Family: Characidae

Distribution: Triportheus trifurcatus is a benthopelagic freshwater species found in the Tocantins-Araguaia River basin, Brazil.

PH: 6.0 – 7.5

Temperature: 24°C – 27C (75 – 81F)

Hardness: 1 – 18

Description: Triportheus trifurcatus can reach a maximum length of about 17 cm.  This deep-bodied species has a silver-yellowish colouration and 5 – 6 longitudinal stripes on the dorso-lateral section of its body.  It has a blunt head when viewed in profile.  This species’ gill rakers are thin and very close together; its scales are thin and large.

Diet: Triportheus trifurcatus probably eats the same foods as most Triportheus species: insects and invertebrates.  In a tank it will probably accept most foods, including bloodworms, brine shrimp and mosquito larvae. 

Breeding: Unfortunately for hobbyists, there is not a great deal of information available on the breeding habits of Triportheus trifurcaues as yet.  It appears it is yet to be bred in aquaria.

Comments: Triportheus trifurcatus should be housed in a tank at least 180 litres in volume or larger.  Make sure there are several open swimming areas near the top of your tank.  Floating plants to your tank should be avoided as they will simply be obstacles, but it is essential you create several hiding spaces in the form of driftwood, plants and rocks.  This species appears to be quite rare within the aquarium hobby and is therefore recommended to those with experience.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Triportheus trifurcatus should probably be housed with peaceful, middle-bottom dwelling species.  

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Characidae

Distribution: Triportheus signatus is a benthopelagic freshwater species found in South America’s Parnaiba River basin and in some of Brazil’s north eastern coastal drainages.

PH: 6.0 – 7.5

Temperature: 24°C – 27C (75 – 81F)

Hardness: 1 – 18

Description: Triportheus signatus can reach a maximum length of about 16 cm.  This deep-bodied species has a dark snout and 3 – 4 dark longitudinal stripes present on its dorsal-lateral portion. It also has an upturned mouth and nostrils that are very close together.    

Diet: Triportheus signatus uses its upturned mouth to feed from the surface.  It will eat flakes and insects, but it will probably also accept bloodworms, brine shrimp and mosquito larvae. 

Breeding: Like so many members of its genus, there is not a great deal of information available on the breeding habits of Triportheus signatus.  It appears it is yet to be bred in an aquarium environment.

Comments: Triportheus signatus should be housed in a tank at least 180 litres in volume or larger.  You should have plenty of large, open swimming areas near the top of your tank.  Do not add floating plants to your tank as they will simply be obstacles.  Make sure you put in several hiding spaces in the form of driftwood, plants and rocks.  This species appears to be quite rare within the aquarium hobby and is therefore recommended to those with experience.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Triportheus signatus, much like Triportheus rotundatus, should probably be housed with peaceful, middle-bottom dwelling species.  

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Characidae

Distribution: Triportheus rotundatus, commonly known as the Catalina Tetra, is a benthopelagic freshwater species found in South America’s Amazon River basin and in coastal drainages of the Guianas.  It can generally be found in rivers and creeks that have very little current.

PH: 6.0 – 7.5

Temperature: 24°C – 27C (75 – 81F)

Hardness: 1 – 18

Description: Triportheus rotundatus can reach a maximum length of about 18 cm.  This deep-bodied species has a mostly silver colouration and 5 – 6 brown, longitudinal stripes; its snout and dorsal portion of the head are both of a dark colour.  It has a dark anal-fin margin and very dark middle caudal-fin rays.  Young Catalina Tetras will have large dark blotches along their body that will fade with age into a pure silver colour. 

Diet: Triportheus rotundatus is a surface feeding creature that will take similar foods to most Triportheus species, particularly aquatic insects, detritus and vegetable fragments.  It will eat flakes, but it loves bloodworms, brine shrimp and mosquito larvae.

Breeding: Like so many members of its genus, there is not a great deal of information available on the breeding habits of Triportheus rotundatus.  It appears it is yet to be bred in an aquarium environment.   In the wild, this species will reproduce during the rainy season.

Comments: Triportheus rotundatus should be housed in a tank at least 180 litres in volume or larger.  You should have plenty of large, open swimming areas near the top of your tank.  Do not add floating plants to your tank as they will simply be obstacles.  Make sure you put in several hiding spaces in the form of driftwood, plants and rocks.  Be careful if moving the Catalina Tetra between tanks as it is very sensitive to changes in water parameters.  This species does require moderate care and it is recommended to experienced hobbyists.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Triportheus rotundatus is a very active species that will dwell at the top of the tank and ignore those tank mates below.  Peaceful, middle-bottom dwelling species are recommended as tank mates.  

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Characidae

Distribution: Triportheus pictus is a benthopelagic freshwater species that is found in South America’s Amazon River basin, in Brazil.  It has been collected from the Rio Hyutahy, Rio Jutai and the Solimoes tributary.

PH: 6.0 – 7.0

Temperature: 22°C – 28C (72 – 82F)

Hardness: 0 – 15

Description: Triportheus pictus can reach a maximum length of about 11 cm.  This deep-bodied species has a mostly yellow colouration with some silver regions.  Its snout, dorsal portion of the head and supraorbital regions are all a dark colour, and it has a silver stripe that extends from its opercle to the caudal peduncle.

Diet: Triportheus pictus will take similar foods to most Triportheus species, particularly aquatic insects, detritus and vegetable fragments.  It’s a safe bet that this omnivore will take most foods in an aquarium environment, including insects, frozen and dried foods.  . 

Breeding: There is not a great deal of documentation available on the breeding habits of Triportheus pictus.  Many Triportheus species are yet to be bred in aquaria.

Comments: Triportheus pictus should be housed in a tank at least 100 litres in volume or larger.  There is limited information available in regards to tank requirements, so beginners should probably steer clear of this presumably rare species.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Triportheus pictus should be housed with similar-sized species of a peaceful temperament.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Characidae

Distribution: Triportheus paranensis, sometimes known as Tetra, is a benthopelagic freshwater species that is found in South America’s La Plata River, throughout the Parana River, and in the Cuenca del Bermejo in Salta.

PH: 5.0 – 7.5

Temperature: 22°C – 30C (72 – 86F)

Hardness: 0 – 20

Description: Triportheus paranensis can reach a maximum length of about 19 cm.  This species is very similar to Triportheus nematurus and is said to be a junior synonym of that species.  Its body is compressed and its head is short.  It also has a blunt snout, a small mouth and a truncated dorsal fin.  Triportheus paranensis is mostly a silver colouration, but its spokes are a black hue.

Diet: Triportheus paranensis will take similar foods to most Triportheus species, particularly aquatic insects, detritus and vegetal fragments.  This omnivore will presumably take most foods in an aquarium environment, including insects, frozen and dried foods.  There is no reason to believe its diet will be that different from most Triportheus species.   

Breeding: Like so many members of its genus, there is not a great deal of information available on the breeding habits of Triportheus paranensis.

Comments: Triportheus paranensis should be housed in a tank at least 140 litres in volume or larger.  There is scant information available in regards to tank requirements, so beginners should probably steer clear of this species.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Triportheus paranensis is certainly not a popular species within the aquarium hobby as yet, considering it is a recent discovery.  Make sure you house it with similar-sized species of a peaceful temperament.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Characidae

Distribution: Triportheus pantanensis is a benthopelagic freshwater species that is found in South America’s Rio Paraguay and the lower Rio Parana basin.

PH: 5.0 – 7.5

Temperature: 22°C – 30C (72 – 86F)

Hardness: 0 – 20

Description: Triportheus pantanensis can reach a maximum length of about 16 cm.  This deep-bodied species has a yellowish colouration and a dark snout; some dorsal portions of the head are also dark.  It has 5 – 6 longitudinal brown stripes that splash across the dorso-lateral part of its body.  This species is a recent discovery in comparison to other members of the genus.  It has been referred to, incorrectly, as Triportheus nematurus; the two species are remarkably similar.

Diet: In nature, Triportheus pantanensis will feed mainly on aquatic insects, detritus and vegetal fragments.  This omnivore will presumably take most foods in an aquarium environment, including insects, frozen and dried foods.  . 

Breeding: Unfortunately there is not a great deal of information available on the breeding habits of Triportheus pantanensis.  It is possible that it has never been bred in an aquarium environment.

Comments: Triportheus pantanensis should be housed in a tank at least 140 litres in volume or larger.  There is scant information available in regards to tank requirements, so it is probably a species best left to those hobbyists with plenty of experience.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Triportheus pantanensis something of an unknown quantity in the aquarium hobby as yet, considering it is a recent discovery.  Make sure you are sensible and house it with similar-sized species of a peaceful temperament.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Characidae

Distribution: Triportheus orinocensis is a benthopelagic freshwater species that is found in South America’s Rio Orinoco basin, in Venezuela.

PH: 5.0 – 7.5

Temperature: 22°C – 30C (72 – 86F)

Hardness: 0 – 20

Description: Triportheus orinocensis can reach a maximum length of about 14 cm.  This deep-bodied species has a yellow-brownish colour and a dark snout.  Its body has a dark mid-lateral line that goes from the supracleithrum to the caudal peduncle; the stripe broadens in a wider dark spot on the lateral surface of the caudal peduncle.  Its body is darker on the dorsal side of the stripe.  This species is a recent discovery in comparison to other members of the genus.

Diet: Triportheus orinocensis, an omnivore, will presumably eat foods in an aquarium environment, including insects, frozen and dried foods. 

Breeding: There is not a great deal of information available on the breeding habits of Triportheus orinocensis.  It is certainly not a mainstream fish within the hobby.

Comments: Triportheus orinocensis should be housed in a tank at least 140 litres in volume or larger.  There is very little information available in regards to tank requirements, so beginners should probably steer clear of this species.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Triportheus orinocensis should be housed with peaceful, similar-sized species that have similar tank requirements.  Little is known about this species as yet, considering it is a recent discovery.  It is rarely seen in the hobby.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Characidae

Distribution: Triportheus nematurus is a benthopelagic freshwater species that is found in South America’s Parana – Paraguay River basin.

PH: 5.0 – 7.5

Temperature: 22°C – 30C (72 – 86F)

Hardness: 0 – 20

Description: Triportheus nematurus can reach a maximum length of 18.3 cm.  This deep-bodied species has a silvery-yellow colouration and a dark snout.  It has 5 – 6 brown, longitudinal strips along the scale rows on the dorso-lateral section of its body; its middle caudal-fin rays are exceptionally dark.   

Diet: In the wild, Triportheus nematurus will feed mainly on aquatic insects, detritus and vegetal fragments.  This omnivore will presumably take most foods in an aquarium environment, including insects, frozen and dried foods. 

Breeding: Like so many members of its genus, there is not a great deal of information available on the breeding habits of Triportheus nematurus.  It appears it is yet to be bred in an aquarium environment.

Comments: Triportheus nematurus should be housed in a tank at least 180 litres in volume, perhaps larger.  There is very little information available in regards to tank requirements, which means it is probably better suited to experienced hobbyists.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Triportheus nematurus should be housed with peaceful, similar-sized species that have similar tank requirements, particularly those from the Parana – Paraguay basin.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Characidae

Distribution: Triportheus magdalenae is a benthopelagic freshwater species that is found in South America’s Magdalena River basin, in Columbia.  It is the only member of this genus known from this region.

PH: 5.0 – 7.5

Temperature: 22°C – 30C (72 – 86F)

Hardness: 0 – 20

Description: Triportheus magdalenae can reach a maximum length of 19 cm.  It has one longitudinal scale row between its pectoral-fin insertion and the ventral keel, as opposed to the usual Triportheus practice of having two longitudinal scale rows.  It has an elongated body and a silvery-yellow colouration.  The outline of the posterior margin of its caudal fin is dark.  Males reportedly have a more elongated body than females, but sexing is nonetheless difficult.

Diet: Triportheus magdalenae will presumably take most foods in an aquarium environment, including live, frozen and dried foods. 

Breeding: Like so many members of its genus, there is not a great deal of information available on this species’ breeding habits.

Comments: Triportheus magdalenae should be housed in a tank at least 180 litres in volume, perhaps larger.  Triportheus magdalenae is rarely seen in the aquarium environment and there is scant information available, which means it is probably better suited to experienced hobbyists.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Triportheus magdalenae should be housed with peaceful, similar-sized species that have similar tank requirements.   

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Characidae

Distribution: Triportheus guentheri is a benthopelagic freshwater species that is distributed in the Sao Francisco River basin, South America.

PH: 5.0 – 7.5

Temperature: 22°C – 30C (72 – 86F)

Hardness: 0 – 20

Description: Triportheus guentheri can reach a maximum length of 14 cm.  It has often been confused with Triportheus brachipomus, but they differ in the number of anal-fin rays and lateral-line scales.  This species appears to have a yellow-silver colouration; the dorsal portion of its head and its snout are a darker colour.  It has a longitudinal stripe that broadens into a dark spot on the lateral surface of its caudal peduncle.  Its body is darker above the stripe and its caudal fin has a dark pigmentation as an outline.

Diet: Triportheus guentheri will take most foods in an aquarium environment.  It will probably accept live, frozen and dried foods.  A diverse range of fruits, nuts, insects and seeds may prove to be your best bet.

Breeding: There is not a great deal of information available on this species’ breeding habits.  It appears it is yet to be bred in aquaria.  In the wild, this species has adhesive eggs and fractional spawning; it is said to spawn between the months of November and February when reservoirs are at their lowest levels.

Comments: Triportheus guentheri should be housed in a tank at least 120 litres in volume, perhaps larger.  This species will probably require a high oxygen concentration in its tank, although it may be quite hardy considering it is used to fluctuating oxygen levels in the wild. Triportheus guentheri is rarely seen in the aquarium environment and there is hardly any information available on it, which means it is probably better suited to experienced hobbyists.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Triportheus guentheri should be housed with peaceful, similar-sized species that share the same water parameters.  

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Characidae

Distribution: Triportheus elongatus, commonly known as Elongate Hatchetfish, is a benthopelagic freshwater species that is distributed in the Amazon, Orinoco and Essequibo River basins, as well as parts of Trinidad.

PH: 5.0 – 7.5

Temperature: 22°C – 30C (72 – 86F)

Hardness: 0 – 20

Description: Triportheus elongatus can reach a maximum length of 24 cm.  It has a silver colouration, elongated pectoral fins and a tri-lobed caudal fin.  As you would expect given its name, the Elongate Hatchetfish has an elongated body and a forked tail. 

Diet: Triportheus elongatus will probably accept most foods in an aquarium environment.  You might try feeding it a flake alongside a variety of live and frozen foods.

Breeding: There is not a great deal of information available on this species’ breeding habits.  It appears Triportheus elongatus is yet to be bred in an aquarium environment.

Comments: Triportheus elongatus is a big-sized fish that will need a sizable tank of at least 200 litres, preferably bigger.  You should give it plenty of open swimming space and, if you feel like it, some rocks and plants to simulate its natural environment.  Triportheus elongatus is rarely seen in the aquarium world, which means it is probably better suited to experienced hobbyists.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: While there is little information available on Triportheus elongatus, it should only be housed with peaceful, similar-sized fish.  

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Characidae

Distribution: Triportheus curtus is a benthopelagic freshwater species that is distributed in South America’s Amazon River basin.

PH: 5.0 – 7.5

Temperature: 22°C – 30C (72 – 86F)

Hardness: 0 – 20

Description: Triportheus curtus is a deep-bodied member of the Triporthus genus that can reach a maximum length of 10.7 cm.  It has two longitudinal scale rows before its pectoral fin insertion and the ventral keel, as opposed to most Triportheus who have only one row.  It appears to have a yellow-silver colouration and a variety of small, dark spots scattered over its body. 

Diet: Triportheus curtus will probably accept most foods in an aquarium environment.  You might try feeding it a flake alongside a variety of live and frozen foods.

Breeding: Like so many of its genus, there is not a lot of documentation regarding its breeding habits.  It may still be yet to be bred in an aquarium environment.

Comments: Triportheus curtus is a decent-sized fish that should probably housed in at least a 60 inch tank, preferably bigger.  Triportheus curtus is not a very popular aquarium fish and there is hardly any information available on it, which means it is probably better suited to experienced hobbyists.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Triportheus curtus is somewhat of a mystery and there is no information available on compatible tank mates, but it should be housed with peaceful, similar-sized species.  

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Characidae

Distribution: Triportheus culter is a benthopelagic freshwater species that is distributed in South America’s Amazon River basin.  It has been collected from the small tributaries of the Ampiyacu River and also from the Ucayali River to the mouth of the Rio Negro.

PH: 5.0 – 7.5

Temperature: 22°C – 30C (72 – 86F)

Hardness: 0 – 20

Description: Triportheus culter is an elongated Triporthus species that can reach a maximum length of 24 cm.  It has a long pectoral fin and thin, large scales.  It has a pointed head when viewed in profile and a straight, slightly blunted snout.  The ventral profile of its head is vertically straight, while its body is arched from the isthmus to the pelvic-fin insertion when viewed in profile.  It seems to have a dark mid-lateral stripe that extends from its supraclethium to the caudal peduncle. 

Diet: Triportheus culter, like Triportheus angulatus, will most likely accept live, frozen and dried foods in an aquarium environment.  A diverse range of fruits, nuts, insects and seeds may work well.  Bloodworms and brine shrimp will also be well received.

Breeding: There is not a great deal of information available on this species’ breeding habits; it is possibly yet to be bred in aquaria.

Comments: Triportheus culter is a decent-sized fish that should probably housed in a tank no less than 200 litres in volume, preferably bigger.  This species will probably require a high oxygen concentration in its tank, not to mention a great deal of open swimming space. Triportheus culter is a rarity within the hobby and there is hardly any information available on it, which means it is probably better suited to experienced hobbyists.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: There is not a great deal of information on Triportheus culter but it is sensible to avoid housing it with small, timid tank mates.  

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Characidae

Distribution: Triportheus brachipomus is a benthopelagic freshwater species that is distributed in South America’s Rio Orinoco, Essequibo River, Courantijne River, Maroni River, Demerara River and the Araguari drainages.

PH: 5.0 – 7.5

Temperature: 22°C – 30C (72 – 86F)

Hardness: 0 – 20

Description: Triportheus brachipomus is an elongated Triporthus species that can reach a maximum length of 22 cm.  Its head appears slightly convex when viewed in profile, as does its body from the rear of its head to its dorsal fin.  It has four rows of scales on its caudal peduncle and a large scale row between the mid-ventral keel and its pectoral-fin insertion.

Diet: Triportheus brachipomus will most likely accept live, frozen and dried foods in an aquarium environment.  A diverse range of fruits, nuts, insects and seeds may work well.

Breeding: Not a lot is written about this species’ breeding habits.  It appears it is yet to be bred in an aquarium environment.

Comments: Triportheus brachipomus is a decent-sized fish that should probably housed in a tank of least 200 litres in volume.  It may be wise to add a fair amount of floating vegetation and a sandy substrate in order to emulate its natural environment.  This species will probably require a high oxygen concentration in its tank. Triportheus brachipomus is rarely seen in the aquarium environment and there is hardly any information available on it, which means it is probably better suited to experienced hobbyists.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: There is barely any information on Triportheus brachipomus, but it should probably not be kept with small, timid tank mates. 

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Characidae

Distribution: Triportheus auritus is a benthopelagic freshwater species distributed in Brazil’s Amazon River, the Tocantins and Araguia basins, and the Orinoco River basin, Trinidad.

PH: 5.0 – 7.5

Temperature: 22°C – 30C (72 – 86F)

Hardness: 0 – 20

Description: Triportheus auritus is an elongated Triporthus species that can reach up to 24 cm in the wild.  This species is distinguished by the longitudinal scale row it has between the ventral keel and its pectoral-fin insertion.  It also has 22 – 28 gill rakes and 40 – 46 lateral-line scales on its body.

Diet: Triportheus auritus presumably shares similar feeding habits to other members of the Triportheus family.  It will most likely accept live, frozen and dried foods in an aquarium environment.  You might feed it a range of fruits, nuts, insects and seeds.

Breeding: There is not a great deal of information available on this species’ breeding habits.  It is unlikely to have been bred in an aquarium environment.

Comments: Triportheus auritus should probably housed in a tank that is at least 140 litres in volume.  It might be a good idea, given its similarities to Triportheus angulatus, to add a fair amount of floating vegetation and a sandy substrate.  This species will probably require a high oxygen concentration in its tank. Triportheus auritus is rarely seen in the aquarium environment and is probably best suited to experienced hobbyists.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: There is barely any information on Triportheus auritus, but it should probably not be kept with small, timid tank mates.  Like Triportheus angulatus, it could probably work with some South American cichlids, catfish and similarly sized characins.  

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Characidae

Distribution: Triportheus angulatus, otherwise known as the Dusky Narrow Hatchetfish, is a river-dwelling species that is distributed in the waters of Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Peru, Venezuela and Ecuador.

PH: 5.0 – 7.5

Temperature: 22°C – 30C (72 – 86F)

Hardness: 0 – 20

Description: Triportheus angulatus males can reach a maximum length of around 16 cm in an aquarium; females can get up to 18 cm.  This species has extremely strong pectoral muscles which enable it to leap from the water to catch prey. If kept alone in a tank, this peaceful species will lose its colouration.    

Diet: Triportheus angulatus feeds upon nekton, crustaceans and plankton in the wild, but will accept live, frozen and dried foods in an aquarium environment.  This omnivore will enjoy a range of fruits, nuts, insects and seeds.

Breeding: There is not a great deal of information available on this species’ breeding habits.  It appears it is yet to be bred in an aquarium environment.

Comments: Triportheus angulatus should be housed in a tank that is at least 110 litres in volume.  You should probably give this top-dwelling species plenty of swimming space as it will often be dwelling just below the water’s surface.  It is also a good idea to add a fair amount of floating vegetation and a sandy substrate.  This species will need a high oxygen concentration in its tank. Remember to put a tight-fitting lid on the top of your tank to stop the fish from jumping out; its pectoral muscles will enable it to leap well clear of the water’s surface.  Triportheus angulatus is difficult – perhaps impossible – to breed, but is otherwise a suitable species for beginners.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Triportheus angulatus should not be kept with small, timid tank mates.  It can work with some South American cichlids, catfish and similarly sized characins.  It is imperative you keep this shoaling, active species in large groups.  

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Characidae

Distribution: Triportheus albus is distributed in the Amazon, Tocantins and Araguaia basins, South America.

PH: 5.0 – 7.0

Temperature: 22°C – 30C (72 – 86F)

Hardness: 1 – 15

Description: Triportheus albus can reach a maximum length of 15 cm in an aquarium.   This species has a pointed head and a snout that looks straight in profile.  Its nostrils are close together and it has a large eye without an adipose eyelid.   

Diet: Triportheus albus is probably omnivorous and will accept live, frozen and dried foods.  You might choose to feed it fruits, nuts, insects and seeds.

Breeding: There is not a great deal of information available on this species’ breeding habits as yet.

Comments: Triportheus albus should be housed in a tank that is at least 110 litres in volume.  You should probably give it plenty of swimming space as it will often be dwelling just below the water’s surface, along with a fair amount of floating vegetation.  This species will need a high oxygen concentration in its tank. Remember to put a tight-fitting lid on the top of your tank to stop the fish from jumping out.  Given there is not a lot of information available on Triportheus albus, it is probably not suitable for beginners.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Triportheus albus should not be kept with small, timid tank mates.  It can work with some South American cichlids, catfish and similarly sized characins.    

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Achiridae

Distribution: Trinectes maculatus, commonly known as the Hogchoker, has its origins in the Western Atlantic, from Massachusetts and the northern Gulf o Mexico down to Venezuela, South America.  This species is found in coastal and fresh waters, and can reach a depth of 75 metres.

PH: 6.0 – 8.0

Temperature: 5°C – 22C (41 – 72F)

Salinity: 1.005

Description: Trinectes maculatus can reach a length of 20 cm in an aquarium.   This species is usually brown to dark brown in its colouration and is has a series of spots and stripes across its body.  Its tail and fins are frayed at the sides for camouflage purposes.  This species has both its eyes and mouth on the right side of its body.  Its eyes are small and it has a white underside.

Diet: Trinectes maculatus will eat all foods that sink to the bottom of the tank.  You should avoid feeding this species any vegetables; it is best to stick to live foods and, if you train it well enough, some sinking pellets.

Breeding: Hogchokers do not breed in aquariums.  It is likely they spawn at sea or in estuaries, but there is little information available on their breeding habits as yet.

Comments: Trinectes maculatus should be housed in a tank that is at least 20 gallons in volume.  This fish will spend a lot of its time attached to driftwood, rocks and the glass. It should not be kept in freshwater; keep the water slightly brackish at around the 1.005 mark.  Make sure the substrate you use is soft and fine; a gravelly substrate can hurt this fish.  Importantly, the Hogchoker needs a high oxygen concentration in its tank. This species requires a moderate level of care and is probably not suitable for beginners.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Trinectes maculatus should not be kept with small defenceless species because while they are not that predatory, they may just eat small tank mates.  You can keep Hogchokers with top-dwellers such as hatchetfish, killifish and rainbowfish.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Cyprinidae

Distribution: Trigonostigma heteromorpha, commonly known as the Harlequin Rasbora, is found in Thailand, Sumatra, Singapore and Malaysia.  It is distributed in streams and other forest swamp waters.

PH: 5.0 – 7.0

Temperature: 23°C – 28C (73 – 82F)

Hardness: 5 – 12 dH

Description: Trigonostigma heteromorpha can reach a length of 3 – 5 cm in an aquarium.   This species has an orange-pink colouration from its head to the caudal peduncle.  Its posterior half has a big triangular marking that begins below the midpoint of its dorsal fin and thins out towards its tail.  Its dorsal, caudal, pelvic and anal fins are tinted a reddish colour and the caudal fin is forked.  Males are thinner and have a brighter colouration to females.  This species has a lifespan of approximately six years.

Diet: Trigonostigma heteromorpha is an omnivore and will eat most store-purchased foods, but you should feed it a varied diet that includes live and frozen foods.

Breeding: The Harlequin Rasbora is similar to the Glowlight Rasbora in that females will attach their eggs to broad leaves, as opposed to the usual Rasbora practice of scattering the eggs.  The female can deposit up to 300 eggs, but it is usually around the 80 – 100 mark.   Remove the parents as soon as you see the eggs on the underside of a plant leaf, as they exhibit no parental care and may eat the eggs.  When spawning Trigonostigma heteromorpha, make sure the water is soft and acidic and that you maintain the given water parameters.  The eggs will hatch in 24 hours and the fry can be fed powdered fry food or Infusoria until large enough to accept bigger foods such as flake.

Comments: Trigonostigma heteromorpha should be housed in a tank that is at least 40 litres in volume.  This fish will prefer a heavily vegetated tank that resembles its natural environment, including floating plants, a dark substrate and several roots and branches.  It is recommended your tank is dimly lit and that you provide plenty of open swimming space.  While it is not essential, Trigonostigma heteromorpha has a preference for water that has been filtrated through peat. This species requires a moderate level of care and is probably not suitable for beginners.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Trigonostigma heteromorpha should be kept in large groups of at least 8 – 10.  It can be kept with similarly sized, non-aggressive species, including small South American Characins, Danios, Corydoras and small Barbs.  

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Cyprinidae

Distribution: Trigonostigma hengeli, perhaps better known as the Glowlight Rasbora or Hengel’s Rasbora, is native to Borneo and Sumatra, Indonesia.  It has been collected from Sumatra’s Jambi province and from the Tambesi River.  It is usually found in gentle streams and densely vegetated tributaries.

PH: 5.5 – 7.5

Temperature: 23°C – 28C (73 – 82F)

Hardness: 5 – 12 dH

Description: Trigonostigma hengeli can reach a length of 3 cm in an aquarium.   This species has a small, translucent body and a slim, bright orange line extending laterally.  There is a black marking below the orange line; the orange and black become more intense when the fish is in good health.  This species is difficult to sex, but adult females are generally larger with a rounded belly.

Diet: Trigonostigma hengeli will eat almost anything, but you should feed it a varied diet that includes crumbled flake, pellets, Cyclops, Daphnia, mosquito larvae and brine shrimp.

Breeding: The Glowlight Rasbora will attach its eggs to broad leaves, as opposed to the usual Cyprinid practice of scattering the eggs.  Feed these fish a live-food diet before attempting the spawning process.  When you notice the female is full of eggs and the male is displaying a bright colouration, you should make a cool water change of about 40 – 50 per cent and introduce one or two pairs to the spawning container after about two hours.   Remove the parents as soon as you see the eggs on the underside of a plant leaf, as they exhibit no parental care.

Comments: Trigonostigma hengeli should be housed in a tank that is at least 60 litres in volume, even larger if possible.  This fish will prefer a heavily vegetated tank that resembles its natural environment, including floating plants, a sandy substrate and several roots and branches.  It is recommended your tank is dimly lit to simulate this species’ natural environment.  This species is quite easy to look after and is recommended to beginners.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Trigonostigma hengeli should be kept in large groups of at least 8 – 10.  You can tank it with other Rasboras, Dwarf Cichlids, small Gouramis and Corydoras.  

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Osphronemidae

Distribution: Trichopsis vittata, commonly known as the Croaking Gourami, is a freshwater species found in Borneo, Java, and Sumatra and from Thailand to Vietnam.  It is generally found in stagnant waters with plenty of floating vegetation, particularly throughout the middle and lower areas of the Mekong.

PH: 6.0 – 8.0

Temperature: 22°C – 28C (71 – 82F)

Hardness: 5 – 19 dH

Description: Trichopsis vittata can reach a length of 7 cm in an aquarium, but is usually measured at around 4 cm.   This species can vary greatly in its colouration, from brown and green to dark purple with black or red spots on its fins.  Its irises are a bright blue or purple colour.  Females are paler in their colouration than males and have a more rounded dorsal fin.  The Croaking Gourami, as you would expect, can make a croaking, grunting noise, particularly during breeding. 

Diet: The Croaking Gourami loves eating insects and insect larvae.  However, you should feed it a varied diet that includes insects, flake, freeze-dried bloodworms, brine shrimp and some algae-based flakes.

Breeding: The male Croaking Gourami will build a bubble nest in your aquarium, made from air bubbles and leaf mucus.  To trigger spawning you should lower the water level by eight inches and keep the circulation to a minimum.  After spawning, the female will release 5 – 10 eggs; the male will collect the eggs and spit them into his nest.  This will happen several times until 100 – 200 eggs are laid.  Move the female after spawning, but keep the male as he will tend to the eggs and fry.  Move the male out of the tank when the fry are 2 – 3 days old.

Comments: Trichopsis vittata should be housed in a tank that is about 40 litres in volume, even larger if possible.  This fish will prefer a heavily vegetated tank that resembles its natural environment, including floating plants at the top. You should provide plenty of rocks, driftwood and a dark substrate, along with dim lighting and some space at the top of the water so it can gulp the air. You will need to conduct small water changes every now and then to keep it free from disease.  This species is reasonably difficult to look after and is suitable for more experienced hobbyists.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Trichopsis vittata should not be housed with large aggressive cichlids.  You can easily tank it with White Clouds, Plecos, Rainbowfish, Hatchetfish, Danios, Corydoras and Kuhli Loaches.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Osphronemidae

Distribution: Trichopsis pumila, commonly known as the Pygmy Gourami, is a benthopelagic freshwater species found in areas of Thailand and Laos, through to Indonesia.  It is generally found in ditches, peats and small ponds, but particularly in stagnant waters with plenty of floating vegetation.

PH: 6.0 – 7.0

Temperature: 25°C – 28C (77 – 82F)

Hardness: 5 – 19 dH

Description: Trichopsis pumila, a tiny specimen, can reach a length of 4 cm in an aquarium.   This species has a bright blue eyes and a sparkling red, green and blue colouration.  It has a distinctive arrowhead-shaped body and exceptionally colourful caudal fins.  Males have red spots above the main stripe through their body; females have duller spots than males. 

Diet: The Pygmy Gourami, given its diminutive size, should not be fed large food.  It will have a preference for small live-foods and flake food.

Breeding: The male Pygmy Gourami will build a bubble nest in your aquarium, perhaps in a cave, under driftwood or under a leaf.  To trigger spawning your should raise the water temperature and make sure the water is softer and more acidic.  After spawning, the female will release up to 170 eggs; the male will collect the eggs and protect them until they hatch in two days.  The parents will not cannibalise the fry, but the youngsters are still very small and difficult to raise.

Comments: The Pygmy Gourami should be housed in a tank that is about 40 – 60 cm long.  This hardy species will prefer a heavily vegetated tank that resembles its natural environment.  Do not have a strong current running.  You should provide plenty of rocks and driftwood as hiding places, along with dim lighting and some space at the top of the water so it can gulp the air. This small species is very hardy but does require moderate care, making it more suitable for experienced hobbyists.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Trichopsis pumila should not be housed with large aggressive species.  You can keep it with Neon Tetras, White Clouds, some Kuhlis and Plecos.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Osphronemidae

Distribution: Trichogaster microlepis, commonly known as the Moonlight Gourami, is a freshwater species found originally in the Mekong in Vietnam and Cambodia, and in the Chao Phraya basin.  It has since been introduced to Thailand’s Mekong basin.  It is found in sluggish, heavily vegetated waters and in swamps and ponds.

PH: 6.0 – 7.0

Temperature: 26°C – 30C (79 – 86F)

Hardness: 4 – 18 dH

Description: Trichogaster microlepis can reach a length of 13 cm in an aquarium.   This species has a silver, green-hued body and a concave-sloped head, which sets it apart from other Gouramis.  It also has the ability to breathe air directly, and you might see it going up to the top of your tank for air occasionally.  This species has a life expectancy of four years.   

Diet: Trichogaster microlepis, an omnivore, will eat most foods, particularly frozen and live foods.  It will accept flake just as readily.  It is a timid species that doesn’t compete well for food with hungrier tank mates.

Breeding: Put this species in a separate breeding tank with soft water, slightly acidic pH levels and temperature at the higher end of the recommended levels.  Offer the pair plenty of live foods before attempting the process.  The male Moonlight Gourami will build a bubble nest and, after an interesting courtship which is well worth watching, spawning will occur beneath the nest.  The female will release up to 2000 eggs, which will float up to the bubble nest.  The eggs will incubate in the nest for 2 – 3 days before they hatch.  The fry should be fed very fine foods for the first stages of its life, several times a day.  Keep the water temperature at a high level while the youngsters are growing.

Comments: Trichogaster microlepis should be housed in a tank of at least 20 gallons.  It will prefer a heavily vegetated tank; floating plants are a must when spawning is taking place.  You also should avoid employing heavy circulation in your tank.  Be wary of the fact that this species can damage fine-leaved plants.   Regular water changes will keep Trichogaster microlepis fit and healthy. This species requires a moderate level of care and is perhaps not suitable for beginners.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Trichogaster microlepis should not be housed with boisterous, aggressive species.  It is quite timid and should only be kept with small, non-aggressive fish.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Osphronemidae

Distribution: Trichogaster leeri, commonly known as the Pearl Gourami, is a freshwater species found in Thailand, Borneo, Sumatra and Malaysia; it is mostly distributed in acidic, lowland swamps.

PH: 6.0 – 8.0

Temperature: 25°C – 28C (77 – 82F)

Hardness: 5 – 15 dH

Description: Trichogaster leeri can reach a length of 13 cm in an aquarium.   This stunning species is dotted with white “Pearl-like” shapes, giving it its common name.  It has a horizontal black line that goes across its entire body.  Males develop a red breast and have longer dorsal fins than females.  The breast will become even readier when the male is ready to spawn.  This species has a life expectancy of 3 – 4 years.   

Diet: Trichogaster leeri will eat most foods, particularly frozen and live foods.  It will accept flake just as readily.  Brine shrimp, black worms and glass worms will be good conditioning foods for breeding.

Breeding: The male Pearl Gourami will build a bubble nest and spawning will occur beneath the nest.  The female will release hundreds of eggs, which will float to the surface.  The male will tend the eggs until hatching, but you should remove the female as soon as she has laid the eggs.  It will take about four days until the fry is swimming freely, at which point you should remove the male.  The fry can be immediately fed Infusoria or liquid food.   You can feed the youngsters freshly hatched brine shrimp after two weeks.  To raise the fry properly you should conduct water changes ever two or three days.

Comments: A single Pearl Gourami could be housed in a tank of around 10 gallons.  It will prefer a heavily vegetated tank and subdued lighting, along with floating plants and a dark substrate.  It can be quite timid at times and will appreciate some hiding spaces.  This species is relatively hardy, although it does prefer slightly acidic conditions and a clean tank.  This species is actually quite easy to look after, making it suitable for beginners.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Trichogaster leeri should not be housed with boisterous, aggressive species.  It could be kept with Zebra Danios, Sailfin Molly and some Corydoras.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Auchenipteridae

Distribution: Trachelyopterus fisheri, commonly known as the Woodcat, is a freshwater species found in the Suico River basin, in South America .

PH: 6.0 – 7.0

Temperature: 22°C – 32C (72 – 90F)

Hardness: 5 – 19 dH

Description: Trachelyopterus fisheri can reach a maximum length of 28 cm in an aquarium.   This slender fish is distinguished from other members of its genus thanks to its terminal mouth, nape and enlarged dorsal spine.  Males have a genital papilla, spawning tubercles on their barbels and a curved dorsal spine; females are larger and a duller colouration. 

Diet: Trachelyopterus fisheri will eat almost anything you offer it.  It will take all frozen and prepared foods.  It also has an affinity for insects – flies, spiders, mosquitoes – and, in particular, insect larvae.

Breeding: This species has been bred in a tank environment.  It performs internal fertilisation: the pair wraps around each other and will mate for approximately 30 seconds.  Eggs will appear four weeks later; the parents will not care for – but will not eat – the eggs.

Comments: This species should be housed in a tank of around 500 litres.  It will require hiding spaces – driftwood is a good option – and plenty of open swimming space.  You should also make sure that your tank is not too brightly lit and that you are watchful of the water conditions.  It is advised you replace a quarter of the water every month.  This species is large but reasonably undemanding, and can be housed by hobbyists of all levels of experience.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Trachelyopterus fisheri should not be housed with small, timid species, as it may end up eating them.  It should be housed with species that are non-aggressive and of a similar size.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Toxotidae

Distribution: Toxotes jaculatrix, commonly known as the Banded Archerfish, is a freshwater and brackish species found throughout Asia and Oceania, specifically from India to the Philippines and south to Indonesia, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea, and northern parts of Australia.

PH: 7.0 – 8.0

Temperature: 25°C – 30C (77 – 86F)

Hardness: 18 – 30 dH

Description: In the wild Toxotes jaculatrix can reach a maximum length of 30 cm, but it is generally around the 20 cm mark.   This fish has a flat-top and a dorsal fin that extends backwards, allowing it to hunt at the water’s surface.  Its eyes are huge and located near the front of its head.  This species has a metallic silver colouration and some large black stripes that run down from the top of the body down to about halfway.

Diet: Toxotes jaculatrix should be fed live insects, if possible, as they are its main source of food in the wild.  Flies, spiders, mosquitoes, beetles, earthworms – basically anything you offer will be well received by this species. 

Breeding: This is a tough species to breed, not least because the fish are impossible to sex.  You will have to keep Toxotes jaculatrix in large groups and hope for the best.  The pair will spawn at the surface and lay up to 3000 eggs, which should be transferred to a holding tank to hatch.  The fry, which take about 12 hours to hatch, can be given small insects and floating foods.

Comments: The Banded Archerfish can live in freshwater, but it should be noted that it is a better idea to keep them in a brackish environment for health reasons.  Keep this schooling species in at least a 55 gallon tank and add a sandy substrate to simulate its natural environment.  The tank should be between half and three-quarters full, and you should provide plenty of swimming space and some heavily planted areas with hiding places.  This species requires some moderate care and is not recommended to beginners.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: This peaceful shoaling fish should be kept in large groups and not with large, aggressive tank mates.  You might be able to tank Toxotes jaculatrix with Monos, Scats and small Puffers.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

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. It is recommended that Thoracocharax stellatus be tanked with peaceful lower-dwelling species.  Some Cardinals, Mollies, Tetras, Guppies and Gouramis might be compatible with the Spotfin Hatchetfish.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

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.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: This peaceful shoaling fish should be kept in groups of three or more, and not with aggressive species.  Some Cardinals, Mollies, Tetras, Guppies and Gouramis may be compatible with Thoracocharax securis.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Characidae

Distribution: Thayeria obliqua, sometimes called the Penguinfish, is a pelagic freshwater species found in the middle Tocantins, Guapore and middle Amazon basins, in South America.  It is mostly distributed in grassy brooks and creeks, particularly those with plenty of algae and vegetation.

PH: 6.0 – 7.5

Temperature: 20°C – 28C (68 – 82F)

Hardness: 2 – 15 dH

Description: Thayeria obliqua can reach a maximum length of 8 cm in an aquarium.   It has an elongated body shape and a brown to golden colouration.  There is a black stripe that goes from behind the dorsal fin to the lower flank of its tail; its other fins are transparent.  It also has an impressive golden stripe that runs from the gills to the base of its tail.  It usually swims in a tail-down position. 

Diet: The Penguinfish will eat most frozen, live and frozen foods in an aquarium environment.  It can probably be given small, regular meals of bloodworm, Artemia, Daphnia, brine shrimp and flake.

Breeding: Thayeria obliqua breeds in a similar fashion to Thayeria boehlkea.  You should probably lower the water level when attempt to spawn this species, perhaps to a level of 15 – 20 cm.  The brown eggs will hatch within one day; the fry can be raised upon nauplii, powered foods and brine shrimp.

Comments: A small group of Thayeria obliqua can be housed in a 30 gallon tank.  This species will need plenty of hiding spots, so fill your tank with plants, roots, rocks, stones and branches.  You should also give Thayeria obliqua plenty of swimming space for.  The Penguinfish will require heavily oxygenated water to be at its best, and it is recommended you conduct frequent water changes.  This fish is recommended to beginners.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: This peaceful schooling fish is suited to a community tank, although you must keep it in groups of around 6 – 10.  

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Characidae

Distribution: Thayeria ifati, sometimes called the Half-striped Penguin Tetra, is a pelagic freshwater species found in the Maroni and Approuague River basins, French Guiana.  It is distributed in sandy-bottomed creeks, lentic waters and shallow, calm areas.

PH: 6.0 – 7.0

Temperature: 23°C – 28C (74 – 82F)

Hardness: 4 – 12 dH

Description: Thayeria ifati, a tiny species, reaches a maximum length of 3.5 cm in an aquarium.   It is the rarest species in the Thayeria genus.  Adult females can be sexed thanks to a more rounded belly and a duller colouration to males. 

Diet: The Half-striped Penguin Tetras will eat live food in nature, including crustaceans and zooplankton.  In an aquarium it should be given small, regular meals of bloodworm, Artemia and Daphnia, along with granules and dried flakes on occasions.

Breeding: There is not a great deal of information on the breeding habits of Thayeria ifati, given how rare the species is.

Comments: A small group of Thayeria ifati can be housed in a 70 litre tank.  This species will appreciate a heavily planted tank with roots, rocks, stones and branches, along with a dark substrate.  You could add some dried leaves to the tank to give it a more natural vibe.  The Half-striped Penguin Tetra should be kept in a tank with dimmed lighting.  This species is quite rare and is probably suited to those with experience in the hobby.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: This chilled-out, peaceful species will not work well with large, aggressive tank mates.  You should keep it with other South American species: Hemigrammus tetras, pencilfish, Apistogramma, Corydoras and Loricariids will all suit the Half-striped Penguin Tetra’s peaceful nature.  House this species in groups of at least six.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

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.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

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 – 22C (64 – 72F)

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 several fish, including Danios, Barbs, Tetras, Guppies, Plecos and Rasboras.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Nothobrachiidae

Distribution: Aphyosemion alpha is an African species which is only known from Cape Esterias, northwestern Gabon.  It likes to swim in clear waters over sand and is generally found in shady forest creeks.

PH: 5.5 – 7.5

Temperature: 20 – 24°C (68 – 75°F)

Hardness: 0 – 4 dH (in nature)

Description: Aphyosemion alpha is certainly on the larger scale of killifish, measuring in at a maximum length of 43 cm.  Males have a bold blue colouration and a red alpha-lie signature on and behind their opercle, which gives the species its name.  Aphyosemion alpha has no dorsal spine, 12 -13 dorsal soft rays, no anal spines, 13 – 15 anal soft rays and 24 – 25 vetebrae.

Diet: Killifish should generally be fed a combination of live and flake food. Examples may include small live foods such as shrimp and bloodworm.  You can also indulge this species with vegetables – lettuce and spinach tend to be well received – and it may take a few bites from your plants.  It is very important to keep algae as a staple diet; it is required to keep the fish in good health.

Breeding: This species is very hard to breed in an aquarium environment, and may produce more males than females.  Success has been had in pairing a male with two females.  Before breeding, in this case, females were kept separately and fed heavy, meaty foods.  This should only be attempted by experienced hobbyists.

Comments: This species is large and will require a decent size tank.  Provide it with plants and plenty of swimming space to simulate its natural environment.

Article/Books

Recommended Compatible Species: This killifish should be housed in a one-species tank, given its size and aggression.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Cichlidae

Distribution: Tanganicodus irsacae, commonly known as the Spotted Goby, is a freshwater species endemic to Lake Tanganyika, Africa.  It is usually found near the shoreline, among the pebbles.

PH: 7.5 – 8.5

Temperature: 24°C – 28C (75 – 82F)

Hardness: 10 – 20 dH

Description: Tanganicodus irsacae usually reaches a length of 6 – 7 cm in an aquarium.   This species can, if treated properly, live from 3 – 5 years in an aquarium.  It has a light brown to opaque colouring and several light blue dots that run along its body, along with some thin vertical gold to white bars.  It has blue fins and a blue line that runs along its lower jaw.  This species has an interestingly shaped mouth – resembling an overbite – and eyes that are near the top of its head.

Diet: Tanganicodus irsacae, an omnivore, will eat algae in the wild; in an aquarium it can be give live and frozen foods – crustaceans, Cyclops, brine shrimp, even bloodworms on rare occasions – and some flake.

Breeding: Spotted Gobies are biparental mouthbrooders; the female will lay eggs and pick them in her mouth, and the male will swim over and release sperm into the female’s mouth to fertilise the eggs.  After the fry have hatched from the female’s mouth, the male will incubate them for a further 9 – 16 days; he should be removed if in a community tank.  You will need to provide small stones for the fry to hide in once they have been released from the male’s mouth.

Comments: Tanganicodus irsacae can be kept in a decent sized tank of around 30 gallons.  It will require a well-oxygenated tank and a strong filter to create good water movement.  You should put plenty of rocks and flowerpots in your tank to create caves, along with a sandy substrate.  Weekly water changes of 10 – 15 per cent are recommended.  This species is difficult to look after and is therefore better suited to experienced hobbyists.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: The Spotted Goby, a shy species, can be kept with Julidochromis regani and Cyathopharynx furcifer.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Nothobrachiidae

Distribution: Aphyosemion ahli is an African species found in shallow swamps in forest areas, specifically the Mungo drainage in west and southwest Cameroon, down to the Rio Benito drainage in west Equatorial Guinea.

PH: 5.5 – 7.5

Temperature: 22 – 26°C (72 – 79°F)

Hardness: 0 – 4 dH (in nature)

Description: Aphyosemion ahli is very similar in appearance to Aphyosemion calliurum, and the two are often confused with each other.  This species has less colour on its body.  It varies depending on the distribution: the Kribi population of Aphyosemion ahli display vertical red bands on its body, more so than those found further north.  This species grows to maximum length of 6 cm.

Diet: Aphyosemion ahli can be given a wide variety of foods such as brine, frozen Cyclops and live black worms.  Killifish should generally be fed a combination of live and flake food.

Breeding: This species is very hard to breed in an aquarium environment.  It lays its eggs in floating plants or spawning mops; it may struggle to spawn in a new environment due to shyness.  There is not a great deal of consistent information on breeding this species; it is a task best left to experienced hobbyists.  Should you not care for breeding this species, it is a great killifish for newcomers to the hobby.

Comments: This species is small and can be housed in a tank as small as 2.5 gallons.  Provide it with plants and hiding spaces to simulate its natural environment.

Article/Books

Recommended Compatible Species: This killifish is small and should be housed with non-aggressive tank mates.  Try not to house it with tropical fish as they will require a warmer water temperature.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Cichlidae

Distribution: Symphysodon aequifasciatus, commonly known as Blue Discus, is a freshwater species found in the Amazon River basin along the Solimoes-Amazon River from the Putumayo River in Peru and Columbia, through to Brazil’s Tocantins River basin; it is distributed in the rocky areas of tributaries.

PH: 5.0 – 8.0

Temperature: 26°C – 30C (79 – 86F)

Hardness: 0 – 12 dH

Description: Symphysodon aequifasciatus can reach a maximum length of around 14 cm in an aquarium. This peaceful cichlid is one of the most highly sought-after aquarium species thanks to its beautiful appearance: it has striped horizontal markings, a flat tail and a blue and grey body colouration.  Males have a pointed genital papilla, while females have a rounded papilla.  This species can, if treated properly, live up to 10 years in an aquarium.

Diet: The Blue Discus, a carnivore, can be given Tubifex, mosquito larvae, quality flakes and specially formulated pellets.

Breeding: Symphysodon aequifasciatus can be very difficult to breed in a tank.  This egg-layer will spawn on specially cleaned stones.  The free swimming fry will eat a slime off the sides of the parents, so do not remove the parents prematurely from the tank.  It would be a good option to make daily water changes – around 10 – 20 per cent – during this period, and make sure the tank is very clean.

Comments: A pair of Symphysodon aequifasciatus can be kept in a decent sized tank of around 75 litres, but a bigger tank is recommended.  This species will feel more at home in a dimly lit tank with a weak current, and surrounded by plenty of rocks and leaves.  This species is moderately difficult to look after and is therefore better suited to experienced hobbyists.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: The Blue Discus can be kept with tetras – Neon, Cardinal, Emperor, Congo and Glowlights are recommended – but you should avoid housing it with Angelfish and Corydora catfish.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Nothobrachiidae

Distribution: Aphyosemion abacinum is distributed in swampy, quiet brooks under forest cover, particularly 30 km north of Mekambo, upper Ivindo drainage, northeastern Gabon.

PH: 6.0 – 7.0

Temperature: 18 – 22°C (64 – 72°F)

Hardness: < 10 dH

Description: Aphyosemion abacinum is a small killifish which measures 3.5 cm in length at best.  It has a mosaic pattern on its body.

Diet: You can feed this species a wide variety of foods such as brine, frozen Cyclops and live black worms.

Breeding: Aphyosemion abacinum is not a very productive species, and breeding them is a tough ask.  One method that has been successful involves picking the eggs out and putting them in a container of water with a fungal inhibitor.  The eggs will hatch in approximately 20 days.  The hatched fry can immediately be fed newly hatched brine shrimp.  You will need to keep up with water changes in order to grow this species properly.

Comments: This species is small and can be housed in a 10 gallon aquarium.  Provide it with plants and hiding spaces to simulate its natural environment.  Bear in mind this species is very hard to breed in captivity; this should only be attempted by experienced hobbyists.

Article/Books

Recommended Compatible Species: This killifish is small and should be housed with non-aggressive tank mates.  Try not to house it with tropical fish as they will require a warmer water temperature.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Cichlidae

Distribution: Symphysodon discus, commonly known as Red Discus, is a freshwater species found in the Amazon River basin, Brazil, in the lower Abacaxis River and in the lower Trombetas River; it is distributed in slow rivers and tributaries.

PH: 5.0 – 6.5

Temperature: 27°C – 33C (81 – 91F)

Hardness: 3 – 15 dH

Description: Symphysodon discus can reach a maximum length of around 13 cm in an aquarium. This timid cichlid can live for up to 10 years.  It is a beautiful, elegant species with a bright red colouration; it will display striped vertical markings and some brown, blue and black colours.  It is very difficult to sex; during the mating process, males will display a long, narrow genital papilla, while the females have a shorter, stubbier papilla.

Diet: The Red Discus has a tiny mouth and must be given small, digestible foods.  This carnivore can be given bloodworm, mosquito larvae, brine shrimp and beef heart to help its colouration.

Breeding: Symphysodon discus, an egg-layer, will spawn on rocks or plants.  You should ensure the pH level is around 6.0 and water hardness is down to about 3 – 4 dH.  The female will lay 150 – 450 eggs on a clean spawning site; both parents will take care of the eggs.  The fry, once free swimming, will eat slime off the sides of the parents; it can be given small foods a week later.

Comments: A group of Symphysodon discus should be kept in a decent sized tank, preferably tall and roomy, of around 30 – 40 gallons.  This species will need soft, acidic water to thrive, but can be reasonably hardy when it comes to water conditions.  You should make sure your tank is similar to its natural environment – add branches and plants to simulate this ecosystem – and will prefer life in a dimly lit tank.  This species is difficult to look after and is therefore suitable for hobbyists with experience.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: The Red Discus is a peaceful, timid species that should be kept only with fish of a similar temperament.  You can house it with some tetras and Corydoras, but it is best suited to a one-species tank.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Characidae

Distribution: Aphyocharax anisitsi, commonly known as the Bloodfin Tetra, is distributed throughout the upper and middle layers of the Parana River basin, South America.

PH: 6.0 – 8.0

Temperature: 18 – 28°C (64 – 82°F)

Hardness: 2 – 30 dGH

Description: The smallish Bloodfin Tetra, which can reach up to 5 cm in length, has a bright red – or blood-coloured – anal fin and tail fin.  Relatively slim as far as Tetras go, this species has a wide-ranging body colour – it may appear anywhere from orange to silver – and will display some shimmering neon elements. Females are plumper than males and display a less intense colouration.  You can expect this species to live from 5 – 8 years.

Diet: Aphyocharax anisitsi is omnivorous and will eat basically anything.  You should provide it with a quality flake food and feed it brine shrimp and bloodworms on special occasions.

Breeding: The Bloodfin Tetra is an egg laying species.  At spawning, this fish will leap from your tank and the eggs, 300 – 500 in total, will fall down to the bottom. You should remove the adults from the tank immediately or the eggs will disappear.

Comments: Keep a small school of Bloodfin Tetra in a tank of at least 20 gallons.  Leave a large, unplanted area for this species to swim around in.  You should provide broad-leaved plants in your aquarium if you wish for this species to spawn.  This is an easy to manage fish that will suit beginners.

Article/Books

Recommended Compatible Species: This species is very peaceful and will work well with other non-aggressive species of similar proportions.  Active, fast moving fish species – barbs, swords and some tetras – will suit this species.  It may try to nip slow moving tank mates: the more active the tank mate, the better.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Mochokidae

Distribution: Synodontis nigriventris, commonly known as Blotched Upside-down Catfish, is a freshwater species found in the Congo River basin and the Kasai and Ubangi drainages, Africa.  There are reports it has also been seen in Makaka, outside the Congo River basin. 

PH: 6.0 – 8.0

Temperature: 22°C – 26C (72 – 79F)

Hardness: 5 – 12 dH

Description: Synodontis nigriventris can reach a maximum length of around 10 cm in an aquarium. This catfish has a pale grey to cream colouration and dark blotches over its body; it has a black belly and dark-spotted fins.  It also has large, very narrowly separated eyes, and a dorsal spine with a very smooth anterior face.  The Blotched Upside-down Catfish swims upside down, giving it its common name.

Diet: The Blotched Upside-down Catfish eats insect larvae in the wild; it an aquarium environment it can be given tablets and a quality flake, along with the occasional servings of Daphnia and bloodworm.

Breeding: Synodontis nigriventris should be fed live foods before spawning.  It will appreciate hiding spots – upturned flowerpots or PVC pipe will suffice – to conduct its spawning in.  The eggs will hatch after about two days and the fry should be free swimming within 3 – 4 days.  You can offer the youngsters a diet of freshly hatched brine shrimp.

Comments: A group of Synodontis nigriventris should be kept in a tank of at least 10 gallons.  Your tank should be well-planted – broad-leaved plants are ideal – and you can add driftwood, rocks and caves for hiding locations.  You should ensure the water is moderately soft and a gravel substrate is in place.  This species is easy to look after and is therefore suitable for beginners.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Synodontis nigriventris is a peaceful species that should be kept in groups.  You can house it with Baby Whales, African Black Knife fish, Elephant Noses and other members of the Synodontis species.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Anostomidae

Distribution: Anostomus ternetzi, better known as Headstander, is distributed in the fast-flowing rivers of South America.  It is seen in the Araguaia, Orinoco and Amazon River basis, as well as coastal rivers of Guianas.

PH: 5.5 – 7.5

Temperature: 24 – 28°C (76 – 84°F)

Hardness: 8 – 20 dH

Description: The Headstander, which can reach up to 12 cm in length, has a long, pike-like body.  Its colour can ranges from brown to black and has three yellow stripes that go along its body.  This species has transparent fins, appointed head and an upturned mouth.  You can expect the Headstander to live for 5 – 8 years if looked after properly.

Diet: Anostomus ternetzi is an omnivore and will accept flake, algae and small live foods such as shrimp and bloodworm.  You can also indulge this species with vegetables – lettuce and spinach tend to be well received – and it may take a few bites from your plants.  It is very important to keep algae as a staple diet; it is required to keep the fish in good health.

Breeding: The Headstander is a spawning fish; so far there have been no reported cases of successful breeding in the hobby.  Headstanders, as a rule, are usually best bred by separating the males and females and stacking them up on live foods, before reintroducing them into a prepared, spawning-friendly tank.  You might consider increasing the temperature slightly and covering the aquarium with a towel – in order to create a dark “mood light” and to keep the temperature up – in order to trigger spawning.  Take the parents from the tank once the deed has been done: they have a tendency to eat the eggs.

Comments: You will need to allow this fish quite a lot of space in your aquarium.  About 120 litres is a good volume for 4 – 5 Headstanders.  Make sure you cover the top of your tank, as this fish can quite often jump straight out.  This is an interesting and visually appealing fish, but beginners should not attempt to breed it as it is a near-impossible task.

Article/Books

Recommended Compatible Species: This species can be territorial at times and you should house them in groups of six to avoid clashes.  Headstanders can be housed with peaceful cichlids or short-finned characins.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Mochokidae

Distribution: Synodontis multipunctatus, commonly known as Cuckoo Catfish, is a freshwater species endemic to Lake Tanganyika, Africa.  It can be found at depths of up to 65 metres. 

PH: 8.0 – 9.0

Temperature: 21°C – 28C (70 – 82F)

Hardness: 8 – 18 dH

Description: Synodontis multipunctatus can reach a maximum length of around 15 cm in an aquarium. This attractive catfish has an elongated body and a beige-grey colouration.  It has a white belly and large black spots that cover its entire body; its head is also dotted with spots.  Difficult to sex, females have a round papilla; males have a more triangular shape and are generally longer.

Diet: Synodontis multipunctatus can be given sinking pellets and a quality flake; you should give it the occasional treat of bloodworm and brine shrimp.

Breeding: The Cuckoo Catfish will wait for a pair of cichlid mouthbrooders to spawn before the female drops her small eggs among the cichlid’s eggs.  The female cichlid will pick up the Cuckoo Catfish’s eggs, believing they are in fact hers, and mouthbroods them until they hatch in her mouth.  It’s a lazy but effective method of breeding.

Comments: A group of adult Synodontis multipunctatus should be kept in a tank of at least 20 – 30 gallons.  Your tank should have plenty of open swimming areas, some rockwork and several hiding spaces.  You should use a gravel or sandy substrate and ensure your water is nitrate-free and very clean.  This bottom-dwelling species is probably more suitable for hobbyists with experience.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Synodontis multipunctatus is a peaceful species but can become aggressive within its own species if kept in small groups.  You might like to keep it with mouthbrooding cichlids from Lake Malawi, Lake Tanganyika and Lake Victoria, as well as with livebearers and Rainbowfish.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Anostomidae

Distribution: The South American species Anostomus spiloclistron is distributed in the Nickerie River basin, Suriname.

PH: 5.0 – 6.0

Temperature: 24 – 28°C (75 – 84°F)

Hardness: 5 – 12 dH

Description: There is little descriptive information on Anostomus spiloclistron available.  This large South American Headstander can reach up to 16 cm in length.  Like other Headstanders, it swims in a bizarre, head-down fashion.

Diet: Most Headstanders are herbivores or detrivores.  However there is no actual information available as to this species’ diet.  This species will most likely accept flake, algae, frozen foods and small live foods such as freeze-dried bloodworms and shrimp.

Breeding: There is little information on this species’ breeding habits.  It most likely breeds in a similar fashion to the rest of the Anostomidae family.

Comments: You should provide this species with a large tank given its size.  Provide roots, plants and caves for effective housing, and room for swimming.  Not much is known about this species in the aquarium world.

Article/Books

Recommended Compatible Species: The False Three-Spotted Headstander could probably be housed with the same species Anostomus anostomus is compatible with: peaceful cichlids, Rainbowfish, Guppies, Platies, Swordtails, Loaches, Mollies, and Barbs.  However there is no specific information available on this species.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Mochokidae

Distribution: Synodontis decora, sometimes known as Clown Squeaker, is a freshwater species found throughout the Congo River basin, with the exception of the Luapula and Luvua drainages; Pool Malebo, and the Ubangi and Kasai drainages. 

PH: 6.0 – 8.0

Temperature: 23°C – 27C (73 – 81F)

Hardness: 4 – 25 dH

Description: Synodontis decora can reach a maximum length of around 32 cm in the wild. This large fish has a long dorsal fin and an attractive body colouration, along with a compressed head and body.  It is predominantly white with black spots; its dorsal, caudal, ventral and anal fins are all white with black bands featuring on them.   Difficult to sex, males have a ridged genital papillae; females do not.

Diet: Synodontis decora can be given plenty of different foods, but you can feed it flakes and tablets with the occasional helping of frozen foods.

Breeding: Synodontis decora is reportedly difficult to breed and there is no information available in this category.

Comments: Adult Synodontis decora should be kept in a tank of at least 200 gallons.  Your tank should have plenty of open swimming areas given its size and some rockwork, driftwood and piping with a diameter of at least 12 cm.  This species is probably more suitable for hobbyists with experience, due to its size and the breeding difficulties.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Synodontis decora is a peaceful species but shouldn’t be housed with small fish or fin-nippers.  You might like to keep it with barbs and larger African characins.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Osphronemidae

Distribution: Sturisoma panamense, sometimes known as Royal Whiptail, is a freshwater species found in the Pacific slope rivers of Panama, Ecuador and Columbia. 

PH: 6.5 – 7.5

Temperature: 20°C – 22C (72 – 77F)

Hardness: 10 – 20 dH

Description: Sturisoma panamense can reach a maximum length of around 26 cm, but is usually around the 15 – 18 cm mark. This large-finned species has an elongated body and a silver-white belly with yellow-brown spots.  Its body and fins have red, sometimes yellow, elements to them.  Males have a wider, more powerful head, while the female is paler in its colouration.

Diet: The Royal Whiptail can be given plenty of different foods, such as blanched zucchini, crushed fish flakes, catfish pellets and bloodworms.

Breeding: Sturisoma panamense females will attempt to attract males; the female, once spawning is complete, will lay up to 90 eggs in your tank.  Males will sit on top of the eggs for 5 – 6 days, waiting until the fry is ready to hatch.  Females exhibit no parental care at all.  The fry, once hatched, are perfect miniature replicas of their parents.

Comments: Sturisoma panamense should be kept in a tank of at least 35 gallons.  Your tank should have plenty of open swimming areas and, if you like, you can decorate it with vegetation that resembles its natural environment.  This species is quite rare within the hobby and is suitable for hobbyists with experience, as it requires moderate care.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Sturisoma panamense is a peaceful, bottom-dwelling community fish that can be housed with mild-mannered, similarly-sized species.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Anostomidae

Distribution: The species Anostomus plicatus is distributed in South America’s Essequibo River basin.

PH: 5.0 – 6.0

Temperature: 24 – 28°C (75 – 84°F)

Hardness: 5 – 12 dH

Description: There is little information on Anostomus plicatus available.  This freshwater species can reach up to 10 cm in length.

Diet: We can presume that this species, like Anostomus anostomus, is an omnivore and will accept flake, algae, frozen foods and small live foods such as freeze-dried bloodworms and shrimp.  However there is no actual information available as to this species’ diet.

Breeding: There is little information on this species’ breeding habits.  It most likely breeds in a similar fashion to Anostomus anostomus.  Assuming this is the case, you should separate the males and females and stacking them up on live foods, before reintroducing them into the tank.  If you are successful in getting this species to spawn, you should take the parents from the tank immediately: they have a tendency to eat the eggs.

Comments: You should provide this species with at least a 50 gallon tank.  Provide roots, plants and caves for effective housing.  Not much is known about this species in the aquarium world.

Article/Books

Recommended Compatible Species: Anostomus plicatus could probably be housed with the same species Anostomus anostomus is compatible with: peaceful cichlids, Rainbowfish, Guppies, Platies, Swordtails, Loaches, Mollies, and Barbs.  However there is no specific information available on this species.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Osphronemidae

Distribution: Sphaerichthys osphromenoides, sometimes known as Chocolate Gourami, is a freshwater species found in Sumatra, Borneo and Malaya; it is restricted to peats. 

PH: 4.0 – 6.0

Temperature: 24°C – 27C (75 – 81F)

Hardness: 0 – 4 dH

Description: Sphaerichthys osphromenoides can reach a maximum length of around 7 cm. This species is a short-bodied labyrinth fish with a laterally compressed body.  Its body is oval-shaped; it has a pointed head and a tiny mouth.  Its fins – dorsal and anal – are long; the body has a chocolate brown to red-brown colouration.  It also has white-yellow stripes that extend vertically across its body.

Diet: Sphaerichthys osphromenoides can be given flake food and live food, such as brine shrimp, fruit flies and insect larvae.

Breeding: The Chocolate Gourami is a mouthbrooder, but occasionally makes a bubble nest.  The adult pair will spawn near the bottom of the tank and you should add a small amount of seawater to spark spawning.  The male does the mouthbrooding; the fry will remain in his mouth for 20 – 40 days.   Be very careful with the water conditions: the young fry can often die from infections.

Comments: Sphaerichthys osphromenoides should be kept in a tank of at least 20 – 25 gallons.  Your tank should have plenty of open swimming areas and several hiding places – wood, rocks or plants – and a dark substrate.  Provide a filter that gives only a very light circulation, and make sure the lighting in the tank is dim.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Sphaerichthys osphromenoides is not suited to a community tank, generally.  If you are intent on doing so, you can house it with some Corydoras, Trichopsis, tetras and Loricariids.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Anostomidae

Distribution: The species Anostomus longus is distributed throughout the upper Amazon region of Peru, South America.

PH: 6.0 – 7.0

Temperature: 24 – 27°C (75 – 81°F)

Hardness: 3 – 16 dH

Description: There is little information on Anostomus longus within the hobby.  It has many similarities to – and is in fact a sub-species of – Anostomus anostomus.

Diet: We can presume that this species, like Anostomus anostomus, is an omnivore and will accept flake, algae, frozen foods and small live foods such as freeze-dried bloodworms and shrimp.  However there is no actual information available as to this species’ diet.

Breeding: There is little information on this species’ breeding habits.  It most likely breeds in a similar fashion to Anostomus anostomus.  You should separate the males and females and stacking them up on live foods, before reintroducing them into a prepared, spawning-friendly tank.  Spawning might be triggered by raising temperatures ever so slightly.  Be careful: parents have a tendency to eat the eggs.

Comments: You should provide this species with at least a 50 gallon tank.  You can choose to decorate your tank with driftwood, rocks and roots.

Article/Books

Recommended Compatible Species: Like Anostomus anostomus, Anostomus longus could probably be housed with peaceful cichlids, Rainbowfish, Guppies, Platies, Swordtails, Loaches, Mollies, and Barbs.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

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.

Article/Books:

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.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Anostomidae

Distribution: The species Anostomus intermedius is distributed throughout Brazil’s Xingu River basin.

PH: N/A

Temperature: N/A

Hardness: N/A

Description: There is little information on Anostomus intermedius within the hobby.

Diet: N/A

Breeding: There is little information on this species’ breeding habits.  It most likely breeds in a similar fashion to Anostomus anostomus.  You might consider increasing the temperature slightly and covering the aquarium with a towel – this will keep the temperature up and hopefully trigger spawning.  Take the parents from the tank once the deed has been done: they have a tendency to eat the eggs.

Comments: You should provide this species with at least a 50 gallon tank.  You can choose to decorate your tank with driftwood, rocks and roots.

Article/Books

Recommended Compatible Species: There is no information available at the moment, but this species, like Anostomus anostomus, could probably be housed with peaceful cichlids, Rainbowfish, Guppies, Platies, Swordtails, Loaches, Mollies, and Barbs.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Prochilodontidae

Distribution: Semaprochilodus taeniurus, also known as Silver Prochilodus, is a freshwater species found in the central parts of the Amazon basin, Brazil.  It can be found in floodplain lakes, forest streams and tributaries.

PH: 5.5 – 7.5

Temperature: 23°C – 29C (73 – 84F)

Hardness: 1 – 15 dH

Description: Semaprochilodus taeniurus can reach a maximum length of around 24 cm. This species is very closely related to Semaprochilodus insignis in shape and colour.  It has a silver, large-scaled body and bold black and yellow horizontal bars on its caudal and anal fins.  Its pelvic fins are red coloured and the dorsal is translucent, tall and has yellow elements and white spots; the head and gills have some red colouration.

Diet: Semaprochilodus insignis leans more towards vegetables than live food and requires a vegetarian diet.  Provide it with vegetables – spinach, lettuce, algae wafers and cucumber – and flake food.

Breeding: There is not a great deal of information available on this species regarding tank breeding.  Like Semaprochilodus insignis, this species hasn’t been known to spawn in tanks because of the migratory patterns they have in nature; Semaprochilodus taeniurus migrates twice a year and may travel hundreds of kilometres doing so.

Comments: Semaprochilodus taeniurus should be kept in a tank of at least 540 litres.  Your tank should have a river sand substrate and a few driftwood branches and twisted roots.  You should avoid a densely planted tank as this species will devour soft-leaved species.  This species is very tough to breed and can be quite territorial, making it suitable for hobbyists with some experience.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Semaprochilodus taeniurus should be kept in groups of six or more in large tanks; it can be aggressive towards its own kind if not given enough space in a tank.  You could house it with the same species that Semaprochilodus insignis is compatible with: large characins, Loricariids, peaceful cichlids, knifefish, freshwater stingrays and Doradids.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Anostomidae

Distribution: The species Anostomus brevior is distributed in shallow rivers and creeks, specifically the Oyapock River basin in French Guiana.

PH: 5.0 – 6.0

Temperature: N/A

Hardness: N/A

Description: Anostomus brevior will generally reach around 12 cm in length. This species is less commonly seen in the aquarium world than other Anostomidae.  It is quite abundant in the wild and swims with his head pointed downwards.

Diet: Anostomus brevior is a big algae eater in the wild.  While there is no specific information available on this species’ diet, it is likely to accept flake, algae, frozen foods and small live foods such as freeze-dried bloodworms and shrimp.

Breeding: There is little information on this species’ breeding habits.  It most likely breeds in a similar fashion to Anostomus anostomus.  You should separate the males and females and feed them live foods for a few weeks before reintroducing them to – hopefully – spawn.  Take the parents from the tank once the deed has been done: they have a tendency to eat the eggs.

Comments: You should provide this species with at least a 50 gallon tank.  Given this species’ size and similarity to Anostomus anostomus, it may be a good idea to decorate your tank with driftwood, rocks and roots.

Article/Books

Recommended Compatible Species: There is no information available at the moment, but Anostomus brevior could probably be housed with peaceful cichlids, Rainbowfish, Guppies, Platies, Swordtails, Loaches, Mollies, and Barbs.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Prochilodontidae

Distribution: Semaprochilodus insignis, also known as Insignis Prochilodus, is native to Brazil Guyana, Peru, Columbia and Ecudaor; it feeds mostly in floodplains but migrates and spawns in the river channels.

PH: 5.5 – 7.5

Temperature: 22°C – 26C (72 – 81F)

Hardness: 1 – 15 dH

Description: Semaprochilodus insignis can reach a maximum length of around 27 cm. This species is very closely related to Semaprochilodus taeniurus in shape and colour; the difference is that Semaprochilodus insignis has a dark marking on its gill plate that fades in time.  Mature females have rounder bellies than males.

Diet: Semaprochilodus insignis, an omnivore, leans more towards vegetables than live food.  Provide it with vegetables – spinach, lettuce, algae wafers and cucumber – along with some dried foods and bloodworm on occasions.

Breeding: There is not a great deal of information available on this species regarding tank breeding.  They haven’t been known to spawn in tanks because of the migratory patterns they have in nature; Semaprochilodus insignis migrates twice a year and may travel hundreds of kilometres doing so.

Comments: Semaprochilodus insignis should be kept in a tank of at least 540 litres.  Your tank should have a river sand substrate and a few driftwood branches; avoid a densely planted tank as it will devour soft-leaved species.  This species is semi-rare and very tough to breed, making it suitable for hobbyists with some experience.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Semaprochilodus insignis may flare up at members of its own species and should be kept in groups of six in large tanks.  You could house it with large characins, Loricariids, peaceful cichlids, knifefish, freshwater stingrays and Doradids.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Anostomidae

Distribution: The species Anostomus anostomus, better known as Striped Headstander, is distributed in South America’s Orinoco and Amazon River basins, the rivers of Venezuela and Columbia, and there are reports it has been seen in Suriname.

PH: 6.0 – 8.0

Temperature: 22 – 28°C (72 – 84°F)

Hardness: 5 – 12 dH

Description: The Striped Headstander can reach up to 16 cm in length. This semi-aggressive species has an upward mouth and cigar-shaped body.  Its stripes can ranges from brown to black, with alternating yellow stripes, and its tail and dorsal fin are a distinctive red colouration.  This species has transparent fins, appointed head and an upturned mouth.  You can expect the Striped Headstander to live for 5 – 8 years if looked after properly.

Diet: Anostomus anostomus is an omnivore and will accept flake, algae, frozen foods and small live foods such as freeze-dried bloodworms and shrimp.

Breeding: There have been no reported cases of successful breeding in the hobby.  You should separate the males and females and stacking them up on live foods, before reintroducing them into a prepared, spawning-friendly tank.  You might consider increasing the temperature slightly and covering the aquarium with a towel – in order to create a dark “mood light” and to keep the temperature up – in order to trigger spawning.  Take the parents from the tank once the deed has been done: they have a tendency to eat the eggs.

Comments: You should provide this species with at least a 50 gallon tank.  It may be a good idea to decorate your tank with driftwood, rocks and roots, but be wary that the Striped Headstander may eat your plants.  Keep a lid on the aquarium as this species will jump out if given the chance.

Article/Books

Recommended Compatible Species: This species can display some aggression at times and you should house them in groups of six to avoid clashes.  Striped Headstanders can be housed with peaceful cichlids, Rainbowfish, Guppies, Platies, Swordtails, Loaches, Mollies, and Barbs.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Cyprinidae

Distribution: Sawbwa resplendens, also known as Sawbwa Barb, is a freshwater species found in Myanma’s Inle lake.  This species is all through the lake, including the surrounding swamps, and occurs in big shoals among dense vegetation in both clear and foul waters.

PH: 7.0 – 8.0

Temperature: 21°C – 25C (70 – 79F)

Hardness: 9 – 19 dH

Description: Rhodeus sericeus can reach a maximum length of around 2.5 cm. This streamlined fish is very easy to sex: females are silver with transparent fins; males have orange-red tail tips and a milky-blue coloured body.  This small-scaled species has a great colouration and a very peaceful demeanour.

Diet: Sawbwa resplendens, an omnivore, will require a good balance of foods.  Provide it with prepared foods and a smattering of live foods, including plankton and daphnia.

Breeding: This species appears to enjoy spawning in cooler temperatures; the females will leave their eggs in leaves and in spawning mops.  Remove the adults as soon as you see the eggs, as Sawbwa resplendens does not display any parental care.  There is not a great deal of information available regarding tank breeding.

Comments: Sawbwa resplendens will fight with each other unless housed in at least a 56 litre tank.  Your tank should be densely planted and have weak filtration.  It will prefer alkaline waters and should not be exposed to large fluctuations in temperature.  Put a lid on your tank to stop this fish from jumping out.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Sawbwa resplendens should be housed with similarly-sized species who can handle these specific water parameters.  You could house it with Danio erythromicron, Davario auropurpurea, Parambassis lala and Yunnanilus brevis.  

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Anostomidae

Distribution: Anostomus ternetzi, better known as Headstander, is distributed in the fast-flowing rivers of South America.  It is seen in the Araguaia, Orinoco and Amazon River basis, as well as coastal rivers of Guianas.

PH: 5.5 – 7.5

Temperature: 24 – 28°C (76 – 84°F)

Hardness: 8 – 20 dH

Description: The Headstander, which can reach up to 15 cm in length, has a long, pike-like body.  Its colour can ranges from brown to black and has three yellow stripes that go along its body.  This species has transparent fins, appointed head and an upturned mouth.  You can expect the Headstander to live for 5 – 8 years if looked after properly.

Diet: Anostomus ternetzi is an omnivore and will accept flake, algae and small live foods such as shrimp and bloodworm.  You can also indulge this species with vegetables – lettuce and spinach tend to be well received – and it may take a few bites from your plants.  It is very important to keep algae as a staple diet; it is required to keep the fish in good health.

Breeding: The Headstander is a spawning fish; so far there have been no reported cases of successful breeding in the hobby.  Headstanders, as a rule, are usually best bred by separating the males and females and stacking them up on live foods, before reintroducing them into a prepared, spawning-friendly tank.  You might consider increasing the temperature slightly and covering the aquarium with a towel – in order to create a dark “mood light” and to keep the temperature up – in order to trigger spawning.  Take the parents from the tank once the deed has been done: they have a tendency to eat the eggs.

Comments: You will need to allow this fish quite a lot of space in your aquarium.  About 120 litres is a good volume for 4 – 5 Headstanders.  Make sure you cover the top of your tank, as this fish can quite often jump straight out.  This is an interesting and visually appealing fish, but beginners should not attempt to breed it as it is a near-impossible task.

Article/Books

Recommended Compatible Species: This species can be territorial at times and you should house them in groups of six to avoid clashes.  Headstanders can be housed with peaceful cichlids or short-finned characins.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

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.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Alestidae

Distribution: Alestopetersius caudalis, commonly known as the Yellowtail Tetra, is distributed throughout Africa’s Congo River basin.

PH: 6.5 – 8.0

Temperature: 22 – 26°C (72 – 79°F)

Hardness: 10 – 20 dH

Description: The Yellowtail Tetra can reach around 7 cm in length; females are slightly smaller than males.  This species has a pale body which will shine in a well-lit tank.  Its dorsal area may display a blue colour while its side has elements of yellow and silver.  The Yellowtail Tetra’s caudal fin has a bold yellow colour, while its other fins have a blue-white edging.  Females lack the white edging at their fins and, in contrast to males, do not have a black middle section on their caudal fin.  This species can live a long life of up to 10 years.

Diet: Alestopetersius caudalis is an omnivorous species.  It will eat anything you give it, but provide it with a solid flake as its staple.  It may be fed the occasional shrimp, bloodworm and daphnia.

Breeding: The Yellowtail Tetra is not easily bred in captivity.  For best results you should have a planted tank and make sure you give the parents live foods for two weeks before pairing them up.  Remove the parents from the tank as soon as you see the scattering of eggs.

Comments: Provide this species with plenty of plants and an open swimming space.  It is wise to create hiding spots in the form of pot-plants, wood and rocks.  You should house the Yellowtail Tetra in a tank of at least 60 litres.  This species should be kept in groups of 5 – 6 fish; the lighting in the tank should be subdued.

Article/Books

Recommended Compatible Species: This species has a very peaceful temperament and should be housed with placid, similarly sized fish.  The Yellowtail Tetra should not be housed with Tiger Barbs or Angelfish.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

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.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Cichlidae

Distribution: Aequidens pulcher, or Blue Acara, are distributed in the standing waters and flowing streams of Central and South America, Trinidad and Venezuela.

PH: 6.5 – 8.0

Temperature: 18 – 23°C (64 – 73°F)

Hardness: 1 – 25 dH

Description: The Blue Acara, which can reach a large 16 cm in length, has a sparkling blue-gray base colouration and shiny, blue-green scales.  Males have longer, more pointed fins than females; and this fish’s forehead is broader than other cichlids.  The Blue Acara’s body may have 5 – 8 black stripes: these are not always visible.  It is a particularly attractive, non-aggressive fish.  It is often confused with the Green Terror – and for sometime was thought to be the same species – but the Blue Acara is not as aggressive and lacks the large hump on its head.

Diet: Aequidens pulcher is omnivorous and will love bloodworm, earthworms, frozen brine shrimp, flakes and insect larvae.

Breeding: The Blue Acara is easily bred; the female lays its eggs on rocks and will be very protective of its young.  Both parents will guard the eggs and larvae until hatching.  There are no special water requirements for breeding; this is a great fish for beginners.  It will spawn easily and without provocation.

Comments: Provide this species with a large tank – around 35 gallons in volume – and decorate it with several hiding places, rocks and wood.  The Blue Acara may eat dig out your plants so it might be worth adding a gravel substrate instead – it loves a tank bottom of fine sand.  Make sure your tank has strong lighting and several open swimming areas for this species to flourish.  It will need the occasional water change to maintain its health; its excrement can promote disease.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: The Blue Acara is a peaceful – although quite territorial – cichlid that should be housed with species of a similar size.  Suggested tank mates include Firemouths, Severum, Corydoras, Loricariids and other mild-mannered cichlids.  It is best to house Blue Acara with similar-sized or larger species; they can be aggressive towards those smaller than them.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Cyprinidae

Distribution: Rasbora vaterifloris, also known as Pearly Rasbora, is a Sri Lankan freshwater species found in the middle catchment area of the Nilwala and Kalu basins.  It is generally found in shallow, sheltered forest streams. 

PH: 6.0

Temperature: 25°C – 29C (77 – 84F)

Hardness: 5 – 8 dH

Description: Rasbora vaterifloris can reach a maximum length of around 4 cm. Depending on where it is found, this species can vary in colour from red-orange to blue.  The red, orange and yellow-finned forms are very highly sought in the aquarium hobby, but the Pearly Rasbora is quite a rare species.  Males are slimmer and have a brighter colouration to females.

Diet: The Three-lined Rasbora is not a fussy eater in an aquarium environment; in the wild it is said to eat small insects and organic detritus.  You can feed it dried food and daily meals of small live and frozen foods – Daphnia and Artemia in particular – to keep it healthy and vibrant.

Breeding: Rasbora vateriflorisis an egg-scatterer that exhibits no parental care; it is also reportedly extremely difficult to breed in a tank.  A peat fibre substrate is recommended as it replaces the silty conditions that it is used to in the wild; it will also stop the parents from devouring the eggs.  Provide plenty of plants in your tank – Java moss will provide some cover for the fish – and have a very gentle filtration in your tank.  This species is best spawned in groups of 5 – 6; eggs can number around 20 or more.  The fry hatches in 24 – 48 hours and can take several months to reach adult size.

Comments: You can house a small group of Rasbora vaterifloris in a 70 litre tank.  Your tank should have plenty of open swimming space, a dark substrate, and plantation in the form of dried leaf litter and driftwood roots.    The Pearly Rasbora will appreciate a dimly lit tank and small, regular water changes to keep it healthy. Given the strict water requirements during breeding and in general, Rasbora vaterifloris is probably better suited to hobbyists with some experience.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Rasbora vaterifloris, a schooling species, is quite shy and should be kept in groups of about a dozen.  It is a peaceful species that will work well with some species of Discus, Angelfish, Swordtails, Gouramis, Danios and other Rasboras.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

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 is a peaceful species which can be housed with Discus fish, Rainbows, Cories, and other non aggressive loaches.  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.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Cyprinidae

Distribution: Rasbora trilineata, commonly known as Three-lined Rasbora, is a popular Asian freshwater species found in the Malay Peninsula, Borneo and Sumatra, as well as the Chao Phraya and Mekong basins.  It is generally found in slow-flowing rivers, lakes, swamps and forest habitats. 

PH: 6.0 – 8.0

Temperature: 23°C – 25C (74 – 77F)

Hardness: 5 – 12 dH

Description: Rasbora trilineata can reach a maximum length of around 13 cm. This slim, elongated species has a dark lateral stripe that runs down its body from the pectoral fins to the caudal peduncle.  It has a sharply forked caudal fin, which is the reason it is sometimes called the Scissortail Rasbora.  Its fins are translucent except for the caudal fin, which has some black and yellow bands and white tips.  This species can live for 5 – 8 years.

Diet: The Three-lined Rasbora is not a fussy eater in an aquarium environment.  You can feed it Daphnia, bloodworm, flake, pellets and brine shrimp to keep it healthy and bring out its best colours.

Breeding: Rasbora trilineata is an egg-scatterer that exhibits no parental care; it is also reportedly very tough to breed in a tank.  You will need your water to be soft and acidic, and the tank must be super clean otherwise the eggs and fry will perish.  Provide plenty of plants in your tank because the females will deposit their eggs between the plants.  Remove the parents after spawning to stop them from eating the eggs.  Eggs are sensitive and you should add an antibiotic to the water to keep them alive, as well as continually making water changes.  The fry hatches in 24 hours and can be given nauplii immediately.

Comments: You can house a small group of Rasbora trilineata in a 20 gallon tank.  Your tank should have plenty of open swimming space and plantation.  The water is best when it is slightly acidic, and you should employ peat filtration in the tank.  You might also choose to add a dark soil substrate and some shade for this upper-middle dwelling species.  A tight lid on the top of the tank is a must to prevent the Three-lined Rasbora from jumping out.  Given the strict water requirements during breeding, it is probably better suited to hobbyists with some experience.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Rasbora trilineata should be kept in groups of 4 – 8.  It is a peaceful species that will work well with other mild-mannered rasbora and peaceful tetras, and the bottom-dwelling Corydoras.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Anostomidae

Distribution: Abramites hypselonotus is distributed in the South American waters of Orinoco, Amazon, Paraguay and the lower Parana River basins.  They are typically found in fast-flowing waters and rivers with plenty of rocks.

PH: 6.0 – 7.5

Temperature: 23 – 27°C (73 – 81°F)

Hardness: 2 – 18 dH

Description: The Marbled Headstander can reach a maximum length of 14 cm.  This species has a distinctive pointed snout and a diamond-shaped body.  It has a dark line at the bottom of its caudal peduncle, dark brown bands and some brown markings on its pelvic fin. This species is incredibly hard to sex, although males tend to have a lump on their belly.  On a positive note, the Marbled Headstander can live for an impressive 14 years – if cared for properly.

Diet: The Marbled Headstander is herbivorous and will enjoy lettuce and peas on top of its processed food diet.  You can even feed it bloodworms and mosquito larvae on special occasions.

Breeding: Abramites hypselonotus has not yet been bred in an aquarium environment; there is little information available on its breeding requirements.

Comments: You should keep this species in a typical South American tank setup with plenty of hiding spaces – roots are a good idea – and room to swim.  Provide rocks to simulate its natural environment.  Be careful; it will eat any plants you have.  If you desperately want to have plants in your tank, make sure they are tough ones – Java Fern is an example of a hardy, durable plant.  Also, make sure you cover your tank: this species has been known to jump straight out of the tank.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: The Marbled Headstander can have a bit of an attitude towards other species, so be wary when selecting tank mates.  It can be compatible with Silver Dollars and Severums, as well as medium-sized Cichlids.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Cyprinidae

Distribution: Rasbora steineri, commonly known as Chinese Rasbora, is an Asian freshwater species found in Vietnam, Laos and south-eastern China. 

PH: 6.0 – 6.5

Temperature: 22°C – 24C (72 – 75F)

Hardness: 10 – 15 dH

Description: Rasbora steineri can reach a maximum length of around 10 cm, but is often smaller.  It has a dark lateral stripe that runs down its entire body and a curved line that goes to the bottom of the body.  It has a blotch-less dorsal fin and four and a half scales between its dark lateral stripe and the origin of its dorsal fin.  It is often mistaken for other small fish.

Diet: This rare species probably eats invertebrates in the wild, but has a preference for dried foods in an aquarium environment.  You can feed it Daphnia, bloodworm and other live foods to prime it for breeding and also to bring out its best colours.

Breeding: There is not much information available on Rasbora steineri but, like most cyprinids, it is probably an egg-scatterer that exhibits no parental care.  You should provide a mesh netting at the base of your tank for the eggs to fall through out of harm’s way, so as to stop them being eaten by the parents.

Comments: You can house a small group of Rasbora steineri in a 200 litre tank.  Your tank should resemble this species’ natural habitat – hill streams and lower areas of lowland streams – as closely as possible.  Rasbora steineri is extremely rare and was once thought to be extinct locally.  Given the lack of information and the sheer rareness of this species, it is probably better suited to hobbyists with some experience.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: There is not a great deal of information listed on this species, but it would be compatible with other small, non-aggressive fish.  

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Cambaridae

Distribution: Procambarus versutus, known commonly as the Sly Crayfish, is distributed in North America from Alabama’s Mobile River drainage east to the Chattahoochee-Apalachicola drainage in Alabama, Georgia and Florida.

PH: 7.0 – 8.0 (but it is quite tolerant).

Temperature: 18 – 26°C (64 – 79°F)

Hardness: 6 – 20 dH

Description: Procambarus versutus has a black-splotched tail and small, black bumps on its large claws.  Its carapace is adorned with cream and black markings on top of a tan base colour.  It has two very distinctive spines that sit either side of its carapace.  This species has a maximum length of 7 cm and its colour can change after each moult.

Diet: This species is omnivorous, but it will not attack your plants.  Feed it a typical crayfish diet of fish pellets, flake, frozen shrimp, and vegetables.

Breeding: The Sly Crayfish breeds as per most Procambarus.  There is not a great deal of breeding information available on this species.

Comments: You can easily keep one pair of Sly Crayfish in a tank 60 cm x 30 cm.  This species is unlikely to eat your plants, so feel free to adorn your tank with plenty of plant life and hiding spaces.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: While there is not a great deal of information available on recommended compatible species, Procambarus versutus is mild-mannered enough to be housed with prawns, shrimp, fish and snails.  This species is perfect in both a community tank environment and in a one-species tank.  It is also unlikely to attack within its own species.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Cyprinidae

Distribution: Rasbora sarawakensis, commonly known as Sarawak Rasbora, is an Asian freshwater species found in Borneo and Sarawak, Malaysia.  It is also distributed in the West Kalimantan province in Indonesia, and the Mempawah and Melawi, in Kalimantan Barat.  It usually resides in slow forest streams littered with thick vegetation.

PH: 6.0 – 7.5

Temperature: 22°C – 26C (72 – 78F)

Hardness: 2 – 12 dH

Description: Rasbora leptosoma can reach a maximum length of around 4 cm.  It is a highly desirable species with a great array of colours; it has orange fins and a silver and electric blue midline.  Females are much more round-bellied and generally a bit larger than males.

Diet: This species probably eat invertebrates in the wild, but has a preference for dried foods in an aquarium environment.  You can feed it Daphnia, bloodworm and other live foods to prime it for breeding and also to bring out its best colours.

Breeding: Rasbora sarawakensis will spawn often when in good condition but, like most cyprinids, this egg-scatterer exhibits no parental care.  You should provide a mesh at the base of your tank for the eggs to fall through out of harm’s way, so as to stop them being eaten by the parents.  You could introduce a well-conditioned group of adults to a 30 litre tank that is only half-filled with water; spawning can be initiated by added small amounts of cold water every few hours.  The eggs will hatch in 18 – 48 hours; the fry will be swimming within the next 24 – 48 hours..

Comments: You can house a small group of Rasbora sarawakensis in a 70 litre tank.  Your tank should have plenty of open swimming space in the middle of the tank and a dark substrate to allow it to demonstrate its best colouration.  A cover of floating plants, along with some driftwood branches and a weak level of filtration, is recommended.  Sarawak Rasbora is reportedly tough to breed and requires a moderate level of care, making it better suited to hobbyists with some experience.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: This peaceful, schooling fish can get nervous unless it is housed in groups of 8 – 10.  You can house Serawak Rasbora with Rasbora borapetensis, Rasbora einthovenii, Pangio semicincta and Trichogaster trichopterus

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Cambaridae

Distribution: Procambarus vasquezae is another Central American crayfish distributed in Mexican waters.

PH: 7.0 is a suitable level.

Temperature: 18 – 26°C (64 – 79°F)

Hardness: 9 – 13 dGH (but can withstand many different levels)

Description: Procambarus vasquezae will grow, if healthy, up to 7 cm in length; males are slightly larger than females.  This species comes in an attractive dark brown colour; females have a broader tail and males have bigger pincers and a gonopod.  These huge pincers can have the Procambarus vasquezae confused for some Orconectes species.

Diet: This species is omnivorous but is not a huge eater.  You should avoid overfeeding this species: it is a scavenger by nature.  Feed it typical crayfish foods: fish pellets, flake, frozen shrimp, vegetables, etc.  It won’t touch your plants, which is a good thing.

Breeding: Procambarus vasquezae has a fairly standard breeding procedure.  As long as your water parameters are good and there are several males and females in your tank, you should have no problems reproducing this species.  One notable trait of the female Procambarus vasquezae is the larger than usual eggs it produces.

Comments: Provide plenty of hiding places and plants for this species to thrive.  Don’t worry; it will not eat your plants.  A tank of 60 cm x 30 cm is suitable for three pairs of Procambarus vasquezae.  This hardy species is suitable for beginners to the hobby, particularly given how easy it is to breed.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Procambarus vasquezae is a chilled-out, laid-back species; it won’t cause any trouble at all.  It can be housed with prawns, shrimp, fish and snails.  This species is perfect in both a community tank environment and in a one-species tank.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Cyprinidae

Distribution: Rasbora pauciperforata, commonly known as Red-striped Rasbora, is an Asian freshwater species found in Sumatra, Borneo, Singapore, and in the Malay Peninsula.  It tends to inhabit black water streams and forest peat swamps filled with fallen leaves, branches and twigs. 

PH: 5.0 – 7.5

Temperature: 23°C – 26C (73 – 79F)

Hardness: 5 – 12 dH

Description: Rasbora pauciperforata can reach a maximum length of around 7 cm.  It is an elongated, slender fish with an incomplete lateral line and a dorsal fin height that is greater than the depth of its body.  The lateral line can vary in colour from orange to golden depending on locality, condition, diet and mood.  Mature females are larger and generally more round-bellied than males.  

Diet: In the wild, this species eats worms, crustaceans, insects and zooplankton.  You can feed it Daphnia, Artemia, granules and a good quality flake to keep it healthy and vibrant.

Breeding: This egg-scattering species can spawn in a tank environment. It is a good idea to keep a large number of adults in a school and watch carefully for similar pairs.  You should make sure the water is slightly acidic and that you have a power filter that maintains its flow down the full length of the tank.  You can initiate spawning by adding small amounts of cold water to your tank.  The eggs will hatch after 18 – 48 hours; the fry will be swimming within the next 1 – 2 days and can be given nauplii and microworm at this stage.

Comments: You can house a small group of Red-striped Rasbora in an 85 litre tank.  Your tank should have plenty of open swimming space, lots of dried leaf litter and several roots and branches to simulate its natural environment.  It is recommended you have a soft, sandy substrate in the tank.  It may be a good idea to make sure the tank is dimly lit.  Rasbora pauciperforata is quite sensitive and is better suited to hobbyists with some experience.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: This peaceful, schooling fish is best housed in groups of 8 – 10, with similarly-sized, active schoolers.  You could house the Red-striped Rasbora with Puntius lineatus, Puntius pentazona, Rasbora gracilis and Kuhli Loaches.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Cambaridae

Distribution: Procambarus toltecae is a Central American crayfish with its origins in Mexico.

PH: 7.5 – 8.5

Temperature: 10 – 22°C (50 – 72°F)

Hardness: 9 – 13 dGH

Description: Procambarus toltecae will grow a maximum length of 8 cm.  It is one of the more colourful species of crayfish – naturally colourful, not selectively bred – and can be a mix of brown, red and orange.

Diet: This species is omnivorous but is not a huge eater.  You should avoid overfeeding it to maintain its health; as a scavenger, this species is used to going long periods without eating. Feed it typical crayfish foods: pellets, flake, vegetables, etc.  It might cause some damage to your plants, but nothing too serious.

Breeding: Procambarus toltecae has a fairly standard breeding procedure.  The females will carry around about 50 eggs for around four weeks, at which time they will hatch into 4 mm crayfish.  These youngsters will be a brown-orange colour; they will become more vibrant as they get older.  No special water conditions are required to facilitate breeding.

Comments: It is advised you keep one pair of Procambarus toltecae in a 60 x 30 cm tank.  This species is not quite as tolerant of bad water conditions, so be careful to change your water every so often and be wary of excessive pH and temperature levels.  This is a very rare species of crayfish.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Procambarus spiculifer is a reasonably mild species, and, while there is not much information available on compatible tank mates, it could most likely be housed with fish and shrimps alike.  Procambarus toltecae will struggle in an inter-species battle, so avoid housing it with stronger specimens.  Given its beautiful colouration, it could well be housed in a one-species tank.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Cyprinidae

Distribution: Rasbora leptosoma, commonly known as Copper-striped Rasbora, is an Asian freshwater species found in Sumatra, Indonesia.

PH: 5.0 – 7.0

Temperature: 23°C – 26C (73 – 79F)

Hardness: 2 – 10 dH

Description: Rasbora leptosoma can reach a maximum length of around 9 cm.  It is an elongated, fork-tailed fish with an olive-brown back and a brownish-grey body; it has a white belly and greyish fins.  When healthy, this species can display a bright red stripe from its snot to the iris, and to the caudal fin.

Diet: This species has a preference for live foods in an aquarium environment.  You can feed it Drosophila, Tubifex, crustaceans, insect larvae and insects, as well as flake.

Breeding: You should provide this egg-scattering species with the following water conditions when attempting to spawn: pH of 5.5 – 6.0; hardness of 2 – 3 dH; and a slightly warmer water temperature around the 26 – 29°C region.  It is a good idea to keep a large number of adults in a school and watch carefully for similar pairs.  The eggs, once scattered among the plants, will hatch after 24 – 48 hours.   The fry will be swimming within the next 3 – 5 days and can be given liquid foods, roftiers and Infusoria.

Comments: You can house a small group of Copper-striped Rasbora in a 75 – 100 litre tank.  Your tank should have plenty of open swimming space in the middle of the tank and employ a peat filtration system.  It is recommended you have a dark substrate and a cover of floating plants in your home aquarium.  Rasbora leptosoma is quite sensitive and is better suited to hobbyists with some experience.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: This peaceful fish is best housed in groups of 8 – 10, with similarly-sized, active schoolers.  You can house it with Colisa, Apistogramma, Loricariids, Loaches, Hatchetfish and Danios.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Cambaridae

Distribution: Procambarus spiculifer is a North American crayfish distributed from Georgia down to Florida, and west to river systems in Alabama.  It is known in every river system in Alabama with the exception of the Escatawpa and Tennessee systems.

PH: 6.0 – 8.0

Temperature: 10 – 22°C (50 – 72°F)

Hardness: 9 – 13 dGH

Description: Procambarus spiculifer can grow in excess of to 12 cm in length.   This colourful-looking crayfish is reasonably shy and peaceful.  Males have longer pincers than females, and gonopods, while females have a broader tail.  This species may appear in several different colour variations.

Diet: This species is omnivorous and will eat most food items – including your plants. Provide it with typical crayfish food: vegetables, pellets, flake, etc.

Breeding: Procambarus spiculifer will breed in the same fashion as most Procambarus species.  Not a lot of information is available on its specific breeding habits.

Comments: It is advised you keep Procambarus spiculifer in a tank at least 100 cm in length; it is a biggish crayfish and it will need the extra space.  This species is not quite as tolerant of bad water conditions, so be careful to change your water every so often.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Procambarus spiculifer is a reasonably mild species, and, while there is not much information available on compatible tank mates, it could most likely be housed with fish and shrimps alike.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Cyprinidae

Distribution: Rasbora kalochroma, commonly known as Clown Rasbora, is an Asian freshwater species found in the Malay Peninsula – the states of Selangor, Pahang, Johor and Terengganu – and the Greater Sunda Islands of Sumatra and Borneo; it resides in black water streams and peat swamps.

PH: 5.0 – 7.5

Temperature: 23°C – 28C (72 – 82F)

Hardness: 2 – 10 dH

Description: Rasbora kalochroma can reach a maximum length of around 10 cm.  Females are generally stockier and larger than males; males have a darker, brighter pigmentation to females.  This species resembles the Harlequin Rasbora almost exactly, but the Clown Rasbora is slightly larger.

Diet: This omnivorous species will accept most foods in an aquarium environment.  You can feed it a staple diet of quality flakes and granules, alongside daily helpings of Daphnia, bloodworms and Artemia.

Breeding: The Clown Rasbora is an egg-scattering species that is will spawn well if in good condition.  The breeding tank should be dimly lit and the base covered with a mesh to catch the eggs and keep them safe from the adults, who will eat them.  Eggs will hatch within 18 – 48 hours and the fry will be swimming within the next two days.

Comments: You can house a small group of Rasbora kalochroma in a 255 litre tank.  Your tank should have plenty of open swimming space and a few driftwood branches.  The tank should be dimly lit and have several densely planted zones, dried leaf litter and a sandy substrate in order to create a natural feel.  Have a tight lid to prevent it from jumping out of the tank.  Rasbora kalochroma requires spotless water conditions to thrive and is recommended to those hobbyists with experience.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: This peaceful fish is best housed in groups of 8 – 10.  This fish displays its best colours when in the company of its own species.  You can tank it with Malaysian Peninsula species such as Rasbora cephalotaenia, Rasbora gracilis, Betta pugnax and Vaillantella maassi.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Cambaridae

Distribution: Procambarus pubescens is an American crayfish distributed in the Savannah River basin of Georgia and South Carolina, particularly the Barnwell and Aiken Counties.  It has been sighted as far south as Hampton County.

PH: 6.0 – 8.0

Temperature: 10 – 30°C (50 – 86°F)

Hardness: Is generally found in soft, acidic water in the wild, but is quite adaptable to different conditions; higher levels of gH in a tank environment will be fine.  9 – 13 dGH is a recommended level.

Description: Procambarus pubescens will grow around 8 cm in length, although they can reach greater sizes.  They are similar in appearance to Procambarus enoplosternum but not as bright and colourful.  This species colour is more green and blue, while Procambarus enoplosternum is more red and black in its colouration.

Diet: This species is omnivorous and will eat most food items.  However it is not a big eater and will not attack your plants.  Provide it with typical crayfish food: vegetables, pellets, flake, etc.

Breeding: Procambarus pubescens will breed very early, often when they are as small as 4 cm in length.  The egg count will increase with the size of the female, but should not exceed 80.  This species does not require any special water conditions to breed and is therefore suitable for beginners to the hobby.

Comments: It is advised you keep Procambarus pubescens in a tank size of about 100 litres.  This species is not quite as tolerant of bad water conditions, so be careful to change your water every so often.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Procambarus pubescens is a reasonably mild species, and, while there is not much information available on compatible tank mates, it could most likely be housed with fish and shrimps alike.  This species does not fight too much and could be kept in a one-species tank if preferred.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Cyprinidae

Distribution: Rasbora elegans, commonly known as Elegant Rasbora, is an Asian freshwater species found in the Malay Peninsula, Singapore and the Greater Sunda Islands of Sumatra and Borneo.  It has been seen in swift forest streams, areas with stones, sand and gravel, as well as sluggish backwaters full of dense vegetation.

PH: 5.0 – 7.5

Temperature: 22°C – 25C (72 – 77F)

Hardness: 2 – 12 dH

Description: Rasbora elegans can reach a maximum length of around 20 cm.  This species lacks a dark stripe above the lateral line, making it distinguishable from other similar members of the genus.  It has two spot markings on each flake; the intensity of these spots can vary on the fish’s locality. Females are generally stockier and larger than males. Rasbora elegans can live for up to six years.

Diet: This omnivorous species will accept most foods in an aquarium environment.  You can feed it a staple diet of quality flake, supplemented twice a week with daphnia, bloodworms and brine shrimp.

Breeding: The Elegant Rasbora is an egg-scattering species that is best bred in a dimly lit tank.  You should add Java moss, spawning mops or fine-leaved plants to your tank as spawning sites.  It is a good idea to lower the water level to 7 – 8 inches when trying to breed this species.  The adults exhibit no parental care and will eat the eggs if given the chance.  Eggs will hatch within 24 – 48 hours and the fry can be fed Infusoria until large enough to receive crushed flake.

Comments: You can house a small group of Elegant Rasbora in a 255 litre tank.  Your tank should have plenty of open swimming space and, if possible, resemble a river as closely as possible.  The tank should be dimly lit and have several densely planted zones, driftwood branches and roots, a gravel substrate and some dried leaf litter in order to create a natural feel.  Have a tight lid to prevent Rasbora elegans from jumping out of the tank.  You should make plenty of water changes to keep this species happy; it requires spotless water conditions to thrive.  The Elegant Rasbora requires a reasonable amount of care and is recommended to hobbyists with experience.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Rasbora elegans is a lively, gregarious species, best housed in groups of at least six.  This fish displays its best colours when in the company of its own species.  You can tank it with small cyprinids, dwarf cichlids, characins, catfish and loaches.  

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Cambaridae

Distribution: The specific origin of Procambarus sp, or Marble Crayfish, is unknown, other than it is found in the United States.  They first appeared in the German pet fish trade.

PH: 6.5 – 7.5

Temperature: 16 – 26°C (60 – 78°F)

Hardness: 9 – 13 dGH (but can withstand many levels of hardness)

Description: Procambarus sp. can grow up to 10 cm in length.  It is of a light and dark brown colour, which gives it a mostly camouflaged appearance.  This species can live up to three years if taken care of properly.

Diet: Marble Crayfish will feast upon plants and dead leaves.  This species is also rather fond of flake and fish pellets.

Breeding: The most interesting part about Procambarus sp. is that there are no males: this is species made up entirely of females!  Marble Crayfish breed through a process known as parthenogenesis: self-cloning.  Other than this, breeding is as per usual.  Procambarus sp. can produce a massive amount of age and will multiply at a rapid rate.

Comments: It is advised you keep Procambarus sp. in a tank size of about 100 litres.  This species does not require special water conditions; it is extremely hardy and will do well in most aquarium environments as long as temperatures are not extreme.  As such, this is a good species for beginners as not a lot of maintenance is required (and you won’t have the problem of working out which are male and which are female).

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Procambarus sp. is a reasonably aggressive species, but can be housed with fish and shrimps alike.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Cyprinidae

Distribution: Rasbora einthovenii, commonly known as Brilliant Rasbora, is an Asian freshwater species found in the Malay Peninsula and Indonesia, mostly in forest streams.

PH: 6.0 – 6.5

Temperature: 22°C – 26C (71 – 79F)

Hardness: 4 – 10 dH

Description: Rasbora einthovenii can reach a maximum length of around 9 cm.  Males are smaller and slimmer than the females, who have a deeper body shape in comparison.  This species is similar to Rasbora jacobsoni but lacks its dark reticulated scales above the lateral stripe.  The Brilliant Rasbora’s stripe is more uneven than in any other species of Rasbora; this species’ body also has a pink background colour and a lateral stripe that extends through and beyond its eye.  Rasbora einthovenii can live for 3 – 5 years.

Diet: This omnivorous species will accept most foods in an aquarium environment.  You can feed it a staple diet of quality flake, supplemented with white worms, bloodworms and brine shrimp.

Breeding: The Brilliant Rasbora is an egg-laying species that is tough to breed in a captive environment.  You should add moss, spawning mops or fine-leaved plants to your tank as spawning sites.  You might choose to cover your tank’s base with a mesh netting to catch the eggs and protect them from the cannibalistic adults; adults exhibit no parental care.  Eggs will hatch within 24 – 48 hours and the fry can be fed Infusoria until large enough to receive crushed flake.

Comments: You can house a small group of Brilliant Rasbora in a 110 litre tank.  Your tank should be dimly lit and have several densely planted zones, a soft, sandy substrate and some dried leaf litter to create a natural feel.  Have a tight lid to prevent Rasbora einthovenii from jumping out of the tank.  You should make plenty of water changes to keep this species happy.  The Brilliant Rasbora is easy to care for and is suitable for newcomers to the hobby.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Rasbora einthovenii is a lively species that should be housed in groups of at least six.  You can tank it with small cyprinids, dwarf cichlids, tetras, catfish and loaches.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Cambaridae

Distribution: Procambarus enoplosternum is distributed from the Santee River basin, South Carolina, to the Ogeechee, Savannah and Altamaha River basins in the east parts of Georgia.

PH: 6.5 – 8.0

Temperature: 15 – 27°C (60 – 82°F)

Hardness: Found in soft water in the wild, but can have a higher gH in an aquarium.  No exact figure is given, but this creature is highly adaptable.  (5 – 15 dH)

Description: Procambarus enoplosternum is one of the prettier crayfish going around.  It measures around 10 cm in length and, depending on the region it is found, may have several different patterns.  It may have black stripes or cream coloured tubercles, with a cream or pink-spotted antennae.  Males have longer pincers and gonopods; females have a broader tail than males.

Diet: Procambarus enoplosternum will eat a typical crayfish diet of fishfood, vegetables and leaves.

Breeding: This freshwater-bred species will reproduce in the same fashion as other Procambarus species.  Procambarus enoplosternum will breed early in life; larger females will produce a greater number of eggs.  The maximum amount of eggs will probably be about 80.

Comments: It is advised you keep Procambarus enoplosternum in a 120 litre tank.  This species will not munch upon your plants.  The bigger the tank, the more individuals you can fit in.  This species is not overly aggressive and it is unlikely it will fight its own species.  You should provide hiding places in the form of pot plants and wood.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Procambarus enoplosternum can be housed with non-aggressive fish and prawns.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Cyprinidae

Distribution: Rasbora dusonensis, commonly known as Rosefin Rasbora, is an Asian freshwater species found in the Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, Borneo, and in the Mekong and Chao Phraya basins.  It prefers slow currents and is usually found near or at the surface of large rivers.

PH: 5.0 – 7.5

Temperature: 23°C – 26C (73 – 79F)

Hardness: 2 – 12 dH

Description: Rasbora dusonensis can reach a maximum length of around 12 cm.  It has a dark grey mid-lateral stripe which doesn’t extend onto the caudal fin.  The caudal fin usually has a black posterior margin; there are three scale rows between the mid-lateral stripe and the mid-ventral row.  Females are rounder-bellied than males and, in many cases, slightly larger.

Diet: This omnivorous species will accept dried foods in an aquarium environment; a daily meal of live and frozen food will enable Rasbora dusonensis to display its most prominent colouration.

Breeding: The Rosefin Rasbora is an egg-scattering, continuous spawning species that is tough to breed in a captive environment.  You could try keeping the adult group in a long, shallow tank that is half-filled with water, dimly lit and covered with a mesh so catch the eggs and protect them from the cannibalistic adults.  The water should be slightly acidic to neutral and at the warm end of the advised temperature spectrum.  After conditioning the adults on live foods, introduce them to a tank and add small amounts of cool water every few hours to trigger spawning.  Remember to remove the adults from the tank once the eggs are apparent.  The eggs will hatch in 18 – 48 hours and the young will be swimming freely 1 – 2 days later.

Comments: You could probably house a small group of Rosefin Rasbora in a 255 litre tank.  Your tank should have plenty of open swimming space, as well as densely planted zones, a rocky substrate and plenty of water movement.  Have a tight lid to prevent Rasbora dusonensis from jumping out of the tank.  This species requires moderate care and is suitable for people with some experience in the hobby.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Rasbora dusonensis is a peaceful species that should be housed in groups of at least six to calm its nerves.  You can tank it with Yasuhikotakia lecontei, Crossochelius siamensis, Cyclocheilichthys apogon, trichogaster pectoralis, and many species of Rasbora.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Cambaridae

Distribution: Procambarus cubensis, known also as the Cuba Crayfish, has its origins in Cuba.  Once a flourishing species, the Cuba Crayfish is starting to become rare.

PH: 6.5 – 8.5

Temperature: 15 – 28°C (59 – 85°F)

Hardness: 5 – 30 (gH); 3 – 20 (kH)

Description: The Cuba Crayfish is a peaceful species that will reach up to 10 cm in length.  Males have longer pincers and gonopods; females have a broader tail than males.

Diet: Procambarus cubensis is omnivorous and will eat most things thrown their way.  You might try offering it tropical food flakes and meat and vegetable pellets.  You can provide it with dried oak leaves to boost its health; this species will also eat its own moults to regain lost nutrients.  Be careful, this crayfish will eat your plants.

Breeding: This species breeds the same way as other Procambarus species.  Larvae will hatch after about 28 days, at which point the young are almost fully formed inside the eggs.  The young can eat the same food as the adults; they will grow and develop at a rapid rate.

Comments: Provide an aquarium of at least 60 cm in length for this species.  Avoid an over-abundance of plants – the Cuba Crayfish will munch upon them if given the chance.  If you are set on having plants in your tank, you should make sure they are hardy ones.  Java Fern is an example of a plant which requires little care and is hard to eat.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Procambarus cubensis, while generally peaceful, may be best suited to a one-species tank.  They can be aggressive at times and have been known to eat their young; you should keep an eye on this as soon as you noticed the larvae have hatched.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Cyprinidae

Distribution: Rasbora dorsiocellata, commonly known as Eyespot Rasbora, is an Asian freshwater species found in the Malay Peninsula and in Sumatra, Indonesia; it lives in streams and areas with high acidity.

PH: 6.0 – 6.5

Temperature: 20°C – 25C (68 – 77F)

Hardness: 0 – 10 dH

Description: Rasbora dorsiocellata can reach a maximum length of around 6 cm.  This elongated fish has a reflective, silver colouration, and a pointed snout.  There may be a slight pink colour in the ventral area between the operculum and the pelvic fins.  The dorsal fin is white with a large, eye-shaped black oval, which is the reason for its common name.  Females have a fuller body than males, but it is a difficult species to sex.  This species has a life expectancy of 8 – 10 years.

Diet: This omnivorous species will accept most foods in an aquarium environment, including quality flake or pellets, brine shrimp and bloodworm.

Breeding: The Eyespot Rasbora is an egg-scattering species that requires soft, acidic water in order to breed in a captive environment.  You should add fine-leaved plants or Java Moss for the female to deposit her eggs on.  Feed the adults a life food diet to increase chances of effective spawning; you must remove the adults once you see the eggs in the tank.  The eggs will hatch in 24 – 36 hours and can be fed infusoria or freshly hatched brine shrimp once they are swimming freely.

Comments: You could probably house a small group of Eyespot Rasbora in a 60 litre tank.  Your tank should have plenty of open swimming space, as well as dark soil, shady areas and some densely planted zones.  Keep Rasbora dorsiocellata in soft, slightly acidic water and make sure the tank is well filtered.  This species requires moderate care and is suitable for people with some experience in the hobby.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Rasbora dorsiocellata should be housed in groups of at least six.  It can be a nipper of long-finned fish so avoid housing it with such species.  You can tank it with small South American characins, small Barbs, Danios, small Rasboras, Corydoras and small labyrinth species.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Cambaridae

Distribution: Procambarus clarkii has its origins in the south-central United States and north-eastern parts of Mexico.  It can now be found in the River Nile, Japan, Hawaii, and areas of Western Europe, including Spain and Portugal.  This crayfish is found in slow streams, swamps, ponds and ditches; it will not be seen in fast-flowing streams.

PH: 7.5 – 8.0

Temperature: 19 – 29°C (66 – 85°F)

Hardness: 8 – 18 °d

Description: The Red Swamp Crayfish can grow as large as 20 cm in length, but is usually 10.5 – 12 cm.  The body is dark red and segmented, and its abdomen has a black stripe on it.  This species uses its appendages for feeding.  This species can live from 2 – 5 years; some individuals have made it to six years.

Diet: The Red Swamp Crayfish is a carnivore and will eat anything.  It has a preference for insect larvae, snails and tadpoles, and is not adverse to eating worms and other dead animals.

Breeding: This species has an internal process of fertilisation.  The male’s sperm will enter the female at the bottom of her legs, where the eggs are fertilised and then released.  The female will create a water current in a bid to drive the eggs into her pleopods.  The eggs will remain there for six months before becoming larvae.  It will take three months for the young to become sexually mature.

Comments: This species should, given its size, be tanked in a 40 litre aquarium at the very least.  The Red Swamp Crayfish is quite aggressive and will destroy vegetation or decorations in your tank, so provide it with a substrate for it to burrow in, along with several hiding places.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Procambarus clarkii is a very territorial species and should not be housed with other crayfish.  Do not keep it with slow, small, or long-finned fish as the crayfish will make light work of them.  This crayfish is best kept in a one-species tank.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Cyprinidae

Distribution: Rasbora caudimaculata, commonly known as Greater Scissortail, is an Asian freshwater species found in forest creeks and at the surface of streams; it is distributed throughout Malaysian and Indonesian waters, and in the lower Mekong basin.    

PH: 6.0 – 7.0

Temperature: 20°C – 26C (68 – 79F)

Hardness: 5 – 10 dH

Description: Rasbora caudimaculata can reach a maximum length of around 17 cm.  This elongated fish has a somewhat colourless body, except for a thin yellow line that stretches horizontally down its lateral line.   Its caudal fin is red with black tips.  Males are slimmer than females and have more yellow in their anal fins.  This species can live from 8 – 10 years.

Diet: This omnivorous species will accept most foods in an aquarium environment, including quality flake or pellets, brine shrimp, Daphnia, Tubifex and bloodworm.

Breeding: There is yet to be any documented proof of this species being bred in an aquarium environment.  It is likely to breed the same way as other Rasbora species.

Comments: You could probably house a small group of Greater Scissortail in a 30 gallon tank.  Your tank should have plenty of open swimming space, as well as several hiding spaces and a secure lid to stop the fish from jumping out.  You should also put plenty of plants in your tank to simulate its natural environment.  This species requires moderate care and is suited to experienced hobbyists.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Rasbora caudimaculata should be housed in groups of five or more.  It should not be housed with shy or long-finned fish, or with small fish or fry.  You should tank it with medium-sized, peaceful species, or in a one-species tank.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Cambaridae

Distribution: Procambarus allenii – known also as Electric Blue Crayfish – is natively distributed in the United States, east of St Johns River and throughout the Florida peninsula, as well south of the Levy and Marion counties.

PH: 6.5 – 8.5

Temperature: 10 – 30°C (50 – 86°F)

Hardness: 9 – 13 dGH

Description: Procambarus allenii will grow to an average of 10cm, although they can reach greater sizes.  In the wild, this species will have a brown appearance with some blue or red elements, but selective breeding has resulted in an electric blue variety.

Diet: This species will feast upon your plants if given the chance, so avoid heavily planting your tank.  It can be fed tropical food flakes and meat and vegetable pellets.  You can provide it with dried oak leaves to boost its health; this species will also eat its own moults to regain lost nutrients.

Breeding: Procambarus allenii females will carry her eggs on her swimmerets until hatching.  This species will breed all year around, but is best bred in pairs.  You should keep the adults well fed to maximise breeding capabilities.

Comments: The Electric Blue Crayfish will require gravel or sand as a substrate.  You should make sure your tank has a cover to stop this species from crawling out.  You will need to keep adults in a tank of at least 10 gallons to stop the young from cannibalising each other – a result of having not enough space to move around in.  Your tank should also have a full spectrum florescent lighting system in place.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: This species will stay mostly at the bottom of your tank and should be kept with fish that will leave them in peace.  You can house your Electric Blue Crayfish with fish species that are too big for them to catch and eat.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Cyprinidae

Distribution: Rasbora borapetensis, commonly known as Blackline Rasbora, is an Asian freshwater species found in the Chao Phraya, Mekong and Meklong basins, and in the northern Malay Peninsula; it is distributed in streams, drains and ponds – usually in slow, turbid waters.    

PH: 6.5 – 7.0

Temperature: 22°C – 26C (72 – 79F)

Hardness: 5 – 12 dH

Description: Rasbora borapetensis can reach a maximum length of around 6 cm.  This streamlined, silver fish has a distinctive dark brown or black stripe that stretches from its gills to the front of the caudal fin base.  Directly above the black line is a golden stripe.  It has a caudal fin that is bright red; the two sexes are remarkably similar but females are a bit bigger than males.

Diet: This omnivorous species will accept most foods in an aquarium environment, including live foods, frozen foods, flake and dried foods.

Breeding: This egg-laying species will require daily water changes and live food to spawn.  Females will produce 30 – 40 eggs; it is probably a good idea to remove the adults as soon as you see the eggs as they will definitely try to eat them.  The eggs hatch in around 36 hours and the young will be feeding two days later.

Comments: You could probably house a small group of Blackline Rasbora in a 12 gallon tank.  Your tank should have plenty of open swimming space, as well as being densely planted and as dimly lit as possible; provide floating plants at the top of the tank for shade.   This species is suitable for newcomers to the hobby.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Rasbora borapetensis should be housed in groups of 5 – 6.  This middle-high dwelling species can be housed with other peaceful fish, including Tetras, most livebearers, Rainbowfish, Plecos and Loaches.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Cambaridae

Distribution: Procambarus acanthophorus is distributed in streams and canals four kilometres east of Tuxtepec, Oaxaca, Mexico.

PH: 6.5 – 8.0

Temperature: 15 – 28°C (59 – 82°F)

Hardness: 5 – 30 (gH); 3 – 20 (kH)

Description: Procambarus acanthophorus can reach up to 10 cm in length.  It has hair on its pincers; males have longer pincers and gonopods, while females have significantly broader tails.

Diet: This species will eat foliage, plant debris, pellets and flake food.

Breeding: Like Procambarus clarkii, this species has an internal process of fertilisation.  The male’s sperm will enter the female at the bottom of her legs, where the eggs are fertilised and then released.  The eggs will remain there for six months before becoming larvae.  It will take three months for the young to become sexually mature.

Comments: Procambarus acanthophorus can be housed in a 60 cm x 30 cm tank.  The bigger the tank, the more you can house together.  Unlike Procambarus clarkii, this species can deal with bad water quality – not that it is advised.  You might consider providing this species with a substrate to burrow in, along with several hiding places.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: There is not a great deal of information available on this species, but given its similarities to Procambarus clarkii it should probably also be housed in a one-species tank.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Cyprinidae

Distribution: Rasbora argyrotaenia, commonly known as Silver Rasbora, is an Asian freshwater species found in the Chao Phraya, Mekong and Mae Khlong basins, from the Malay Peninsula to Borneo, and in the Indonesian islands of Java and Sumatra.    

PH: 6.5 – 7.0

Temperature: 20°C – 26C (68 – 79F)

Hardness: 8 – 15 dH

Description: Puntius vittatus can reach a maximum length of around 12 cm.  This yellow- brown coloured species, which also has a silver sheen, has thin lips and a dark dorsal region; its scales are outlined by brown dots or lines

Diet: This herbivorous species feeds on algae in the wild, but there is evidence it also eats invertebrates.  It will probably accept most foods in an aquarium environment, including live and frozen foods such as bloodworm, Artemia and Daphnia, along with flake and granules.

Breeding: It is unsure whether Rasbora argyrotaenia has been bred in the hobby.  This egg-scattering species will spawn best in a dimly-lit tank with a mesh netting at the base so the females can deposit their eggs effectively.  You can initiate spawning by adding a small amount of cool water every few hours.  It is probably a good idea to remove the adults as soon as you see the eggs in your tank; this species exhibits no parental care.  The eggs hatch between 18 – 48 hours and the young will be swimming in 24 – 48 hours later.

Comments: You could probably house a small group Silver Rasbora in a 255 litre tank.  Your tank should resemble its flowing river environment as closely as possible; a rocky substrate and some large boulders will be greatly appreciated.  Add a top to stop this species from jumping out of the tank.  Rasbora argyrotaenia requires careful attention to water quality and is suited to those with some experience keeping fish.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Rasbora argyrotaenia is not aggressive but should not be housed with slow-moving, shy tank mates.  It can be housed with many different fish, including cichlids, catfish and characins.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Alpheidae

Distribution: The Purple Zebra Shrimp has its origins in Asia, but its exact distribution is unknown.  It was introduced into the hobby in 2006; almost all Potamalpheops in the hobby have been caught in the wild and exported by locals.

PH: 6.5 – 7.5

Temperature: 23 – 28°C (73 – 82°F)

Hardness: 5 – 15 dH

Description: The Purple Zebra Shrimp is an extremely small species, measuring less than 1 cm.  Despite its diminutive size, this species is quite adaptable to different conditions.  It has a purple colouration; both sexes look the same which can make it difficult to tell them apart.  Females can be sexed thanks to their green saddle or green eggs; this the only way of telling the sexes apart.

Diet: This species will eat anything.   It will accept vegetables – zucchini and spinach are both good choices – along with algae wafers, shrimp pellets, flake, bloodworms and other live foods.

Breeding: So far there is no evidence this species has been bred in captivity.  It requires salt water conditions so it can hatch as larvae and develop properly.  Purple Zebra Shrimp will start out as floating – almost transparent – larvae.  The female will carry the bright green eggs for about three weeks before they hatch into the larvae – a feat that has not yet been accomplished by hobbyists. Given that no evidence of captive breeding has been recorded, you should not feel bad if you cannot breed this species.

Comments: Ensure you keep levels of organic waste to a bare minimum, as high levels will affect the diminutive Purple Zebra Shrimp.  This shrimp will spend a lot of time hiding, so it may not be the best bet for beginners.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Purple Zebra Shrimp are incredibly small and therefore an easy target for predators.  They are best kept in a one-species tank.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Cyprinidae

Distribution: Puntius vittatus, commonly known as Greenstripe Barb, is an Asian freshwater and brackish species found in India, Sri Lanka and Pakistan; it is distributed in ponds, lakes, streams and often in rice fields. 

PH: 6.0 – 6.5

Temperature: 20°C – 24C (68 – 75F)

Hardness: 8 – 15 dH

Description: Puntius vittatus can reach a maximum length of around 5 cm.  This silver-coloured species generally has four black spots; the dorsal has a black streak and black tip with orange elements.  This small-mouthed fish has no barbels but does have moderately large scales.

Diet: This species eats filamentous algae and blue-green algae in the wild.  It will probably accept most foods in an aquarium environment.

Breeding: There is not a great deal of breeding information on Puntius vittatus. Like most members of its genus, it will appreciate a dimly-lit tank and spawning mops so the females can deposit their eggs effectively.  It is probably a good idea to remove the adults as soon as you see the eggs in your tank.

Comments: You could probably house a small group of Kooli Barb in a 20 – 30 gallon tank.  This species is found in both brackish and freshwater environments and strict attention should be paid to water conditions.  There is not a lot of information available on Puntius vittatus and it is probably more suited to hobbyists with some experience under their belt.

Article/Books

Recommended Compatible Species: There is not a lot of information on the Kooli Barb, but you should house it with peaceful, similarly-sized species.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Cambaridae

Distribution: Procambarus clarkii has its origins in the south-central United States and north-eastern parts of Mexico.  It can now be found in the River Nile, Japan, Hawaii, and areas of Western Europe, including Spain and Portugal.  This crayfish is found in slow streams, swamps, ponds and ditches; it will not be seen in fast-flowing streams.

PH: 7.5 – 8.0

Temperature: 19 – 29°C (66 – 85°F)

Hardness: 8 – 18 °d

Description: The Red Swamp Crayfish can grow as large as 20 cm in length, but is usually 10.5 – 12 cm.  The body is dark red and segmented, and its abdomen has a black stripe on it.  This species uses its appendages for feeding.  This species can live from 2 – 5 years; some individuals have made it to six years.

Diet: The Red Swamp Crayfish is a carnivore and will eat anything.  It has a preference for insect larvae, snails and tadpoles, and is not adverse to eating worms and other dead animals.

Breeding: This species has an internal process of fertilisation.  The male’s sperm will enter the female at the bottom of her legs, where the eggs are fertilised and then released.  The female will create a water current in a bid to drive the eggs into her pleopods.  The eggs will remain there for six months before becoming larvae.  It will take three months for the young to become sexually mature.

Comments: This species should, given its size, be tanked in a 40 litre aquarium at the very least.  The Red Swamp Crayfish is quite aggressive and will destroy vegetation or decorations in your tank, so provide it with a substrate for it to burrow in, along with several hiding places.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Procambarus clarkii is a very territorial species and should not be housed with other crayfish.  Do not keep it with slow, small, or long-finned fish as the crayfish will make light work of them.  This crayfish is best kept in a one-species tank.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Cyprinidae

Distribution: Puntius titteya, commonly known as Cherry Barb, is an Asian freshwater species found in Sri Lanka’s Kelani and Nilwala basins; it is distributed in shaded streams and has a preference for shallow, slow-flowing waters. 

PH: 6.0 – 8.0

Temperature: 23°C – 27C (73 – 81F)

Hardness: 5 – 19 dH

Description: Puntius titteya can reach a maximum length of around 5 cm.  This elongated species has a fawn-coloured, green-tinged top and a silver side and belly.  It has a distinctive horizontal stripe – brown-black to deep blue-black – that goes from its snout to its caudal fin.  Males are redder than females and become brightly coloured when breeding; females are lighter and have yellow fins.

Diet: This omnivore eats anything you give it in an aquarium environment; a quality dried food product can serve as a base diet, supplement this with live and frozen foods such as Daphnia and Artemia.  You should feed this species the same diet as Puntius tinto.

Breeding: Condition Puntius titteya on live foods before attempting to spawn them.  This egg-scattering species is easy to breed – best done in pairs – and you should provide a dim-lit tank and spawning mops so the females can deposit their eggs effectively.  The eggs will hatch in 24 – 36 hours and the fry will be swimming freely in a further 3 – 4 days.  Feed the fry on Infusoria before it is large enough to accept microworm or nauplii.

Comments: You should house a small group of Cherry Barb in a 70 litre tank.  Provide a river sand substrate, dimmed lighting and some driftwood to simulate its natural environment.  It is advised you provide some surface vegetation, along with plenty of open area for swimming.  These fish are easy to keep and are therefore suitable for beginners.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Puntius titteya should be kept in groups of at least six.  Keep it with small, community fish; Danios, Guppies and Glassfish are all good options.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Palaemonetes

Distribution: Palaemonetes paludosus, better known as Grass Shrimp, is native to freshwater lakes and rivers of southern parts of the United States, particularly in Florida.

PH: 6.5 – 7.5

Temperature: 18 – 30°C (64 – 85°F)

Hardness: 3 – 10 dH

Description: Palaemonetes paludosus has a transparent appearance which allows it to blend into the wild.  This shrimp will reach a maximum length of 6 cm; males are smaller than females.  It also has an orange or yellow spot in its tail, a segmented body, and a whopping 10 sets of legs.  The Grass Shrimp has a life expectancy of 1.5 – 2 years.

Diet: The Grass Shrimp is an omnivore and, as such, will eat most things you throw at it.  It will eat algae and detritus, but provide it with a quality flake or pellet food as a supplement.

Breeding: Many people believe the Grass Shrimp needs brackish water to breed properly, but freshwater is actually just as fine.  This species has a larval stage in which the shrimps hatch from the egg before developing.  This differs to the Red Cherry Shrimp, for example, which will hatch as a miniature version of its parents.  You should raise young Grass Shrimp on a diet of baby brine shrimp, fry food and miniature algae.

Comments: Be aware that this shrimp has a high mortality rate, which is due to poor care during capture.  If your Grass Shrimp has a milky colouration then prepare yourself to say its last rites.  You should house this species in a tank around 20 litres in volume and provide sand or gravel for it to create burrows in.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: This shrimp should be kept in a species-only tank as it will attack smaller shrimp (and will be eaten by larger predators).

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Cyprinidae

Distribution: Puntius ticto, commonly known as Ticto Barb, is an Asian species found in India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand and Bangladesh, among still, shallow, muddy-bottomed rivers. 

PH: 6.5 – 7.0

Temperature: 14°C – 22C (57 – 72F)

Hardness: 3 – 10 dH

Description: Puntius ticto can reach a maximum length of around 10 cm.  It is a golden-silver colour and has a black spot just above the pectoral fin, with a second spot near the caudal.  Males have a brighter colouration and spotted dorsal, pelvic and anal fins; females, in contrast, are fatter and have a drabber colouration.    

Diet: This omnivore eats anything you give it in an aquarium environment.  A quality dried food product can serve as a base diet, but supplement this with live and frozen foods such as Daphnia and Artemia.

Breeding: Feed Puntius ticto on live foods before attempting to spawn them.  This egg-scattering species is easy to breed – best done in pairs – and will spawn in the morning time.  Don’t leave the adults alone with the eggs as they will eat them if given the chance.  The eggs will hatch in 24 – 30 hours and the fry will be swimming freely in a further 24 hours.  You should make small daily water changes – 10 to 20 per cent should be sufficient – until the fry has reached 3 – 4 months of age.

Comments: You should house a small group of Puntius ticto in an 89 litre tank.  Provide a heavily-planted tank – twisted roots, smooth rocks and stones – and a dark substrate.  It is advised you provide some surface vegetation, along with plenty of open area for swimming.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Puntius ticto should be kept in groups of at least 8 – 10.  It is a friendly species that works very well in a community tank, and can be kept with Danios, Gouramis, Rasboras, Loricariids and Corydoras.  Puntius ticto, unlike other Puntius, does not nip at the fins of longer-finned tank mates.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Palaemonetes

Distribution: Palaemonetes antennarius, mostly found in lakes and rivers, is distributed in the Mediterranean Sea, Italy.

PH: 6.5 – 8.5

Temperature: 10 – 30°C (50 – 86°F)

Hardness: N/A

Description: Palaemonetes antennarius is a small species which will grow to 5 cm in length; males will generally be smaller than females.  This shrimp has a transparent colouration, long thin legs and an indented rostro.

Diet:

Breeding:

Comments:

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species:

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Cyprinidae

Distribution: Puntius tetrazona, commonly known as Tiger Barb, is an Asian freshwater species found in Sumatra and Borneo, in still and slow-moving rivers. 

PH: 6.5 – 7.5

Temperature: 20°C – 25C (68 – 77F)

Hardness: 3 – 10 dH

Description: Puntius tetrazona can reach a maximum length of around 8 cm.  It is a high-backed, barbel-less species.  Its back is brown to orange and the belly is white to silver in colour.  It has four bands across its body: one running through the eye and the last running along the bottom of the light-orange, transparent caudal fin.  Other fins, except for the black dorsal fin, are transparent with a tinge of orange.    

Diet: This omnivore eats anything you give it; flakes, vegetable foods, insect larvae, brine shrimp, Tubifex worms and insects are all good options.

Breeding: Feed Puntius tetrazona on live foods before attempting to spawn them.  This egg-scattering species is easy to breed, but don’t leave the adults alone with the eggs as they will eat them if given the chance; alternatively you could distract the adults by feeding them white worms.  The eggs, which can number 500 – 1000, will hatch in 24 – 30 hours.  Puntius tetrazona will prefer neutral to soft water when breeding.

Comments: You should house a small group of Puntius tetrazona in a 10 gallon tank; larger fish can be kept in a 20 gallon tank.  Provide a sand or gravel substrate for burrowing, along with some smooth rocks and driftwood branches.  It is advised you provide plenty of open areas for swimming. Puntius tetrazona is a sensitive species that requires a moderate level of care.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Puntius tetrazona can be kept with Danios, Gouramis, Doradids, Loricariids and loaches of a peaceful temperament.  Avoid housing this species with fish with long, flowing fins; a large tank will reduce Puntius tetrazona’s aggressiveness.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Atyidae

Distribution: The exact origin of the Snowball Shrimp is unknown, although it was bred in Germany as a hybrid.

PH: 6.5 – 7.0

Temperature: 20 – 28°C (68 – 82°F)

Hardness: 3 – 25 dH

Description: The Snowball Shrimp, which grows up to 2.5 – 3 cm in length, is transparent with a milky-white body and black or brown eyes.  Both sexes have the same colour intensity, and the female produces bright white eggs.

Diet: This Neocaridina feasts upon algae mostly, but can be fed live and frozen foods on occasions.

Breeding: The Snowball Shrimp doesn’t have a larval stage and has the same breeding habits as the Blue Pearl Shrimp.  It generally takes between 30 – 45 days for its eggs to hatch.  Breeding is easy: this is a very prolific species.

Comments: This species can be kept in a tank as small as 12 litres in volume.  Provide sand and plenty of plants for Snowball Shrimp to thrive.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: There is not a great deal of information as to compatible species, but given its small size, avoid housing Snowball Shrimp with predatory fish.  Remember that housing Neocaridinas together can lead to interbreeding.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Cyprinidae

Distribution: Puntius semifasciolatus, commonly known as Chinese Barb, is an Asian freshwater species found in Laos, Taiwan and Vietnam, as well as southwest China.  There are some feral populations in Singapore and Hawaii.  This species is usually distributed in flowing streams and tributaries.

PH: 6.0 – 8.0

Temperature: 18°C – 24C (64 – 75F)

Hardness: 5 – 19 dH

Description: Puntius semifasciolatus can reach a maximum length of around 8 cm; its common length is usually around 4 cm.  Adults have arched backs and short barbells on the corners of their mouth.  Their backs are a light to red-brown colour; sides are metallic green or yellow green.  This species has a white belly, which will turn bright red for males during mating time; females are bulkier and have a duller colouration. 

Diet: This omnivore eats worms, crustaceans, insects and plant matter in the wild, but is easily fed in the aquarium.  It will enjoy regular live and frozen foods, including bloodworms, Daphnia and Artemia.

Breeding: Puntius semifasciolatus is an egg-scattering species and has similar breeding requirements to Puntius pentazona; you should definitely add spawning mops or Java moss to keep the eggs safe.  Don’t leave the adults alone with the eggs as they will eat them if given the chance; remove them straight after spawning.  The fry will hatch in 24 – 48 hours and will become free swimming within 24 hours.  Do not perform drastic water changes during this time, and keep the level of light to a minimum.

Comments: You should have a small group of Puntius semifasciolatus in an 85 litre tank.  This species is very hardy and can suit many different water parameters.  A sand or gravel substrate, along with some smooth rocks and driftwood branches, can be added to the tank.  It is advised you provide plenty of open areas for swimming. Puntius semifasciolatus is a hardy, easy to manage species, making it suitable for beginnners.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Puntius semifasciolatus can be kept with other Barbs, Botine Loaches, Danionins and Rasboras of a peaceful temperament.  Keep this schooling species in a group of at least 8 – 10. 

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Atyidae

Distribution: The Yellow Shrimp has its origins in Japan, but were selectively bred in Germany from the Neocaridina heteropoda wild variety.

PH: 6.5 – 7.5

Temperature: 15 – 27°C (59 – 81°F)

Hardness: 3 – 15 dKH

Description: The Yellow Shrimp female can come in an extremely bright yellow colour, while males are more opaque in appearance.  Males are usually 2.5 cm in length; females will be slightly larger at 3 cm.  The female’s saddle and eggs are also of a yellow colouration.  This species has a life expectancy of 1 – 2 years.

Diet: The Yellow Shrimp is omnivorous and will eat lots of algae.  It can also be feed cleaned, boiled vegetables and food designed for bottom-dwelling fish and invertebrates.

Breeding: Like the Red Cherry Shrimp, the Yellow Shrimp is a prolific breeder and will not require any coaxing.  The female will carry the developing eggs in her saddle.  As long as you have a mature male and female in a good quality, well-maintained tank then you will have no problems breeding this species.

Comments: The Yellow Shrimp can live in a wide range of water parameters and is a good species for beginners.  Given its small size, it could easily be housed in a tank of about 20 litres.  Be careful not to drop the pH level below 6.5 or the Yellow Shrimp will die; 7.0 is a good level for this species.  Be careful not to allow any traces of copper into your aquarium: copper can kill dwarf shrimp.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Not a great deal of information is available on this species, but given its similarities to the Red Cherry Shrimp you should house it either in a one-species tank or with placid tetras.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Cyprinidae

Distribution: Puntius pentazona, commonly known as Fiveband Barb, is an Asian freshwater species found from the Malay Peninsula to Sumatra, Indonesia.  It has also been recorded in Cambodia, Vietnam and Singapore; it mostly inhabits peat swamps and black water streams.

PH: 5.0 – 6.0

Temperature: 26°C – 29C (79 – 84F)

Hardness: 5 – 12 dH

Description: Puntius pentazona can reach a length of around 9 cm. It is very similar in colouration to the Tiger Barb, five black vertical bands on an orange-gold body, but the black bars are thinner and the fish is not as high-bodied.  Males are slimmer and brighter than females.  This species is commonly confused for the Tiger Barb.  It may live anywhere between 5 – 8 years.

Diet: Puntius pentazona is a reasonably unfussy eater and, in the wild, preys on small invertebrates, zooplankton and crustaceans.  You can feed it a good dried product as a staple, along with live foods such as Daphnia or Artemia.

Breeding: Puntius pentazona is an egg-scattering species; you should add spawning mops or Java moss to keep the eggs safe.  Don’t leave the adults alone with the eggs as they will eat them if given the chance; remove them straight after spawning.  The fry will hatch in 24 – 30 hours and will become free swimming within 4 – 5 days.  Do not perform drastic water changes during this time.

Comments: You should have a small group of Puntius pentazona in a 27 litre tank.  A dark substrate and dim lighting will enable it to display its beautiful, natural colours.  You should put plenty of surface vegetation at the top of the tank, along with bogwood, twisted roots and peat fibre mixed into the substrate.  It is advised you provide plenty of open areas for swimming. Puntius pentazona is suitable for hobbyists of all levels of experience.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Puntius pentazona can be a nervous species and should be housed with slow-moving, non-aggressive species.  It should be kept in groups of at least five.  This species can be kept with other Barbs, Loaches and Rasboras of a peaceful temperament. 

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Atyidae

Distribution: The White Tiger Shrimp originates from Okayama, Japan.  It is often called the Okayama Shrimp.

PH: 6.5 – 7.5

Temperature: 15 – 27°C (59 – 81°F)

Hardness: 3 – 15 dKH

Description: The White Tiger Shrimp may come in various different colours, but the offspring is transparent.  Males are usually 3 cm in length; females will be slightly larger at 4 cm.  This species has a distinctively thick, white colour.

Diet: Not a great deal is known about this species, but it would presumably eat the same foods as other Neocaridina species.  It would probably enjoy a varied diet of vegetables, fish pellets and bloodworms.

Breeding: Again, there is not much information available on this species breeding habits.  It will most likely share the same characteristics as the Yellow Shrimp, given its distribution.  Most Neocaridinas are easy to breed and do not require many specific conditions.

Comments: The White Tiger Shrimp has a preference for pH levels below 7.0.  Decorate your tank in similar fashion to other Neocaridina species, with plenty of plants and hiding places.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Housing with other Neocaridinas and Caridinas may lead to interbreeding.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Atyidae

Distribution: The Blue Pearl Shrimp, a direct relative of the Snowball Shrimp, was selectively bred in Germany by Ulf Gottschalk, a prolific German breeder.

PH: 6.5 – 7.5

Temperature: 23 – 28°C (74 – 82°F)

Hardness: 7 dKH

Description: The Blue Pearl Shrimp has an aesthetically pleasing light-blue colour which was attained only after many years of selective breeding.  This shrimp will range from 2.5 – 3 cm in length, with females slightly larger than males.  Some of these shrimp will have tiny red spots on their body.

Diet: This species will eat algae, but can be fed any typical aquarium food.  It will enjoy vegetables, quality flake, fish pellets and bloodworms.

Breeding: One of the easiest species to breed, the Blue Pearl Shrimp produces in exactly the same way as the Red Cherry Shrimp: no larval stage.  The young will hatch as miniature versions of the adults.  If you keep your tank well maintained, you should have no problems breeding this prolific species.

Comments: Provide aquarium plants, substrate and plenty of space for this species.  Make sure you don’t let any copper into the aquarium, as it is toxic to all dwarf shrimp.  Like the Red Cherry, this species will do best in a tank with sand substrate, plenty of plantation and roots.  Beginners will have no problems with this easy to manage shrimp.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Similar to the Red Cherry Shrimp in many ways, this species will also be compatible with small tetras, such as Glowlight, Cardinal and Neon.  Avoid puffers, loaches and, of course, aggressive cichlids.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Cyprinidae

Distribution: Puntius partipentazona is an Asian freshwater species found in the Mekong, Mae Khlong and Chao Phraya basins in Thailand.  It has also been recorded in several coastal streams of southeast Thailand and Cambodia and in the Malay Peninsula.  .

PH: 6.0 – 7.0

Temperature: 22°C – 25C (72 – 77F)

Hardness: 12 dH

Description: Puntius partipentazona, a diminutive species, can reach a length of around 4 cm. It has a silver-brownish colouration and three black vertical stripes on its body, with a fourth stripe across the eye.  It has a black blotch and a streak of red at the base of its dorsal fin.  This species is commonly confused for the Tiger Barb.

Diet: Puntius partipentazona is, like most Barbs, an omnivorous species, and will feed on plant matter, algae and other detritus in the wild.  It will eat most foods in a tank environment, including bloodworm, Daphnia, Spirulina flake, spinach or frozen peas.

Breeding: Puntius partipentazona is a substrate egg-scatterer.  It spawns its sticky eggs in dense plant growth.  Feed it a live food diet before you attempt the spawning process.  The water should be neutral; a sponge filter will provide a nice gentle bubbling to simulate its natural environment.   Don’t leave the adults alone with the eggs as they will eat them if given the chance.  The fry will hatch in 24 – 48 hours and will become free swimming within a few days.

Comments: You should have a small group of Puntius partipentazona in a 27 litre tank.  It will need a dark substrate, dim lighting, and surface vegetation to simulate its natural environment.  Add bogwood, twisted roots and plenty of plants to your tank.  This tiny species is suitable for hobbyists of all levels of experience.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Puntius partipentazona, a schooling species, should be kept in groups of about 8 – 10.  Similar to the Checkered Barb, you can house Puntius partipentazona with Corydoras, small Loricariids, most livebearers, danios, rasboras and peaceful tetras. 

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Cyprinidae

Distribution: Puntius oligolepis, known commonly as Checkered Barb, is an Asian freshwater species endemic to Sumatra, Indonesia.  It appears in sluggish creeks, slow rivers and pools and lakes; it is apparently more plentiful at higher altitudes.

PH: 6.0 – 6.5

Temperature: 20°C – 24C (68 – 75F)

Hardness: 2 – 10 dH

Description: Puntius oligolepis can reach a length of around 5 cm. It has a black and white checkered pattern, giving it its common name.  Females have thicker bodies and are less colourful than males; males have red-hued, black-outlined unpaired fins.  The average life expectancy of the Ruby Barb is 2 – 4 years.

Diet: Puntius oligolepis, an omnivorous species, will accept all flakes and pellets.  It will also enjoy special live-food treats – brine shrimp is well received – and an occasional helping of spirulina.

Breeding: The Checkered Barb is an egg-scattering species and a spawning mop should be included in the tank to catch the eggs.  It can be spawned in pairs or in a group; a group of six can be a good number for spawning.  Feed Puntius oligolepis plenty of live foods before you attempt the spawning process.  The water should be soft and acidic; a sponge filter will provide a nice gentle bubbling that will simulate its natural environment. The fry will hatch in 24 – 48 hours and will become free swimming within a few days.  You should keep the eggs and fry in a dimly lit environment in the early stages of life.

Comments: You should have a small group of Puntius oligolepis in a 27 litre tank.  It will need a dark substrate, subdued lighting, and surface vegetation to simulate its natural environment.  This diminutive species is suitable for hobbyists of all levels of experience.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: The Checkered Barb is a lively, schooling species that should be kept in groups of about 8 – 10.  You can house it with peaceful bottom-dwellers – Corydoras and small Loricariids are excellent options – as well as livebearers, danios, rasboras and peaceful tetras. 

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Atyidae

Distribution: The red Neocaridina heteropoda, or Red Cherry Shrimp, originates from the waters of Taiwan.  The wild form, however, comes from North Vietnam and China.

PH: 6.5 – 8.0

Temperature: 18 – 28°C (64 – 82°F)

Hardness: gH 12

Description: The Red Cherry Shrimp is the most popular shrimp in the hobby, and an excellent species for beginners.  Males will reach 2 cm in length; females can reach up to 3 cm.  Females have a much darker red colour and a curved underbelly.  This selectively bred species has an intense red colouration that can fluctuate in its intensity dependant on mood.  It is possibly the cheapest shrimp in the industry to purchase.

Diet: The Red Cherry Shrimp is not a fussy eater and will go for any typical shrimp food.  It also enjoys vegetables, pellets and bloodworms.  This shrimp loves to eat and if yours are unenthusiastic about food – instead remaining in hiding – then something is probably wrong.

Breeding: Healthy Red Cherry Shrimp are prolific breeders.  This species doesn’t have a larval stage; the female carries her eggs for 3 – 4 weeks and produces young shrimp which measure around 2 mm in length.  This is one of the easiest species to breed.

Comments: This species will do best in a tank with sand substrate, plenty of plantation and roots.  It is one of the most adjustable species to different conditions, although temperatures below 20°C may affect its ability to breed.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Smaller tetras – Glowlight, Cardinal and Neon, for example – may make good tank mates.  Avoid puffers, loaches and, of course, aggressive cichlids.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Cyprinidae

Distribution: Puntius nigrofasciatus, better known as Ruby Barb, is an Asian freshwater species endemic to Sri Lanka.  It reportedly ranges between the Nilwala and Kelani river basins, mainly in the still waters of hilly areas.  It is also distributed in forest streams, ponds, pools and shady, vegetated areas.

PH: 6.0 – 6.5

Temperature: 22°C – 26C (71 – 79F)

Hardness: 5 – 12 dH

Description: Puntius nigrofasciatus can reach a length of around 5 – 6 cm. It has a typical, high-backed Barb shape.  Males are silver/dark-blue to black and have a crimson head, and have more obvious markings on their bodies than females.  Adult females have duller colours and dark, vertical bars. The youngsters have a yellow-grey colouration and vertical stripes.  The average life expectancy of the Ruby Barb is five years.

Diet: Puntius nigrofasciatus, an omnivorous species, will accept flakes and pellets.  You should feed it a special treat of bloodworm and brine shrimp on a weekly basis.

Breeding: The Ruby Barb is an egg-scattering species.  Males will display a darker, more intense colouration than females; he will enhance these colours during the breeding period.  Male Ruby Barbs will circle the females during courtship; spawning will usually take place in fine-leafed plants.  It might be a good idea to cover the base of the tank with mesh; the eggs will fall through the mesh and therefore cannibalisation can be avoided.  The fry will hatch in 24 – 48 hours and will become free swimming within a few days.

Comments: You should tank a small group of Puntius nigrofasciatus in a tank at least 70 cm in length.  It will need plenty of open swimming space, well-oxygenated tank, subdued lighting, and surface vegetation to simulate its natural environment.  You should keep levels of organic waste to a minimum and keep this species in groups of no less than six.  This species is suitable for hobbyists of all levels of experience.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: The Ruby Barb is a lively, schooling species that should be kept in groups of about 8 – 10.  It can be kept with most Danios, Rasboras, Tetras and Corydoras, as well as most Gouramis. 

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Atyidae

Distribution: The exact origin of this Neocaridina zhangjiajiensis, or Marbled Dwarf Shrimp, is unknown, although it was bred in Germany as a hybrid.

PH: 6.5 – 7.0

Temperature: 20 – 28°C (68 – 82°F)

Hardness: 12 gH

Description: The White Pearl Shrimp, which grows up to 2.5 – 3 cm in length, is transparent with a white body and often a yellow cream line on its back.  This species has black or brown eyes, and produces bright white eggs.

Diet: This Neocaridina feasts upon algae mostly, but can be fed live and frozen foods on occasions.

Breeding: The White Pearl Shrimp doesn’t have a larval stage and has the same breeding habits as the Blue Pearl Shrimp. Be careful not to house this species with other Neocaridinas, as they will interbreed and create an unattractive crossbred species.

Comments: This species can be kept in a tank as small as 12 litres in volume.  Provide sand and plenty of plants for White Pearl Shrimp to thrive.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: There is not a great deal of information as to compatible species, but give its small size, avoid housing White Pearl Shrimp with predatory fish.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Cyprinidae

Distribution: Puntius lineatus, better known as Striped Barb, is an Asian freshwater species distributed in Malaysia and Indonesia, particularly in swamps, submerged grasses and in clear, black waters.

PH: 6.0 – 6.5

Temperature: 23°C – 26C (73 – 79F)

Hardness: 10 – 14 dH

Description: Puntius lineatus can reach a length of around 5 – 6 cm. Adult females have thicker bodies, while males have more obvious markings on their bodies.

Diet: Puntius lineatus, an omnivorous species, will eat most foods, but has a definite preference for live food. It enjoys worms, insects, plant matter, crustaceans in the wild, but will also take quality flakes and granules in an aquarium environment.

Breeding: This egg-scattering species has very similar breeding requirements to Puntius lateristriga.  It can be spawned in a group or in pairs.  You should condition the adults with live foods and move a male and a female to a separate, dimly lit breeding tank if choosing to spawn in pairs.  It might be a good idea to cover the base of the tank with mesh; the eggs will fall through the mesh and therefore cannibalisation can be avoided.  Another option is to put Java moss plants or spawning mops in your tank to give the fish a spot to deposit the eggs.  The fry will probably hatch in 24 – 48 hours and the fry, which will be free swimming 24 hours later, can be fed on Infusoria before moving on to microworm or nauplii.

Comments: You should tank a small group of Puntius lineatus in at least a 70 litre tank.  Puntius lateristriga will need a well-oxygenated tank, dim lighting, bogwood, roots and surface vegetation to simulate its natural environment.  Include a gravel or sand substrate so you can see this species’ bright colours properly.  This species is suitable for newcomers to the hobby.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: The Striped Barb is a schooling species that should be kept in groups of at least 8 – 10.  Do not house it with larger, aggressive species; it can be kept with other Puntius fish, Rasboras, loaches, Gouramis and some members of the Trichogaster species. 

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Atyidae

Distribution: The exact origin of Neocaridina palamata, or Marbled Dwarf Shrimp, is unknown.

PH: 7.0

Temperature: 25°C (77°F)

Hardness: 8 gH

Description: Neocaridina palmata is, even by Neocaridina standards, a very tiny species of shrimp.  Both males and females will reach a maximum of 2.5 cm in captivity.

Wild caught specimens may have orange balls visible in them.  In an aquarium with a dark substrate, you will see this species’ colours come out best – a body of colour that may include deep maroon, dark green-blue and blue.

Diet: Neocaridina palmata has a preference for algae, but will eat dry fish food, frozen shrimp, bloodworm and algae pellets.

Breeding: The Marbled Dwarf Shrimp, like the Neocaridina heteropoda, doesn’t have a larval stage.  The female will develop a saddle on her back when she is ready to drop her brown coloured eggs; the young will hatch as tiny version of their parents and grow rapidly.

Comments: Provide plenty of moss, hiding places and plants for this species to thrive in your tank.  There is not a lot of available tanking information available on this species.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Neocaridina palmata, like the Neocaridina heteropoda, should be housed in a tank with no predators.  There is not a great deal of information on this species, but it is likely Neocaridina palmata would interbreed with other Neocaridina species.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Atyidae

Distribution: Neocaridina heteropoda, the wild version of the more common Red Cherry Shrimp and Yellow Shrimp, has its origins in China and Taiwan.  Its exact origin is unknown.  It has recently been released into the wild in Hawaii, to detrimental effect.

PH: 6.5 – 8.0

Temperature: 18 – 30°C (65 – 85°F)

Hardness: 3 – 15 dKH

Description: Neocaridina heteropoda grow around 2.5 – 3 cm in length.  This non-aggressive shrimp has a camouflaging capability that allows it to blend in with its surrounding environment.  If you look closely you may see some yellow or red colouration; selective breeding of Neocaridina heteropoda can result in the Red Cherry Shrimp and Yellow Shrimp, which are more common among hobbyists.  This, however, takes many generations to achieve.

Diet: Neocaridina heteropoda will eat most foods.  It should be fed a combination of flakes, pellets, algae wafers and vegetables, along with the occasional bloodworm.

Breeding: Neocaridina heteropoda is an easy species to breed in captivity.  The female produces her green eggs and carries them for around 30 – 45 days before they hatch.  If you keep the water conditions clean – being sure to clean out the organic waste and avoiding sudden changes in temperature – then you should have no problems breeding this species.  It is worth noting that temperatures below 20°C may affect its ability to breed.

Comments: This species has the same tank requirements as its Red Cherry cousin.  Make sure you are extra careful with your water parameters.  It should be housed in a tank with sand substrate, plenty of plantation and roots.  It is one of the most adjustable species to different conditions, and great for beginners.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Neocaridina heteropoda should be housed in a clean aquarium with no predators.  Given its similarities to the Red Cherry Shrimp, smaller tetras – Glowlights, Cardinals and Neons, for example – may make good tank mates.  Avoid puffers, loaches and, of course, aggressive cichlids.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Cyprinidae

Distribution: Puntius lateristriga, better known as Spanner Barb, is an Asian freshwater species distributed in Southeast Asia, particularly in quick moving streams and rivers.   

PH: 6.0 – 6.5

Temperature: 23°C – 29C (72 – 84F)

Hardness: 8 – 10 dH

Description: Puntius lateristriga can reach a length of around 15 – 18 cm. Adult females have thicker bodies and are larger than males, and have less distinctive markings; males have a steep head in profile.  The Spanner Barb has a silver-grey body and two vertical black bars on the front of its body.  It also has a thin horizontal line that runs from the last bar to the caudal peduncle, resembling a T-shape.  This species is sometimes called the T-Barb for that reason.

Diet: Puntius lateristriga will eat most foods, but has a preference for live food. It will accept quality flakes and granules, but it should be given veggie matter and algae wafers as a supplement.

Breeding: This egg-scattering species can be spawned in a group or in pairs; condition the adults with live foods and move the pair to a separate breeding tank if choosing to spawn in pairs.  It might be a good idea to cover the base of the tank with mesh; the eggs will fall through the mesh and therefore cannibalisation can be avoided.  The fry will probably hatch in 24 –