Background In recent times a large number of dramatically written press reports, originating both in Europe and North America, have spoken of large pirhana species which uncaring pet keepers have deliberately released into various waterways once these fish have outgrown their aquaria. Many of these stories have turned out not to relate to the various pirhana species but to … [Read more...] about Pacu – A Giant Characin of the Amazon
Characins
Finally I Made It – Cardinal Tetras
Visiting Jem Aquatics shop I saw some pretty young Cardinal Tetras from a recent shipment. The fish were in excellent condition, of good shape and young, just ready and promising. In the past I have bought, tried to breed and wasted probably well over 300 dollars on Cardinals. The visit to the shop tempted me once more. With Bob's (the owner) permission I was able to … [Read more...] about Finally I Made It – Cardinal Tetras
Black Emperor Tetras
Yes Virginia, there is such a thing as Black Emperor Tetras. There is also a lot of debate on whether it is a man-made colour strain or the third species of Emperor tetra, which is probably never seen. Nearly two years ago I came across a few Black Emperor Tetras in a local pet shop. I bought the best two pairs from the few that were in the tank. I have, over the years seen … [Read more...] about Black Emperor Tetras
The Golden Tetra (Hemigrammus rodwayi)
This article should be titled "The Fish That Never Was." This is a very interesting story. First, let me describe this beautiful fish. The Golden Tetra appears as if it was made of metal and does appear as if it was really made of gold. Both sexes look the same with a black spot at the base of the tail and the dorsal and anal fins are edged in white. This species was first … [Read more...] about The Golden Tetra (Hemigrammus rodwayi)
Spawning Rummynose Tetras
I bought my Rummynose Tetras in the summer; they were said to have been bred here in Ontario. The price was a special of five for so much and so I had them catch me five and went home hoping that I would have better luck with these than I had with some that I had bought a good number of years ago. Those unfortunately did not last a week. After quarantining the fish for a couple … [Read more...] about Spawning Rummynose Tetras