Fish Id Shelby Bledsoe

Saltwater/Marine Fish

(1-50)

Title: Saltwater Species #: 1

Common Name: Bicolor Angelfish

Scientific Name: Centropyge bicolor

Kingdom: Animalia Phylum: Chordata

Class: Fiji, New Caledonia, Papua New

Guinea

Order: Perciformes

Family: Pomacanthidae

Geography / Habitat: The Bicolor Angelfish are common in New Guinea and the Great Barrier

Reef. Their range includes most of the Pacific ocean excluding Hawaii.

Life Strategy: 5 - 10 years or longer in the wild

Food / Feed Strategy: It is important that you feed angelfish all kinds of live, frozen, and

prepared formula foods. Pygmy angelfish are known to eat mostly algae in the wild, so a diet

rich in vegetable matter is essential.

Body Form or Style: They are properly acclimated as juveniles, and they are have very

different colouring and body shape.

Swim / Locomotion Style: The Flame angelfish has Dorsal fins to lend stability in

swimming.

Mouth Position: Terminal

Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html

Title: Saltwater/Marine Fish Species #: 2

Common Name: Spiny Box Puffer

Scientific Name: Chilomycterus Schoefi

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Tetraodontitformes

Class: Diodonttidae Order: Chilomycterus

Family: Chilomycterus Schoepfi

Geography / Habitat:

This fish from the Caribbean and prefers to live in a 70 gallon tank with water temperature of

72-78 degrees F with a pH level between 8.1 to 8.4 It is not aggressive with others in its own

family/species.

Life Strategy:

It is known to nip at slow moving fish and long finned fish. This is a semiagressive fish with a

difficult care level rate.

Food / Feed Strategy:

The Spiny Bow Puffer needs a varied diet of meaty foods including; squid, krill, clams and hard

shelled shrimp to help wear down their ever growing teeth.

Body Form or Style: Globiform

Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform

Mouth Position: Superaterminal


Title: Saltwater/Marine Species #:3

Common Name: Red/Orange Angler

Scientific Name: Antennarius sp.

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Actinopterygii

Class: Actinopterygii Order: Antennarius

Family: Antennariidae


Originates from Africa, Indonesia and South Asia and prefer to live in a 20 gallon or larger

tank with a water temperature of 72-78 degrees F with a pH of 8.1 The colored Anglers can

range in color from vivid red to deep orange coloration.

Life Strategy:

No breeding habits were mentioned because of not being able to exactly determine the sex

between female and male colored Anglers.


It will accept most meaty meal including feeder fish. An angler may eat any small inhabitant of

the tank. That looks like a small fish.

Body Form or Style: Deppressiform

Swim / Locomotion Style: Caraniform

Mouth Position: Subterminal



Common Name: Convict Tang

Scientific Name: Acanthurus triostegus

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Acanthurus

Class: Actinopeterygii Order: Perciformes

Family: Acnthuridae


This fish originate from the Indo- Pacific, Solomon Islands and Tahiti and prefer to live in a 70

gallon tank with water temperature of 72-78 degrees with a pH level between 8.1ppm.

Life Strategy:

Convict Tangs have no distinguishing characteristics which help differentiate males from

females, which make these fish very hard to breed in an aquarium setting because the fry

remain in plank tonic stage for months, and are in constant danger from filters.


Although this fish will eat meaty foods along with the other fish in the tank, it is important that

they are offered plenty of marine based seaweed and algae. This will strengthen their immune

system, reduce aggression and improve their overall health.

Body Form or Style: Fusiform

Swim / Locomotion Style: Catangiform



Title: Saltwater/ Marine Fish Species #:5

Common Name: Shark Egg

Scientific Name: Chiloscyllium sp.

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Chiloscyllium

Class: Actinopterygii Order: Perciformes

Family: Orectolobidae


Originate from the Indo- Pacific and prefer to live in a 180 gallon tank with water temperature

of 72-78 degrees with a pH level between 8.1-8.4 ppm. It is very hardy fish and is the most

common shark kept in an aquarium.

Life Strategy:

The hatching of the egg will be anywhere from 1 to 6 weeks depending on the stage of

development and the environmental conditions in the tank.


When the egg is hatched offer small pieces of cleaned squid or live saltwater feed shrimp in

order to entice this fish to eat. Then it may be fed shrimp, scallops or pieces of fresh marine fish.


Swim / Locomotion Style: Subcarangiform




Common Name: Green Mandarin

Scientific Name: Synchiropus splendidus

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Synchiropus


Family: Callionymidae


These fish originate from Indonesia and prefer to live in a 30 gallon tank. With the water

temperature of 72.78 degrees. It is moderately hardy in reef tanks if given the right and special

care. They look like a mazelike combination of blue, orange and green colorations.

Life Strategy:

The Green Mandarin has been known to spawn successfully in an aquarium. It is not overly

aggressive towards other fish, except for conspecifcs.


It feeds on a variety of vitamin enriched live brine shrimp, live black worms, and natural prey

on live rock and live sand.






Common Name: Black Seahorse (Tank Bred)

Scientific Name: Hippocampus erectus

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Hippocampus


Family: Syngnathidae


This is a tank bred seahorse and prefers to live in a 30 gallon tank with a water temperature of

72-78 degrees. Seahorses are probably the most recognizable fish in the world due to their

unusual appearance and habits.

Life Strategy:

During the descent of Seahorse breeding the pair will line up face to face, and the female will

deposit her eggs into the males pouch (filled with sperm). In like 20 days the male seahorse gives

birth to an average of 300 demersal fry that are able to swim around birth.


These tank bred seahorses are used to eating frozen shrimp, making them a smart alternative to

their wild caught counterparts. They will also feed upon amphipods and other small

crustaceans found in live rock. They will also accept vitamin enriched adult brine shrimp, but it

should not make up their diet alone.

Body Form or Style: N/A

Swim / Locomotion Style: N/A



Title: Saltwater/Marine Fish Species #:8

Common Name: Fuzzy Dwarf Lionfish

Scientific Name: Dendrochirus Brachyterus

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Dendrochirus Brachyterus


Family: Scorpaenidae


These fish originate from the Indo- Pacific and prefer to live in a 30 gallon take of water. With a

temperature of 72- 78 degrees. This is a personable fish that quickly recognizes and responds to its owners’

presences.

Life Strategy:

It will hide while acclimating to its new environment. The top spines are venomous, causing reactions

similar to a bee sting. You can see how this might affect someone.


When first introduced into the aquarium, live saltwater feeder shrimp should be used to entice this fish to

eat. The Dwarf Lionfish diet consists of meaty foods such as live shrimp, live fish and sometimes crustacean

flesh.

Body Form or Style: Depressiform


Mouth Position: Suberminal



Common Name: Round Stingray

Scientific Name: Urobatis halleri

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Urobatis

Class: Actinopterygii Order: Percitformes

Family: Urolophidae


This stingray originated from the Eastern Pacific and prefers to live in a 180 gallon tank with a

water temperature of 72-78 degrees. Caution should be taken when netting this fish, or when it

is not visible and maintenance is preformed in the tank.

Life Strategy:

It likes to cover itself on the soft substrate as camouflage. It will eat any crustacean or mollusk

in the aquarium.


Feeding may be difficult in the beginning. When first introduced into the aquarium, small

pieces of cleaned squid or live saltwater feeder shrimp should be used to entice this fish to eat.

Then it may be fed shrimp, scallops or pieces of fresh marine fish.






Common Name: Snowflake Eel

Scientific Name: Echidna nebulosa

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Echidna


Family: Muaenidae


Originate from the Indo- Pacific and Vanuatu and prefer to live in a 50 gallon tank with the temperature to

be around 72- 78 degrees. It is one of the most beautiful morays, and inhabits caves and crevices throughout

the Indo- Pacific reeds. In the wild it can grow to 39 inches in captivity it can reach 24 inches.

Life Strategy:

The Snowflake Eel is safe to house with any fish it cannot easily swallow. It can be housed with some

invertebrates, like anemones and corals but not crustaceans. They are semi aggressive and are an easy eel to

care for.


The Snowflake Eel is a nocturnal predator, ambushing fish and crustaceans. In the tank, it will take frozen

or freeze dried krill, fish, shrimp and most meaty foods. It can be taught to hand feed, although this should

be done with caution, as it can inflict a painful bite.

Body Form or Style: Anguilliform

Swim / Locomotion Style: Anguilliform




Common Name: Spotted Grouper

Scientific Name: Epinephelus summana

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Epinephelus


Family: Serranidae


This fish originated in the Indo- Pacific and prefers to live in a 70 gallon tank of water, with a

temperature of 72-78 degrees. This fish is known and located by its dark brown to black body

marked by white polka-dots.

Life Strategy:

It is an extremely aggressive fish and may eat its tank mates as well as many types of

crustaceans.


The Spotted Grouper prefers a diet of meaty foods such as krill, shrimp and other small fish.






Common Name: Starcki Damsel

Scientific Name: Chrysiptera starcki

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Chrysiptera


Family: Pomacentridae


This fish originated from Australia Java and Vanuatu and prefers to live in a 30 gallon tank

with water temperature 72-78 degrees. Comes from the reefs of the Coral Sea. This is a very

active fish that will ass movement to any marine tank.

Life Strategy:

It will ignore invertebrate in the tank and feeds on zooplankton and algae, which makes it a

good fish for a reef aquarium. These damsels are aggressive towards their own kind and only

one per aquarium should be kept unless the tank is very large.


A varied diet of meaty items such as Mysis shrimp and vitamin enriched brine shrimp should be

offered.




Citation: : http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html


Common Name: Chalk Bass

Scientific Name: Serranus tortugarum

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Serranus


Family: Serranidae


Originated Caribbean and the Tropical Western Atlantic and prefers to live in a 30 gallon tank,

with the water temperature to be around 72-78 degrees. It is one of the smaller bass within this

family, and is a great fish for beginners. The body is orange in color with a purple mid-section.

Life Strategy:

They are not aggressive towards other fish, and multiple specimens can be added to the tank,

and long as it is at the same time. They will not pick at corals or sessile.


An extremely hardy fish the Chalk Bass requires a diet consist of a variety of chopped meaty

items brine shrimp and Mysis shrimp

Body Form or Style: Sagittiform



Citation:: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html


Common Name: Tassle Filefish

Scientific Name: Chaetodermis pencilligerus

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Chaetodermis

Class: Actinppterygii Order: Perciformes

Family: Monacanthidae


This fish originated form the Indo- Pacific and prefers to live in a 70 gallon tank with a water

temperature of 72- 78 degrees. This fish is camouflaged by its light body with dark horizontal

stripes.

Life Strategy:

It is very peaceful fish that does not bother its tank mates, with the exception of members of its

own family or related kinds.


The Tassel Filefish feeds on a diet of meaty foods including chopped up shrimp, squid and

frozen fish. It should be fed no fewer than three times per day.




Citation:: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html

Title: Saltwater/Marine fish Species #:15

Common Name: Popeye Catalufa Soldierfish

Scientific Name: Pristigenys serrula

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Pristigenys

Class: Actinopterygii Order: Perciforms

Family: Pristigenys serrula


This Fish originates from Costa Rica and prefers to live in a 70 gallon tank with the

temperature to be 72- 78 degrees. It is a burnt orange color with several white highlights.

Life Strategy:

Gives these fish generous amounts of live rock, hiding places and swimming room it will do

well with other of its own species as long as there are adequate hiding locations and plenty of

space.


When first introduced into the rank, live saltwater feeder shrimp should be used to entice this

fish to eat. The diet should vary between live feeder shrimps; freeze dried shrimp and chopped

marine meats.

Body Form or Style: Deoressiform


Mouth Position: Supraterminal



Common Name: Teira Batfish

Scientific Name: Platax teria

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Platax


Family: Ephippididae


These fish originate from Indonesia and prefer to live in a 180 gallon tank with a water

temperature of 72- 78 degrees. The body and fins of this fish have wide vertical alternate

bands of black and a pale yellow or tan.

Life Strategy:

The Teira Batfish can grow to an impressive size of 24 inches, measuring from the top of the

dorsal to the tip of the anal fin. Not a good reef dweller, it will eat many types of sessile

invertebrates including corals and anemones.


A varies diet of meaty foods such as shrimp, scallops, vitamin enriches brine shrimp and

frozen fish. And it is best to feed it three times a day. This species if Batfish can become very

tame.




Citation: Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html


Common Name: Blue/Green Reef Chromis

Scientific Name: Chromis viridis

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Chromis




Originates from Indonesia and prefers to live in a 30 gallon tank with a a water temperature of

72-78 degrees.

Life Strategy:

Native to reefs ranging from mid depth to shallow lagoons of the Indo- Pacific and South Pacific

wild specimens to prefer to school in large shoals amongst branching corals like Acropora.


For best care, feed several times throughout the day with a varied diet of meaty foods.






Common Name: Bicolor Blenny

Scientific Name: Ecsenius biocolor

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Ecsenius


Family: Blenniidae


Originates from Fiji Indonesia and Sri Lank and prefers to live in a 30 gallon tanks with a

temperature of 72-78 degrees. Generally found amid crevices and rocks on the bottom of its

environment, the Bicolor Blenny needs a tank of at least 30 gallons with scattered rocks for

perching and hiding.

Life Strategy:

These fish are normally peaceful tank members, but have been known to pick at other blennies

smaller gobies and dartfish.


The diet of the Bicolor Blenny should include vegetable matter including frozen and dried foods

containing marine and blue green algae.






Common Name: Foxface Lo

Scientific Name: Siganidae vulpinus

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Siganidae


Family: Siganidae vulpinus


These fish originate from Indonesia and Vanuatu and prefers to live in a 70 gallon tank with a

water temperature of 72- 78 degrees. This fish has a very unique body color. They are a very

hardy fish.

Life Strategy:

Rabbitfish are generally reef safe if they are well fed. If not, It is possible for them to nip and

consume some species of LPS and soft corals.


The Foxface Lo diet consists of a variety of fresh vegetables and undesirable species of algae. It

does nip and possibly eat some soft and hard coral polyps.






Common Name: Flame Cardinal

Scientific Name: Apogon spp.

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Apogon


Family: Apogonidae


These fish originate in the Caribbean and Costa Rica and prefer to live in a 30 gallon tank. It is

fiery red color with light accents of blue and green.

Life Strategy:

It should be kept in large groups because of its aggressive behavior toward other Cardinal fish,

although it does well in mated pairs. It is nocturnal fish and may be watched using a red light.


The Flame Cardinal requires a well balanced and vitamin enriched diet. Shrimp, bloodworms

and marine flesh.






Common Name: Kaudern’s Cardinal

Scientific Name: Pterapogon

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Pterapogon


Family: Apongonidae


These fish originate from Indonesia and prefer to live in a 30 gallon tank with a water

temperature of 72-78 degrees. This fish is metallic silver highlighted Cardinal with black and

white stripes

Life Strategy:

Thus fish is relatively easy to breed in an aquarium setting. Once spawning has occurred, the

male carries the eggs in his mouth to protect them.


The Kaudern’s Cardinal should be fed a well balanced diet of meaty foods such as a feeder

shrimp, marine flesh, bloodworms and depending on its size a live feeder fish.






Common Name: PurpleTilefish

Scientific Name: Hoploltilus purpureus

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Hoplolatilus

Class: Actinopterygii Order: Persiformes

Family: Malacanthidae


This fish originates from Indonesia and Vanuatu and prefers to live in a 50 gallon tank, with the

temperature to be around 72-78 degrees. This fish also has an attractive sold lilac- purple body

color with darker crimson red markings highlighting a v- shaped.

Life Strategy:

The Purple Tilefish is known to spawn successfully in a tank. It may be aggressive towards

members of its own species but is peaceful with other fish.


The diet should include a variety of marine fish, crustacean flesh and Mysis shrimp, and it

should be fed at least twice a day.




Citation:http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html


Common Name: Coral Hogfish

Scientific Name: Bodianus mesothorax

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Bodianus


Family: Labridae


This fish originated from the Indo-Pacific Sumatra and Vanuatu and prefers to live in a tank

between 50- 70 gallon tank. It has a burgundy face with a rosy yellow posterior, separated by a

black stripe.

Life Strategy:

The reef becomes this fish’s buffet. This fish is aggressive toward small, docile fish that are

easily bullied.


The mature adult Coral Hogfish will eat snails, worms, mussels, small fish, shrimp and squid.






Common Name: Black Cap Jawfish

Scientific Name: Opistognathus randalli

Kingdom:Animilia Phylum: Opistognathidae

Class: Actinopterygii Order: Perciforms

Family: Opistognathidae


This fish originates from the Indo- Pacific and prefers to live in a 30 gallon tank with a water

temperature of 72-78 degrees. They are green with faint orange stripes.

Life Strategy:

The Black Cap Jawfish is hardy and will spawn successfully in an aquarium. It poses a possible

threat to small shrimp.


The Diet should consist of a variety of marine fish, crustacean flesh and Mysis shrimp. It

prefers to be fed at least three times per day.

Body Form or Style: Taeniform





Common Name: Spotted Sweetlips

Scientific Name: Plectorhinchus chaetodonoides

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Plectorhinchus

Class: Acinopreygii Order: Perciformes

Family: Haemulidae


This fish originates from Indonesia and Vanuatu and prefers to live in a 150 gallon tank with a

water temperature of 72- 78 degrees. It grown at a rapid pace to almost 3 feet in length.

Life Strategy:

No breeding habitats were mentioned


When first introduced into a tank, live saltwater feeder shrimp should be used to entice this fish

to eat. Once it had acclimated, most marine carnivore preparations will be acceptable. They will

also eat smaller shrimp, smaller fire worms and small snails.

Body Form or Style: Compresiform





Common Name: Porkfish

Scientific Name: Anisotremus virginicus

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum:Anisotremus


Family: Haemilidae


This fish originated from the Caribbean and prefers to live in a 70 gallon tank with a water

temperature of 72- 78 degrees. They have a yellow head and fins accenting a silver gray vertical

stripes.

Life Strategy:

It prefers to hover around reefs and need a cave or ledge for refuge. They are very peaceful fish

that make a wonderful addition to any peaceful saltwater fish only tank.


These fish will consume any crabs, snails, shrimp and starfish






Common Name: Catalina Coby

Scientific Name: Lythrypnus dalli

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Lythrypnus


Family: Gobiidae


This fish originates from the USA. Off the Eastern Pacific to be more precise and prefers to live

in a 10 gallon tank with a water temperature. It has a bright red body, and the tail has a

yellowish tint.

Life Strategy:

When ready to breed, a behavioral male chooses a cave in which to care from his brood. He

lured the female inside when she will attach her eggs to the wall of the cave. He will care for the

eggs until they are hatched.


This fish is very hardy and easy to feed in captivity. It will accept almost any size meat.






Common Name: Red Hawkfish

Scientific Name: Cyprinocirrhites polyactus

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Cyprinocirrhites

Class: Actinopterygii Order: Periformes

Family: Cirrhitidae


This fish originates from the Indo- Pacific and prefers to live in a 30 gallon tank. This fish has a

mottled orange to red body. Its lyre shaped tails sets it apart from most of the other hawkfish in

appearance.

Life Strategy:

It may be grouped with other Red Hawkfish If all are introduced to the tank AT THE SAME

TIME. Although it eats small fish and shrimp.


This fishes’ diet consists of a variety of marine meats, frozen shrimp.






Common Name: Maroon Clownfish

Scientific Name: Premnas biaculeatus

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Premnas




This Fish originates from Australia and Papus. This dish has a bold, red body with abroad

white stripe on it or head and stripes down its midsection in front of the anal fin.

Life Strategy:

It is difficult to maintain more than one maroon clown in the tank unless they are a pair. So you

can see how breeding could become an issue. If they are already in a pair then breeding is

recommended. This fish is aggressive towards other clown fish and they are difficult to maintain

together.


This fish’s diet consists of meaty items such as frozen shrimp.

Body Form or Style: Compressiform





Common Name: Yellow Longnose Butterflyfish

Scientific Name: Forcipiger flavissimus

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Forcipiger


Family: Chaetodontidae


This fish originates from Hawaii. This fish has a long snout that resembles a pair of needle nose

pliers for picking food out of creviced and between coral heads. They also have a beautiful body

color f black, and yellow and white.

Life Strategy:

This is a vey peaceful fish and when acclimated properly, they are a wonderful hardy addition

to and fish only saltwater tank.


This fish should be fed a varied diet of meaty foods like mysis shrimp meat and frozen

preparations.



Mouth Position: N/A



Common Name: Leaf Fish

Scientific Name: Taenianotus triacanthus

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Taenianotus


Family: Scropaenidae


This fish originates from Hawii and Indonesia and prefers to live in a 30 gallon tank with a

water temperature of 72- 78 degrees. Their body color varies between red, yellow, brown or

blue.

Life Strategy:

It uses the live rock for hiding as well as for perching while looking for food. It has poison

glands attached to the dorsal anal and pelvis spines.


When first introduced into the tank,, live saltwater feeder shrimp should be used to entice this

fish to eat. The leaf diet consists of live foods such as feeder fish or small shrimp.



Mouth Position: Superterminal



Common Name: Clown Triggerfish

Scientific Name: Balistoides conspicillum

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Balistoides


Family: Balistidae


This fish originates from Indonesia and Sumatra and prefers to live in a 125 gallon tank. This

fish has a dramatic coloration making this species a most sought after addition to the home

tank.

Life Strategy:

These are very aggressive fish and are semi easy to take care of.


The Clown Triggerfish needs a varied diet of meaty foods including; squid, krill, clams, small

fish and hard shelled shrimp to help wear down their ever growing teethe.






Common Name: Two spot Goby

Scientific Name: Signigobius biocellatus

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Signigobius


Family: Gobiidae


These fish originate from Indonesia and Vanuatu and prefer to live in a 10 gallon tank. It will

rarely act aggressively towards other fish, but it is territorial, and will fight with its own kind

unless they are a mated pair.

Life Strategy:

Under correct conditions, the Two Spot Goby will spawn successfully in an aquarium.


Usually the Two Spot Goby feeds off the bottom sifting through the sand for food, It should be

fed a variety of either live or vitamin enriched frozen brine shrimp.






Common Name: Kole Yellow Eye Tang

Scientific Name: Ctenichaetus strigosus

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Ctenocjaetus


Family: Acanthuridae


These fish originate from Hawaii and prefer to live in a 70 gallon tank. This fish can either have

a majority of spots or stripes highlighting the body. Body color ranges from blue to burgundy.

Life Strategy:

It is aggressive towards other Tangs; therefore, it is best to only keep one per tank, It will not

harm sessile invertebrate in the reed tank environment.


These fish will eat meaty foods along with dried seaweed and algae. They need to be fed 3 times

per day.




Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.eu/site/index.html


Common Name: Flame Hawkfish

Scientific Name: Neocirrhitus armatus

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Neocirrhitus


Family: Cirrhitidae


These fish originate from Fiji and prefer to live in a 30 gallon tank. They are a very personable

fish, and are great for reef tanks as long as there is no small shrimp maintained in the

aquarium.

Life Strategy:

They are bottom dwellers and tend to hangout on rock perches waiting and readying themselves

for food or come by. They are mostly a peaceful fish that spends most of its time perching and

swimming within the branches of hard corals.


The Flame Hawkfish diet should consist of a verity of marine meats, frozen preparations and

live feeder fish.






Common Name: Purple Firefish

Scientific Name: Nemateleotris decora

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Nemateleotris


Family: Gobiidae


This fish originates from Indonesia and the Maldives and prefers to live in a 10 gallon tank. It

was first discovered in the Indo- west Pacific Ocean in 1973 by Randall and Allen.

Life Strategy:

It will rarely become aggressive towards other fish, but is territorial, and will fight with its own

kind unless they are a mated pair


This fish diet should consist of chopped or shaved seafood. The vibrant coloring will fade if not

fed a vitamin enriched diet.






Common Name: Neon Dottyback

Scientific Name:

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Pseudochromidae


Family: Pseudochromidae


This fish originates from the USA and prefers to live in a 30 gallon tank. It has yellow and reds

on the body with blue stripes that run along the top and In the fins.

Life Strategy:

It may eat ornamental shrimp, but makes an excellent predator of bristle worms in a reef

aquarium.


The diet should consist of meaty foods including brine shrimp and prepared frozen foods.

Body Form or Style: Taeiform




Title: Saltwater/Marine Fish

Species #: 38

Common Name: Banana Wrasse

Scientific Name: Thalassoma lutescens

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Thalassoma


Family: Labridae


This fish originates from Fiji and Vanuatu and prefers to live in a 125 gallon tank. Both sexes of

this fish have facial markings in green and fine vertical striping along the body.

Life Strategy:

They are active fish and require plenty of rocks for hiding and a tight fitting lid. It will become

territorial and harass any new additions to the community.


The banana Wrasse diet should consist of vitamin enriched frozen mysis shrimp, frozen brine

shrimp and other meaty foods along with a high quality marine flake and marine pellet food.






Common Name: Yellow Goatfish

Scientific Name: Parupeneus cyclostoma

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Parupeneus


Family: Mullidae


These fish come from Fiji and Malanesia and prefer to live in a 125 gallon tank.

Life Strategy:

The young Yellow Goatfish may be sifting the sandy bottom of the tank in search of

invertebrates to eat. They are prone to eat small crustacean’s fish and worms.


The diet should consist of a variety of meaty items fed at least four times a day.






Common Name: Emperor Anglefish

Scientific Name: Pomacanthus imperator

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Pomacanthus




This fish originates from Fiji Indonesia the Maldives and prefers to live in a 100 gallon tank

with a water temperature of 72- 78 degrees. This is a striking blue black mask covers the eyes

ans a similar colored vertical band extends from the pectoral fin two thirds of the way up the

body.

Life Strategy:

It will nip at stony and soft corals and clam mantles, but may be kept with small polyped stony

corals and somewhat noxious soft corals.


It should be fed a diet of Spirulina, Marine Algae or frozen shrimp and other meaty items.






Common Name: Orbiculate Batfish

Scientific Name: Platax orbicularis

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Platax


Family: Ephippididae


This fish originates form Indonesia, South Asia and Tihiti and prefers to live in a 180 gallon

tank with a water temperature of 72- 78 degrees.

Life Strategy:

Not a good reef dweller, it will eat many types of sessile invertebrates including coral and

anemones. This fish is susceptible to ich just like many Batfish.


When first introduced into a tank, live saltwater feeder shrimp should be used to entice this fish

to eat. A varied diet of meaty foods such as brine shrimp and frozen herbivore preparations will

help the Orbiculate to thrive, especially when fed three times a day.






Common Name: Bicolor Foxface

Scientific Name: Lo uspi

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Lo


Family: Siganidae


This fish originates from Fiji and prefers to live in a 70 gallon tank. This fish has a very unique

body and coloration of the body.

Life Strategy:

Rabbitfish are generally reef safe if they are well fed, if not It is possible for them to nip at and

consume some species of LPS and soft corals.


Its diet consists of a variety of fresh vegetables and algae. It doe nip and possibly eat some soft

and hard coral polyps.






Common Name: Longhorn Cowfish

Scientific Name: Lactoria cornuta

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Lactoria


Family: Ostraciidae


These fish originate form the Indo- Pacific and prefer to live in a 125 gallon tank. With a water

temperature of 72- 78 degrees.

Life Strategy:

These fish are turn poisonous when under stress and they could possibly die. Use caution when

placing these fish in a reef tank as it may nibble of tubeworms. When housed correctly, the

Cowfish Longhorn is long lived.


Since they are omnivores the Longhorn Cowfish should be offered a variety of meaty foods and

vegetables. They are slow eaters, and should not be housed with aggressive eaters.


Swim / Locomotion Style: Carnagiform




Common Name: Coral Beauty Angelfish

Scientific Name: Centropyge bispinosa

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Centropyge




This fish originates form Fiji, Indonesia and Vanuatu and prefer to live in a 20 gallon tank. This

is one of the best angelfish to care for.

Life Strategy:

Not a good reef dweller, the Coral Beauty Angelfish is prone to nip at stony and soft corals.


The diet if the Coral Beauty Angelfish should consist of Spirulina, Marine algae high quality

angelfish preparations of mysis or frozen shrimp, and other quality meaty food.






Common Name: Longnose Hawkfish

Scientific Name: Oxycirrhites

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Oxycirrhites


Family: Cirrhites typus


This fish originate from Central America and Fiji. This fish prefers to live in a 30 gallon tank.

Life Strategy:

This fish is hardy and semi aggressive fish but other larger hawkfish will overpower it.


The Longnose, Hawkfish diet should include a variety of marine meats, frozen preparations and

live feeder shrimp.






Common Name: Highfin Perchlet

Scientific Name: Plectranthias sp.

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Plectranthias


Family: Serranidae


This fish originates from Cebu and prefers to live in a 30 gallon tank with a water temperature

of 72 – 78 degrees. They are a wonderful addition to a reef tank.

Life Strategy:

They become aggressive towards other bottom dwelling fish like gobies and blennies.


This fish’s natural diet includes zooplankton and they should be offered a variety of meaty

foods including vitamin enriched brine shrimp Mysis shrimp and small pieces of shrimp and

fish.






Common Name: Horseface Blenny

Scientific Name: Ophioblennius atlanticus

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Ophioblennius


Family: Blenniidae


This fish originates from the Caribbean and prefers to live in a 30 gallon tank with a water

temperature of 72- 78 degrees. The head of this fish carries 4 small branching horns and the

nose is very blunt, which gives this species a unique horse like appearance.

Life Strategy:

It tends to perch and hop from rock to rock, looking from microalgae to graze on. It is known to

nip at small polyped stony coral and clam mates and it is semi aggressive unless the tank mates

appear to have it same shape.

Feed Strategy:

This fish does well in established tanks with large amounts of natural algae to feed on. The diet

can be supplemented with vegetable matter.






Common Name: Matted Filefish

Scientific Name: Acreichthys tomentosus

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Acreichthys


Family: Monacanthidae


This fish originates from Indonesia and prefers to live in a 30 gallon tank, with a water

temperature of 72-78 degrees.

Life Strategy:

These fish have been known to only spawn in captivity and males are normally larger than the

males, having fine bristle like hairs on each side of their body down the caudal peduncle or base

of the tail.


Their diet should include shave shrimp, squid, scallops, Mysis shrimp, freeze, dries krill soaked

in a vitamin supplement, and frozen marine algae. They should be fed small quantities of food

several times a day.






Common Name: Tessalata Eel

Scientific Name: Gymnothorax favagineus

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Gymnothorax


Family: Muraenidae


This fish originates from Sri Lanka and prefers to live in a 180 gallon tank with a water

temperature of 72-78 degrees. It has a light colored body and especially attractive, dark

honeycomb markings.

Life Strategy:

It likes to hide in rock crevices to feel secure and you need to make sure the tank has a tight

fitting lid to discourage escape.


The Tessalata Eel’s diet should include sizeable portions of live feeder fish, octopus and squid.





Freshwater/Fish

(51-100)

Title: Freshwater Fishes Species #: 51

Common Name: Goldfish

Scientific Name: Carassius auratus

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Carassius

Class: Actinopterygii Order: Cypriniformes

Family: Cyprinidae


Originated in China, and spread worldwide in aquariums pools and into the wild. These fish

can be found in slow moving, freshwater bodies of water. Goldfish can survive temperatures

ranging from freezing to thirty degrees centigrade.

Life Strategy:

There are over a hundred varieties of goldfish, coloration and physical characteristics greatly

vary. The common goldfish has 2 sets of paired fins and three single fins. They lack barbells on

the upper jaw and lack scales on their head. They have large eyes and acute senses of smell and

hearing. They can grow to be 3 kg and 45 cm long but usually much smaller than this.


In the wild, these fish are omnivores. They eat plants, insects such as mosquito larvae, small

crustaceans, zooplankton and detritus.





Title: Freshwater Fish Species #: 52

Common Name: Cardinal Tetra

Scientific Name: Paracheirodon axelrodi

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Paracheirodon

Class: Actinopterygii Order: Characiformes

Family: Characidae


These fish prefer slow moving, middle layer water in shoals. They prefer slightly acidic pH of

5.8 and a temperature of 24 degrees Celsius. Cardinal tetras do not migrate and are generally

found in open water. Cardinal tetras are small fish; males grow to about 2.5 cm in length in the

wild but can attain lengths of 5 cm in an aquarium. This species is characterized by a horizontal

neon blue strip ane deep red marking and have a row of dentary teeth.

Life Strategy:

Eggs hatch within 24 to 30 hours of fertilization. Females can release their eggs during the rainy

season. The eggs become fertilized by the sperm of males in close proximity. Mating takes place

at twilight during the rainy season, The males embrace the females while swimming.

Fertilization is external in their case. As the female scatters 500 eggs into the water, the males

fertilize them.


This fish’s diet consists of very small crustaceans, mesocauna, eggs, algae, detritus and some

other types of prey.






Common Name: Crown Tail Betta

Scientific Name: Betta splendens

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Betta


Family: Belontiidae


The Crown Tail Betta is a type of “Siamese” Fighting Fish. These fish have been bred over the

years to enhance the fins and remarkable variety of colors of the males, as well as making them

increasingly combative. Only one male should be kept in a tank, but you can combine as many

females together as you want.

Life Strategy:

An ideal environment for a Betta is a well filters aquarium with slow movement in water and a

steady temperature between 75-86 degrees. They also prefer a variety of hiding places among

freshwater plants.


Provide these Bettas with a carnivore diet consisting of quality flake or pellet food, frozen or

freeze dried bloodworms and brine shrimp.





Title: Freshwater Fish Species #:54

Common Name: Cichlids

Scientific Name: Cichlidae

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Cichlidae


Family: Cichlidae


Most cichlids inhabit lakes or the sluggish areas of rivers, but there are few species adapted to

swift flowing stream. Most cichlids are distinguished from all other freshwater fish by the

existence of two unique features; a single opening of the nostrils and an interrupted lateral line.

Life Strategy:

As family, cichlids display complex behaviors in feeding, reproduction and orientate care. The

exploratory behavior of cichlids is also very important because this is what initially encouraged

and later refined speciation.


They eat algae, zooplankton, phytoplankton, whole fish, larvae or eggs of mouth brooding

species.






Common Name: Channel Catfish

Scientific Name: Ictalurus punctuates

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Ictalurus

Class: Actinopterygii Order: Siluriformes

Family: Ictalurus punctatus


Channel Catfish have been introuduced in the Paleractic in Cyprus, Czech Republic. This fish

can live in both fresh and saltwater and brackish eater yet they are generally found in

freshwater environments. They are found in moving waters such as streams, creeks and rivers

and well as lakes, reservoirs and ponds.

Life Strategy:

The male and female in the summer but the relationship is established earlier in the year.

Mating takes place when the male swims along the female in the opposite direction. Their tails

wrap around the others head to being mating. When the male’s body shivers the female is

stimulated and the eggs and sperm are released. The mass of eggs is deposited in a nest built by

the female of by both. After mating has occurred the male chases away the female and guards

the eggs until they hatch.


This fish consumes yellow perch, sunfish, snails, algae, snakes, frogs, insects, aquatic plants and

even birds on some occasion. Younger channel catfish are more consistently omnivorous, eating

large amounts and varieties of plant and animals.






Common Name: Red Fire Guppy

Scientific Name: Poecilia reticulata

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Poecilia


Family: Poecilidae


The Red Fire Guppy is a very peaceful fish and should be houses with freshwater tank mates of

similar temperament

Life Strategy:

The male guppy is smaller in size than the female. Males have brighter coloration and females

have a duller coloration and females ten to be more aggressive than the males.


The Red Fire Guppy is omnivores and requires both algae based foods as well as meaty foods.

An algae based flake food, along with freeze dries bloodworms and brine shrimp will provide

guppies with the proper nutrition.






Common Name: Madagascan Rainbow

Scientific Name: Bedotia gaegi

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Bedotia

Class: Actinopterygii Order: Atheriniformes

Family: Bedotiidae


This fish was identified in 1907 and is a member of the Silverside group. Rainbow fish are

known for their characteristic large eyes, black or silver band, which runs through the middle

scales row, deeply forked mouth, and two dorsal fins.

Life Strategy:

The peaceful fish is a schooling fish that should be housed in a planted aquarium with plenty of

room to swim as they are very active. Madagascan Rainbows do best with a gravel substrate

and its colors may intensify with dark colored gravel; When maintaining a school of these fish,

an aquarium that is at least 4 ft in length should be used.


These fish have a large mouth, but their throat tends to be narrow. With this in mind, foods

should not be too large for your fish. A good diet for these fish should consist of flake foods.






Common Name: Mickey Mouse Platy

Scientific Name: Xiphophorus maculatus

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Xiphophorus


Family: Poecilidae


This fish is named because of the black mark at the base of its body, reaching into the tail that is

shaped like Mickey Mouse’s Silhouette. Color forms of orange, red, yellow and blue are the

most common for this fish. Playts add brilliant beginners and accomplished aquarist’s alike.

Life Strategy:

The fish is a livebearer and is capable if reproducing at three to four months of age. The male is

smaller and more brightly colored than the female, and can be distinguished by his

gonopodium. The fry will most often reach maturity in a community tank.


The Mickey Mouse Platy is an omnivore that will eat commercially prepared flaked foods and

algae, as well as freeze dried bloodworms, tubifex and brine shrimp.


Swim / Locomotion Style: Carabgiform




Common Name: Cherry Barb

Scientific Name: Puntius titteya

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Puntius

Class: Actinopterygii Order: Cyniformes

Family: Cyprinidae


This fish is a more slender fish when compared to other Barbs. The main body is silver/black

with a golden, horizontal stripe following the lateral line. During spawning, the male will turn

bright cherry red which explains the name.

Life Strategy:

These fish prefer a well planted tank of least 30 gallons with soft, slightly acidic water. Rocks

and driftwood can be added to the aquarium, but leave plenty of space for swimming. The

cherry barb is a very timid fish that should be houses with fish of the same temperament.


Cherry Barbs needs to be fed a variety of foods including vegetables as well as meaty foods.

Feed quality flake food as well as live frozen shrimp.






Common Name: Black Oranda Goldfish

Scientific Name: Crassium auratus

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Garassius

Class: Actinopterygii Order: N/A

Family: Cryprinidae


This fish is a metallic scaled fish, closely resembling the Veil Tail goldfish. This fish is one of

many varieties of what is collectively known as ornamental of fancy goldfish. These fish

originally from parts of Asia, Japan and China.

Life Strategy:

Breeding often results in up to 1,000 eggs with fry hatching in five to six days. They should be

fed small pieces of live or prepared foods designed for egg laying fish.


Goldfish are omnivores and will what all types of dried and live foods. However limit protein

intake. Goldfish flake of pellet food will provide these fish with the proper nutrition.






Common Name: Black Veil Angel

Scientific Name: Pterophyllum sp.

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Pterophyllum

Class: Actinopterygii Order: Cichliformes

Family: Cichlidae


This fish is a strain of angelfish that is black in color with log flowing fins that are accentuated

with a beautiful black lace.

Life Strategy:

It prefers a well planted tank of at least 30 gallons with soft acidic water. Rock and driftwood

can be added to the aquarium but leave plenty of space for swimming. The newly hatched fry

should be fed brine shrimp until large enough to accept crushed flake food.


The Black Lace Angel needs to be fed a variety of foods including vegetables as well as meaty

foods. Feed a quality flake food as well as live frozen foods such as brine shrimp and

bloodworms.






Common Name: Neon Swordtail

Scientific Name: Xiphophorus helleri

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Xiphoporus

Class: Actinopterygii Order: Peocilformes

Family: Poeciliidae


This fish is aptly names for its exciting electric coloration. It is a beautiful color variety of the

swordtails that boasts its brilliant color. Neon colored bands across the length of its body and is

a very active fish.

Life Strategy:

A spawning box is recommended to protect swordtail fry from potential predation from adults.

Unless it is your intention to breed these fish, the male should be separated once the sex of the

fry is determined. Theses fish can begin breeding at a young age and can quickly

overpopulation an aquarium. These fish breading fish related to freshwater aquarium favorites.


The Neon Swordtail is an omnivore that will eat commercially prepared flakes foods and algae,

as well as freeze dried bloodworms and brine shrimp and tubifex.






Common Name: Dalmatiam Molly

Scientific Name: Poecilia latopinna

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Poeciliformes

Class: Actinopterygii Order: Poeciliformes

Family: Poecilia latopinna


This fish has black and white body, and is sometimes referred to as the Marbled molly of

Marbled Sailfin Molly. Mollie has the ability to adapt to a variety of salt levels in the aquarium.

With gradual acclimation, these fish may be maintained in either fresh or salt water.

Life Strategy:

The Dalmatian Molly is a livebearer that required a spawning box in a large 25 gallon tank, or a

larger breeding tank. Every 60 to 70 days the female will give birth to 10 – 60 young that are

already approx. one half inch long.


These fish are omnivores and require algae. Provide these fish with algae based flake foods, as

well as freeze dried bloodworms, tubifex and brine shrimp.






Common Name: Sparkling Gourami

Scientific Name: Trichopsis pumilus

Kingdom:Animilia Phylum: Trichopsis pumilus

Class: Actinopterygii Order: Trichopsis

Family: Belontiidae


Native to the shallow rice patties of Thailand and Cambodia, these fish can survive in the low

water level conditions with diminished oxygen levels. Because it is adapted to close quarters,

this fish only reaches a total length of about 1- 1/2 inches. However for the best care this

member of the Belontiidae family should be house in a tank at least 10 gallons.

Life Strategy:

After spawning the female should be removed to a separate tank as the male may become

aggressive towards the female. The male will tend the eggs until the hatch. After the eggs have

hatched perform frequent water changes especially during the 3rd

week as this when the

labyrinth organ is developed.


They require algae- based flake food, along with freeze dried bloodworms. Tubifex and brine

shrimp should provide these fish with the proper nutrition.






Common Name: Clown Loach

Scientific Name: Botia macrantha

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Botia

Class: Actinpterygii Order: Cobitiformes

Family: Cobitidae


Native to the waters of Indonesia, this member of the Cobitidae family appreciates caves, holes,

and other hiding places amongst heavy aquarium plantings especially when it sleeps. Because

the Clown Loach is native to fast moving streams, it prefers good water movement and

currents.

Life Strategy:

These fish are native to fast moving streams, which means it prefers good water movement and

currents in the tank. They grown to an impressive size of nearly one foot in length and should

be housed in larger freshwater systems.


These fish should eat foods such as vegetable flakes or tablets along with meaty supplements

such as live frozen or freeze worms.






Common Name: Tilapia

Scientific Name: Oreochromis niloticus

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Oreochromis


Family: Cichlidae


Also known as mudfish and kurper in South Africa, the Tilapia is one of the hardiest fish. Is Tilapia primarily

cultured because of its high adaptability. Tilapia can be raised in fresh or brackish water. Also favoring

cultivation is tilapia’s high growth rate and frequent spawning tendencies.

Life Strategy:

True tilapias are nest brooders, but species of the other general incubate their eggs orally, one or both parents

carry them in their mouths until the young hatch. They have literally compressed bodies like the type of called

sunfish; they are fast growing and tolerate brackish water.


Tilapia eats plants, love protein rich duckweed and also filter algae from the water using tiny combs in their

gills. Combining duck weed and commercial fish feed is good, but tilapia will grow ok on duckweed alone.






Common Name: Ornate Bichir

Scientific Name: Polyperus ornatipinnis

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Polypetus

Class: Actinopterygii Order: Polypteriformes

Family: Polypteridae


These fish are foun in Africa, as well with other members of the primitive Polypteridae family.

The Ornate Bichir has a unique abilty to surive out of wa ter. With a lung like paired swim

bladder amd gills to help breathing, this fish can spend short periods of time on land. But must

soon return to its water enviroment for respiration purpeses.

Life Strategy:

Be careful choosing passive tank mates for the Bichir, as they are very passive towards other

large fish. However, they are aggressive towards their own ind, and only on should be

incororated into an aquarium.


Theses fish comsume freeze dries bloodworms, tubifex, brine shrimp and flake/ pellet foods.






Common Name: Acei Cichid

Scientific Name: Pseudotropheus sp.

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Pseudotropheus


Family: Cichlidae


Originates from the Northwestern coast of Lake Malawi from Bandawe Point to Nagara in

Zambia, Africa. They have a long slender blue body with striking yellow fins. There is little to

differentiate males form females, other than males bear egg spots on the back edge of the anal

fin.

Life Strategy:

For the best results in spawning, the males should be kept with at least three females. The

female will spawn on a flat rock, and will take the unfertilized eggs into her mouth and will

follow closely behind the male until he releases the sperm to the fertilized eggs. The female will

then incubate the eggs for approx. Three weeks before releasing the fry.


These fish feed upon the sediment covered rocks and wood in nature. Provide a balanced diet of

dries seaweed and other plants based flake and pellet foods.






Common Name: Marble Hatchet

Scientific Name: Carnegiella strigata

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Carnegiella

Class: Actinopterygii Order: Gasteropeliformes

Family: Gasteropelecidae


Native to the rivers of South America, the Marble Hatchet prefers a heavily planted aquarium.

It also requires a few floating plants. Beneath which the Marble Hatchet can hide. Active

schoolers, this member of the Gasteropelecidae family does best when kept in groups of 6 or

more. But since the Marble Hatchet will jump out of water.

Life Strategy:

These fish breed in soft water about 5 degrees and a low pH of about 6.0. A diet of fresh

mosquito larvae and fruit flies may trigger spawning about the depositing of eggs on floating

plants.


A carnivore, the Marble Hatchet will eat floating foods such as freeze- dries bloodworms and

tubifex high quality flake food. And some other meaty live or frozen food, such as brine shrimp.






Common Name: Koi Angel

Scientific Name: Pterophyllum sp.

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Pterophyllum


Family: Cichlidae


The Koi Angel is a strain of angelfish that has been bred for its mottled black and white

coloration. Some may have old markings on the head. The young specimens may have a red hue

beneath the eyes that fades with age. These are beautiful angelfish, and like Koi, the coloration

of each fish will be different.

Life Strategy:

After a pair of these fish has developed, a flat surface needs to be provided where the eggs can

be laid. A piece of slate, a large plant leaf, or even a flowerpot should be positioned at an angel

of about 30 degrees in an area of moderate water flow. The female will lay the eggs and the male

will follow behind to fertilize. After approx three days.


These fish need to be fed a variety of foods including vegetables as well as meaty foods. Feed a

quality flake food as live and frozen foods such as brine shrimp and bloodworms.






Common Name: Golden Harlequin Rasbora

Scientific Name: Rabora heteromorpha

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Rasbora

Class: Actinopterygii Order: Cyripiniformes

Family: Cyrpindae


These fish require an established planted aquarium of 10 gallons or more. They should be kept

on schools of 8-10 and in an aquarium with other small, peaceful fish.

Life Strategy:

A breeding tank with shallow, warm, acidic, soft water with broad- leaved plants should be set

up. Keeping a pair of young females with a 2 year old male along with feeding them live foods

will greatly improve the chances of spawning. After spawning, remove the parents and keep the

aquarium dark until he eggs hatch, feed the fry infusorians.


An omnivore, Harlequin Rasboars do well on a diet of prepared flake food, as well as freeze

dries bloodworms and tubfex.





1.


Common Name: Turquoise Danio

Scientific Name: Brachydanio kerri

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Brachydanio


Family: Cyprinidae


Native to streams and pools. These fish do well with other Danio species and other peaceful fish

of familiar size. Kept with others in a school, this fish will be very active. This fish prefer a

planted aquarium with plenty of swimming space available.

Life Strategy:

These fish scatter their eggs in shallow water over a substrate of coarse gravel. After hatching,

usually within 36 hours after spawning, the fry should be fed fine pieces of live foods. Sunlight

may trigger spawning.


These fish are omnivores and should be fed a diet of flake foods with plenty of vegetable matter,

as well as freeze- dries bloodworms and tubifex.






Common Name: Trinidad Pleco

Scientific Name: Hypostomus punctatus

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Hypostomus

Class: Actinopterygii Order: Loricariformes

Family: Loricariidae


This nocturnal Trinidad Plecostomus is a great candidate for the community aquarium. Usually

greenish yellow in color, its patterned fins camouflage it well in planted tank. It comes from the

Amazon region of South America from fast flowing rivers to flood plains.

Life Strategy:

In the wind this fish is an egg layer, but breeding in an aquarium setting had not been as

successful.


A useful herbivore in an aquarium with algae, this fish will keep algae under control under

normal tank conditions. Of not algae are present, supplement with algae wafers and other

herbivore preparations.






Common Name: Checkerboard Discus

Scientific Name: Symphysodon spp.

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Symphysodon


Family: Cichlidae


This fish is a relatively new color of the wild South American Discus, being a brilliant green

coloration with red patterning. The overall coloration of Discus will vary depending on mood

and overall health of the fish. Discus they are among the most popular aquarium fish.

Life Strategy:

These fish slightly territorial when breeding. It is best to breed an established pair, or maintain

a group of young Discus and allow them to pair themselves. Warm, soft lightly acidic water is

required for spawning. The pair will clean a flat surface usually a broad leaf or the side of the

aquarium, prior to spawning. The parents must not be removed from the fry; try to feed on

their parents’ mucus.


Largely carnivorous, these fish prefer freeze dries bloodworms and tubifex, pellet food designed

for discus, high quality flake food and meaty frozen foods.






Common Name: Loricaria Cat

Scientific Name: Loricaria sp.

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Loricaria

Class: Actinopterygii Order: Loricaria



The Loricaria Cat has a slender body with a camouflage color pattern that covers the entire

fish. Because this species come from the tropic waters of South America, a neutral pH is

recommended.

Life Strategy:

They should be in at least a 30 gallon tank with a high filtration system and plenty of aeration.

These fish breed by laying their eggs on plants or rocks, and breeding in the aquarium stetting

is not usual.


A planted tank with high vegetation and some algae will sustain this fish. However, if algae are

not present, a supplement with a vegetable based flake food or algae wafers will provide the fish

with a balanced diet.



Mouth Position: Superminal



Common Name: Bala Shark

Scientific Name: Balantiocheilus melanopterus

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Balantiocheilus


Family: Cyrinidae


This fish is also known as the Silver Shark and is great for the semi aggressive community

aquarium. This is one of the more passive freshwater sharks, and they are an active fish that

will be visible during the day. The Bala Shark is a beautiful fish with a metallic body with a

yellow and black dorsal and caudal fin.

Life Strategy:

It requires a large tank with driftwood, rocks and spots of dense vegetation. This shark does

best in small groups of 3 or more as they prefer to school in an aquarium. Unfortunately, the

breeding habits of the Bala Shark have not been documented.


An omnivore, the Bala Shark is not particularly finicky eater. Flake food; freeze dried

bloodworms and tubifex, as well as vegetable based foods should be fed to these fish daily.






Common Name: Silver Arowana

Scientific Name: Osteoglossum bicirrhosum

Kingdom:Animilia Phylum: Osteoglossium

Class: Actinopterygii Order: Osteoglossiformes

Family: Osteoglossidae


Indigenous to the flood plains of the Amazon River Basin in South America, the Arowana can

reach an intimidating 47 inches in the wild, and is often too much for all but the advanced

freshwater aquarist to manage. It can survive short times out of the water breathing air by

utilizing its swim bladder.

Life Strategy:

This fish prefers a 250 gallon tank to reside in with fine gravel along the bottom and lost of

space for swimming. After breeding, the male is responsible for carrying the large eggs in his

mouth where they mature in 50-60 days. When these fish are young they are easily harassed

more by aggressive species such as Cichlids, Knife fish large.


A carnivore, the Silver Arowana will eat other smaller fish, water fleas, mosquito larvae, as well

as freeze dried ocean plankton, krill and pellet foods.


Swim / Locomotion Style: Angulliform




Common Name: Columbia Shark

Scientific Name: Arius jordani

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Arius


Family: Ariidae


Also known as the Black Fin Shark, The Columbia Shark is a catfish which will grow quite

large in an aquarium. It may be referred to as Jordan’s Catfish or the West American Cat

Shark. The Columbian shark has a high fin and long, whisker” that gives it a classify catfish

appearance.

Life Strategy:

Setting up a tank to match its natural environment will require plenty of plants and rocks,

starting with a minimum tank size of 70 gallons are recommended. These fish can live in both

freshwater and saltwater during different times of their lives.


Feed this fish sinking catfish pellets, bloodworms, or a high quality algae food.






Common Name: Badis

Scientific Name: Badis badis

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Badis


Family: Badidae


Originated from India, and is one fish in which color changes are considerable. Predominantly

brown with patterned black or red bars, males will change to a bluish black pattern. These fish

do well in a planted tank with caves, rocks and driftwood.

Life Strategy:

This fish will do well in an established aquarium with caves, rocks and driftwood. The Badis is a

very territorial fish in a species tank, but is more peaceful in a community tank. Family groups

are forms and are headed by the male. Theses fish will breed in caves scattering the eggs which

become attached to cave walls and the substrate. The male guards and defends the eggs, and

after about 3 days the fry hatch and are fed infusoria.


Carnivores, the Badis will consume live and frozen foods, as well as freeze dries, bloodworms

and tubifex, and small pieces of meat.






Common Name: Korthausaw Killfish

Scientific Name: Nothobranchius korthausae

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Nothobranchius

Class: Actinopterygii Order: Aplocheifromes

Family: Aplochilidae


The Korthausae Killifish is a beautiful and easy-to-care-for killifish. The distinct banding on

the Korthausae Killifish gives it an interesting, tiger-striped appearance that accentuates its

bold and vibrant color pattern. The name "Killifish" is derived from the Dutch word meaning

ditch or channel, where these brilliantly colored fish are found in the wild.

Life Strategy:

This species of Killifish is an annual species. A breeding tank is ideal with a 2-3 inch layer of

peat at the bottom. The Korthausae Killifish will bury the eggs in the peat. After spawning,

remove the peat that contain the eggs and press out any excess water. Place the moist peat with

the eggs in a plastic bag or sealed jar for 3 to 4 months at room temperature. After that time

period, add aquarium water back to the peat to hatch the fry.


The Korthausae Killifish will accept most live foods such as brine shrimp, white worms, tubifex,

and some commercially prepared flake and frozen foods.


Swim / Locomotion Style: Caramgiform

Mouth Position: N/A



Common Name: Twin Tail Betta

Scientific Name: Betta spelndens

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum:Betta


Family:Beloniidae


This variety of Betta has a striking, elaborate tail that differentiates it from other Bettas. The

Twin Tail has a split tail, almost giving the suggestion of having two tails. A similar fish, the

Crown Tail, has a teardrop shape to its tail. The Twin Tail Betta is a type of "Siamese" Fighting

Fish. These fish have been bred over the years to enhance the fins and remarkable variety of

colors of the males, as well as making them increasingly combative. Therefore, only one male

should be kept in a tank; however, smaller, shorter-finned females may be housed together with

caution. Farm Raised - Thailand

Life Strategy:

The Betta can be bred in the home aquarium. For breeding purposes, males and females can be

temporarily housed together. Once laid by the female, the eggs are placed inside a bubblenest

and tended by the male Betta


Fry appear in about 24 hours and must be fed very small food initially, such as crushed or

powdered flakes and newly hatched brine shrimp. Fry will also take finely chopped hard-boiled

egg yolk.



Mouth Position:Terminal



Common Name: Splashing Tetra

Scientific Name: Copella arnoldia

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Copella

Class: Actinopyerygii Order: Perciformes

Family: Lebiasinidae


The Splashing Tetra is a peaceful fish that can be housed in any community aquarium. The

body is long and slender and is gold/silver in color. The males of this species have longer fins

and are slightly larger than their female counterpart. The fins of the male also exhibit more

color with red and black outlines. This fish gets its name from their breeding behavior.

Life Strategy:

The Splashing Tetra can be housed in a community aquarium with soft or brackish water.

Plants, rocks, and driftwood help to enhance its natural habitat and provide hiding places. This

is a peaceful fish that the beginner to the expert aquarist would benefit from having. A tight

sealed top is a must with these fish, as they do jump.


The Splashing Tetra will accept many small foods such as brine shrimp or daphnia, freeze-dried

bloodworms and tubifex, micro pellet food, and a high quality flake food.






Common Name: Royal Pleco

Scientific Name: Panaque nigrolineatus

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Panaque

Class: Actinopterygii Order: Loricariformes



The Royal Plecostomus is a handsome suckermouth catfish belonging to the Genus Panaque. A

classic representative of this genus, the Royal Plecostomus is a stout, muscular fish with a

distinct "tadpole" shape. Hailing from the rivers and tributaries of South America, the Royal

Plecostomus has evolved to exploit fast-moving riparian environments with sunken bogwood

(driftwood). Planted aquariums with hardy, fast-growing plants and high aeration and water

movement provide a healthy environment.

Life Strategy:

This bold and eye-pleasing graphic pattern elevates this very attractive fish to royalty status

among Loricariid enthusiasts. The distinct body shape, striking pattern and prominent eyes

make the Royal Plecostomus a welcomed change from the usual and a peaceful addition to large

freshwater aquariums.


Feeding the Royal Plecostomus is not difficult since it is not a picky eater. However, plenty of

driftwood should be used in the aquarium housing this fish. As previously mentioned, biological

matter such as detritus and algae that forms on and inside of the wood itself makes up a major

portion of its diet.






Common Name: Tiger Barb

Scientific Name: Puntius tetrazona

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Puntius


Family: Cyprinidae


The Tiger Barb is silver/gold with black stripes and orange accented fins. They are a very lively,

playful fish that prefers to be in schools.

Life Strategy:

They prefer a well-planted tank of at least 30 gallons with soft, slightly acidic water. Rocks and

driftwood can be added to the aquarium, but leave plenty of space for swimming. The Tiger

Barb is a very active fish that may pester or even nip the fins of larger, slower moving fish. It is

best, when trying to breed the Tiger Barb, to house a number of Barbs in the same aquarium

until they pair off. After a pair has developed, the female will lay the eggs and the male will

follow behind to fertilize. The fry will be free-swimming after about 5 days.


The Tiger Barb needs to be fed a variety of foods including vegetables as well as meaty foods.

Feed a quality flake food as well as live and frozen foods such as brine shrimp and bloodworms.






Common Name: Black Shark

Scientific Name: Labeo chrysophekadion

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Labeo


Family: Cyprinidae


The Black Shark, also called the Black Labeo, is uniformly black or dark brown in color. In

some countries it is an important food source. The Black Shark is a very active, somewhat

aggressive fish that is not suitable for the community aquarium. A large aquarium is necessary

for this shark as it may reach two feet in length. The Black Shark is one of the only sharks that

should not be kept in a planted aquarium because plants are a large part of its diet. A hood on

the aquarium is also recommended, as the Black Shark is an accomplished jumper.

Life Strategy:

Unfortunately, the breeding habits of Labeo chrysophekadion have not been documented.


An omnivore, the Black Shark is not a particularly finicky eater. Flake food, freeze-dried

bloodworms and tubifex, as well as vegetable-based foods should be fed.






Common Name: Hi Fin Platy

Scientific Name: Xiphorphorus maculatus

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Xiphorphorus


Family: Poeciliidae


The Hi Fin Platy, also known as the Moonfish or the Southern Platy fish, is a hybrid fin

variation of Xiphophorus maculatus platy. Hi Fin Platies were named because of the very tall

dorsal fin that extends over their back. There are many different colors and color combinations

of this fish. The most common colors are red, yellow, orange, blue, and wag varieties with black

tails. They add brilliant colors to the aquarium as well as being very easy to keep, making them

a great fish for beginners and accomplished aquarists alike.

Life Strategy:

The Hi Fin Platy requires a tank of at least 10 gallons that is densely planted with hardy plants

like Java Fern and Java Moss. They are very peaceful fish and make an excellent addition to the

community tank. Any other peaceful fish can be housed with them. The Hi Fin Platy is a

livebearer and is capable of reproducing at three to four months of age. The male is smaller and

more brightly colored than the female, and can be distinguished by his gonopodium. The fry

will most often reach maturity in a community tank.


The Hi Fin Platy is an omnivore that will eat commercially prepared flaked foods and algae, as

well as freeze-dried bloodworms, tubifex, and brine shrimp.






Common Name: Redtail Cat

Scientific Name: Phractocephalus hemioliopterus

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Phractocephalus

Class: Actinopterygii Order: Pimelodiformes

Family: Phractocephalus


The Redtail Cat has a broad head and body that tapers towards the tail. It has a dark black

body, white underbelly, and a bright red tail. The Redtail Cat can grow impressively large in

an aquarium setting and should be given plenty of room to swim. Due to its size and high

energy, this fish should be kept with larger tank mates. Besides the minimum tank size of 300

gallons, rocks, plants, and large driftwood should be used to enhance and simulate a natural

environment. Since the Redtail Catfish is a highly active fish, a tightly covered aquarium should

be used to prevent it from jumping out of the tank. They mature into a very heavy fish and

should be maintained in a reinforced aquarium.

Life Strategy:

Redtail Cats breed using external fertilization after laying their eggs. Breeding in an aquarium

setting is rare.


Feeding the Redtail Cat is not difficult due to the fact that it is not a picky eater. In the wild, this

fish will eat fish and crustaceans. In the aquarium setting, assorted worms, frozen foods, sinking

catfish pellets, and dry foods will provide the proper nutrition.






Common Name: Balloon Molly

Scientific Name: Poecilia latipinna

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Poecilia

Class: Actinopterygii Order: Poeciformes

Family: Poeciliisae


The Balloon Molly is a hybrid variation of Poecilia latipinna,the Sailfin Molly. The Balloon

Molly has an arched back and a rounded, large belly. Color varieties include a combination of

black, yellow, and white. These fish also have a large, lyre-shaped caudal fin and an impressive

dorsal fin. Mollies have the ability to adapt to a variety of salt levels in the aquarium. With a

gradual acclimation, these fish may be maintained in either a freshwater aquarium or a

saltwater aquarium. In the freshwater aquarium, a teaspoon of aquarium salt per gallon is

recommended for optimum health.

Life Strategy:

The Balloon Molly prefers a tank of at least 30 gallons with lots of strong plants such as Java

fern, Sagittaria, Vallisneria and Anubias. The Balloon Molly is well suited for the community

tank because of its peaceful nature, and is compatible with other peaceful, large fish that can

withstand similar water conditions. The pointed anal fin and much larger dorsal fin on the

male, and the rounded anal fin and pregnancy spot on the female differentiate the two. The

Balloon Molly is a livebearer that requires a spawning box in a 25 gallon, or larger breeding

tank. The aquarium should be planted as densely as possible or have a thick algae mat. Having

a group of floating plants in the corner of the aquarium will promote rearing outside of the

breeding tank. Every 60-70 days the female give birth to 10-60 young that are already

approximately one-half inch long.


The Balloon Molly is omnivorous and requires both meaty foods as well as algae. Provide these

fish with an algae-based flake food, as well as freeze-dried bloodworms, tubifex, and brine

shrimp.






Common Name: Green Discus

Scientific Name: Symphysodon aequifasciata

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Symphysodon


Family: Cichlidae


The Green Discus is a wild South American beauty with brilliant green coloration. The body is

mostly green in color, and may have some red in the fins, as well as faint black stripes. The Anal

and dorsal fins have electric blue stripes that add to the appeal of this fish. The overall

coloration of Discus will vary depending on its mood and overall health. The Discus has

surpassed the Angelfish as the most popular freshwater aquarium fish. The natural range of the

Discus extends from the Amazon to the Rio Negro Regions of South America.

Life Strategy:

The Green Discus requires an advanced level of care due to its feeding habits and water

filtration requirements. Territorial during spawning, this otherwise peaceful fish is among the

schooling group, forming well-defined nuclear family.Becoming slightly territorial when

breeding, it is best to breed an established pair, or maintain a group of young Discus and allow

them to pair themselves. Warm, soft, slightly acidic water is required for spawning. The pair

will clean a flat surface (usually a broad leaf or the side of the aquarium) prior to spawning.

The parents must not be removed from the fry; the fry feed on their parents' mucus


Largely carnivorous, the Green Discus prefer freeze-dried bloodworms and tubifex, pellet food

designed for Discus, high-quality flake food, and meaty frozen foods.




Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.


Common Name: Australian Rainbow

Scientific Name: Melanotaenia splendida

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Melanotaenia


Family: Melanotaenia splendida


The Australian Rainbow, also known as the Western Splendid Rainbow, is one of more than

five subspecies of Melanotaenia splendida. Rainbow fish are known for their characteristic

large eyes, black or silver band that runs through the middle scale rows, deeply forked mouth,

and two dorsal fins. This peaceful Rainbow is a schooling fish that thrives in a planted

aquarium, but not too densely planted that there is insufficient free-swimming places

available. The aquarium should have a gravel substrate; the colors of the fish may intensify

with a dark colored gravel.

Life Strategy:

An egg layer, the Australian Rainbow reproduces more easily in a separate breeding tank with

a moss substrate. Courtship begins with the male displaying his brightest colors. At a

temperature of 75°F, the fry will hatch after six or seven days. After the fry hatch, the adults

should be removed from the breeding tank. The fry should be fed an omnivorous diet starting

24 hours after they hatch, as they are still being fed by their yolk sac.


Although Australian Rainbows have large mouths, their throats tend to be narrow. With this in

mind, foods should not be too large. The Australian Rainbow is an omnivore and should eat a

mixed diet of flake foods, live foods, and plant matter.






Common Name: Redtail Shark

Scientific Name: Epalzeorhynchos bicolor

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Epalzeorhynchos

Class: Actinopterygii Order: Cypriniformes

Family: Cyprinidae


The Redtail Shark, also known as the Redtail Black Shark is great for the semi-aggressive

community aquarium, as long as they are the sole sharks and the other tankmates are of similar

size. The Redtail Shark is a beautiful fish with a jet black body and a bright red tail. The dorsal

fin is marked with a white tip. It requires a large aquarium with driftwood, rocks, and spots of

dense vegetation. This shark may set up territories around the aquarium. The Redtail Shark

will become very aggressive towards its own species when mature.

Life Strategy:

Unfortunately, the breeding habits of the Redtail Shark have not been documented.


An omnivore, the Redtail Shark is not a particularly finicky eater. Flake food, freeze-dried

bloodworms and tubifex, as well as vegetable-based foods should be fed.






Common Name: Dojo Loach

Scientific Name: Misgurnus anguillicaudatus

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Misgurnus


Family: Cobitidae


The Dojo Loach originates within the Rivers, Lakes, and Ponds of Asia and is farm raised for

the aquarium industry. Loaches are bottom dwelling scavengers with reduced or absent scales

and a mouth surrounded by barbels in which they use to find food. They have an elongated,

smooth body that is gold to pink in coloration. They are peaceful and very efficient scavengers

that will make a welcome addition to any community aquarium.

Life Strategy:

The Dojo Loach requires a 30 gallon or larger aquarium with plenty of hiding places and water

temperatures that range between 68 and 76 degrees. They do well in a planted aquarium, but

larger specimens may uproot plants in their search for food. Gold Dojo Loaches are peaceful,

and will not typically bother other fish in the aquarium. They make excellent tank mates for

fancy goldfish. Use caution when housing them with small invertebrates such as Ghost or

Japonica Amano Shrimp.


The Dojo Loach is largely carnivorous, preferring freeze-dried bloodworms and tubifex, as well

as frozen and live meaty foods of all types.






Common Name: Chocolate Oranda Goldfish

Scientific Name: Carassium auratus

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Carassius

Class: Actinopterygii Order: Peciformes

Family: Cyprinidae


The Chocolate Oranda boasts an elegant beauty that is both stunning and subtle. A rich depth

of color including carmine, mahogany, and burgundy culminates to a chocolate color that is

highly desirable. The Chocolate Oranda is a metallic-scaled fish, closely resembling Veil Tail

goldfish varieties in the shape and length of the tail. The Chocolate Oranda is one of many

varieties of what is collectively known as ornamental or fancy goldfish.

Life Strategy:

There appears to be a definite courtship ritual when goldfish breed. Breeding often results in up

to 1,000 eggs, with fry hatching in five to six days. They should be fed small pieces of live or

prepared foods designed for egg-laying fish. As a member of the carp family, the Chocolate

Oranda is generally quite hardy. They will do well in 30 gallon aquariums or larger, as well as

backyard garden ponds of 180 gallons or more. In addition to a fine gravel bottom or well-

rounded river rocks, the Chocolate Oranda will appreciate hardy, cold water plants. Keep in

mind that goldfish are diggers and will scatter the fine sand onto leaves, injuring thin and less

hardy plants.


Goldfish are omnivores and will eat all types of dried and live foods. However, limit protein

intake to 30% of the diet. Goldfish flake or pellet food will provide these fish with the proper

nutrition.

Body Form or Style: Globform





Common Name: Silver Hatchet

Scientific Name: Gasteropelecus sternicla

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Gasteropelecus

Class: Actinopterygii Order: Gasteropelecus

Family: Gasteropelecus sternicla


Silver Hatchets, also known as the Common Hatchetfish, are among the more uniquely shaped

species of fish. Hatchetfish have a slender body with a deep "belly" and pectoral fins that are

set high on the body. Hatchetfish have upturned mouths characteristic of true surface dwellers.

Gasteropelecus sternicla prefers a planted aquarium with a few floating plants. A schooling fish,

the Silver Hatchet is best kept in a group of six or more. A hood on the aquarium is necessary,

as this fish likes to jump. Excellent water quality must be maintained to keep this fish at its best.

Life Strategy: Unfortunately, the Silver Hatchet's breeding habits have not been documented. It

is thought that this fish may breed in soft water and a low pH. A good diet of fresh mosquito

larvae and fruit flies may trigger spawning and the depositing of eggs on floating plants.


A carnivore, the Silver Hatchet will eat floating foods such as freeze dried bloodworms and

tubifex, high quality flake food, mosquito larvae, small flies, and some other meaty live or

frozen foods.






Common Name: Topsail Platy

Scientific Name: Xiphophorus maculatus

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Xiphophorus

Class: Actinopterygii Order: Poeciliformes

Family: Poeciliidae


The Topsail Platy is also known as the Rainbow Platy, the Moonfish, or the Southern Platyfish

and is a fin variation of Xiphophorus maculatus platy. These platys have a very high dorsal fin

that extends halfway to the tail. Color forms vary from red, orange, and yellow. They add

brilliant colors to the aquarium as well as being very easy to keep, making them a great fish for

beginners and accomplished aquarists alike. The Topsail Platy requires a tank of at least 10

gallons that is densely planted with hardy plants like Java Fern and Java Moss. They are very

peaceful fish and make an excellent addition to the community tank. Any other peaceful fish

can be housed with them.

Life Strategy:

The Topsail Platy is a livebearer and is capable of reproducing at three to four months of age.

The male is smaller and more brightly colored than the female, and can be distinguished by his

gonopodium. The fry will most often reach maturity in a community tank.


The Topsail Platy is an omnivore that will eat commercially prepared flaked foods and algae, as

well as freeze-dried bloodworms, tubifex, and brine shrimp.






Common Name: Blue Delta Guppy

Scientific Name: Poecilia reticulata

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Poecilia reticulata


Family: Poeciliidae


The Blue Delta Guppy is also called the Millions Fish and sometimes, simply the Guppy. It

is one of many color variations of Poecilia reticulata guppy. The hardiness of the Blue Delta

Guppy, as well as the fact that it matures quickly makes it an excellent fish for beginning

hobbyists. The Blue Delta male has a blue body from the anal fin back and a silvery mix of

colors at the front. The male's tail fin is a dark blue that fades near the edge. The Blue Delta

Guppy requires a tank with at least 20 gallons of water, and is very tolerant of changing tank

conditions. Plants should be hardy varieties such as Java Fern and Java Moss that can handle

the increased hardness in the tank. Other peaceful fish would make good tank mates.

Life Strategy:The females in this pair are of an assorted variety; however, you can differentiate

the males and females easily. The males are smaller in size, have brighter coloration, along with

a bigger tail fin, and pointed anal fin. The females are larger in size with a duller coloration,

have a rounded anal fin, as well as a pregnancy patch on the lower portion of the body. Ideally,

the environment should have a covering of floating ferns and a breeding box to protect the fry.

Adults may eat the fry if left to fend for themselves without the breeding box. The fry should be

fed brine shrimp, micro food and pulverized flakes.


The Blue Delta Guppy is an omnivore and requires both algae-based foods as well as meaty

foods. An algae-based flake food, along with freeze-dried bloodworms, tubifex, and brine

shrimp will provide guppies with the proper nutrition.






Common Name: Elephant Nose

Scientific Name: Gnathonemus petersii

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Mormyriformes

Class: Actinopterygii Order: Gathonemus

Family: Mormyridae


The Elephant Nose is an interesting fish that originates from the Niger River and its tributaries

in Western Africa. Its body is mostly black and is irregularly shaped with a long narrow tail

and nose in which it uses to forage for food. It possesses a weak electrical organ at the caudal

peduncles which is used to locate food.

Life Strategy:

It requires a minimum of a 50 gallon aquarium with good water conditions. It is generally timid

and reclusive, preferring a fine-gravel-bottom aquarium with plenty of plants and rocks for

hiding places where it can find refuge from the light. To better appreciate this fish, many

hobbyists will purchase a "ghost tube," a clear plastic tube that facilitates viewing during the

day. Once accustomed to its surroundings, the Elephant Nose can become incredibly tame and

trusting to the point of being hand-held. It does well with other, larger species of a peaceful

nature, but may be aggressive towards those of similar or smaller size.


The Elephant Nose is carnivorous and will eat many types of meaty foods including; blood

worms, chopped earthworms, brine shrimp, flake and pellet foods as well as an array of frozen

meaty foods.






Common Name: Peppered Cory Cat

Scientific Name: Corydoras paleatus

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Corydoras


Family: Callichthyidae


The Peppered Cory Cat comes from the tributaries of larger river systems in South America,

and is a peaceful bottom dwelling scavenger. The Peppered Cory Cat has black and dark green

spots, with a white underside. The Peppered Cory Cat requires a well-planted aquarium with

plenty of hiding places that provide relief from the light. A smooth sand or gravel substrate is

needed because of the easily damaged barbels. They enjoy being in numbers, so a small school

of six or more is ideal for these cats.

Life Strategy:

Breeding the Peppered Cory Cat is achieved by keeping a number of these cats together and

allowing them to pair off. After spawning, the breeding pair should be separated from the eggs,

or the eggs transferred to another system. The fry become waterborne in approximately 5 days,

at which time; they should be fed baby brine shrimp and crushed flake food.


The Peppered Cory Cat is omnivorous and will require a well-balanced diet including freeze-

dried bloodworms and tubifex, sinking catfish pellets, flake food, frozen, and live foods. Feed a

quality flake and pellet food as well as frozen brine and live worms.






Common Name: Panda Garra

Scientific Name: Garaa flavatra

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Garra


Family: Cyprinidae


The Panda Garra is an ornate sucker-mouth loach. Like its namesake the panda, the Panda

Garra features broad, alternating bands of light and dark coloration. Its unique markings are

highlighted with diamond-shaped scale patterns and hints of red coloration in its fins. Due to its

unusual markings and peaceful nature, the Panda Garra makes a great addition to well-filtered

aquariums 30 gallons and larger.

Life Strategy:

In the wild, the Panda Garra inhabits well-oxygenated, fast-flowing streams. The addition of a

powerhead or the use of a slightly oversized filter will increase filtration and water movement to

help recreate natural conditions. While its sucker-like mouth may suggest the Panda Garra is a

scavenger or algae-eater


It is crucial not to restrict its diet solely on available algae or food debris. Panda Garras are

omnivorous and their diet should consist of prepared algae flake food or algae tablets as well as

frozen or freeze-dried foods. The occasional addition of bloodworms or tubifex worms provides

a nutritionally balanced and varied diet.






Common Name: Koi Swordtail

Scientific Name: Xiphophoris helleri

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Xiphophoris


Family: Poeciliidae


The Koi Swordtail is a much sought after color morph of the popular swordtails. Contrasting

deep reddish orange marks wrap around a brilliant white, semi-transparent body to create a

showcase fish that is both stunning and fairly easy to breed. The male Koi Swordtail has

flowing, feathered fins with a distinct extension on the lower part of the tail, resembling a

sword. Even though the female does not have the distinguishing, sword-like tail, her koi

coloration makes her a showstopper. The Koi Swordtail makes a beautiful and graceful

addition to any aquarium.

Life Strategy:

Koi Swordtails require an aquarium of at least 30 gallons that is well planted with plenty of

room for swimming. Like other Swordtails, the Koi Swordtail is a jumper, so be sure to provide

an adequate cover over the aquarium. Peaceful in nature, the Koi Swordtail is well suited for

the community aquarium. Males can be aggressive toward one another so care should be taken

when housing more than one. Koi Swordtails are livebearers and can give birth to as many as

80 fry at one time. A spawning box is recommended, or if one is not available, dense floating

cover should be provided to protect the fry from the adults.


The Koi Swordtail is an omnivore that will eat commercially prepared flaked foods, freeze dried

bloodworms, tubifex, and brine shrimp as well as algae.



Mouth Position: Supterminal


Saltwater / Marine

Invertebrates (101-120)

Title: Saltwater/Marine Inverts Species #:101

Common Name: Sea Cucumber

Scientific Name: Holothuria sp.

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Holothuria

Class: Holothuroidea Order: Aspidochirotida

Family: Holothuroidea


The Sea Cucumber, also known as the Edible Sea Cucumber, was first described by scientists in

1830. It has a long, pink to reddish-brown body, which is usually darker dorsally, often green or

black. It does well in a large aquarium if provided with ample room to roam. Generally, for

every 3 inches of sea cucumber there should be 20 gallons of water. It prefers a thick sandy

substrate so it can scour through the sand for organic foods. The Sea Cucumber will spend most

of its time in the open, though it may carry a thin film of sand over its body. It needs to be kept

with peaceful tank mates. It is sensitive to high levels of copper-based medications and will not

tolerate high nitrate levels.

Life Strategy:

While it does not have the toxic tubules of Culvier that many cucumbers have, if frightened, it

might disgorge its interal organs into the tank, which may be toxic to fish. In the wild, these

organs often regenerate, but rarely in an aquarium setting. It is extremely difficult to breed in

an aquarium, and has no distinguishing characteristics to help differentiate it from its mate.


If not overstocked, the Sea Cucumber does not need supplemental feeding

Body Form or Style:

Swim / Locomotion Style:

Mouth Position:


Title: Saltwater/Marine Inverts Species #: 102

Common Name: Tree Sponge

Scientific Name: Ptilocaulis sp.

Kingdom: Animalia Phylum: Ptilocaulis

Class: Demospongiae Order: Poecilosclelida

Family: Axinellidae


The Tree Sponge of the genus Ptilocaulis is normally red or orange. Its shape is very similar to

that of a tree which includes a main trunk with several branches. The Tree Sponge requires a

strong current and excellent water quality.

Life Strategy:

All sponges, including the Tree Sponge, require some very special care in order to survive in the

home aquarium. The most critical concern is that it never be exposed to the air. If it is, the air

would become trapped in the matrix of channels that line the inside of its body, blocking the

path for planktonic food to reach its cells. This will result in death of the sponge.


Supplemental feedings of dissolved organic food are required.



Mouth Position: N/A



Common Name: Spiny Star Astraea

Scientific Name: Astraea phoebia

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Astraea


Family: Astraeinae


The Spiny Star Astraea Snail has a unique shell and a ravenous appetite for algae. Unlike many

bottom dwellers that are dressed in drab colors to better camouflage themselves against the

sand bottoms, Astraea phoebia boasts a pyramid-shape shell with beautiful, green, yellow, and

tan coloration. The Spiny Star Astraea boasts pronounced projections on their shells creating a

sculptured spiral star shape that is sure to dazzle the eye. Though interesting to observe in your

home aquarium, the Spiny Star Astraea Snail serves a greater function of cleaning algae-

covered live rock. It is very adept at keeping your aquarium clean. In fact, this small herbivore

prefers to feed on nuisance hair algae, as well as cyanobacteria and diatoms. Some aquarists

also report that the Spiny Star Astraea Snail actually consumes the entire hair algae structure,

which helps prevent immediate further algae growth.

Life Strategy:

The Spiny Star Astraea prefers established aquariums with ample hiding places and sufficient

room to roam. In addition to eating algae off of your live rock, this member of the Astraeinae

family will also clean your aquarium glass. However, the Spiny Star Astraea Snail is not known

to be a climber like other smaller-shelled snail species. Care needs to be taken to observe the

daily activities of this hungry snail since it is unable to right itself if it falls or is knocked upside

down.


Like other invertebrates, the Spiny Star Astraea Snail is sensitive to high nitrate levels and will

not tolerate copper-based medications. The Spiny Star Astraea Snail requires a gradual

acclimation period.

Body Form or Style:


Mouth Position:



Common Name: Hard Tube Coco Worm

Scientific Name: Protula bispiralis

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Protula

Class: Demospongiae Order: Poecilisclelida

Family: Serpulidae


The Hard Tube Coco Worm, also known as the Hard Tube Feather Duster, Protula Tubeworm,

or Hard Tubeworm, has a crown that can be white, yellow, orange, pink, or red. The radioles

may be banded or patterned. Younger Hard Tube Coco Worms have bi-lobed crowns, while the

crowns of older individuals are spiraled. The Hard Tube Coco Worm secretes a calcareous

tube, approximately 1/2 inch in diameter and 5-8 inches long, to house its vulnerable worm

body. When disturbed, it can quickly retract its crown and close its operculum to shut the top of

its tube. It usually anchors its tube in a crevice of the rocky reef or in the gravel along current-

swept reef slopes. It uses the radioles to filter out floating plankton.

Life Strategy:

The aquarium for the Hard Tube Coco Worm should be well-established and contain a rock

and gravel substrate. The Hard Tube Coco Worm requires calcium and the proper alkalinity to

grow. It is extremely intolerant of poor water quality and copper-based medications.


In the aquarium it is difficult to maintain, and will need supplements of phytoplankton and

liquid organic foods.

Body Form or Style:


Mouth Position:



Common Name: Maxima Clam

Scientific Name: Tridacna maxima

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Tridacna


Family: Tridacna maxima


The Maxima Clam is also known as the Small Giant Clam and is one of the most widely

recognized species of the giant clams. The beauty of its mantle with its rich variety of patterns

and vivid colorations makes for a spectacular display in reef aquariums that are illuminated

properly. Maxima Clams are known to live together in great congregations, and they can attain

a maximum size of 12" in the wild.

Life Strategy:

Maxima Clams can be identified by having a more elongated shell that lacks symmetry, with

narrowly spaced scutes or scallops on the upper portions of each side of their hinged shells. Like

some other members of its genus, T. maxima attach to hard substrate or rockwork with thread

like appendages called byssal filaments, and can eventually burrow or bore into porous

substrate over time. Maxima clams will arrive either unattached or attached to a small piece of

rock or substrate. They will normally attach to a solid surface within a day or so of being

introduced into the aquarium.


Tridacna clams are also filter feeders and constantly filter the water for small particulates.

Maxima Clams larger than 2" do not require supplemental feedings, but smaller T. maxima

that are less than 2" should be fed a phytoplankton or green water supplement several times

per week if maintained in a nutrient poor reef aquarium.



Mouth Position: N/A



Common Name: Pencil Urchin

Scientific Name: Eucidaris tribuloides

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Eucidaris

Class: Echinoidea Order: Cidaroida

Family: Cidaeidae


The Pencil Urchin of the Eucidaris genera is also known as the Mine or Club Urchin. It has a

brown, sometimes mottled body with stubby, thick spines radiating out in all directions. The

spines are surrounded by basal plates. Never try to pry it out of a hole, as you will break its

spines before it lets go. As it ages, its spines may become covered with coralline and other types

of algae.

Life Strategy:

During the day it will seek shelter in the rocks; at night it will come out and forage for food,

looking particularly for algae lawns and smaller invertebrates like sea squirts or sponges. It can

be destructive to corals. It requires an aquarium with multiple hiding places and live rock on

which it can graze. The rock formations should be sturdy, since the Urchin could dislodge rocks

as it moves around the tank. The Pencil Urchin is very sensitive to high levels of copper-based

medications and will not tolerate high levels of nitrates. If water conditions are poor, it will shed

its spines


It should be offered dried seaweed and some animal-based supplemental foods



Mouth Position: N/A



Common Name: Sea Hare

Scientific Name: Aplysia sp.

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Aplysia

Class: Gastropoda Order: Anapsidea

Family: Aplysidae


The body of the Dwarf Sea Hare is a combination of speckles and patterns. The location of its

rhinophores organ used to smell and its oral tentacles make it look a bit like a rabbit, hence its

common name. If it becomes startled, it may release a purple dye to repel attacking fish. In the

home aquarium, the Sea Hare will need a good chemical filter system to quickly remove this

toxic dye before it causes problems.

Life Strategy:

In the wild, it is usually found in shallow areas of seagrasses and coral rubble, preferring the

shaded areas. Cover from the lights in the aquarium should be provided. It requires a large

area in which to move. It prefers an aquarium with live rock and opens sandy areas so that it

can graze on algae, eating any Caulerpa in the tank. It is sensitive to high levels of copper-based

medications and will not tolerate bad water conditions


If regular feedings of Caulerpa are not possible, it will need a supplemented diet of parboiled

lettuce and dried kelp.



Mouth Position: N/A



Common Name: Arrow Crab

Scientific Name: Stenorhynchus seticornis

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Stenorhynchus

Class: Crustacea Order: Decapoda

Family: Majidae


The Arrow Crab, also known as the Spider Crab, has extremely long legs. It is called the Arrow

Crab because of the shape of the body and head. The size is variable, many reaching six inches,

and some up to 10 inches. Females may be dramatically smaller. Different species inhabit

different parts of the world. The most common Arrow Crab (Stenorhynchus seticornis) comes

from the Caribbean, but other species are imported from the Indo-Pacific region, eastern

Africa, and California. They normally inhabit portions of the reef usually associated with a

small cave or crevice.

Life Strategy:

It is a hardy, long-lived invertebrate, which can be housed in the reef aquarium. This crab has

been known to attack crustaceans such as Banded Coral Shrimp, and may even attack small

slow moving fish. All crabs are opportunistic feeders and if insufficient food is present they may

pick at mushrooms or polyps searching for food. Breeding Arrow Crabs in the aquarium is not

generally successful. Larvae are free-swimming and hatch in about two weeks.


It will accept almost all meaty, flake and tablet foods.



Mouth Position: N/A



Common Name: Ritteri Anemone

Scientific Name: Heteractis magnifica

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Heteractis

Class: Anthozoa Order: Actiniaria

Family: Sitchodactylidae


The Ritteri Anemone is also referred to as the Magnificent Anemone or Heteractis Magnificent

Sea Anemone. Some aquarists still refer to it as Radianthus ritteri, but this name was recently

changed to the current H. magnifica. It can grow to over three feet in diameter in the wild,

although it generally does not grow larger than 1½ feet in the aquarium. Its tentacles have a

long, non-tapering shape that may, on occasion, appear swollen at the tips. They can almost

completely retract into the base.

Life Strategy:

This Anemone requires strong lighting combined with strong, but intermittent, water

movement within the tank. It generally prefers a high point in the tank to ensure it obtains all

the light it needs, but it may change locations, seeking the ideal conditions. Its strong sting can

harm corals. The presence of a Clownfish, such as Amphiprion perideraion, will help it

acclimate. Ritteri Anemones from different locations may serve as hosts to other clownfish, and

even shrimp.

Feed Strategy:

The diet should include mussel, fish, crustaceans, and frozen foods.



Mouth Position: N/A



Common Name: Scarlet Skunk Cleaner Shrimp

Scientific Name: Lysmata amboinensis

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Lysmata


Family: Hippolytidae


The Scarlet Skunk Cleaner Shrimp acts like the medic of any saltwater aquarium. In fact, this

active cleaner will set up shop on live rock or coral outcroppings and wait for fish to come and

be cleaned of ectoparasites or dead tissue. Many fish value its services so highly that they even

allow the Scarlet Skunk Cleaner Shrimp to clean inside of their mouths without harming the

shrimp. No matter how your fish use the Scarlet Skunk Cleaner Shrimp's services, it is easy to

see why this peaceful creature is so popular amongst home aquarists.

Life Strategy:

The Scarlet Skunk Cleaner Shrimp is also known as the Red Skunk Cleaner Shrimp because of

the distinct pair of bright red stripes that outline the single white stripe running down its back.

The Scarlet Skunk Cleaner Shrimp is often found in groups amongst live rock or coral. In the

home aquarium, the Scarlet Skunk Cleaner Shrimp requires similar habitats and peaceful

tankmates. Some fish, such as Hawkfish and Lionfish or predatory shrimp or crabs may see this

member of the Hippolytidae family as food.


To supplement their diet, feed Scarlet Skunk Cleaner Shrimp freeze dried, frozen, and flake

foods.



Mouth Position: N/A



Common Name: Blue & Pink Sea Star

Scientific Name: Astropecten sp.

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Astropecten

Class: Asteroidea Order: Forcipulatida

Family: Astropectinidae


Though beautifully colored, the Blue and Pink Sea Star is also a useful addition to any

established home aquarium. Obviously, this Astropecten species' most noticeable trait is the

bright pink and blues of each arm. But in addition to its exotic colors, this sand sifting starfish is

also highly active and mobile. It can sift and aerate large amounts of sand as it burrows into and

searches through the substrate for food.

Life Strategy:

Like other invertebrates, the Blue and Pink Sea Star is very intolerant of sudden changes in

oxygen levels, salinity, and pH and cannot tolerate copper-based medications. To successfully

acclimate new specimens to your aquarium, use the drip acclimation method over an extended

period of time. Additionally, they should never be exposed to air while handling. Breeding in the

home aquarium is extremely difficult with no distinguishing characteristics to help differentiate

between males and females.


These peaceful omnivores are a great addition to reed aquariums. They will consume detritus

and left over food.



Mouth Position: N/A



Common Name: Bulb Anemone

Scientific Name: Entacmaea quadricolor

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Etacmaea

Class: Anthozoa Order: Actiniaria

Family: Actiniidae


The Bulb Anemone is one of the most beautiful ornamental anemones for the home reef. When

housed beneath intense aquarium lighting, Entacmaea quadricolor develops a unique bulb tip

at the end of its tentacles. When hungry, this member of the Actiniidae family will stretch its

sweeper tentacles to grab food from the water column. After feeding, the tentacles then shorten

again and take on their bulbous appearance. Though often referred to as the Four-Colored

Anemone, coloration can vary greatly from one individual to the next. Red variations may be

referred to as Rose Anemones. Generally, Bulb Anemones from Fiji and Tonga are shaded in

soft browns, tans, or maroon, though an occasional green specimen is found. By contrast, the

Bulb Anemones from Singapore are typically green in color with a deep maroon base.

Life Strategy:

For best care, the Bulb Anemone requires strong lighting in aquariums of at least 30 gallons.

Under ideal conditions, it can grow up to 1-ft in diameter. However, most typically remain

compact in size when kept under bright lighting. If the lighting is insufficient, the Bulb

Anemone will expand its body to make the most of the available light. It should be kept with a

Clownfish for best care. At times, the tentacles of the Bulb Anemone may appear stringy; this

may be due to insufficient light or the need for food. Its diet should include chopped fish,

shrimp, or worms if a clownfish is not present.


Its diet should include chopped fish, shrimp, or worms if a clownfish is not present.



Mouth Position: N/A



Common Name: Tiger Cowrie

Scientific Name: Cypraea tigris

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Cypraea

Class: Gastropoda Order: Neotaenioglossa

Family: Cypraeidae


The Tiger Cowrie has an egg-shaped, spotted, glossy shell and is in high demand for the rock

aquarium. It differs in color depending upon geographical location. While it does not have an

operculum to shut when it retracts its mantle into its shell, the opening is lined with

"threatening" tooth-like structures. Normally, the mantle will completely cover its shell unless

it feels threatened. This helps it keep its lustrous white and brown mottled coloration, while its

mantle will appear like a fingerprint of black and gray, with many short papillae over the

surface.

Life Strategy:

In the wild, it can be found under rocks or resting on soft corals during the day, foraging for

food mostly at night. The Tiger Cowrie prefers a rock aquarium with hiding places. While

small, it will eat some algae and scavenge for scraps, but as an adult, it will eat some anemones,

sponges, and soft corals, and is best housed with starfish, sea urchins, and tubeworms in the reef

aquarium. Do not house it with Condylactis sp. It needs low nitrate levels and will not tolerate

copper-based medications.


The diet of a large Tiger Cowrie should be supplemented with pieces of fish and mussel, and a

product such as TetraTips.



Mouth Position: N/A



Common Name: Halloween Hermit Crab

Scientific Name: Ciliopagurus strigatus

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Ciliopagurus

Class: Malacostraca Order: Decapoda

Family: Diogenidae


The Halloween Hermit Crab, with its vibrant orange and red banding, stands out as a member

of your aquarium cleanup crew. Originating from the Hawaiian Islands, the Halloween Hermit

Crab boasts attractive color variegation and is a beautiful accent to the marine aquarium. The

Halloween Hermit Crab is a very useful aquarium cleaner that helps maintain a healthy

aquarium environment by eating any left over food that may settle on the substrate

Life Strategy:

Adding further value, the Halloween Hermit Crab is known to efficiently eat algae including

green hair algae and cyanobacteria. It also provides a valuable service of aerating aquarium

substrate by sifting through the sand. Be aware that as the Halloween Hermit Crab attains a

large size, this lumbering scavenger may disrupt rockwork or corals in reef aquariums. The

Halloween Hermit Crab lives in abandoned snail or triton shells and may resort to attacking

and eating a snail so it can use the shell for its home. To prevent this from happening, provide

the Halloween Hermit Crab empty shells of assorted shapes and size


If there is an insufficient amount of algae present, the Halloween Hermit Crab will need to be

fed dried seaweed, as well as meaty items such as mysis shrimp.



Mouth Position: N/A



Common Name: Harlequin Shrimp

Scientific Name: Hymenocera elegans

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Hymenocera


Family: Gnathophyllidae


The Harlequin Shrimp was first scientifically described in 1852. The Harlequin Shrimp have a

white body with large light blue spots, and the males are slightly smaller than the female. It

differs from its close cousin, the Hawaiian. Picta which has purple and red spots. It has large

claws (chelipeds) which are for show only; it does not use them for hunting. The Harlequin

Shrimp is best kept as mated pairs in an aquarium with moderate light. The Harlequin Shrimp

can not tolerate copper or high nitrates, and iodine levels must be correct and maintained to

ensure proper molting

Life Strategy:

It is very particular about what it will eat, dining only on echinoderms, primarily starfish, and a

few urchin species. It will eat starfish (Linckia, Fromia sp.) by starting at the tip of the arm and

working its way to the central disc. The starfish may shed the arm, but is often mortally

wounded.


As its primary source of food, you will need to supply the Harlequin Shrimp with starfish. The

adults may also eat sea urchins.



Mouth Position: N/A



Common Name: Emerald Crab

Scientific Name: Mithraculus sculptus

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Mithraculus


Family: Mafjidae


The hardy Emerald Crab, also known as Emerald Mithrax Crab or Emerald Mythrax Crab,

has a shiny green, flat, compact body and hairy legs.

Life Strategy:

It requires a mature aquarium with plenty of rock work and hiding places. The Emerald Crab

eats algae and various types of meaty items it can scavenge. It can be harmful to small fish, but

unlike many other animals, it will eat bubble algae and is useful for cleaning tanks of this

potential problem. They are an opportunistic feeder, and if food is not available to them, they

may turn to supplementing their diet with corals or invertebrates.


If there is it insufficient algae, their diet should be supplemented with dried seaweed, chopped

meaty items or a quality pellet food.



Mouth Position: N/A



Common Name: Red Ball Sponge

Scientific Name: Psuedaxinella lunaecharata

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Psuedaxinella

Class: Demopongiae Order: Halichondrida

Family: Axinelidae


The Red Ball Sponge, is often referred to as Red Boring Sponge, and members of this genus are

found in a wide variety of colors such as red, yellow, and orange. The Red Ball Sponge requires

a strong current and excellent water conditions.

Life Strategy:

All sponges, including the Red Ball Sponge will require some very special care to survive in the

home aquarium. The most critical concern is that it never be exposed to the air. If it is, air

becomes trapped in the matrix of channels that line the inside of its body. With air blocking the

path for planktonic food to reach its cells, it will basically starve.


The Red Ball Sponge will require supplemental feeding with liquid plankton and other

dissolved organic foods.



Mouth Position: N/A



Common Name: Zebra Turbo Snail

Scientific Name: Turbo sp.

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Turbo

Class: Gastropoda Order: Stylommatophora

Family: Turbinidae


The Zebra Striped Turbo Snail is a beautiful algae removing powerhouse. Like other members

of the Turbinidae family, the Zebra Striped Turbo Snail has a voracious appetite for algae.

While other Turbo species have simple top- or turban-shaped shells, the Zebra Striped boasts a

stunning dark black shell striped in elegant waves of tan. Off the coast of Asia, Zebra Striped

Turbo Snails are often found in crevices and holes within the reefs. In the home aquarium, the

Zebra Striped Turbo Snail prefers ample hiding places and large amounts of room to graze,

preferably amongst live rock. They will also feed on the algae covering aquarium glass.

Life Strategy:

The Zebra Striped Turbo Snail is extremely difficult to breed in the home aquarium, especially

considering the Zebra Striped Turbo Snail has no distinguishing characteristics to help

differentiate it from its mate.


When algae levels are insufficient, supplement their diet with dried seaweed. Keep in mind, that

proper calcium levels must be maintained as members of the Turbinidae family use calcium to

build their shells. Like many other invertebrates, the Zebra Striped Turbo Snail is also very

sensitive to copper-based medications and high nitrate levels.



Mouth Position: N/A



Common Name: Feather Duster

Scientific Name: Sabellastarte sp.

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Sabellastarte

Class: Demospongiae Order: Poecilosclelida

Family: Sabellidae


The Feather Duster, also known as Giant Feather Duster, has a fan-shaped crown Radiole that

is tan or orange with brown band colorations. The radiole of some species from certain locales

may be up to 7 inches in diameter, or of brighter colors. The Feather Duster uses the radiole to

filter out small floating organisms, which it directs toward its mouth, located at the center of the

crown. It protects its segmented body by secreting a parchment-like tube to cover itself. When it

is disturbed, it can quickly pull in its radiole into the tube. If it is severely stressed, it will

discard its crown, growing it back later.

Life Strategy:

The Feather Duster is usually found in the coral rubble at the base of the reef aquarium, with

some of the rubble being incorporated into its parchment-like tube. It needs to be housed in a

well-established reef system as it is dependent upon plankton for its diet. It is very intolerant of

copper-based medications.


Supplemental feeding of phytoplankton and liquid organic foods should be provided.



Mouth Position: N/A



Common Name: Black Longspine Urchin

Scientific Name: Diadema setosum

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Diadema

Class: Echinoidae Order: Diadematoida

Family: Diadema setosum


The Black Longspine Urchin, also known as Long-spined Sea Urchin, has a body which is

predominately black with a red eyespot in the center. The spines on these urchins are long, thin

and completely black. They are a very delicate looking urchin, which are actually very capable

of protecting itself. These urchins are excellent algae controllers for an aquarium housing

aggressive fish.

Life Strategy:

Provide an aquarium with ample hiding places and room to roam. Being a nocturnal creature,

the Black Longspine Urchin will hide during the day and only come out at night to forage for

food such as algae and seaweed. These urchins are an excellent algae controller for an

aggressive aquarium where other invertebrates would be eaten. When approached by a fish,

these urchins will sense their presence, and will defend it by directing its spines towards its

offender.


The diet may be supplemented with dried seaweed.



Mouth Position: N/A


Freshwater Inverts

(121-125)

Title: Freshwater Inverts Species #:121

Common Name: Blue Knight Lobster

Scientific Name: Cherax sp.

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Cherax


Family: Parastacidae


The Blue Knight Lobster is from the rivers and streams of New Guinea, and is one of the larger

species of crayfish attaining a total length of up to 12". Their colors can vary from a brilliant

blue to a bluish brown coloration, and they have relatively small claws for their size. They will

rarely hunt for fish as they are generally too slow to catch the latter.

Life Strategy:

Provide a freshwater aquarium of at least 50 gallons with plenty of rocks, and a substrate with a

moderate grain size or finer for the Blue Knight Lobster to burrow in. They can be aggressive

towards their own kind, and require plenty of room for territories, and a larger aquarium will

be needed if housing more than one. When housing more than one, provide at least 40 gallons

per Lobster and include plenty of cover including both rocks and plants. It is very difficult to

differentiate between the sexes of these crayfish, and we will not be able to pair them for sale.

They are relatively easy to breed in captivity, and the eggs hatch in about 21 days. After

hatching, the fry can be fed flake or pellet foods, and should be separated in order to keep them

from eating each other.


These Lobsters are omnivorous, and will act as a scavenger in the aquarium, eating any food

that comes to rest on the bottom. Supplement their diet with a quality sinking pellet, flake food

and dried algae.



Mouth Position: N/A



Common Name: Red Cherry Shrimp

Scientific Name: Neocaridina denticulate sinensis

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Neocaridina

Class: Malacostraca Order: Decapoda tenth

Family: Atyidae


Red Cherry Shrimp make gorgeous and functional additions to any peaceful freshwater

aquarium. Its brilliant red coloration adds a beautiful ornamental quality while its purposeful

pursuit for algae and organic debris makes the Red Cherry Shrimp an invaluable aquarium

cleanup crew

Life Strategy:

If there is a male and female in your aquarium Red Cherry Shrimp will most likely breed. The

female will carry a clutch of yellowish eggs under her tail until they hatch in about 30 days. The

newly born shrimp will look like miniature adult shrimp and will eat the same thing as the

adults. If breeding these shrimp, it is important to keep them in a breeder aquarium with a

sponge filter. This added precaution helps maximize survival of young shrimp.


Red Cherry Shrimp are omnivores that will consume algae, detritus and left over food. If

insufficient food is present, supplement with algae tablets or quality flake food or pellets.



Mouth Position: N/A



Common Name: Mini Crab

Scientific Name: Uca sp.

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Uca


Family: Ocypodidae


The Mini Crab is a fascinating crustacean known widely as a wonderful "alternative" pet. Also

called the Fiddler Crab, Uca sp. is extremely popular thanks to its energetic antics and relative

ease of care. The Mini Crab is a hardy species that does well under proper living conditions.

The Mini Crab originates from the brackish, inter-tidal mud flats, lagoons, and swamps of

Florida. As such, the Mini Crab requires some salt in the water in order for it to thrive. In

addition, contrary to popular belief, the Mini Crab is not a fully aquatic species

Life Strategy:

The Mini Crab is a semi-aquatic species that requires access to an area above the waterline. A

"beach" or "shoreline" made with sandy substrate is ideal. The use of aragonite substrate will

help maintain higher pH levels and provide a source of calcium and important trace minerals.

The Mini Crab aquarium habitat should be aquascaped liberally with rocks, driftwood, and

other decorations to offer hiding places and climbing areas. However, be sure to leave an open

area for burrowing and digging. Good water quality is important for the health of the Mini

Crab. An internal filter is a great way to provide both proper filtration and water movement for

the Mini Crab habitat. The Mini Crab is a capable escape artist so a tight-fitting cover is

essential.


The Mini Crab is an omnivore that will eat commercially prepared flaked foods and algae as

well as freeze-dried bloodworms and brine shrimp.



Mouth Position: N/A



Common Name: Viper Shrimp

Scientific Name: Atya gabonensi

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Atya


Family: Atyoidea


Viper Shrimp have a deeply furrowed, wrinkly carapace. Coloration varies from blue, gray,

white after molting, and increasingly blacker as they age. Despite their somewhat "demonic"

appearance, they are absolutely peaceful and harmless fan shrimp. Their front "claws" are

actually long soft bristles which they fan open to filter feed, perched head-on into the current

with fans outstretched.

Life Strategy:

In the wild, Atya gabonensi typically live in small, fast-flowing to rapid mountainous streams,

gripping stony bedrock directly in the current with their powerful back claws and legs. They

use their fan-like front appendages to filter very fine floating food items (such as mosquito

larvae, daphnia and Cyclops, as well as small algae particles) from the current. During daylight

they typically seek shelter under rocks and logs. They come out of hiding at twilight or in

darkness in order to feed.


House in a community aquarium with small peaceful fish and sufficient water flow. Since they

prefer oxygen rich water and strong current, use a submersible pump to keep water in constant

circulation. Feed sparingly using very fine floating food like algae powder or dried small

crustaceans shortly before turning the lights off.



Mouth Position: N/A



Common Name: Freshwater Clam

Scientific Name: Corbicual sp.

Kingdom: Animilia Phylum: Corbicual


Family: Corbicual sp.


The Freshwater Clam is a living filter that helps keep aquarium water clear and clean. By

removing uneaten food and detritus from the water column, the Freshwater Clam helps

maintain water quality and lower nitrate levels. Like many freshwater bivalves, Corbicual sp.

typically buries itself in the substrate. However, spotting its siphon protrude from the substrate

is truly captivating to observe. This variety of the Corbiculidae family only reaches a length of

about 2", which makes it a suitable addition to well-established aquariums of almost any size.

Life Strategy:

Though found in temperate freshwater rivers and lakes around the world, this species

originates in Asia and has a brown shell, banded in black. For best care, house the Freshwater

Clam in an aquarium of at least 10 gallons with medium to very fine substrate. The Freshwater

Clam should not be housed with invertebrate-eating fish, such as freshwater puffers.


The Freshwater Clam obtains its nutrition from filtering food and detritus from the water

column. If necessary, its diet can be supplemented with a quality invertebrate food.



Mouth Position: N/A


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Fish Id Shelby Bledsoe