Classification Aphyocharax nattereri is a small freshwater fish species that is native to South America, specifically the Amazon Basin and coastal rivers of Brazil. This species is a member of the Characidae family, which is part of the larger order of Characiformes. The Characidae family is one of the largest families of freshwater fish, with […]
The Bolivia Cichlid, or Cichlasoma boliviense, is a species of freshwater fish that is native to the Amazon Basin in South America. It is an incredibly fascinating creature, with its vibrant colors and unique characteristics that make it one of the most beloved fish among aquarists. Not only do they possess a captivating appearance, but […]
Glofish 70 gobies 260–261 breeding 230, 231 suckerlike device 261 goldfish 74, 332–343 breeding 326, 327, 328, 341 designing ponds for 300 diseases 324 feeding 316, 337 hand-stripping 326 indoor tanks 312, 313 origins and ancestry 22, 334 pigmentation and sheen 333 scales 16
These invertebrates are an integral part of the reef ecosystem. Anemones are soft-bodied creatures with flowing, stinging tentacles for catching prey. Sponges have a more rigid body structure and are filter-feeders.
The elegant swimming motion of these fish has been likened to the flight of butterflies fluttering around flowers in the garden. As with their insect counterparts, butterflyfish also tend to be brightly colored, making them an extremely popular choice for the home marine aquarium.
The angelfish family includes some of the most attractively patterned of all reef fish. The size of angelfish can vary greatly between species. While dwarf angelfish (Centropyge species) attain a maximum length of 5 in (12.5 cm), their larger relatives may grow as large as 24 in (60 cm) in the wild.
The breeding habits of tropical marine fish are not well documented because only a small number of species have reproduced in captivity. A few groups, however, such as clownfish, gobies, and sea horses, breed with relative ease. Others, such as angelfish, may spawn in aquariums, but their young are so poorly developed when they hatch that it is extremely difficult to raise them successfully.
Although the upkeep of a marine aquarium—especially a reef tank—is more demanding than a freshwater system, a few routine maintenance tasks and the judicious use of test kits to check water quality will ensure a healthy environment for the tank occupants. Watch for signs of algal overgrowth, and carefully observe the fish, since abnormal behavior may be an early indicator of deteriorating conditions.
Black Angelfish The black pigmentation on the fins and body of these fish keeps their striped patterning largely hidden. The body also shows green iridescence. The Blue Discus, named after its disk body shape, has grown in popularity over recent years thanks to the wide range of color varieties available.
The Altum Angelfish has a much taller body than the Angelfish itself. It also has a flattened area above the jaw and a steeper, less curved profile leading up to the dorsal fin.