Pantodon buchholzi (African Butterfly Fish)
Information will be coming soon

Originally posted 2009-11-05 21:13:32. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Family: Chilodontidae

Distribution: Chilodus punctatus, better known as the Spotted Headstander, is a freshwater species distributed throughout the Amazon River basin, Apeú River, Pará State, Suriname, Guyana, and the western Orinoco River basin.

PH: 6.0 – 7.0

Temperature: 24°C – 28°C (75 – 84F)

Hardness: 10 dH

Description: Chilodus punctatus can grow to a maximum length of 8 cm.  This silver-gold coloured species has a dark patch on each of its large scales, giving it a unique, spotted appearance.  It has one stripe that goes along its body and several dark spots on its dorsal fin.  Females have a more rounded body during spawning.  This species has a “head-down” way of swimming, giving it its common name: Spotted Headstander.

Diet: Chilodus punctatus can be fed worms, vegetable-based foods, insects, plant matter and crustaceans.  You should bear in mind this species’ mouth is very small, so all prepared foods should be small and easily digestible.

Breeding: You will know when this species is spawning because it will lose its spotted marks.  These will be replaced by one or two dark patches between the eyes and dorsal area.  After spawning, the female will shed 3 – 5 eggs; each egg is only 1.5 mm in size.  Once you see these eggs appear you should instantly remove the parents from the tank.  Breeding and raising this species is not too difficult and the fry can be fed brine shrimp as soon as they have hatched.

Comments: Make sure you provide plenty of dense vegetation to simulate Chilodus punctatus’ natural environment.  This species will require plenty of hiding spaces given its timid, peaceful nature.  It is best to house a school of 5 – 6 Spotted Headstanders in an 80 litre tank.  This species is suitable for newcomers to the hobby, but careful attention should be paid to water conditions.  Sudden changes in water quality – or a failure to keep the water clean – may result in disease and eventual death.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Chilodus punctatus can be housed in a one-species tank or with other small, peaceful fish.  They will live happily with most Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetra and Black Tetra). They are also great tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, Corydoras Catfish  (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppy and Platy and most Gourami (such as the Blue Gourami and Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also can live happily with most Danio (particularly the Zebra Danio and Pearl Danio)  and also many Killifish make great tank mates.

Originally posted 2010-01-05 20:31:03. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Family: Gobiidae

Distribution: Brachygobius nunus, known also as the Golden Banded Goby, is a species distributed throughout the mangroves, tidal creeks and estuaries of Asia.  It is found in parts of India, Myanmar, Thailand, Borneo, Indonesia and Malaya.

PH: 7.5 – 8.5

Temperature: 24°C – 30°C (74 – 86F)

Hardness: 10 – 24 dH

Description: Brachygobius nunus will reach a maximum of 4 cm in length and can be expected to live for 5 – 8 years. This species has an elongated, round body, with a base colour of yellow.  It may display four vertical black lines across its body.  You may see small black specks against the yellow base colour in between the black bands; it has black dorsal and adipose fins, while the other fins are generally translucent.

Diet: The Golden Banded Goby can be a fussy eater and has a distinct preference for live foods.  You may consider offering it flake or other prepared foods, but bloodworms, brine shrimp, whiteworms and daphnia are all excellent – and possibly better – options.

Breeding: When ready to breed, males will lose their distinctive black stripes and display a more intense yellow colouration.  Females’ bellies will turn very rounded when carrying eggs.  The male will choose a cave and lure the female into it, and the male will fertilise the eggs which the female has deposited in the cave.  The male will stay in the vicinity of the eggs until they hatch.  As soon as the fry have hatched, it is a good idea to remove the adult male because he will no longer guard them at this point.  You could put the fry in a separate five gallon rearing tank and keep a stable salinity at all times.  You can start the young fry on vinegar eels and liquid fry food, but they will be able to eat hatched brine shrimp within a few days.

Comments: The Golden Banded Goby requires brackish water conditions and, as such, may not be the best option for newcomers to the hobby.  You can decorate your tank with plenty of hiding spaces – upturned pot plants – rocks, and bogwood.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Brachygobius nunus can live happily with most Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetra and Black Tetra). They are also great tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, Corydoras Catfish  (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppy and Platy and most Gourami (such as the Blue Gouramiand Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also can live happily with most Danio (particularly the Zebra Danio and Pearl Danio)  and also many Killifish make great tank mates.

Originally posted 2010-01-05 11:37:38. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Family: Gasteropelecidae

Distribution: Thoracocharax stellatus, also known as the Spotfin Hatchetfish, is a pelagic freshwater species found in the still waters of Argentina and Brazil, specifically in the Amazon, Parana and Orinoco River basins.

PH: 6.0 – 7.5

Temperature: 23°C – 29C (73 – 84F)

Hardness: 3 – 15 dH

Description: Thoracocharax stellatus can reach a maximum length of 7 – 8 cm in an aquarium.   This top-dwelling fish is very peaceful and a good addition to any tank.  It has a lower body that extends downwards, resembling a pelican.  This area is cover with large silver scales.  It has long pectoral fins, a flat dorsal area and a back that is olive-brown in its colouration.   Females are larger than males but sexing is reportedly a very difficult task that can only be performed when comparing a large group of specimens.  The Spotfin Hatchetfish has an expected life span of seven years.

Diet: Thoracocharax stellatus can be given a staple diet of quality flake, but you should throw in brine shrimp and bloodworms on a regular basis to keep it healthy and vibrant.

Breeding: There is no evidence that this egg-scattering species has spawned in captivity as yet; all breeding attempts to date have been unsuccessful.

Comments: Thoracocharax stellatus should probably be housed in at least a 20 gallon tank.  This species will require a solid supply of air.  Decorate your tank as you would for any other types of Hatchetfish; this may include hiding spaces, softer water conditions and plenty of plants, as well as a tightly fitted lid to prevent this jumper from escaping the tank.  There is not a great deal of information available on this species and it is probably best suited to experienced hobbyists.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: This peaceful shoaling fish should be kept in large groups. They will live happily with Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetraand Black Tetra). They are also great tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, CorydorasCatfish  (particularly Corydoras Sterbaiand Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppyand Platyand most Gourami(such as the Blue Gourami and Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also can live happily with most Danio(particularly the Zebra Danioand Pearl Danio)  and also many Killifish make great tank mates.

Originally posted 2010-01-26 21:34:10. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Family: Cobitinae

Distribution: acanthophthalmus kuhli, better known as Kuhli Loach, has its origin in the hills streams and lowland forest canals of Borneo and Sumatra, Indonesia.

PH: 5.5 – 6.5

Temperature: 24 – 27°C (75 – 81°F)

Hardness: 4 – 10 dH

Description: The Kuhli Loach is a peaceful, snake-like creature with an irregular colour pattern consisting of 6 – 10 bars.  It has a large, dark blotch over half of its caudal fin.  This species can reach up to 13 cm in length.  It is easily confused with other kuhlis, but you will have no problem picking this species out in a community tank.

Diet: Acanthophthalmus kuhli will eat most things.  It will appreciate a quality flake, fish pellets, frozen bloodworm and shrimp.

Breeding: The Kuhli Loach will not reach sexual maturity until 12 -18 months.  This species will spawn in pairs, but you just get a group of adults and let them take care of business.  Bright green eggs will float for a while before sinking and, should they not be eaten, will hatch after a few days.  The fry will feast upon mulm at the bottom of the tank, but you can provide them with micro-worms and frozen Cyclops after the first week.

Comments: Provide the Kuhli Loach with a well-established aquarium and change the water levels consistently to maintain good health.  You should create several hiding spaces and a soft substrate; Kuhli Loaches have a fondness for burrowing in sand, ingesting sand particles and blowing it out of their side gills.  A 10 – 20 gallon tank should house 6 – 12 adult Kuhli Loach.  It might be worth providing a sponge filter for good filtration.  This species does not appreciate loud noise or sudden vibrations, and will race around the tank in a total state of panic.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: The Kuhli Loach will live happily with most Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetraand Black Tetra). They are also great tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, CorydorasCatfish  (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppyand Platyand most Gourami(such as the Blue Gourami and Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also can live happily with most Danio(particularly the Zebra Danioand Pearl Danio)  and also many Killifish make great tank mates. This species will be defenceless against aggressive fish, so be careful when choosing tank mates. The Kuhli Loach should generally be housed with small, non-aggressive fish.

Originally posted 2010-01-26 10:42:21. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Family: Gasteropelecidae

Distribution: Carnegiella myersi, otherwise known as the Pygmy Hatchetfish, is distributed in South America, specifically the Amazon River basin in Peru, and in Bolivia.

PH: 5.5 – 6.5

Temperature: 23°C – 26°C (73 – 79F)

Hardness: 10 – 20 dH

Description: Carnegiella myersi is a small species with a maximum length of 2.2 cm.  It has a silvery body and a black lateral line that runs from the top of its body down to the caudal peduncle, and its fins are translucent.  This species has a life expectancy of 3 – 5 years.

Diet: This surface dwelling species enjoys a live-food diet, primarily of fruit flies, brine and black mosquito larvae.  It will also accept various small, dry foods.  It is important you don’t feed this species foods that sink, as it cannot eat from the middle or bottom areas of the tank.

Breeding: There is little information available on the breeding habits of Carnegiella myersi.  In most successful cases of breeding Hatchetfish, the water used was soft and acidic, with the adult pair conditioned with small insects.  It is important to remove the parents soon after spawning in case they decide to eat the small eggs.

Comments: Carnegiella myersi will enjoy a well-planted aquarium of at least 20 – 25 gallons in volume.  Make sure you keep a cover on your tank to prevent this species from jumping out onto the kitchen floor.  You may like to put a strong filter in your tank so this species can swim against the stream as it does in the wild. The Pygmy Hatchetfish is very delicate and requires special attention, and is recommended to those with plenty of experience in the hobby.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Carnegiella myersi can be housed in a one-species tank in a group of 6 – 8 fish.  They will live happily with most Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetra and Black Tetra). They are also great tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, Corydoras Catfish  (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppy and Platy and most Gourami (such as the Blue Gouramiand Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also can live happily with most Danio (particularly the Zebra Danio and Pearl Danio)  and also many Killifish make great tank mates.

Originally posted 2010-01-05 12:24:12. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Family: Gobiidae

Distribution: Brachygobius xanthozona, better known as the Bumble Bee Goby, is a species distributed mostly in the estuaries of Asia, including parts of Western Indonesia, India, Thailand and South Vietnam.

PH: 7.5 – 8.5

Temperature: 24°C – 30°C (74 – 86F)

Hardness: 12 – 18 dH

Description: Brachygobius xanthozona will reach a maximum of 5 cm in length and can be expected to live for only 2 – 3 years. This species has an elongated, round body, with a base colour of honey-yellow.  It has a series of black vertical bands across its body – one over its head region, two covering the body and the last band starting at its tail.  As it ages, the black becomes less intense and the yellow becomes more obvious.

Diet: The Bumble Bee Goby, like Brachygobius nunus, can be a fussy eater and has a distinct preference for live foods, particularly brine shrimp and bloodworms  You may consider offering it flake or other dried or frozen foods – whiteworms and beef hearts are both excellent options.

Breeding: When ready to breed, males will lose their distinctive black stripes and display a more intense yellow colouration.  Females’ bellies will turn very rounded when carrying eggs.  The male will choose a cave and lure the female into it, and the male will fertilise the eggs which the female has deposited in the cave.  You should add some freshwater to your tank to simulate the rainy season: the period in which this species spawns in the wild.  Males will guard the eggs until hatching, but remove both parents just before hatching to prevent them eating their young.  The fry can be fed infusoria until they grown large enough to eat freshly hatched brine shrimp.

Comments: The Bumble Bee Goby, like the Golden Banded Goby, requires brackish water conditions and, as such, may not be the best option for newcomers to the hobby.  They can be quite territorial and will require plenty of hiding spots in the form of upturned pot plants.  Keep this species in a tank of at least 20 gallons in volume.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Brachygobius xanthozona will live happily with most Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetra and Black Tetra). They are also great tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, Corydoras Catfish  (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppy and Platy and most Gourami (such as the Blue Gouramiand Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also can live happily with most Danio (particularly the Zebra Danio and Pearl Danio)  and also many Killifish make great tank mates.

Originally posted 2010-01-05 11:39:58. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Family: Gasteropelecidae

Distribution: Carnegiella schereri, commonly known as the Dwarf Hatchetfish, is distributed in South America’s Amazon River basin in Peru and Brazil.

PH: 5.5 – 6.0

Temperature: 24°C – 27°C (75 – 81F)

Hardness: 2 – 15 dH

Description: Carnegiella myersi is a small species with a maximum length of 2.6 cm.  There is not a great deal of information available on this tiny member of the Gasteropelecidae family.

Diet: This surface dwelling species will presumably eat a live-food diet, primarily of fruit flies, brine and black mosquito larvae.  It will also most likely accept various small, dry foods.  It is important to not feed this species foods that sink, as this upper-dweller cannot eat from the middle or bottom areas of the tank.

Breeding: There is not much breeding information available on the Dwarf Hatchetfish.  In most successful cases of breeding Hatchetfish, the water used was soft and acidic, with the adult pair conditioned with small insects.  It is important to remove the parents soon after spawning in case they decide to eat the small eggs.

Comments: Carnegiella schereri should be housed in tank 50 gallons in volume.  Make sure you keep a cover on your tank to prevent this species from jumping out onto the kitchen floor.  There is little actual information available on the Dwarf Hatchetfish, which is why it is recommended only to those with plenty of experience in the hobby.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Carnegiella schereri should be housed in a group of about 10 fish.  They will live happily with most Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetra and Black Tetra). They are also great tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, Corydoras Catfish  (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppy and Platy and most Gourami (such as the Blue Gouramiand Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also can live happily with most Danio (particularly the Zebra Danio and Pearl Danio)  and also many Killifish make great tank mates.

Originally posted 2010-01-05 12:26:32. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Family: Cyprinidae

Distribution: Rhodeus amarus, also known as European Bitterling, is a freshwater species found throughout Europe.  It is distributed in the Rhone basin to the Neva in Russia; and south to the Black Sea.  It is also in the Black, Aegean and western and southern Caspian Seas.  It also appears in the Mediterranean basin and Drin drainages in Montenegro and Macedonia.  This species occurs in plants over sandy, muddy-bottomed shallow waters. 

PH: 7.0 – 8.0

Temperature: 10°C – 25C (77 – 84F)

Hardness: 15 – 20 dH

Description: Rhodeus amarus can reach a maximum length of around 10 cm; it is usually around the 5 cm mark. Most Bittlerlings have a dorsal blue-green line that runs from the dorsal fin to the caudal fin, where it results in a red spot.  The fins and eyes can be red-tinged and the first rays of the pelvic fins are a white colour. 

Diet: Rhodeus amarus is omnivorous and will take most foods in an aquarium environment.  Give it flake, live foods, pellets, vegetables and algae tablets to keep it healthy and bring out its best colours.

Breeding: The male European Bitterling begins courtship of the female by dancing around and attempting to charm a freshwater mussel; if successful, the mussel attracts a female European Bitterling to the male.  If the female is impressed, she will put her long, egg-laying tube into the mussel, and the male will promptly fertilise the eggs inside the mussel.  The mussel will incubate the eggs for about one month, before the eggs hatch and the larvae leaves to swim freely.  Interestingly, this species was once used for human pregnancy tests: female Rhodeus amarus were injected with the urine of a pregnant woman; the woman would learn she was pregnant if they fish’s ovipositors started to protrude.

Comments: You can house a small group of Rhodeus amarus in a 25 gallon tank.  Your tank should have plenty of open swimming space, a substrate, some vegetation and, of course, when it is ready to spawn, add mussels to the tank.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Rhodeus amarus is an unfussy species that should be tanked with peaceful fish that can live in cooler water temperatures.

Originally posted 2010-01-26 10:50:15. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Family: Cyprinidae

Distribution: Rhodeus sericeus, also known as Amur Bitterling, is a freshwater species found throughout Europe and Asia.  The subspecies Rhodeus sericeus amarus is found in eastern and central Europe; Rhodeus sinensis sinensis is distributed in the Jangtze basin.  This species occurs in ponds, lakes, the backwaters of rivers and sandy pools. 

PH: 5.5 – 6.5

Temperature: 18°C – 21C (64 – 70F)

Hardness: 2 – 3 dH

Description: Rhodeus sericeus can reach a maximum length of around 11 cm; it has a life expectancy of five years at most. Most Bittlerlings have a dorsal blue-green line that runs from the dorsal fin to the caudal fin, where it results in a red spot.  The fins and eyes can be red-tinged and the first rays of the pelvic fins are a white colour. 

Diet: Rhodeus amarus will feed on plant material and small insect larvae in the wild. Bitterlings can be fed flake, live foods, pellets, vegetables and algae tablets in an aquarium environment.

Breeding: Like the European Bitterling, this species begins courtship of the female by dancing around and attempting to charm a freshwater mussel; if successful, the mussel attracts a female Rhodeus sericeus to the male.  If the female is impressed, she will put her long, egg-laying tube into the mussel, and the male will promptly fertilise the eggs inside the mussel.  The mussel will incubate the eggs for about one month, before the eggs hatch and the larvae leaves to swim freely.  In the wild, Rhodeus sericeus reproduces between the months of April and June.

Comments: You can house a small group of Rhodeus sericeus in a 20 – 30 gallon tank.  Your tank should have plenty of open swimming space, a soft substrate and some vegetation.  When spawning, remember to add mussels to the tank.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Rhodeus sericeus reside in cooler water temperatures and should be housed with similarly-sized species who can handle these water parameters.

Originally posted 2010-01-26 10:56:23. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Family: Gasteropelecidae

Distribution: Gasteropelecus levis are endemic to the lower Amazon River basin, Brazil, South America,

PH: 5.8 – 7.1 pH

Temperature: 24 – 30°C (75 – 86°F)

Hardness: 4 – 15 dH

Description: The Silver Hatchetfish can reach a length of up to 6cm within captivity.  They a very thin fish and exhibit black and gold lines longitudinally.  They prefer the upper region of the tank.

A community tank is suitable for Gasteropelecus levis, as they are a peaceful species.  However, only other peaceful species that inhabit the lower areas of the tank should be included, as the Silver Hatchetfish are quiet timid and easily frightened.  It is also recommended that this species be kept in shoals to minimise stress to individual fish.

Diet: The natural food source for Gasteropelecus levis is insects.  In captivity, they may also feed on worms, mosquito larvae, crustaceans, brine shrimp and flake foods.

Breeding: Gasteropelecus levis is difficult to breed in captivity.  There is limited information available on successful pairings.  If you are going to attempt to breed, condition the parents-to-be with small insects to keep their weight and health up.  Set up a breeding tank with many floating plants (preferred spawning sites).  Once the eggs have been laid, remove the parents.

The fry can be fed with paramecia and roftiers.

Comments: Due to the difficulty of breeding Gasteropelecus levis, they are only recommended for experienced aquarists.  They are also susceptible to illnesses in poor water conditions.

Minimal tank size is 75-95L and requires a tightly-fitted lid.  Gasteropelecus levis are jumpers and will easily get out a ‘make-shift’ cover.  The tank should have dark colours (substrate, plants, etc) and requires diffused light (use floating plants).

As there was only limited information on this species, general information pertaining to the Gasteropelecidae family has been used.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: They should live happily with Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetra and Black Tetra). They also should be good tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, Corydoras Catfish  (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppy and Platy and most Gourami (such as the Blue Gourami and Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also should live happily with most Danio (particularly the Zebra Danioand Pearl Danio)  and also many Killifish could make great tank mates.

Originally posted 2010-04-17 13:41:21. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Information will be coming soon

Originally posted 2009-11-05 04:13:38. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Family: Eleotridae

Distribution: Tateurndina ocellicauda, commonly known as the Peacock Gudgeon, is a freshwater species native to New Guinea and east Papua; it is mostly found in rainforest streams, rivers and ponds.

PH: 6.5 – 7.0

Temperature: 23°C – 28C (74 – 82F)

Hardness: 4 – 14 dH

Description: Tateurndina ocellicauda reaches a maximum length of 7.5 cm in an aquarium.   This species has a main colour of blue, with some fine-lined red vertical banding that follows up into the dorsal and anal fins.  It also has a pale-yellow colouration on its belly that may be more obvious in females.  Males have a block-like head shape; females have a streamlined head and, often, a black line on their anal fin.  Tateurndina ocellicauda can live from 5 – 8 years.

Diet: The Peacock Gudgeon has a preference for live food – Daphnia, bloodworm and mosquito larvae in particular – but can be given some prepared foods.

Breeding: A yellow patch will appear on the female’s belly when she is set to spawn.  This species will lay its eggs in caves, so make sure you have plenty of spawning spots in your tank.  The male assumes responsibility for the eggs and will tend and fan them for 6 – 7 days until they hatch.  The fry, tiny in size, will take a while to grow larger and should be only given very small foods initially.

Comments: Tateurndina ocellicauda will swim at all levels of the tank and prefer to be kept in pairs.  You can easily keep a pair in a 10 gallon tank.  You will need to make plenty of water changes, as this species will suffer if not kept in a clean tank in the water conditions listed above.  Provide plenty of hiding spaces – this is very important – and carry out a 50 per cent water change on a weekly basis.  This species requires a moderate level of care and is suited to those with experience in the hobby.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: The Peacock Gudgeon is not an active swimmer and should be kept with small, peaceful tank mates.  Some suggestions may include Orange Tetras, some Rasboras, Bumblebee Gobies, Zebra Danios and some types of Platies.

Originally posted 2010-01-26 21:19:02. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Information will be coming soon

Originally posted 2009-11-04 22:34:30. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Family: Cyprinidae

Distribution: Tanichthys albonubes, commonly known as the White Cloud Mountain Minnow, is a freshwater species that has its origins in China’s White Cloud Mountains.  It is also found in parts of Vietnam.

PH: 6.0 – 8.0

Temperature: 18°C – 28C

Hardness: 5 – 10 dH

Description: Tanichthys albonubes reaches a maximum length of 4 cm in an aquarium, but is usually around 2 cm long.   This species has a green body with golden zones on its central axis and a series of dark lines above the zones.  It has a bright red caudal fin and a blunt snout; its pelvic fins are tiny and it lacks any barbels.

Diet: Tanichthys albonubes eats algae and zooplankton in the wild, but in an aquarium it can be given a variety of live and frozen foods.

Breeding: This egg-scattering species displays no parental care and you should remove the parents from the tank as soon as the eggs are present.  Place the most colourful fish in a small tank with a spawning mop or Java moss.  The eggs will hatch within 48 – 60 hours and the fry, once free swimming, can be fed powdered fish food or Infusoria.

Comments: The White Mountain Cloud Minnow can be kept in most conditions and is a very easy species to care for.  It should be kept in groups of at least five and in a tank no shorter than 60 cm in length. You should put plenty of plants in your tank and make sure there is some open swimming space, particularly near the surface.  Weekly water changes of 10 – 15 per cent are recommended.  This species is definitely recommended for beginners.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: The White Cloud Mountain Minnow is very peaceful and can be tanked with most Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetraand Black Tetra). They are also great tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, CorydorasCatfish  (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppyand Platyand most Gourami(such as the Blue Gourami and Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also can live happily with most Danio(particularly the Zebra Danioand Pearl Danio)  and also many Killifish make great tank mates.

Originally posted 2010-01-26 21:16:16. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Family: Gasteropelecidae

Distribution: Carnegiella schereri, better known as the Marbled Hatchetfish, is distributed in the upper middle levels of South America’s Amazon River basin; Columbia’s Caquetta River; and in Guyana, Peru, Suriname and Brazil.  It prefers to swim in places with plenty of surface vegetation, such as forest streams and tributaries.

PH: 5.0 – 8.0

Temperature: 24°C – 28°C (75 – 84F)

Hardness: 5 – 19 dH

Description: Carnegiella strigata can reach a maximum length of 3.5 cm.  One of the better-known members of the Gasteropelecidae family, the Marbled Hatchetfish displays a gold stripe from its eye down to its caudal fin, and below lies a cream and brown, marbled pattern.  Males and females are difficult to sex unless the female is carrying eggs, at which point they are visible through her body.  The Marbled Hatchetfish has a life expectancy of up to five years.

Diet: This surface dwelling species will enjoy a mostly live-food diet, primarily of insects, brine shrimp, bloodworms and black mosquito larvae.  It will also most likely accept various small, dry foods over time.

Breeding: Like with all Hatchetfish, breeding in an aquarium environment is exceedingly difficult.  In some successful cases the water used was soft and acidic, with the adult pair conditioned with live foods.  It is important to remove the parents as soon as the eggs are laid in case they decide to devour them.

Comments: Carnegiella schereri should be housed in a tank of at least 27 litres in volume.  Make sure you keep a cover on your tank to prevent this species from jumping out onto the kitchen floor, as this is probably the most likely species of Hatchetfish to jump out of your tank.   You might like to provide a slight current for this species to swim against.  It is recommended you cover the water’s surface with floating plants to simulate its natural environment, and perhaps some driftwood and a sand substrate elsewhere in the tank.  Breeding difficulties aside, Carnegiella strigata is a relatively easy species to look after and is recommended to newcomers to the hobby.

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Recommended Compatible Species: Carnegiella strigata is a peaceful – but sometimes nervous – species that will not compete well with others for food.  It is best to tank it with small fish that will stay in different levels of the tank.  They will live happily with most Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetra and Black Tetra). They are also great tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, Corydoras Catfish  (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppy and Platy and most Gourami (such as the Blue Gouramiand Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also can live happily with most Danio (particularly the Zebra Danio and Pearl Danio)  and also many Killifish make great tank mates.

Originally posted 2010-01-05 12:29:04. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Family: Cichlidae

Distribution: Spathodus erythrodon, sometimes known as Blue-spotted Goby, is a freshwater species endemic to Lake Tanganyika, Africa, with the exception of the southern end.  It is rarely seen in more than a foot of water; it is often found right on the rubble shoreline. 

PH: 7.0 – 8.5

Temperature: 25°C – 27C (77 – 81F)

Hardness: 10 – 20 dH

Description: Spathodus erythrodon can reach a maximum length of around 9 cm. This species has some distinctive blue and gold spots and a set of blue lips, giving it its common name.  Their bellies are lighter than their bodies and there are some blue elements to the dorsal tail and anal fins.  This species has heavy, sharp pectoral fins and eyes that are located towards the top of their heads.

Diet: Spathodus erythrodon can be given nutritious live foods, frozen food and tablets.  You should also provide it with vegetables – spinach, lettuce, algae wafers and cucumber – and flake food.

Breeding: The Blue-spotted Goby is a mouthbrooder.  You should house a group of about six Spathodus erythrodon in a tank and wait for them to pair off.  Females will clear a spot in the tank and attract the male; she will lay only one or two eggs and hold them in her mouth.  The male will fertilise the eggs in the female’s mouth.  The whole process will be repeated several times until there are 10 – 30 eggs.  The female will carry the eggs until they hatch and spit one or two fry onto the spawning site; the male will then play his part in the process by holding the fry in his mouth for 9 – 16 days.  Provide small stones and shells for the fry to hide in once they are released from the male’s mouth.

Comments: Spathodus erythrodon should be kept in a tank of at least 30 gallons.  Your tank should have a system of caves – rocks or flowerpots will do – that reach to the surface.  You will need a sandy substrate in the tank; you should also put the tank near the window to catch the natural sunlight.  The Blue-spottted Goby will require weekly water change: 10 – 15 per cent should do.  This species is reasonably easy to look after and is most likely suitable for newcomers to the hobby.

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Recommended Compatible Species: Spathodus erythrodon can be housed with small, mid-water swimming cichlids.  This species can be aggressive towards its own species if not paired up.

Originally posted 2010-01-26 11:25:20. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Family: Gasteropelecidae

Distribution: Gasteropelecus maculatus prefer stagnant bodies of water (swamps, lakes, ponds) in Central and South America; specifically from eastern Panama through to Surinam, including Venezuela and Colombia.

PH: 6 – 7 pH

Temperature: 23 – 28°C (73 – 82°F)

Hardness: 6 – 15 dH

Description: The Spotted Hatchetfish is a peaceful upper-dwellers and suits a community tank.  They should also be kept in shoals of five or more.

Whilst the colouration of Gasteropelecus maculatus is silver with an olive-brown back, it can appear a shimmering green or blue under different light angles.  Their convex body is spotted – hence the name – and the fins are transparent.  Interestingly, the fins will often measure half of the body length.  Being upper-dwellers, the mouth is characteristically small and up-turned.  They can reach a length of 9cm.  Females will grow plumper during spawning season.

Diet: This species prefers a diet of live food such as larvae, mosquitos, brine shrimp, bloodworms and small crustaceans.  You may also substitute flake food into your Gasteropelecus maculatus’ diet on occasion.

Breeding: Breeding Gasteropelecus maculatus can be extremely difficult.  They need to be well-fed and placed in a darkened aquarium with soft, acidic water.  Floating plants are required as the eggs are laid in the roots.  Parents should be removed after spawning as they may chase the fry.  The eggs will drop to the bottom of the tank and will hatch less than 48 hours later.  The new fry should be fed on fine infusoria.

Comments: Whilst Gasteropelecus maculatus is a reasonably hardy species, they will take some time to settle into their new surroundings.  Due to the difficulty of breeding, it is not always recommended for beginners.

Gasteropelecus maculatus require a tank of at least 114L with a tight cover, surface plants and a filter to oxygenate the water.  Due to their penchant for jumping, aquarists may choose a set-up that includes a large space between the surface of the water and the cover so that the Spotted Hatchetfish can jump around freely.

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Recommended Compatible Species: Larger mid- to bottom-dwellers with minimal to no aggression are recommended, They should live happily with Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetra and Black Tetra). They also should be good tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, Corydoras Catfish  (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppy and Platy and most Gourami (such as the Blue Gourami and Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also should live happily with most Danio (particularly the Zebra Danioand Pearl Danio)  and also many Killifish could make great tank mates.

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Family: Gasteropelecidae

Distribution: Thoracocharax securis, also known as the Greater Hatchetfish, is a pelagic freshwater species found in the lower Amazon Basin, particularly in lakes, swamps and heavily vegetated ponds.  It is occasionally found in fast-moving, shallow streams.

PH: 6.0 – 7.5

Temperature: 23°C – 30C (73 – 86F)

Hardness: 4 – 15 dH

Description: Thoracocharax securis can reach a maximum length of 9 cm in an aquarium.   It has a convex body, small ventral fins and a straight back.  It is mostly of a silver-white colouration, but its back is olive-brown; it has a green to yellow stripe that extends vertically from its gills down to the base of its tail.

Diet: Thoracocharax securis is a big fan of live foods and can be given glass worms, Daphnia, brine shrimp, bloodworms, mosquito larvae and flake foods.

Breeding: There is no evidence that this species has spawned in captivity as yet; all breeding attempts to date have been unsuccessful.

Comments: Thoracocharax securis should be housed in a 20 gallon tank.  This species will require a solid supply of air.  Decorate your tank as you would for any other types of Hatchetfish; this may include hiding spaces, softer water conditions and plenty of plants, as well as a tightly fitted lid to prevent this jumper from escaping the tank.  This relatively hardy fish requires a moderate level of care and is better suited to experienced hobbyists.

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Recommended Compatible Species: This peaceful shoaling fish should be kept in groups of three or more, and not with aggressive species.  They will live happily with Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetraand Black Tetra). They are also great tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, CorydorasCatfish  (particularly Corydoras Sterbaiand Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppyand Platyand most Gourami(such as the Blue Gourami and Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also can live happily with most Danio(particularly the Zebra Danioand Pearl Danio)  and also many Killifish make great tank mates.

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Family: Cyprinidae

Distribution: Crossocheilus siamensis, commonly known as the Siamese Algae-eater, inhabits lower areas of streams and rivers.  It is distributed throughout Asia, specifically in the Mekong, Xe Bangfai and Chao Phraya basins, and throughout the Malay Peninsula.

PH: 6.5 – 8.0

Temperature: 24°C – 26°C (75 – 79F)

Hardness: 5 – 20 dH

Description: Crossocheilus siamensis can reach a maximum of 16 cm in an aquarium.  This species is not exceptionally attractive or distinguished – it has transparent fins and a black longitudinal strip on its sides.  Females are up to 30 per cent larger than males, but still measure the same length.  Apart from this, Crossocheilus siamensis is quite a difficult species to sex.

Diet: This species is a genuine omnivore.  It will accept dried foods, meaty foods, catfish pellets, and algae wafers – basically anything.  This species is a classic algae eater and will even eat hair algae: a type of algae that many fish don’t bother with.

Breeding: The Siamese Algae-eater is very difficult to breed in captivity and there has been no real successful documentation as yet.  In the wild, this species spawn near plants and males fertilise the eggs.

Comments: Crossocheilus siamensis need plenty of space in which to swim, and a tank size of around 40 gallons for four adults.  This species will dwell around the middle-bottom region of your tank.  Provide plenty of vegetation and rockwork to simulate its natural environment.  This is a very sociable species, excellent in a community tank, and is therefore suitable for beginners.

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Recommended Compatible Species: The Siamese Algae-eater is a very peaceful species, but males may occasionally flare up at each other.  They will live happily with most Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetra and Black Tetra). They are also great tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, Corydoras Catfish  (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppy and Platy and most Gourami (such as the Blue Gourami and Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also can live happily with most Danio (particularly the Zebra Danio and Pearl Danio)  and also many Killifish make great tank mates.

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Family: Gasteropelecidae

Distribution: Carnegiella marthae, otherwise known as the Blackwing Hatchetfish, is distributed in South America, specifically the Negro and upper Orinoco River basins.

PH: 5.5 – 6.5

Temperature: 23°C – 27°C (73 – 81F)

Hardness: 2 – 4 dH

Description: Carnegiella marthae is a small species with a maximum length of 2.8 cm.  It has a unique, slender body, a deep belly and high-set pectoral fins, along with an upturned mouth which it uses to catch insects in the wild.  This species usually comes in silver colour with black stripes and patches over its body.  It has a horizontal stripe – usually gold coloured – which runs from its gills to the base of its tail.  Its pectoral fins are transparent and make up almost half of its entire body length, giving it a distinctive appearance.

Diet: This surface dwelling species enjoys a live-food diet, primarily of mosquito larvae, small flying insects, daphnia and flake foods.  It will also accept freeze-dried bloodworms, tubifex and other meaty foods.

Breeding: The Blackwing Hatchetfish is reportedly tough to breed.  You will need to use soft, peat filtered water and keep the adult pair apart for the weeks leading up to spawning, feeding them a strict diet of drosophila and mosquito larvae.  After 2 – 3 weeks of separation, put the pair in a 10 gallon tank and provide plenty of plants for the female to lay her eggs on.  The female will lay 2 – 5 eggs on floating plants near the surface, at which point both parents should be removed.  The fry will hatch in 1 -2 days and can be fed on brine shrimp after a week.

Comments: Carnegiella marthae will enjoy a well-planted aquarium of at least 10 gallons in volume.  Make sure you keep a cover on your tank to prevent this species from jumping out onto the kitchen floor.  The Blackwing Hatchetfish is very delicate and requires special attention, and is recommended to those with plenty of experience in the hobby.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Carnegiella marthae can  live happily with most Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetra and Black Tetra). They are also great tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, Corydoras Catfish  (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppy and Platy and most Gourami (such as the Blue Gouramiand Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also can live happily with most Danio (particularly the Zebra Danio and Pearl Danio)  and also many Killifish make great tank mates.

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Family: Ambassidae

Distribution: Chanda nama, sometimes known as the Elongate Glass-Perchlet, is distributed in parts of Asia, including Pakistan, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Nepal and India.  It is most abundant during the rainy season, and is found mostly in clear streams, canals, ponds, and paddy fields.

PH: 7.5 – 8.5

Temperature: 24°C – 28°C (75 – 84F)

Hardness: 12 – 18 dH

Description: Chanda nama, a species which is often harvested and sold at markets, can reach up to 11 cm in length.  As you might imagine, the Glassfish species gets its name from its glass-like – almost see-through – appearance.  Males will have longer fins and slightly brighter colouration.

Diet: This species of Glassfish will have a distinct preference for live or frozen foods, as opposed to flake and pelleted foods.  Given this is one of the larger Glassfish species, it will appreciate earthworms and river shrimps as part of its live-food diet.  Small Glassfish have a love of lobster eggs, and you could provide these as a special treat.

Breeding: There is not much specific information available on the breeding requirements of Chanda nama, but it is most likely that an increase in temperature and the addition of fresh water will trigger spawning.  Glassfish lay their eggs among plants, and these eggs hatch within 24 hours.  It is reportedly tough to raise the fry because they do not actively chase food, but it might be a good idea to try feeding them small nauplii in the first few days.

Comments: Chanda nama can be housed in a similar way to most community fish; it will not eat your plants or dig massive holes in your substrate.  It might be an idea to add bushy plants to your tank in order to catch its eggs.  Make sure you provide the Elongate Glass-Perchlet with plenty of open space to swim in.  This species should be housed in a tank of at least 20 gallons in volume.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: They will live happily with most Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetra and Black Tetra). They are also great tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, Corydoras Catfish  (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppy and Platy and most Gourami (such as the Blue Gouramiand Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also can live happily with most Danio (particularly the Zebra Danio and Pearl Danio)  and also many Killifish make great tank mates.

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Information will be coming soon

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Information will be coming soon

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium