koi savor plant
roots and will dig to get to them, be sure to place large rocks around
the base of plants to protect them. You will also need to provide
adequate filtration to maintain proper water conditions.
• Males are easily identified by their concave anal section and
occasionally by breeding spots on the head. Spawning may result in
as many as 1,000 eggs, with fry emerging in approximately 4 to 7
days, depending on the water temperature. Feed fry small live foods
or frozen daphnia for the first 3 to 4 weeks. At that time, gradually
change their diet to crushed flake and pellet foods. Their color will
emerge in about 3 to 12 weeks.
• Feed Domestic Koi a quality pellet or flake food. While aggressive
eaters, Domestic Koi make great pets and can be taught to eat from
your hand.
• For specific colors, color forms, or varieties of Koi, please check the
selection of Japanese Koi.
24. • The Ghost Glass Cat is a unique fish that offers fish-keepers an
incomparable view of its internal organs. Thanks to its low-pigment
and almost clear body, the Ghost Glass Cat is like a living skeleton
whose organs, including its swim bladder and vertebral column, are
visible.Ghost Glass Cats, also known as Indian Ghosts, Ghost Fish,
Glass Catfish, or Glass Cats, are very peaceful, and a great
community fish that will give their caretakers hours of enjoyment.
Ghost or glass-like in appearance, the Ghost Glass Cat loves a low
light condition and is most active during dawn and dusk. As a true
schooling fish, it needs other Ghost Glass Cats in the aquarium in
order to survive and thrive.
• Ghost Glass Cats should be kept in groups of five or more to stay
healthy and happy. If they are not kept in groups, they will often go
into a state of stress, stop eating, and waste away. The Ghost Glass
Cat does not like a lot of light and in brightly illuminated aquariums, it
will usually hide from the light. However, they will come into the open
and swim around in darkness or low light conditions. Ghost Glass
Cats should be kept in aquariums with plenty of rocky coves and
hiding places, as well as dense, live vegetation.
• It is extremely rare and difficult to breed Ghost Glass Cats in
captivity. No techniques have been discovered to breed them in an
aquarium. It is generally believed that Glass Catfish lay and scatter
their eggs.
• Ghost Glass Cats are omnivores and should be fed a diet offlake
and frozen foods, as well as freeze-dried bloodworms and tubifex.
26. • The Tiger Oscar is a color variation of Astronotus ocellatusOscar. It is also
known as the Marble Cichlid or the Velvet Cichlid and is a colorful addition to
a large aquarium. The Tiger Oscar has a blue-black background with an
orange-red pattern.
• The dorsal fin has an eyespot that is very brightly colored. They will form a
pair, make a nuclear family and are generally peaceful in nature. It is hard to
tell the difference between the male and females, but during spawning the
female has obvious genital papilla.The Tiger Oscar requires a large aquarium
of at least 70 gallons with a deep sand bottom and a few large rocks. They will
dig up plants; so any that are in the tank should be potted with the root
surfaces covered with rocks.
• Using floating plants is a good compromise to this problem. Tiny Oscars form
a tight cluster for protection and this is normal behavior for juvenile fish. Large
Oscars are not as territorial as most other cichlids when full grown but will
consume anything they can fit into their mouths.
• A large tank should be used for breeding, as much as 100 gallons if possible.
The Tiger Oscar will spawn in soft or hard water as long as it is clean and
clear and has a temperature between 79-86°F. The female will lay from 1,000-
2,000 eggs on rocks that have been carefully cleaned. The eggs are opaque
at first, turning transparent in 24 hours.
• The brood will be carefully guarded and cared for and the fry will be kept in
pits and may even be covered. When they are free-swimming, the fry should
be fed Cyclops. Sometimes the fry will cling to their parents.
• The Tiger Oscar is a carnivore that is a predaceous and hearty eater. Oscars
will eat a variety of meaty foods, including small fish and earthworms, Cichlid
pellets, larger flake food, ocean plankton, bloodworms, and tubifex worms.
28. • The Firemouth Cichlid is a beautiful cichlid that is somewhat territorial,
especially during spawning. Their background color is a pearlescent
turquoise-blue with red edging the scales. The throat and breast are red in
color, ranging from a brick shade to a fiery red. There is a series of black
marks running along the body, starting behind the eye, extending to the base
of the caudal fin.
• The membranes of the fins have turquoise spots and the dorsal fin is edged in
red. The pelvic and anal fins are edged in black. They form pairs, make a
nuclear family and are excellent parents.
• The Firemouth Cichlid requires a tank of a minimum of 30 gallons, with a fine
sand bottom for burrowing and plenty of open swimming room. Plants should
be hardy, likeSagittaria, and potted with their root surfaces protected. There
should also be rocks available, as they like to hide among the rocks and
roots. They do get territorial during spawning and will harass smaller tank
mates of their own species, so keeping fish that are similar in size is
recommended. When attempting to threaten members of their same species,
the Firemouth Cichlid will inflate a throat sac and extend its gill covers in an
aggressive stance.
• The females are less brightly colored than the males and have a blunt genital
papilla. The male also has sharply pointed dorsal and anal fins. Firemouth
Cichlids make excellent parents, and both the male and female share in the
rearing of the fry. After carefully cleaning the rocks in the tank, the female will
deposit 100-500 eggs on them. The fry are protected in pits at the floor of the
tank and moved several times. The fry may be fed newly hatched brine
shrimp and finely crushed flakes. The Firemouth Cichlid parents may raise
several broods in a year.
• The Firemouth Cichlid is omnivorous, and will eat most prepared and frozen
foods, including freeze-dried bloodworms, tubifex, and ocean plankton, as
well as flake food and Cichlid pellets.
30. • The Black Angel is tank bred within the USA and is mostly
black in color with areas of varying shades of black. The fins
are thin and typically, will extend the length of the body.
• It prefers a well-planted tank of at least 30 gallons with soft,
slightly acidic water. Rocks and driftwood can be added to the
aquarium, but leave plenty of space for swimming.
• It is best, when trying to breed the Black Angel, to house a
number of angels in the same aquarium until they pair off.
After a pair has developed, a flat surface needs to be provided
where the eggs can be laid. A piece of slate, a large plant leaf,
or even a flowerpot should be positioned at an angle of about
30 degrees in an area of moderate water flow. The female will
lay the eggs and the male will follow behind to fertilize. After
approximately three days, the eggs will hatch and the fry will
emerge. Feed the fry newly hatched brine shrimp until large
enough to accept crushed flake food.
• The Black Angel needs to be fed a variety of foods including
vegetables as well as meaty foods. Feed a quality flake food
as well as live and frozen foods such as brine shrimp and
bloodworms.
• Freshwater Angelfish are measured at TL (Total Length)
which means your fish will be measured from the tip of its
nose to the end of its tail.
32. • This variety of Betta has a striking, elaborate tail that differentiates it
from other Bettas. The Twin Tail has a split tail, almost giving the
suggestion of having two tails. A similar fish, the Crown Tail, has a
teardrop shape to its tail. The Twin Tail Betta is a type of "Siamese"
Fighting Fish. These fish have been bred over the years to enhance
the fins and remarkable variety of colors of the males, as well as
making them increasingly combative. Therefore, only one male
should be kept in a tank; however, smaller, shorter-finned females
may be housed together with caution. In addition, a male and a
female should only be housed together temporarily for breeding
purposes. Females can be as colorful as the males, although, they
rarely have the long finnage that is seen with the males.An ideal
environment for the Betta is a well-filtered aquarium that holds a
steady temperature of between 75° and 86°F. Though the Betta is
often sold in small bowls in department stores, for best care, Betta
splendens should be kept singly in aquariums of at least 1 gallon. It
also prefers a variety of hiding places amongst the foliage of
freshwater plants.
• The Betta can be bred in the home aquarium. For breeding purposes,
males and females can be temporarily housed together. Once laid by
the female, the eggs are placed inside a bubblenest and tended by
the male Betta. Fry appear in about 24 hours and must be fed very
small food initially, such as crushed or powdered flakes and newly
hatched brine shrimp. Fry will also take finely chopped hard-boiled
egg yolk.
• Provide the Betta with a carnivore diet consisting of a quality flake
food, frozen or freeze dried bloodworms and brine shrimp.
34. • The Dwarf Gourami, also known as the Powder Blue Dwarf Gourami, the Red
Dwarf Gourami, and the Neon Blue Dwarf Gourami, is a peaceful, shy fish. If
in a pair the two fish will swim together. The Dwarf Gourami has an iridescent
sheen to its body, more prominent in the male. The male is a vivid orange-red
with turquoise blue vertical stripes that continue into the fins. Females
are pale, silvery blue-gray with very faint yellowish vertical stripes. Dwarf
Gouramis are considered Labyrinth Fish, meaning they breathe directly from
the air, and must have access to the surface.Dwarf Gouramis require a tank
that is 10 gallons or larger. The aquarium should be heavily planted and have
at least part of the surface covered with floating plants.
• A darker substrate will help show-off the gourami's colors, and peat filtration is
recommended. Regular water changes are a must, as this gourami can be
susceptible to disease. They should not be kept with large, aggressive fish,
but are compatible with other small, peaceful fish as well as fellow gouramis.
Loud noises often scare them, so the tank should be in a quiet area.
• The Dwarf Gourami is a bubblenest builder that uses plants to help bind
together the bubbles. Besides the difference in color, the sex can be
determined by the dorsal fin.
• The male's dorsal fin is pointed, while the female's is rounded. The water level
should be reduced to 8 inches during spawning, and the temperature should
be approximately 82°F. After spawning the female should be moved to a
different tank. The male will tend to the eggs and fry, and when the fry are 2-3
days old the male should also be removed. When first hatched, the fry should
be fed infusoria, and later, brine shrimp and finely ground flakes. Freeze-dried
tablets may also be fed to older fry.
• The Dwarf Gourami is an omnivore and prefers both algae-based foods as
well as meaty foods. An algae-based flake food, along with freeze-dried
bloodworms, tubifex, and brine shrimp will provide these fish with the proper
nutrition.
35. • Blue Gourami or Three Spot Gourami
(Trichogaster trichopterus)
36. • The Blue Gourami is also known as the Three-Spot Gourami. This gourami is
a rather peaceful fish that is very comical to watch as a juvenile. The Blue
Gourami has only two spots, one in the center of the body, and a second at
the beginning of the tail. The eye is actually the third "spot" that is referred to
in the name. Traditionally silvery blue in color, their colors can change
significantly with their moods, as well as during spawning, when they obtain a
much deeper blue hue. Blue Gouramis are considered Labyrinth Fish,
meaning they breathe directly from the air and should have access to the
surface of the aquarium.
• The Blue Gourami will be housed with a variety of tank mates that are of
similar size and temperament. While males can be territorial with each other,
they become timid around other, more aggressive fish. The ideal tank set-up
would be an aquarium of a minimum of 20 gallons which has plenty of live
plants as well as rocks and driftwood for use as hiding places.
• The best way to differentiate between the male and female Blue Gourami is
by the dorsal fin. In the male, the dorsal fin is long and pointed, while the
female's is shorter and rounded. When ready to breed, the male builds a
bubblenest and then begins to entice the female by swimming back and forth,
flaring his fins and raising his tail. When this behavior is noticed, the water
level should be reduced to 6 inches. After spawning the female should be
removed to a separate aquarium as the male may become aggressive toward
her. The male will tend to the eggs until they hatch, and after hatching, there
should be frequent water changes, especially during the third week, as this is
when the labyrinth organ is developing. The fry should be fed infusoria and
nauplii.
• The Blue Gourami is an omnivore and requires both algae-based foods as
well as meaty foods. An algae-based flake food, along with freeze-dried
bloodworms, tubifex, and brine shrimp will provide these fish with the proper
nutrition.
38. • The Kissing Gourami is also known as the Kisser Fish or Pink Kisser.
The Kissing Gourami is silvery-peach in color and has thick lips that
can be extended or pursed (as in kissing). They are generally a
tolerant species, but males may occasionally fight by pressing their
lips together (i.e., kissing). The weaker of the two will normally back
down. They are surface breathers and must have access to the
surface of the aquarium.
• The Kissing Gourami requires a 30-gallon or larger tank, with stones
and plants. Plastic plants are best because they will eat most all
vegetation in the aquarium, although Java Fern and possibly Java
Moss may also be used. There is no need to clean the back of
the aquarium because the Kissing Gourami will browse on the algae
that is growing there. The Kissing Gourami is peaceful with other fish
of similar size and will tolerate others of the same species.
• There are no distinguishing characteristics between the male and
female, although the female is usually heavier than the male. The
Kissing Gourami prefers soft water for breeding and does not build a
nest. Lettuce leaves should be laid on the surface for use as
spawning material. The eggs will float to the lettuce where the fry will
get nourishment from the bacteria and infusoria that is on the lettuce.
• The Kissing Gourami is an omnivore and requires both algae-based
foods as well as meaty foods. An algae-based flake food, along with
freeze-dried bloodworms, tubifex and brine shrimp will provide these
fish with the proper nutrition.
40. • The Red Fire Guppy has a prominent, intense red coloration. This
fiery red guppy is one of the preferred color varieties among
beginning hobbyists and breeders alike. The Red Fire Guppy stands
out as it swims amongst aquatic plants. Even experienced aquarists
praise this member of the Poeciliidae family, for its hardy nature and
quick maturation.One of the many color variations of Poecilia
reticulata, the farm-raised Red Fire Guppy requires an aquarium of at
least 20 gallons. Because of its hardiness, it is tolerant of small
changes in water parameters. However, care should be taken to keep
temperature, pH, and nutrient levels in check. The Red Fire Guppy is
a very peaceful fish and should be housed with freshwater tankmates
of similar temperament.
• The female in this pair may be of an assorted variety. However, you
can easily differentiate the male from the female. The male guppy is
smaller in size, has brighter coloration with a bigger tail fin, and a
pointed anal fin. The female is larger in size with duller coloration,
has a rounded anal fin, and a pregnancy patch on the lower portion of
the body. Ideally, the aquarium should have a covering of floating
ferns and a breeding box to protect the fry. Adults may eat the fry if
left to fend for themselves without the breeding box. The fry should
be fed brine shrimp, micro food and pulverized flakes.
• The Red Fire Guppy is an omnivore and requires both algae-based
foods as well as meaty foods. An algae-based flake food, along with
freeze-dried bloodworms, tubifex, and brine shrimp will provide
guppies with the proper nutrition.
42. • The Black Molly is a short-finned hybrid variation of Poecilia latipinna,
the Sailfin Molly. The Black Molly is all black in coloration with short
fins. They may have patches of a slight gold or silver coloration when
a juvenile, but will outgrow this with age. Mollies have the ability to
adapt to a variety of salt levels in the aquarium. With a gradual
acclimation, these fish may be maintained in either a freshwater or
saltwater aquarium. In the freshwater aquarium, a teaspoon of
aquarium salt per gallon is recommended for optimum health.The
Black Molly prefers a tank of at least 30 gallons with plenty of strong
plants such as Java Fern, Sagittaria, Vallisneria, and Anubias. They
require a good filtration system because of their hearty appetites and
resulting waste products. The Black Molly is well suited for the
community tank because of its peaceful nature, and is compatible
with other peaceful, large fish that can withstand similar water
conditions.
• The pointed anal fin and much larger dorsal fin on the male, and the
rounded anal fin and pregnancy spot on the female differentiate the
two. The Black Molly is a livebearer that requires a spawning box in a
25 gallon, or larger breeding tank. The aquarium should be planted
as densely as possible or have a thick algae mat. Having a group of
floating plants in the corner of the aquarium will promote rearing
outside of the breeding tank. Every 60-70 days the female give birth
to 10-60 young that are already approximately one-half inch long.
• The Black Molly is omnivorous and that prefers both meaty foods as
well as algae. Provide these fish with an algae-based flake food, as
well as freeze-dried bloodworms, tubifex, and brine shrimp.
44. • The Neon Swordtail is aptly named for its exciting electric coloration. It is a
beautiful color variety of the Xiphophorus helleri Swordtail that boasts brilliant,
neon-colored bands across the length of its body. Like a living prism, the
Neon Swordtail exudes a rainbow of rich, iridescence that accentuates the
movements of this active fish.The Swordtail is perhaps the quintessential
community aquarium fish. The time-tested popularity of the Swordtail can be
attributed to its ease of care, peaceful temperament, and wonderfully diverse
fin and color varieties. The most common Swordtail varieties include: Red
Wag, Red Velvet, Marigold, Black Nubian, and Pineapple Swordtail. The male
Swordtail is especially prized for its namesake feature, the showy extension
on the lower part of its tail resembling a sword.
• The Neon Swordtail requires an aquarium of at least 20 gallons that is well
planted with plenty of room for swimming. Because of its peaceful nature, the
Neon Swordtail is well suited for the community aquarium. However, the male
Neon Swordtail can demonstrate territorial aggression towards other male
Swordtails so care should be taken when housing more than one male. Also,
the Neon Swordtail is an accomplished jumper, so be sure to provide a
secure cover for the aquarium.
• The Neon Swordtail is a live-bearing fish related to freshwater aquarium
favorites including guppies, mollies, and platys. As such, a female Neon
Swordtail can give birth to as many as 80 fry at one time. A spawning box is
recommended, or if one is not available, provide dense floating cover to
protect the Swordtail fry from potential predation by the adults. Unless it is
your intention to breed Neon Swordtails, the male Swordtail fry should be
separated once the sex of the fry is determined. The Neon Swordtail can
begin breeding as young as three months of age and can quickly
overpopulate an aquarium.
• The Neon Swordtail is an omnivore that will eat commercially prepared
flaked foods and algae, as well asfreeze-dried bloodworms, tubifex
, and brine shrimp.
46. • The Pineapple Platy is a sunny color variety of the
popularXiphophorus maculatus Platy. The exciting fiery red
and orange coloration accentuates the playful and social
nature of the Pineapple Platy. "Fun," "festive" and "friendly"
are just a few adjectives that describe this peaceful, easy-care
Platy. The Pineapple Platy is a great example of the amazing
new color and fin variation of Platies now available thanks to
selective breeding.The Pineapple Platy adds brilliant color to
the aquarium and are very easy to keep. These features make
it a great fish for beginners and accomplished aquarists alike.
The Pineapple Platy requires an aquarium of at least 10
gallons that is densely planted with hardy plants like Java
Fern and Java Moss. The Pineapple Platy is a very peaceful
fish and makes an excellent addition to the freshwater
community aquarium. Any other peaceful fish can be housed
with them.
• The Pineapple Platy is a livebearer capable of reproducing at
three to four months of age. The male is smaller and more
brightly colored than the female, and can be distinguished by
his gonopodium. The fry will most often reach maturity in a
community aquarium.
• The Platy is an omnivore that will eat commercially
prepared flaked foods and algae, as well as freeze-dried
bloodworms, tubifex, and brine shrimp.
48. • The body of the Octopus is covered with chromatophores that allow it
to blend in with any background by changing color. These Octopi
from the Caribbean are brown with white spots when they are in a
neutral mood. Unlike most animals, the Octopus has a rectangular
pupil. It usually comes out at night to feed on small invertebrates or
sleeping fish. It uses its eight tentacles to bring the catch to its beak-
like mouth. Of its total length, the arms will represent about 80%, with
the body comprising the rest.The Octopus will do best in an aquarium
if provided with plenty of live rock and ample hiding places and a
large area in which to move. It prefers an aquarium with caves and
medium to coarse substrate with low lighting levels. The ideal lighting
for this aquarium is dim actinic lighting.
• The Octopus can be surprisingly strong, so in the home aquarium, it
is best to anchor the rocks, or even glue them together to keep the
Octopus from toppling the rocks into the glass or onto itself. Cover all
tank openings very well or it will try to escape. The Octopus is
sensitive to high levels of nitrates and copper-based medications. It
can be very difficult to acclimate into a new environment.
• Always approach the Octopus slowly to avoid causing it to release its
ink cloud in defense. In the aquarium, this release of ink will
necessitate a large water change to avoid its death.
• It is an extremely difficult species to breed in an aquarium.
• The Octopus can be fed shrimp and mussel meat. It will also eat live
crayfish and feeder shrimp. Any live foods should be fed spirulina
based dry foods, plankton, and krill to enhance their nutritional value.
50. • The Haddon's Carpet Anemone lives singly, in the shallow waters of the Indo Pacific and Red Sea.
Found outside of the reef it resides in soft muddy or sandy substrate and can attain a size of up to 3
feet in diameter. This colorful Anemone is also referred to as Haddon’s Anemone, Saddle Anemone,
Saddle Carpet Anemone, or Saddleback Anemone. Haddon's Carpet Anemone have short, blunt
tentacles with a very potent sting, and can be distinguished from their close relatives Stichodactyla
gigantea and Stichodactyla mertensii by the lack of any coloration, spots or markings on the underside
of the anemone and down its column.This anemone serves as a "host" for many types of Clownfish in
the wild including: Amphiprion clarkii, A. sebae, A. akindynos, A. chrysogaster, A. chrysopterus, and A.
polymnus. In the home aquarium, they can also serve as host for Amphiprion ocellaris, A. percula, and
A. allardi.
• The Haddon's Carpet Anemone requires a tank with strong lighting and good water movement. The
aquarium should have a variety of sandy and rocky locations as this animal oftentimes can move about
and seek refuge in a place it prefers. This species of Haddon's Carpet Anemone prefers to bury its foot
into the sandy bottom, and will oftentimes attach itself to the bottom of the aquarium glass, where its
column is completely buried in the sand for protection. When first introducing this anemone into the
display, it is best to try and dig out an area of the sand bed where you prefer it will reside, while
decreasing the flow rate during this time so that its not blown around the display. Doing so will allow the
anemone time to settle in and bury its foot completely into the sand bed. Once in place, carefully move
some sandy substrate around the column and increase the flow rate back to the normal output.
• The Haddon's Carpet Anemone has a very potent sting and may harm corals and other anemones as it
moves about the aquarium. It is not compatible with other anemones within a 12" diameter, so monitor
it when it is first introduced into the tank. This species of Carpet Anemone can eat fish in the display
aquarium so use caution when housing a Carpet Anemone in with fish other than clownfish.
• When healthy, this anemone is very sticky to the touch, and when they grasp something (or someone),
it is very difficult to convince it to let go without damaging the animal. It is also one of the few anemones
that can cause a severe reaction in humans, so keeping one requires care in handling.
• Although one of the easiest “Carpet Anemones” to care for this animal is still challenging, and is best
left to the seasoned veteran aquarists. For proper care, a fully established aquarium, with perfect water
chemistry, adequate flow and strong illumination, along with weekly or even daily feeding is needed.
Ideal foods consist of chunks of fresh fish, uncooked shrimp, and other meaty marine foods.
52. • The Snapping Shrimp may also be called Symbiosis Shrimp and
Pistol Shrimp. It is found in a variety of colors and sizes.Snapping
Shrimp are not easily sexed, but the males of many species are
thought to have a larger pincher. The sound it makes comes from an
appendage on the pincher which moves when the pincher is opened
or closed and water is ejected. The Snapping Shrimp can be easily
confused with Mantis Shrimp if judged by sound only. Unlike the
Mantis Shrimp, it is not harmful and will not pose any threat in the
tank, with the possible exception of smaller shrimp.The name
Symbiotic Shrimp comes from the equally beneficial relationship the
Snapping Shrimp has with gobies
(e.g.;Amblyeleotris or Stonogobiops). The goby, with better eyesight,
warns the shrimp of predators. The shrimp share its food with the
goby. Depending upon the species, Snapping Shrimp may also have
symbiotic relationships with sponges, corals, or anemones
(e.g.; Bartholomea annulata).
• It is beneficial to the tank as it churns the sand. It thrives in
environments with sand, rock caves, and dim light. If in pairs, one will
often stand guard at the burrow while the other is inside. The
Snapping Shrimp is intolerant of copper or high nitrate levels, but
needs a correct level of iodine in the water to promote proper molting.
• Snapping Shrimp will accept freeze-dried and frozen foods and
bottom feeder tablets, as well as scavenge for algae in the aquarium.
The Pistol Shrimp are intolerant of copper or high nitrate levels, but
need a correct level of iodine in the water to promote proper molting.
54. • The Red Knob Sea Star, also known as the Red Spine Star, African
Sea Star, and Red-knobbed Starfish, has a thick, gray body with
multiple bright red tubercles extending upward along each of its five
arms. Red stripes connect these protrusions, giving its back the
appearance of wires interconnecting in a grid-like fashion. It is found
in shallow tidal pools and up to 100' deep reefs in the Indian Ocean.
• The Red Knob Sea Star requires a large aquarium with ample
supplies of live rock. A small specimen will eat algae. As it grows
older, however, it is not reef compatible, as it will eat soft corals,
sponges, tubeworms, clams, starfish, and other invertebrates. It
should not be housed with puffers. It is very sensitive to high levels of
copper-based medications and will not tolerate high levels of nitrates.
• Breeding in an aquarium is extremely difficult with no distinguishing
characteristics to help differentiate males from females.
• The Red Knob Sea Star is very intolerant of sudden changes in
oxygen levels, salinity and pH of the water, and cannot tolerate
copper-based medications. The drip acclimation method is highly
recommended for all Sea Stars due to their intolerability to changes
in water chemistry. It should never be exposed to air while handling.
• In the aquarium, the diet can consist of chopped clams, shrimp, fish,
and squid fed once a week.
56. • The Red Lobster is a great crayfish species native to the rivers and streams of
North America. An excellent scavenger for ponds or aquariums, the Red
Lobster will feed upon any leftover food or detritus that settles on the bottom.
It is also a great algae controller and will eat any filamentous algae that may
form upon the rocks or substrate. However, the diet of the Red Lobster should
be supplemented with sinking pellet and flake foods, as well as with dried
algae.Female Red Lobsters are often more subdued in color and have much
smaller claws than their male counterparts.Procambarus sp. only grows to a
maximum size of around 5", which makes them well suited for both freshwater
aquariums and backyard ponds. If kept in outdoor water gardens, many will
hibernate during the winter months to survive.
• For best care, keep the Red Lobster in an aquarium or pond of at least 20
gallons. It requires plenty of rocks for shelter and moderately sized substrate
in which it can burrow. The Red Lobster can be aggressive towards its own
kind and requires plenty of room for individual territories. Therefore, larger
aquariums or ponds will be needed if housing more than one Red Lobster.
When housing more than one Red Lobster, provide at least 20 gallons per
lobster and include plenty of cover including both rocks and plants.
• If housed in a pond in an area that experiences freezing winters, be sure to
use a de-icer to keep an open hole in the ice for proper gas exchange.
Provide places within the pond that contain a few inches of sandy or soil-
based substrate for the lobsters to hibernate in.
• The Red Lobster will not typically bother fish, unless the fish are very small
and are slow enough for the Red Lobster to catch. The Red Lobster is
relatively easy to breed in captivity, and the eggs hatch in about 21 days. After
hatching, the young can be fed flake or pellet foods, and should be separated
in order to keep them from eating each other.
58. • The Queen Angelfish is one of the most striking of all
angelfish. Vibrant yellow and electric sapphire-blue highlights
give the Queen Angelfish an almost iridescent appearance. It
has a dark spot on the forehead surrounded by bright blue.
The dorsal and pelvic fins are elongated.With the potential of
reaching an impressive 18 inches, the Queen Angelfish needs
a large tank - at a minimum of 250 gallons, with lots of hiding
places and live rock for grazing. Not a good reef dweller, the
Queen Angelfish is prone to nip at stony and soft corals
(sessile invertebrates) and clam mantles. It can be
aggressive, so it must be introduced to the community tank
last. A somewhat difficult angelfish to keep, Queen Angelfish
often suffer from incorrect water parameters and diet.
• The diet should include Spirulina, marine algae, high-quality
angelfish preparations, mysis or frozen shrimp, and other
meaty items. The Queen Angelfish should be fed at least
three times daily.
• The Small Juvenile will contain the Juvenile colorations or
may be color shifting to a young adult, while the Medium will
be a sub-adult, and the Large will be in Adult coloration.
60. • The Ocellaris Clownfish may be one of the aquarium industry's most popular
marine fish. Its beautiful orange body dressed with white bands outlined in
black instantly distinguishes the Ocellaris Clownfish. This member of the
Pomacentridae family is an excellent addition to almost any saltwater
aquarium system. What makes this specific variety even more appealing to
aquarists is the fact that each Ocellaris Clownfish is tank-bred to help protect
the fragile reef environments of the world.The Tank-Bred Ocellaris Clownfish
has other unique advantages over wild-caught species. For one, the Tank-
Bred Ocellaris Clownfish is very hardy and more accustomed to conditions
found in home aquariums. Therefore, it makes a great choice for novices and
seasoned aquarists alike. The Tank-Bred Ocellaris Clownfish can also be kept
with a variety of other tank-bred clownfish, if introduced into the aquarium at
the same time.
• The Tank-Bred Ocellaris Clownfish is also easy to breed in the home
aquarium. The females will be the largest of the pair and the two fish will
usually stay close to each other in the aquarium. The Tank-Bred Ocellaris
Clownfish is an egg layer and will deposit the eggs on a flat surface and
defend the eggs from other tankmates. The eggs will normally hatch in 6-11
days depending on the water temperature. The fry must be reared in a
separate aquarium on a diet of rotifers followed by baby brine shrimp.
• The Tank-Bred Ocellaris Clownfish is also known as the False Percula
Clownfish, False Clown Anemonefish, and Anemone Demoiselle. This fish is
sometimes sold as the Percula Clown, even though it is not. The color pattern
is very similar, but it is not as bright orange. The Tank-Bred Ocellaris is
usually significantly lighter in coloration and is often missing one or more
stripes. It may also have non-symmetrical stripes on the sides of its body,
making the Tank-Bred Ocellaris Clownfish unusual and appealing to most
hobbyists. The coloration of these fish will darken to a nice solid orange with
age.
• This Clownfish is an aggressive eater. It will accept most meaty foods and
frozen herbivore preparations.
62. • The Russell's Lionfish is also known as the Red
Volitans, Spotless, or Soldier Lionfish; Largetail or
Military Turkeyfish; and Plaintail Firefish. It is tan
with light brown vertical stripes. The spines on the
dorsal, anal, and pectoral fins are fleshy, and not
banded like those of other lionfish.
• The spines on the fins are poisonous, and if you are
stung, the reaction will be similar to a bee sting only
a little stronger.
• The Russell's Lionfish requires a 70 gallon or larger
aquarium with numerous hiding places. It is a very
hardy fish and generally peaceful, except towards
other lionfish. It may eat tank mates including
ornamental shrimp and small fish.
• Feeding may be difficult until the fish is acclimated
to the tank; feeding live shrimp or feeder fish may
be helpful. Once acclimated, the Russell's Lionfish
will eat meaty foods including the flesh of fish and
crustaceans.
64. • The Spotted Puffer is also called the White Spotted
Sharpnose Puffer, or White Spot Hawaiian Puffer.
Members of the Canthigaster genus are called
Sharp-nosed Puffers or Tobies. It is a reddish
brown with white spots. It lacks pelvic fins, but has
learned to use the pectoral fins to move about the
aquarium.A 50 gallon or larger, fish-only aquarium
is suitable. It may eat invertebrates found in a reef
tank. Its teeth are actually a fused beak-like
structure which it uses to crush its prey.
• Parts of its flesh are poisonous. It has the ability,
when threatened or alarmed, to inflate its body to
almost twice its normal size. It does get alarmed
when in a net, therefore, use a container to transfer
it.
• The Spotted Puffer needs a varied diet of meaty
foods including; squid, krill, clams, and hard shelled
shrimp to help wear down their ever growing teeth.
66. • Ctenochaetus strigosus is known by many names including
the Striped Bristletooth and Goldring Bristletooth. Both C.
strigosus and the Spotted Bristletooth (C. striatus) are
sometimes called Kole Yellow Eye Tang, Yellow Eye Tang, or
Yelloweye Surgeonfish.C. strigosus has an oval body shape
with bold markings that change with maturity. As a juvenile, it
has a yellow-gold to tan color combined with striping and
spots. When matured, the body color darkens, ranging from
blue to burgundy. Depending on what part of the world it is
from, it can have either a majority of spots or stripes
highlighting the body.
• A 70 gallon or larger aquarium is necessary to provide plenty
of swimming room. It is aggressive towards other Tangs,
therefore, it is best to only keep one per tank. It will not harm
sessile invertebrates in the reef tank environment.
• Although Tangs will eat meaty foods along with the other fish
in the aquarium, it is important that they are offered plenty of
marine based seaweed and algae. This will strengthen their
immune system, reduce aggression and improve their overall
health. Offer dried seaweed tied to a rock or use a veggie clip,
and feed at least 3 times per week. Sea Veggies, Seaweed
Salad and Ocean Nutritionare all ideal products and are very
easy to use.
67. • Big Eye Black Bar
Soldierfish (Myripristis sp.)
68. • The Big Eye Black Bar Soldierfish, also known as
the Blackbar Soldierfish, is bright red with thin white
outlines on the fins. The eyes are very large and the
center pupil is black, giving this fish a unique look.A
70 gallon or larger aquarium with large amounts of
live rock for hiding will provide a good environment.
A small group is suitable as long as there are
adequate hiding locations and space in the
aquarium. It is a nocturnal fish, hiding while the
lights are on, and swimming in the darkness in
search of food. It will eat invertebrates such as
worms (including fireworms), crustaceans and
serpent stars.
• When first introduced into the aquarium,
live saltwater feeder shrimp should be used to
entice this fish to eat. The diet varies between live
feeder shrimp, freeze dried shrimp, and chopped
marine meats that will move in the water column.
