The Importance of Choosing the Right Substrate for Your Aquarium Plants

Choosing the right substrate is crucial for the health and growth of your aquarium plants. A suitable substrate not only provides proper anchorage but also supplies essential nutrients, maintaining an optimal balance for your aquatic ecosystem. Below, we've highlighted the key factors to consider when selecting the best substrate for your aquarium plants.

Optimal Aquarium Plant Lighting: Balancing Light Intensity for Growth

The intensity of a light source reaching any surface is measured in units of lux. Natural bright sunlight produces about 70,000-80,000 lux, although much of this is lost by the time it reaches aquatic plants. The lux requirement of aquarium plants varies between roughly 300 and 6,000 lux, depending on the species.

Best Metal Halide Bulbs For Reef Tanks

A reef tank thrives when it's provided with the right type of lighting, and the metal halide bulbs are considered the top choice by many aquarists. These bulbs offer a unique blend of qualities that make them indispensable for recreating the natural habitat of corals and marine life.

Best Canister Filters Reviews - Top 10 & Complete Guide

Introduction Among types of fish tanks filter, the canister appears to be the most popular one. Thanks to the great combination of biological, chemical and mechanical filtration, the filter does a great job in keeping your fish tank water crystal clean, ensuring a healthy and clean habitat for your fish. Photo credit Foter.com Because you are bombarded with exaggerated advertisements of manufacturers, you find it a task of a challenge to get a good deal.

Best Background Aquarium Plants

Aquarium plants play a vital role in creating a healthy and visually stunning underwater environment. Background aquarium plants are particularly important as they provide an aesthetically pleasing backdrop, privacy for fish, and a place for beneficial bacteria to colonize. Let's explore some of the best background aquarium plants to consider for your tank.

10 Best Fish Tank Filters Reviews | Aquarium Filters For Your Choice

Whether you are an aquariology or just want to buy a filter for your aquarium, buying a high-quality and functional filter is always necessary. In fact, you are now bombarded with multiple advertisements from different brand names, which may confuse you. Photo credit Foter.com If you haven't got any filter that may fulfill your need, read the review of top 10 best fish tank filters. Perhaps you may come across a suitable one.

Best Hardy Background Aquarium Plants

When setting up an aquarium, one of the essential components for a vibrant and healthy environment is the background plants. These hardy aquatic plants not only provide a visually stunning backdrop for your tank, but they also offer numerous benefits for the ecosystem, such as oxygenation, shelter, and a natural habitat for the aquatic life.

Tank Selection and Construction Tips for the Best Glass Aquariums

A well-designed glass aquarium can not only serve as a beautiful home for your aquatic pets but also become an eye-catching centerpiece in your living space. When it comes to selecting the perfect glass aquarium, a few essential factors can help guide your decision-making process.

What Are Mesenterial Filaments

Aggressive interactions in corallimorphs have only been observed in two genera, Corynactis (spirocysts and homotrichs) and Disco-soma (homotrichs). However, all genera possess at least some form of nematocysts, and these can be quite potent, especially in Pseudo-corynactis, and is likely that further studies will bring this to light.

Best Foreground Plants for Aquariums

A well-designed aquarium should include a variety of plants that enhance its aesthetic appeal and support a healthy ecosystem. Foreground plants play a crucial role in creating depth, texture, and visual interest. They also provide shelter and feeding grounds for small aquatic creatures. This paragraph highlights some of the best foreground plants for aquariums.

Best Undergravel Filter: Jaubert-Style Plenum & Coral Reef Microhabitat

Natural substrate materials of coral reef origin assist greatly in maintaining a proper chemical balance and can be used to create authentic and unusual aquarium microhabitats. On top of the eggcrate, one or more layers of plastic window screening are used to prevent the sand from falling through to the plenum.

Aponogeton Boivinianus

The attractive crinkled leaf and large size of this plant make it an ideal specimen plant for the midground of a larger aquarium. In a heavily planted aquarium where there is competition for light and nutrients, A boivinianus may produce smaller and fewer leaves. The leaves are bright green and sometimes slightly transparent in places. Maximum height 16 in 40 cm , sometimes taller Growth rate Initially fast, but slows as the plant ages Area Midground, Specimen.

Sea anemones Actinia

These live on the substrate, attached by their single foot, which acts as a sucker, but they can move around and find the place that suits them best (sometimes the tank's front pane). Some rare species live in the sand and can retreat into it. They are fairly robust in an aquarium if in water that is well lit and aerated (some anemones have Zooxanthellae). A large living space must therefore be planned for them, as other Anthozoa do not appreciate their tentacles moreover, they sometimes...

Venomous Invertebrates

Many people not familiar with the saltwater aquarium trade will be shocked to know this, but sometimes invertebrates are imported that can cause human fatalities. While only the most irresponsible person would do so knowingly, aquarists have brought home colorful specimens without knowing what they are buying. Include yours truly in that group. I fortunately learned about the real dangers in time to avoid harm. The stinging properties of some coelenterates reach epic proportions in a few. Fire...

Periclimenes Yucatanicus

Shallow Marine Aquarium

There are three major features of my approach to keeping microhabitat displays of tropical shallow-water invertebrate species. The first of these I will call less technology, more biology. The husbandry of marine life must be performed in light of the specific ecological needs of the species of interest. Granted, system design cannot be overlooked, but one must begin the thinking process about any aquarium by asking questions about the needs of the species that will occupy it. This principle is...

Scientific Nomenclature

Coral Reef

The naming of living things follows a classification scheme known as scientific nomenclature that groups living organisms on the basis of their shared characteristics. Students remember the hierarchy of classification by means of a phrase like, ukeep party clean or father gets sore, each word beginning with the first letter corresponding to the terms kingdom, phylum, class, order, family, genus, species. Coral taxonomists examine coral skeletal structure to group corals Coral taxonomists...

Filter Feeding Invertebrates

Here's an aquarium for the enthusiast willing to dedicate plenty of effort to its care. Don't try this one unless you are prepared to culture the necessary foods on a regular basis. Aquarium Capacity 90 gallons Life Support live rock, live sand, standard reef filtration Lighting two fluorescent lamps Background black Decoration none Special Requirements good water movement and plenty of particulate foods Serranocirrhitus latus 1 Lysmata amboiensis . . Protula magnifica Sabella sp. Sabellastarte...

Feeding Coelenterates

Coelenterates

By filtering the water, the Coelenterates trap small suspended particles, particularly the crustacean zooplankton. Collecting, keeping, and distributing plankton is not a task to be taken lightly, and it is best to look for other solutions. However, it must be made clear that commercial foods on the market provide little more than a stopgap. It is possible to use rotifers or freshly hatched brine shrimp nauplii, normally used as the main food for fish, but not everybody breeds these animals....

The Main Invertebrate Groups

Micro Mollusks Bivalves

The invertebrates, as their name indicates, have no backbone. Their body is soft, but it is protected on the outside, by a carapace in the case of the crustaceans, or by a shell in mollusks, or it is supported by an internal calcareous skeleton, as in corals. Although they are considered less evolved animals than the vertebrates - the group to which fish belong - invertebrates sometimes adapt in surprising ways to ensure their survival. The crustaceans, for example, can walk or swim to look for...

Foods and Feeding

Choosing foods appropriate for your aquarium should pose little difficulty if you keep a few basic points in mind. Saltwater fish tend to be specialists when it comes to food. Quite a few vegetarians exist, for example. Some of them feed on many types of algae, others need a specific kind. Carnivores can usually be satisfied with a varied diet, but some feed only on specific classes of food, such as crustaceans. Many predatory saltwater fish need the movement of living prey to stimulate their...

Characidae Characins

Marbled Hatchetfish

The majority of characidae commonly known as Characins over 1,000 species in all live in South America, especially in the Amazon basin, but not all are aquarium fish. You can usually identify them by a small adipose fin situated between the dorsal and caudal fins however, this is not always present, and is also found in certain catfish species. Their solid teeth indicate that they are carnivores their diet consists, among other things, of insects and insect larvae. Characins live in groups or...

Poeciliidae

Platy Varieties Pictures

The Poeciliidae inhabit considerable areas of the American continent, favoring hard, alkaline, and sometimes even slightly brackish conditions where the water is rich in plant life and normally calm. This is a family of active, energetic fish, ideal for the beginner. They will accept any form of food, including small, live prey, but appreciate extra vegetable material. The male is normally smaller than the female, though often more vividly colored. His anal fin, by a modification of the third,...

Saltwater Aquarium Models

Recipes for Creating Beautiful Aquariums That Thrive Copyright 2007 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Hoboken, New Jersey. All rights reserved. Photography Aaron Norman Howell Book House Published by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Hoboken, New Jersey No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, scanning or otherwise, except as permitted under Sections 107 or 108 of the 1976 United...

Echinodorus Harbich Propagation

Echinodorus Long Leaf

Ft WP554 ft2 WP695 ftfWP1080 fWP637 WP959 pH 6-7.5 j 18-28 soft-hard J 3 < f> Cultivar Propagated from the adventitious plantlets on the floral stalk or from eyes of rhizome A very beautiful hybrid berween . horemanii Red' and Eibitwtionts x. 'Barthii'. The submerged ruby red leaves with prominent creamy veins on short petioles can give a very good contrast. Leaves are lanceolate and arc 15-35 cm long and 3-5 cm broad. A good solitary plant, that can be ideally placcd in mid to background...

Rotala Macrandra

Dwarf Hairgrass Eleocharis Acicularis

10 x 20 W sodium tubes , 10 hours day. External filtration of the aquarium through biological filter material, substrate of fine sand, C02 fertilization, about four bubbles per second, and a weekly water change of about 1 3 the volume. 10 x 20 W sodium tubes , 10 hours day. External filtration of the aquarium through biological filter material, substrate of fine sand, C02 fertilization, about four bubbles per second, and a weekly water change of about 1 3 the volume. Bacopa caroliiiiana...

Beginner Invertebrates

Many people believe that invertebrates are only for mini or micro-reef tanks. Not so. There are quite a few invertebrates that do well in non-reef tanks. However, not a lot of invertebrates should be attempted by inexperienced saltwater fish keepers. Below is a brief summary of the more hardy invertebrates available to aquarists. There are many different shrimps available in the market, with most of them being perfectly suitable for a lightly loaded saltwater tank. In fact, some shrimps are...

The Clownfisk Host Anemone lank

Clownfish and their anemones are popular aquarium subjects, never failing to capture the attention of all who view them. Yet they are widely misunderstood. Before com mitting to creating an aquarium for them, one should consider their special needs. THE HOST ANEMONES. Given its powerful stinging tentacles and its demanding care requirements, the anemone is the Pivotal Species in the aquarium community. Three families of anemones are represented among the clownfish hosts. One,Thalassianthidae,...

You Need to See: How Long Can a Betta Go without Food?

How Long Can a Betta Go without FoodVia freepik.com Betta fish is very enjoyable because they look beautiful and aggressive. It is noticed that betta fish does not require to care too much. There are reasons why the busy people choose to keep them. Yes, even so, you cannot skip them. Basically, you should know the exact answer to the question how long can a betta fish go without food This one is very useful for those who are too busy at the office or school.

A hardwater aquarium

Hard Water Aquatic Plants

Vallisneria asiatica var. biwaensis Hygrophila stricta Twisted, or corkscrew, vallisneria Thai stricta Tall plants along the back of the aquarium will begin to grow around the sides to create a frame for the aquascape. Using smaller foreground plants or suitable decor in front of them helps to break up the solid appearance they create. Cryptocoryne bottom and larger-grade toward the top wendtii will provide a good rooting medium. A layer of nutrient-rich substrate will boost plant growth....

Gobiodon Atronasum

Gray Cod, 78 Gadus morhua, Atlantic Cod, 78 Gafftopsaii Pompano, Trackinotus rhcdopus, 254 Gaidropsarus en sis, Thrccbeard Rockling, 78 gaimard africana, Coris, African Clown Wrasse, 439 Galapagos Hogfish, Bodianus eclancheri, 430 Galapagos Sawtail, lbionurus laticlavius, 588 galba, Chrysiptera, Canary Demoiselle, 390 Caleocerdo cuvieri, Tiger Shark, 39, 40 galii, Meuschenia, Blue-lined Leaihcrjackct, 630 gardneri, Chaetodon, Gardner's Butterflyfish, 338 Gardner's...

Pumping Xenia Coral

Common Name Cespitularia, Blue Xenia Similar Species Xenia, An the i a, EJJlatournaria , Alcyonium. Cespitularia injirmata is not the only species, but it may be the common type imported. Natural Habitat like Xenia, encrusting dead coral skeletons and among algae, usually in shallow water with good water movement, either surge or tidal currents. Most colonies are imported Distinguishing Characters Cespitularia has an appearance that is somewhere between Xenia and Alcyonium. Colonies may be...

Pseudopterogorgia Elizabethae

External Fertilization

Gorgonians are predominantly arborescent in nature, though a few single unbranched stem species do occur they are subdivided into two main groupings determined by the nature of their central supporting structure. In the Scleraxonia this is called an axis and in the Holaxonia, the central core. This structure is a product of the coenenchyme, and as such is produced by the colony, not the polyps. The Scleraxonia have a central axis composed of horny material called gorgonin, and usually, fused...

Hydrocotyle leucocephala

Hydrocotyle Leucocephala

This plant is similar in appearance to Cardamine lyrata although the leaves are much larger, reaching 1.2-2 in 3-5 cm in diameter. It adapts to most aquarium conditions, although it does appreciate good lighting. The shoots quickly reach the surface, where the leaves spread rapidly, cutting out light to the aquarium. To prevent other plants from losing light, be sure to prune Brazilian pennywort regularly. It will also grow in damp bog conditions. Area Midground, Foreground, Floating, Specimen,...

Nymphaea lotus var rubra

Tall Silk Aquarium Plants

This color variety of the tiger lotus produces leaves that vary from a light green-red with reddish speckles to a darker green-brown with red speckles. It makes a good centerpiece and contrasts well with both tall, bushy, or small-leaved background plants and smaller foreground plants. Maximum height Will grow to the surface Growth rate Moderate to Fast Area Background, Midground Light Bright to Very Bright Temperature 72-82 F 22-28 C Propagation From daughter plants on runners Difficulty 2, 3

Sagittaria subulata

Sagittaria Aquarium

Common name Needle sagittaria, Floating arrowhead Origin Coastal areas of Eastern United States There are several varieties of this very hardy plant that do well In most aquariums. They make ideal background plants. 5. subulata can be used in harder water and even In slightly brackish conditions. The leaves of this hardy Sagittaria subulata are less tidy than those of other Sagittaria spp., but the plant's robustness makes it a suitable alternative for aquariums with less than ideal conditions....

Aquascaping

When you are furnishing and planting an aquarium - a pursuit appropriately known as 'aquascaping' - yourfirst considerations must centre around the position of the tank in the room and its size and accessibility. Most aquariums are viewed from the front and sides only, with the back against a wall. As a variation on this theme, the tank can be let into a wall or partition, with only the front panel exposed. Alternatively, used as a room divider, an aquarium may have the two long sides and one...

Bright To Very Bright

Echinodorus Amazonicus

These plants require a high-intensity light for a large proportion of daylight hours. In most cases, fluorescent tubes will not provide sufficient light to promote good growth. Use metal-halide or mercury vapor lamps. Above Red plants, such as this Myriophyllum tuberculatum, thrive in very bright light. Alternanthera reineckii Ammannia gracilis Bacopa monnieri Blyxa echinosperma Blyxa jap nica Cabomba aqua tica Cabomba piauhyensis Cryptocoryne parva Didiplis diandra Echinodorus macrophyllus...

Nymphaea stellata

Nymphaea Stellata Plant

Common name Red and blue water lily Origin India Although sometimes sold as red tiger lotus Nymphaea lotus var. rubra this tropical lily has smaller, spade-shaped leaves and will grow more compact, sometimes creating a better effect in a well-planted aquarium than red tiger lotus. The leaves will grow up to 4.7 in 12 cm long and are a brownish pink to red in color. If the light source is not bright, the plant will produce larger 8 in 20 cm green floating leaves. As it ages it may die back...

Special note Not a true aquatic plant

Natural Form Plants

Below Flowers readily form on healthy specimens of S. wallisii. Due to the large white petiole, they appear much larger than flowers of other aquatic plants. Maximum height 14 in 35 cm Growth rate Medium Area Background Light Bright Temperature 72-82 F 22-28 C Propagation From runners Difficulty 1, 2 Left The tiny, white flowers of Vallisneria spp. are often produced in the aquarium, and may be formed on a straight or twisted stem that grows rapidly toward the aquarium surface. Maximum height...

Macronutrients

Macronutrients Plants

Phosphorus plays a vital role in energy transfer and is an important ingredient of genetic compounds and enzymes. Healthy root development and flower formation also depend on phosphorus availability within the plant. Phosphorus is taken up by plants through the roots in the form of phosphate P04 ' , which is present in the substrate at much higher levels than in the water. This is because phosphate will react with metal oxides - notably iron oxide - more frequently in open water, creating...

Natural aquarium propagation

Pistia Root

Aquarium plants reproduce naturally by means of runners, offsets, and adventitious plantlets. Runners Runners are horizontal branches produced at the base of the plant that develop daughter plants called slips at the ends. The rootlike runners normally grow just above, or sometimes just below, the surface of the substrate and may continue to extend, producing slips along the runner at intervals of about 2.4-6 in 6-15 cm . The new slips obtain the majority of their nutrients from the parent...

Heating Cables In Planted Aquarium

Planted Aquarium Substrate

Small-grade pea gravel can be used as a main substrate. Small grades can be used with a heating cable. Looks good as a top layer, but due to the small grade, mulm will collect more readily. Not normally a major problem. Some nutrient-rich substrates are designed to be used in large quantities as a main substrate. If the grade size is greater than 0.16 in 4 mm , mix it with a smaller lime-free substrate. Suitable if covered by a 1 in 2.5 cm layer of gravel. High, may be lacking hardwater...

Conger Cinereus Aquarium

Canihigasier punctatissimus, Spotted Sharpnose Puller, 651 Canthigasier rapaensis, Rapa Sharpnose Puffcrfish, 652 Canihigasier nvulata, Doubleline Toby, 652 Canihigasier rostrata, Sharpnose Puffer, 651 Canihigasier sanciaehelenae, Saint Helena Sharpnose Puffer, 652 Canihigasier smiihae, Bicolorcd Toby, 650 Canthigasier solandri, False-eye Toby, 653 Canthigasier lyleri, Tyler's Sharpnosed Puffcrfish, 647, 653 Canthigasier valentini, Black-saddlcd Toby, 651 Canton Mudskippcr, Periophthalmus...

Loglossus Calliurus

Valenciennea Longipinnis

7. 9 xr C. r gt Z3 26 C sg 1.022 8 cm 80L 3 xr i r ZI 266C sg 1.022 11.4 cm 100L Gobionellus stigmalophius 403 2 -vr C V to U 26 C sg 1.022 16.5 cm 200L Gobionellus stigmaticus 403 Gobionelfus saepepallens 403 n 26reC sg 1.022 8 cm 100L 2vf na 26 C sg 1.022 5 cm 50L 5, 7 m v B 23 C sg 1.024 8.5 cm 100L 5,7v lt r to -J 23 C sg 1.024 9 cm 100L 5,7v lt r to -J 23 C sg 1.024 9 cm 100L Gobionellus stigmaticus 403 Gobionelfus saepepallens 403 n 26reC sg 1.022 8 cm 100L 2vf na 26 C sg 1.022 5 cm 50L...

Gulf Marine Life Found With Christmas Tree Worm Rock

Christmas Tree Worm Habitat

Blue Angelfish Holacanthus bermudensis Gray Angelfish Pomacanthus arcuatus Spotfin Butterflyfish Chaetodon ocellatus Foureye Butterflyfish Chaetodon capistratus Jackknife Drum quetus lanceolatus High-Hat Drum quetus acuminatus Slippery Dick Wrasse iHalichoeres bivittatus Beau Gregory Damsel .Stegastes leucostictus Colon Goby Coryphopterus dicrus Blue Goby loglossus calliurus Tiger Goby Gobiosoma macrodon Seaweed Blenny Parablennius marmoreus Red-spotted Hawkfish Amblycirrhitus pinos Sponges...

Pseudojulis Notospilus

Pale-tail Chromis, Chromis xamhura, 3S7 Pale-tailed Damsclfish, Stegastes leucorus, 405 Paleband Spinecheck, Scolopsis ghanam. 282 Palefin Basslet, Liopropoma pallidum, 199 Palefinncd Threadfin Bream, Nemipierus marginatus, 306 pallasii, Pleuronectes, Pallas's Flounder, 613 Pallas's Flounder, Pleuronectes pallasii, 613 Pallid G by, Coryphopterus eidolon, 574 pallidum, Liopropoma, Palefin Basslet, 199 Palmate Horned Blenny, Parablennius sanguinolentus, 524 Palomcta, Trachinotus goodei, 254, 255...

Family Terapontidae Teraponidae Theraponidae 399grunters or tigerperches

Hawaii Perciform Dorsal Fin

Marine coastal, brackish, and freshwater, Indo-West Pacific Africa to Japan, Fiji, and Samoa . Body oblong to oblong-ovate, somewhat compressed opercle with two spines, lower spine longer dorsal fin with notch, 11-14 spines and 8-14 soft rays, spinous portion depressible into a groove formed by a sheath of scales anal fin with three spines and 7-12 soft rays pelvic fins inserted distinctly behind base of pectoral fins, with one spine and five soft rays caudal fin rounded, truncate, or...

Series Percomorpha

The Percomorpha, the most derived euteleostean clade, was recognized by Rosen 1973a . Problems and changes in its classification are reviewed by Johnson 1993 . In this taxon the pelvic girdle is directly or ligamentously attached to the cleithrum or coracoid of the pectoral girdle, and there is a ven-trally displaced anterior pelvic process stiassny and Moore, 1992 . However, its monophyly was challenged by Johnson and Patterson 1993 who recognized a monophyletic group comprising their...

Superorder Ostariophysi

Gordichthys

Basisphenoid absent orbitosphenoid present, except in gonorynchiforms mesocoracoid usually present dermopalatine absent postcleithrum absent in gonorynchiforms and siluriforms, one in most cypriniforms, and three in some characiforms and gymnotiforms swim bladder present except in Gonorynchus and usually divided into a smaller anterior chamber, which is partially or completely covered by a silvery peritoneal tunic and a larger posterior chamber reduced or absent in some groups minute,...

Coralline Algae

Eel Like Fish Burrow The Sand

As with the stony corals, fusing of the rocks by coralline algae is a slow process. Coralline algae are considered the natural cement of the reefs, though truly their work is much assisted by the faster growing sponges that fuse the rocks and sediments together, in turn becoming covered by a veneer of coralline algae. Many coralline algae will form fast growing circular crusts on surfaces within the aquarium, but a few types, such as Mesopbyllum, will actually form attachments between rocks....

Subdivision Batoidea rays Hypotremata Superorder Batidoidimorpha of Nelson 1984 Order Rajiformes of Nelson 1994

Protractile Mouth

Gill openings ventral anterior edge of the greatly enlarged pectoral fin attached to side of head, anterior to the gill openings anal fin absent eyes and spiracles on dorsal surface anterior vertebrae fused to form a synarcual suprascapulae of pectoral girdles joined dorsally over vertebral column and articulating with column or synarcual or fused with synarcual nictitating membrane absent, cornea attached directly to skin around the eyes body generally strongly depressed jaws protrusible in...

Faster than those that do not have zooxanthellae

Growth Forms Corals

The zooxanthellae of corals are brown in colour, which is the best colour for absorbing blue light Benson, 1984 . If you have ever been SCUBA diving in a tropical ocean, or seen pictures from these areas, you may have noticed that the water is very blue. This is due to the absorption of the longer wavelengths of light red and yellow within the first few metres of water. Therefore it is the blue light that extends furthest into the sea. Zooxanthellae have adapted to make the most use of blue...

Types of Coral Reefs

Coral reefs can be divided into two basic classes, shelf reefs and oceanic reefs Wood, 1983 . Shelf reefs grow on the continental shelf that surround the major continents, while oceanic reefs develop in deeper waters, beyond the continental shelf. Oceanic reefs generally develop along the slopes of submarine mountains, often of volcanic origin, that reach within a few hundred metres of the surface. In some cases, such as Hawaii and Tahiti, these volcanic mountains will extend above the water...

Nutrient Regulation on Coral Reefs

Nutrients dissolved in the aquatic environment make life possible since aquatic organisms have to directly or indirectly extract most of their required elements from the water that surrounds them. The availability of organic and inorganic nutrients limits biological productivity. Coral reefs develop best in nutrient poor water, but reef communities may also exist in more nutrient rich coastal waters. In order to appreciate some strategies employed in maintaining corals, one needs to understand...

Distribution And Biogeography

Biogeographic Distribution Fishes

Fishes occur in lakes, streams, estuaries, and oceans throughout the world. In most species of fishes, all individuals live entirely either in fresh or in marine waters. Over 225 species are diadromous, regularly living part of their lives in lakes and rivers and part in the oceans. Among these, most are anadromous, spawning in freshwater but spending much of their time in the sea. A few are catadromous, spawning in the oceans but returning to freshwater. Classification of some species as...

Subphylum Craniata

Subphylum Craniata

Notochord never extends in front of brain cranium present vertebrae usually present cartilage or bone or both present heart chambered red blood corpuscles usually present brain well developed 10 to 12 pairs of cranial nerves dorsal and ventral nerve roots usually united nephridia absent epidermis with several cell layers endostyle only in larval lampreys ammo-coetes and transformed into thyroid tissue in all others sensory capsules present neural crest formation present. The neural crest is a...

Class MYXINI

Deepwater Myxine glutinosa lacks a vitreous body, has a poorly differentiated retina, and is buried beneath muscle Locket and J0rgensen, 1998 . The external nasohypophyseal opening is terminal, and it is through this opening that respiratory water passes backward to the gills unlike lampreys . Hagfishes are scavenger feeders, mostly eating the insides of dying or dead invertebrates and other fishes. They are the only craniate in which the body fluids are isosmotic with seawater. The mucous...

Class Petromyzontida

Order PETROMYZONTIFORMES Hyperoartii 2 lampreys. Two semicircular canals seven pairs of external lateral gill openings eyes well developed in adult, lateral except in Mordacia single median nostril nasohypophyseal opening between eyes with pineal eye behind body naked, eel-like no bone no paired fins one or two dorsal fins present tail diphycercal isocercal in adults, hypocercal in ammocoete larvae barbels absent teeth on oral disc and tongue except in fossil form dorsal and ventral nerve roots...

Nemateleotris Decora

Wrasse Pseudocheilinus hexataenia , and the Hawaiian Neon or Four-Line Wrasse P. tetrataenia several smaller species from the genus Halichoeres, such as the hardy Yellow or Golden Coris Wrasse . chrysus and the fairy wrasses genus Cirrhilabrus . Fairy wrasses sometimes called social wrasses should be kept in groups consisting of a single male and several females. CLOWN FISHES AND DAMSELFISHES. Clownfishes and damselfishes Pomacentridae are often the first fishes kept by a beginner. They are...

Order Pyramidellacea

There are a wide variety of snails that feed on clams and oysters. The majority of these belong to the family Pyramidellidae, of which there are at least 1000 species in the Pacific alone Cumming, 1988 . These snails are generally quite small reaching a maximum length of 2-4 mm 0.08-0.16 in. , and look like small grains of rice. The majority of what is known about these snails comes from the species that are commonly found feeding on oysters and clams in commercial operations. Very little is...

Rapid Growth

Fungia Scutaria Mesenterial

The growth rates of hard corals are species dependent, with certain species growing much quicker than others. This is a definite advantage and allows these corals to quickly colonize new areas. A rapid growth rate also allows these species to achieve dominance over other species by over-topping them, thereby reducing the amount of light and water flow they can receive Huston, 1985 . This mechanism has been proposed as an explanation for the dominance of Pocillopora corals in the Pacific and...

Suborder Aeolidacea

Yellow Aeolid Nudibranch

Aeolidacea are the second largest suborder with over 20 families. These nudibranchs also have rhinophores but they do not have feathery gills. Instead they have prominent oral tentacles around the mouth and numerous projections on the back called cerata. Right An unidentified aeolid nudibranch found feeding on a Cladiella sp. soft coral. Above Another unidentified aeolid nudibranch associated with Green Star Polyp Pachyclavularia viridis . The grey cerata with pale yellow tips make it look like...

Cec Of Calcined Montmorillonite

Featuring the healthiest aquatic plants this side ot the Amazon The Aquarium Center delivers a complete selection ot domestic and imported cultivated aquatic plants from throughout the tropical world. Visit Our Web Site www.aquariumcenter.com There is a wide varity of substrates for use in today's planted aquarium. Due to the growth and popularity of aquatic plants, new products are being introduced all the time. This is good for us gardeners, but it only adds to the confusion over which...

Tips On Coral Placement

Ne of the more vexatious challenges, even for experienced reef keepers, is the appropriate placement of corals within the aquarium. Finding just the right level of light intensity and water motion can mean the difference between a specimen that thrives and grows, showing full polyp extension and brilliant col oration, and one that leads a lackluster existence, with polyps retracted or shrunken, dull coloration, and no growth. Specific recommendations for each species of coral that an aquarist...

Clownfish Host Anemones Difficult Choices

Though the clown fishes are generally a hardy lot, the anemones with which they associate in the wild are not. Some experienced aquarists have come to believe that most Pacific anemones are more difficult to maintain than even the sensitive small-polyped stony corals. Most aquarists should choose between Entacmaea quadricolor and Macrodactyla doreensis and leave the others to the experts. Many species of clownfish will bond with anemones other than their native favorites if they have no other...

Marine Invertebrates

There is potentially a much larger market for reef aquari- extremely delicate aquariums subjects. For example, Stan ums than at present. When people learn what can be done Brown of the Breeder's Registry has a photograph depict- with a 30-gallon tank, provided a few simple techniques ing spawning by captive Orange-spotted Filefish Oxy- are mastered, dealers will sell more of them, along with the monacanthus longirostris . This species is generally livestock to go in them. This can only help the...

The Shallow Inshore Habitat

Extremely Shallow Water Sps

Practically all of the invertebrates collected for the aquarium in the early days came from shallow lagoon than in deeper water, and scuba equipment is not often available to collectors in the developing Rapidly gaining favor among reef enthusiasts are the countries that supply most of the specimens. Thus, species small-polyped scleractinian SPS corals that predominate of macroalgae, corals, and anemones from this habitat have on the outer reef. Outer-reef fauna thus belong in the third been in...

M Acroalcae Cultivation

An aquarium based on keys or Caribbean species would be ideal for the many species of interesting and attractive macroalgae available to hobbyists. For the calcium-loving calcareous types, the tank should have a layer of substrate the upper layer of a live sand bed is satisfactory, perhaps making it a bit thicker than an inch here and there, to better support these algae, which are rooted in the substrate by a holdfast. Penicillus, Rhipocephalus, Udotea and Halimeda incrassata are typical and...

The Outer Reef Habitat

Outer reefs of the Indo-Pacific are the home of the most widely available giant clam, Tridacna derasa, which is an adaptable species that can be recommended to any aquarist. This is a good species to accompany SPS corals. Dartfishes, such as the Common Firefish, Nemateleotris magnified, and the Purple Firefish, N. decora, occur here in pairs, and shoals of anthias hover in the strong currents. See the discussion of anthias in Chapter Ten before attempting these fish, however. The striking...

Tetras Can Help Cycle Your Tank

Nitrobacter Corrosion Zinc

These little fish are able to withstand different water types. I'm a fairly new aquarist, and I'm having a problem with one of my freshwater tanks. It is a 20-gallon setup filtered by a Penguin 170 filter with a biowheel. The tank contains no live plants. The problem is that the tank has not cycled after six weeks. I'm certain I caused the problem by putting too great a bioload on the system too soon. Within a week of setting up the tank, I added three platys, six neon tetras, one tri-color...

Gallery Of Echinodorus Bli

Narrow Elodea Leaf

Below Echinodorus 'Rubin' is a cultivated variety of echinodorus. Many aquarium plants are manmade varieties, created by crossing separate species, which results in attractive, new hybrid plants. The leaves of Echinodorus 'Rubin' vary in color. A mixture of red and green areas, combined with visible veins, creates a distinctive plant. The red edging of this leaf is unusual and creates a good contrasting effect when viewed against other leaves and plants. Right The narrow-leaved form of E....

Yongeichthys Criniger 403

Yongeichthys Criniger 403

Cryptocentrus caeruleomaculatus 403 7-8 r lt V J2 26 C sg 1.022 8 cm 100L Cryptocentrus caeruleomaculatus 403 7-8 r lt V J2 26 C sg 1.022 8 cm 100L 7, 9-10 xr 4 26cC sg 1.022 13 cm 100L 7, 9-10 xr 4 26cC sg 1.022 13 cm 100L 10xr4 V .j 263C sg 1.022 11 cm 100L 10xr4 V .j 263C sg 1.022 11 cm 100L 9 r lt V 26 C sg 1.022 6 cm 80L 7, 9 xr 4 V U 26 C sg 1.022 8 cm 80L Cryptocentrus fasciatus 403 7 xr 4 V J Z3 26 C sg 1.022 8 cm 100L Cryptocentrus fasciatus 403 7 xr 4 V J Z3 26 C sg 1.022 8 cm 100L 7,...

Central America

Amazonian Style Aquarium

The combined influence of the sun and the temperature produces abundant vegetation. The waters close to the sea are hard or very hard (sometimes very slightly salty) and warm (over 26 C). The inland streams have clear, well-oxygenated water. amateurs to keep. The aquariums with brown, but still transparent water, recreate an Amazon-style river under the forest roof. Its acidity and its color (sometimes even black) are the result of acids derived from humus. These tanks house other species of...

The genus Cichlasoma

Ikan Hias Gurame Padang

The genus Cichlasoma originates from Central and South America. These fish are considere as potentially aggressive, especially during spawning, though some species remain reasonably peacable. Because of their temperament and their size, it is important to keep them in large tanks 200 liters for the smaller species and at least 400 liters for the largest. The decor should consist of rockwork and sturdy plants. These fish are omnivorous there is no problem keeping them in captivity, but be aware...

Family Balitoridae Homalopteridae 107river loaches Freshwater Eurasia

Freshwater Aquarium Fish

Three or more pairs of barbels present near mouth. Recognition of Nemacheilinae and Balitorinae as comprising a mono-phyletic lineage follows Sawada 1982 . According to this author, balitorids may be recognized as a separate lineage from cobitids by differences in the Weberian apparatus e.g., by the Y-shaped tripus, the most posterior element of the Weberian ossicles . About 59 genera and about 590 species. The number of estimated valid species is approximate there is much need for a systematic...

Physical and Chemical Cycles

The most important physical and chemical cycles operating within the saltwater aquarium are biological filtration, gas exchange, and the day night cycle. Without biological filtration, an aquarium requires water changes so frequently as to be impractical. Life in an aquarium cannot exist without the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide at the surface. Photosynthetic organisms require both light and darkness for their survival, and the alternation of light and dark regulates the metabolism of...

Soapfishes Hawkfishes

Plectorhinchus Picus

SIX-LINED SOAPFISH Grammistes sexlineatus SIZE to27cm 10V lt in. Soapfishes Serranidae ID Black with 6-9 white to gold stripes. Solitary. Under ledges or in recesses of lagoons, reef flats or seaward reefs to 20 m. Indo-Pacific Red Sea and E. Africa to Marquesas Is. in French Polynesia. - S.W. Japan to Australia. MOTTLED SOAPFISH Pseudogramma polyacanthum SIZE to 7.5 cm 3 in. Soapfishes - Serranidae ID Mottled brown large pale-edged dark spot on gill cover. Similar Ocellated Soapfish previous...

Marine Fish

There are almost 20,000 species of marine fish in the world, but only a small minority is of any interest to the aquarist. Of these, most come from the Pacific and Indian oceans, although a few are native to Australia and the tropical Atlantic ocean. Marine fish are usually collected in their natural environment and rarely reproduce in captivity. They find it more difficult to acclimatize than freshwaterfish, particularly as regards feeding some refuse to eat artificial food, and others have...

Transhipping

Transhippers Fish

Transhipping is an activity that emerged during the 1970s and 1980s. It involves grouping the orders of several retailers and or wholesalers and placing them with an exporter, collecting the shipment at the airport, clearing customs and redistributing the boxes without opening Divers' breathing equipment hookahs on deck. Divers' breathing equipment hookahs on deck. them . The responsibility for the entire shipment falls onto the retailer. All transhippers require to operate is a telephone, fax...

Pomacentrus Cuneatus

Spined Damselfish Ocellated

BROWN DAMSEL Pomacentws opisthostigma SEE to 8 cm 3 in. Damselfishes - Pomacentridae ID E. New Guinea Variation - Color variable from dark brown to yellowish tan most consistent identification feature on all variations is small dark wedge-shaped mark on upper pectoral fin base. Solitary. Turbid shores with coral in 3 -12 m. Asian Pacific Philippines and New Guinea. This variation from Milne Bay, Papua New Guinea. Brown Damsel - W. New Guinea Variation ID Brown whitish blotch on rear dorsal fin....

Best Treatment for Sick Fish

Always remove sick fish to quarantine for treatment with appropriate medicaments and heat. Professional breeders often dispose of sick fish rather than treat them in order to rapidly eliminate the disease agent from the premises. page 59). For those that cause disease in fishes, we have a few tricks of our own. Of the medicaments effective against bacterial diseases, those synthesized in the laboratory, such as sulfa drugs, are called antimicrobials. Chemicals produced by bacteria or fungi are...

Hymenophyllaceae

Trichomanes Javanicum Terrarium

These ferns are mainly found in tropical lowlands and rain forests. The taxonomy of this genus is volatile and many species are ascribed to other genera. T. javanicum aqua fern from Malaysia has erect brown stem bearing pinnately dissected leaflets. Another species, Trichomanes sp. generally known as Borneo fern has erect brown stems and leaflets borne by these slender stems arc entire and dark green with fringed margins. These fern should be attached to wood work or rocks in the terrarium in...

Reef Tank and Fish Tank Whats the Difference

There are many different ways you can set up an aquarium depending on what you would like to keep and what interests you most in the hobby. Accordingly hobbyists tend to put names on the different types of aquariums that can be set up because they have similar general requirements depending on the classification of tank. A Fish Only Tank is a tank that is dedicated to keeping fish, without any sort of corals, anemones or clams. They can contain some mobile invertebrates mainly for helping keep...

Polka Dot Grouper

I hesitate to include this fish because it has been overfished in many parts of its range, both for the aquarium and as a food fish. For a truly bulletproof tank subject, however, this big grouper is hard to best. Aquarium Capacity At least 75 gallons, preferably larger crushed coral rock fine grade coral rock a few large pieces coral skeletons artificial or natural Background see text Chromileptes altivelis up to 3 Start this fish in a large tank, and you won't be faced with a crisis when it...

Subclass Chondrostei

Paraselachimorpha

Interopercle absent premaxilla and maxilla rigidly attached to the ectoptery-goid and dermopalatine spiracle usually present myodome absent in the most primitive taxa. The classification of this group is very insecure. It is a group of great structural diversity, and evidence is lacking for monophyly not only for this subclass but also for most of the groups herein recognized. Given the many phyloge-netic uncertainties that exist on the relationships of many taxa, I have not made many changes...

Coral Reef Flat

Behind the outer reef flat lies an area of aligned corals, where tongues of sand and rubble extend leeward giving a pronounced spur and groove appearance. Stony corals such as Acropora and Pocillopora are dominant in these areas, along with Goniastrea, Favia, Favitesand Porites Veron, 1986 Davies et al,1984 . Waves carry sand and rubble from these areas to the sand flat and lagoon areas behind them Davies et a ., 1984 . The coral reef hat gives way to a sandy area in some reefs. These areas are...

Reproduction Strategies of Corals Sexual Reproduction

Asexual Reproduction Fragmentation Coral

Sexual reproduction in corals may occur in two ways some corals are brooders, with fertilization and embryonic development occurring internally, in their coelenteric cavity others are broadcasters, releasing their gametes synchronously into the water wliere fertilization and embryonic development occur Atkinson and Atkinson, 1992 . Depending on the species and its location, the reproductive period may be seasonal, monthly, or continuous Atkinson and Atkinson, 1992 . Synchronization of spawning...

Water Quality Parameters For Tropical Marine Aquariums

Water Quality Parameter

Temperature 75 degrees F (optimum natural range is about 68 to 84 degrees) *May depend upon individual circumstances. table, above. The numbers are for fore-reef conditions organisms from this habitat are the most demanding, especially of oxygen. In the back reef, lagoon, and inshore zones, salinity may be lower, currents variable, and the concentrations of nutrient ions much higher than around a blue water coral reef. Many reef organisms considered especially tolerant of aquarium life are...

Special Purpose Aquariums

- breeding aquariums, often a simple glued glass tank with no soil, for temporary use - large aquariums. These are large by virtue of their length, as their depth and breadth cannot exceed certain limits for technical and practical reasons. They sometimes present installation problems, due to the weight on the base and the special materials required for their construction. Large tanks are often given over to large species which require ample living space on account of their size. They can also...

Difficulty

Small Leaf Aquarium Plants

Above The small leaves of Azolla sp. have a velvety appearance, as a result of many fine hairs, which help to resist water and keep the plant afloat. Small, surface-dwelling fish such as this honey gourami Colisa sota appreciate the cover provided by floating plants. Above Good lighting will allow Bacopa monnieri to grow compactly, with smaller spaces between the leaves. This often produces a better-looking plant and reduces the need for regular pruning. Common name Round bacopa Origin Southern...

The Order Perciformes

The order Perciformes contains about 150 families and more than 7,500 species (in both fresh and salt water) and is thus the largest and most diversified of any of the fish orders. The composition of this order will vary as controversial issues are settled and others arise. Among the largest families are the Cichlidae (fresh water), Gobiidae, Labridae. Serranidae, Blenniidae, Pomacentridae. and Apogonidae. Snooks and Glassfishes (Plates 115, 254) The snooks (family Centropomidae) have the...

Identification Group

Orange Striped Bristletooth Tang

Surgeonfishes - Moorish Idol - Rabbitfishes - Scats This ID Group consists of fishes that are fairly large, thin-bodied, have a basic oval shape, and are generally colorful. FAMILY Surgeonfishes - Acanthuridae Surgeonfishes have thin, oval bodies, with relatively long continuous dorsal and anal fins, small pointed mouths, and crescent tails. Lateral lines are continuous and scales are not conspicuous. A spine, or pair of spines in a few member of genus Naso, as sharp as a surgeon's scalpel and...

Different Types Of Aquarium

Central America Biotop Aquarium

An aquarium is not just a motley collection of plants and fish. Some aquarists aim to reconstruct the biotope of a specific geographical region (Central America, the Amazon, Asia, Africa), while others concentrate on a single group offish (for example, livebearers, Cichlids, or marine fish). Whatever the option, an aquarium must be attractive and well-balanced for its occupants to thrive, and this entails some understanding of the various habitats, as well as their inhabitants. An aquarium is a...

Predators Pests Commensals And Good Guys

Reef Pest Snails

Aquarists often wonder whether a new creature they observe is a beneficial organism or a potential trouble maker. In this chapter we want to provide a broad overview of some of the creatures that make reef keeping difficult, some that make it easy, and some that just make reef keeping interesting. Reef aquarists know that certain types of polychaete worms can wreak havoc on other invertebrates. We discuss two particularly nasty worms here, and refer the reader to volume one for additional...

Scientific Name Catalaphyllia jardinei Saville Kent 1893

Bubble Tip Anemone Stuck

Common Names Elegance Coral, Elegant Coral, Elegans Coral, Wonder Coral, Comb Coral, Meat Coral Catalaphyllia jardinei was named for Dr. Rene Catala, the curator of the aquarium at Noumea, New Caledonia, who displayed this coral under blue and ultraviolet light, showing off its spectacular fluorescent green tentacles with bright pink tips. Colour Several colour morphs exist, and there are also some differences in tentacle structure. The most typical morph is green with light pink tips on the...

The Inshore Zone

Pearly Jawfish

One of my favorite spots in the Keys is a huge, bowl-shaped tidepool just off U.S. 1. Protected from wave action by a sea wall of coral rock rubble, this pool is a giant natural aquarium. Dozens of species of macroalgae occur here. By far the most common are members of the large genus Caulerpa. C. prolif ra has a simple flat blade botanically, the assimi-lator that often spirals like a loose corkscrew as it grows upward. C. mexicana has a blade more reminiscent of a fern frond, that is, it is...

Zoanthus Sociatus

Colour Brown usually, often with green oral disc. Sometimes mostly green, sometimes with white marbling or white stripes. The shade of brown ranges from straw colored to chocolate, often with slight reddish hue like cinnamon. Distinguishing Features Gigantic polyps compared to other members of the genus. Polyps to at least 5 cm 2 in. diameter. Otherwise quite like other members of the genus. Similar Species Protopalythoa variabilis from the Caribbean wlien found in deep water may resemble this...

The Biology of Soft Corals

We must begin with a good definition of soft coral because the popular concept and literal meaning of the name are quite different from the actual definition. Taie soft corals all belong to the subclass Octocorallia. Like stony corals and anemones, the soft corals belong to the phylum Cnidaria and the class anthozoa. What distinguishes them is the number of tentacles on the polyps. All soft corals have eight tentacles on each polyp, hence the name Octocorallia. Exceptions to this rule only...

Coenenchyme Gastrovascular tubes of polyps

Lines the inside of the tentacles, pharynx, mesenteries, gastrovascular cavity and extends through the colony via the gastrodermal tubes. The gastrodermal cells are where zooxanthellae are located. Between these two layers lies the mesogloea consisting of a gelatinous matrix and this is where the sclerites spicules occur. Within the polyps it forms a very thin layer, but forms the majority of coenenchyme of the colony outside of the polyp fig. 1-2 . Within the mesogloea exist the gastrovascular...

Family Alcyoniidae Lamouroux 1812

The family Alcyoniidae includes soft corals in which the polyps are contained in fleshy, membranous, or lobed masses. Polyps are dimorphic in some genera and monomorphic in others, and they are mostly evenly distributed, though they may be confined to a polyparium or capitulum that is separate from a polypless stalk. There are approximately twenty genera worldwide. See chapter one for more information on colony organization and shapes. Formerly known as Cladiella in aquarium literature....

Scientific Name Alcyonium Parerythropodium spp

Common Name Encrusting leather coral Colour Yellow or brown Distinguishing Characteristics Encrusting thin sheets with long polyps that resemble those of leather corals Sarcophyton spp. The sheets are extremely soft and fragile with consistency like Xenia and Anthelia. Strong pungent odor when lifted out of water Natural Habitat Alcyo n in m Pa reryth ropod in m fit I vu m ft i Ivu m is common in the Red Sea while Alcyonium Parerythropodium membranaceum occurs in the Indo-Pacific. Wide ranging,...

Adaptations Of Animals

Invertebrates Stone and False Corals, Colonial Anemones. Engel-bert Pfriem Verlag, Wuppertal, germany, 134 pp. Wilkerson, F. P., Muller-Parker, G. and Muscatine, L. 1983 Temporal patterns of cell division in natural populations of endosymbiotic algae. Limnol. Oceanogr28, 1009-1014. Wilkerson. F. P. and Muscatine, L. 1984 Uptake and assimilation of dissolved inorganic nitrogen by a symbiotic sea anemone. Proc. R. Soc. Lond., B, 221, 71-86. Wilkerson, F. P. and Trench, R. K....