Tropical Aquarium Fish Breeds

includes species that only seem to survive in an aquarium when kept in large shoals (schools), and those that are collected from deep water, often improperly

Rare: Folks! If it is next to impossible to FIND a fish in the wild, collecting that species is a sure-fire way to drive it into extinction! To us, keeping these species is very irresponsible. We have two words for people that disagree with this . . . BITE ME!

Please note that some species may be on the list for more than one or more of these reasons, but not all reasons are shown due to space limitations. In our opinion, one or two reasons alone are enough to avoid that species, unless

Do get and use ammonia, nitrite and nitrate test kits for saltwater and document the likely (you might not detect this) rise in ammonia concentration with time, then its drop to zero, an increase in nitrites, and their drop and the inevitable (and welcome) presence and increase in nitrates.

When the ammonia and nitrites have gone to zero parts per million (ppm) and there is appreciable nitrates (a few ppm), and likely the beginning of algal growth, you are ready to start stocking your new system probably with a few "cleaner uppers" to start.

Test Kits: Vary tremendousl

After setting up the tank, adding water, testing your gear and allowing it to run for a few days, such live material can be added to it.

"Old" Filter Media:

Another "pre-seeded" possibility is placing filter sponge, ceramic media, carbon, polyester/wool et al. from an up-and-running system in your new set-up. Such media can be easily transported damp from one tank to another. One proviso: Make sure the "donor" system has no r

What Im hinting at is simply transplanting the beneficial microbes from an established system to the new one. In actual practice, some of a stabilized, pollutant and parasite free sources gravel, rock, filter media is carefully placed in a sterile new-one of close temperature, specific gravity and pH. Voila! I

Many "sponges", paper and cloth towels ar abrasive for acrylic aquariums. Lemon oil and other preparations are fine for use on stands and surrounding woodwork; alcohol and ammonia-based cleaners are not.

Lighting:

This is a very important part of aquarium keeping, functionally and for the appreciation of the hobbyist. Photo- quality, strength and duration need to be understood and properly controlled for optimum benefit. Aquarium systems are sold

Complimentary Goldfish
I've heard of people traveling with dogs, cats, and even an occasional fish. But this Chicago hotel takes vacationing with pets to a new level. They will provide a goldfish....