The Otocinclus genus are currently classified with the large family of Loricariidae, the sucker-mouthed catfishes. This genus is made up of very diminutive fishes, usually reaching no more two inches long at maturity. They are generally coloured in shades of creamy beige and browns, with occasional species exhibiting dark, almost black, markings. Those species that have … [Read more...] about Teeny Weeny Algae Eaters
Breeding Bettas
Clarius – The Walking Catfish
Background The catfish family Clariidae comprises members of the genus Chanallabes, Clarias, Heterobranchus, Gymnallabes and Heteropneustes. All these fish have been well provided for, by nature, in the struggle for natural survival. Perhaps the best know genus within this family is that of Clarias so we turn our attention to these fish over the pages which follow. Members … [Read more...] about Clarius – The Walking Catfish
Pseudosphromenus dayi (Spike-Tailed Gourami)
The Pseudosphromenus dayi is a very interesting fish that comes from Southeast Asia. It is stated that the natural habitat of the dayi is the coastal lowlands of the Coromandel coastline in southeast India and the coast region of west Malaya. The body of the dayi is light brown. The fins are a light red with blue on the edges. The fish get to be about 3 inches. The males are … [Read more...] about Pseudosphromenus dayi (Spike-Tailed Gourami)
The Leopard Bushfish (Ctenopoma acutirostre)
Common Names - Leopard Bushfish, Spotted Climbing Perch, Congo Leaf Fish, Purple Bushfish. Scientific Name - Ctenopoma acutirostre Description These fish, with their prehistoric looks, have a very strong resemblance to the South American Leaf fish of the genus Polycentrus and Monocirrhus. In reality this is a case of conversant evolution as both the Leopard Bushfish … [Read more...] about The Leopard Bushfish (Ctenopoma acutirostre)
In Defense of Snakeheads. My Experience with Channa orientalis.
Snakeheads are not monstrous eating machines that will cross highways to kill your dog. It is a shame that during this last summer of 2012, this and other equally ridiculous things were being said about a FISH. You heard it. You saw it on TV. We laughed about it at an MAS meeting. I even had to face an email tirade from a young hobbyist in Northern Wisconsin after listing some … [Read more...] about In Defense of Snakeheads. My Experience with Channa orientalis.
How I Raise Anabantoid Fry
The first egglayer I ever spawned was Betta splendens. I did this in a five gallon metal framed aquarium with no heater. Now those of you who know anything about how Bettas love warm water for spawning are going to be a bit skeptical about this statement, but I kept the water warm by keeping the incandescent light in the metal hood lit continuously. I don't know how those fish … [Read more...] about How I Raise Anabantoid Fry
Catfish: Understanding These Scavengers
When an aquarist makes the decision to introduce catfish into the community aquarium or to set-up an aquarium dedicated to a group of catfish, understanding the needs of these fish is a must. Catfish are a large group of fishes that are regarded by most as a single order called Siluriformes (sometimes called Nematognathi). Others place them as a suborder, Siluroidei, of the … [Read more...] about Catfish: Understanding These Scavengers
White Cloud Mountain Minnow
Scientific Name: Tanichthys albonubes Wild distribution: China Length: Up to 1.5 inches Water Temperature: 66f to 83f The White Cloud is an excellent little minnow. It is said to have been discovered by a small boy (Tan) in the White Cloud Mountains of China in the 1930s. This fish is an excellent beginner fish and is a surface dweller in the community tank. It enjoys … [Read more...] about White Cloud Mountain Minnow
Barbus titteya (Cherry Barb)
The Cherry Barb originates from the shaded streams and rivers on the plains of Sri Lanka. Most of the species are attractive and peaceful aquarium fish. They also have the further attraction of being hardy and easily bred. They are not touchy where food is concerned as long as they receive lots of it. It has been advised that you condition the pair before you are ready … [Read more...] about Barbus titteya (Cherry Barb)
Barbus fasciatus – Absolutely Beautiful!
Barbus fasciatus originate from Southeast Asia, and are not often seen in the aquarium shops. George obtained the Barbus fasciatus when they were young from Bernie Halverson, and Bernie called them by the common name of Panda Barb, which when you look at them they certainly have that Panda appearance. In the aquatic literature weve found, they also go by the Banded Barb for a … [Read more...] about Barbus fasciatus – Absolutely Beautiful!