Fish Academia

Overview of Fish Keeping Fishkeeping is an enjoyable and rewarding hobby that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It is a great way to learn about nature and the environment, and it can also provide hours of enjoyment and relaxation. Keeping fish can be a great way to meet new friends and create a sense of community. Whether you’re just starting or have been keeping fish for years, there are a variety of species that are ideal for beginners. When starting, it is essential to consider the type of fish you would like to keep. Generally, smaller and hardier species are preferred for beginners. Some popular choices include goldfish, guppies, and platies. These types of fish tend to be less sensitive to water quality and are more tolerant of fluctuations in temperature and pH. It is also essential to consider the size of the tank when selecting fish. The tank should be large enough to accommodate the fish you plan to keep. Additionally, a larger tank typically provides a more stable environment for fish. Finally, when selecting a fish, consider the type of care it requires. Some species may require more frequent water changes or other specialized care. It is important to research the fish species before purchasing to ensure it is compatible with your level of experience. When finding the best fish for beginners, there are a few key factors to consider. First, you want to look for a fish that is relatively easy to care for and can thrive in a beginner aquarium setup. Second, you want to find a fish that is visually appealing and will be enjoyable to watch in their new home. Lastly, you want to ensure the fish you choose is compatible with other fish in the aquarium. Fortunately, there are plenty of great fish options for beginner aquariums. Here are some of the best, most popular beginner fish: Goldfish Goldfish are one of the most popular aquarium fish for beginners. They come in a variety of sizes and colors, making them an excellent choice for both small and large tanks. Goldfish can be easy to care for and are hardy enough to survive even in less-than-ideal conditions. They are also very social, interactive fish that can be great companions for novice aquarists. Goldfish require a well-maintained tank with plenty of oxygen. A good filtration system is essential to keep the water clean and healthy. They prefer temperatures between 65-75°F and can tolerate a wide range of pH levels. Proper nutrition is also key, and a variety of fish food should be included in their diet to keep them healthy and happy. It’s important to note that goldfish can grow quite large, so it’s important to research which type of fish is best for the size of your tank. Goldfish can also be messy, so regular water changes are essential to keep their tanks clean and in good condition. With proper care, goldfish can live up to 10 years or longer. Betta Fish Betta fish, also known as Siamese fighting fish, are one of the most popular fish for beginners. They are colorful, hardy, and relatively easy to care for. Betta fish do not require a large aquarium and are one of the few fish species that can survive in a smaller tank, making them ideal for those just getting started with fishkeeping. Bettas are social fish but can be territorial and aggressive towards each other. Therefore, it is not recommended to have more than one Betta in a tank. Betta fish can live in a variety of water temperatures and pH levels, so they are relatively easy to care for. As far as diet goes, Betta fish are omnivorous and can be fed a variety of foods, including bloodworms, brine shrimp, and dried pellet food. Overall, Betta fish are a great option for those just starting in fish keeping. They are easy to care for, colorful, and entertaining to watch. Guppies Guppies are one of the most popular fish for beginners, and for good reason. They are hardy and easy to care for, and come in a wide range of colors and patterns. Guppies are live-bearing, which means that they don’t lay eggs like other fish, and instead give birth to fully formed fry. This makes them a great choice for folks who don’t have the time or money to invest in an elaborate breeding program. Guppies are also quite peaceful, and can live in groups with other guppies and other peaceful fish. They are usually shy and skittish, but they can become quite bold and active when they feel safe and comfortable. Guppies do prefer a well-planted aquarium with plenty of hiding places, but they are flexible and can also live in tanks with very little decoration. They like clean water and should be fed a variety of foods including flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods. Guppies can live for a few years if kept in good conditions, so they are a great choice for anyone who wants to keep fish for the long term. Neon Tetras Neon Tetras are a great fish for beginners to start with. They are small, colorful, and peaceful fish that can be kept in a variety of tank sizes. They are also very hardy and can survive in a wide range of temperatures and water conditions. Neon Tetras are native to the tropical rivers of South America. They are a schooling fish, so it’s best to keep at least six of them in the tank. They prefer tanks with plenty of plants and hiding spots, as well as a darker substrate. They should be fed a varied diet of flakes, freeze-dried and live foods. Neon Tetras are an excellent choice for beginners because they are easy to care for and very hardy. They are also very beautiful and add a lot of color to an aquarium. With the right care and setup, Neon Tetras can make a great addition to any beginner’s aquarium. Set-up Considerations Setting up an aquarium for fish is an exciting and rewarding experience, but it does require some planning and consideration. Beginner aquarists should take the time to research what type of set up is best for their particular species of fish. Here are some things to consider when setting up an aquarium for fish: Tank size: The size of the tank will determine how many fish you can keep and the types of fish that are suitable for the tank. Generally, larger tanks are better for beginners as they are easier to maintain and provide more space for fish to swim and explore. Filtration: A good filtration system is essential for keeping your aquarium clean and healthy. It is recommended to have both a mechanical and a biological filtration system in place. Water quality: In order to keep the water in your tank clean and healthy, you will need to test the water parameters regularly. This includes testing the pH, ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels. Lighting: Lighting plays an important role in the health of your fish. Make sure to provide adequate lighting for the type of fish you have in your tank. Substrate: Substrate is the material that lines the bottom of your tank and provides a place for beneficial bacteria to grow. Different types of substrate are available, so make sure to choose one that is suitable for the type of fish you are keeping. By doing your research and taking the time to consider these set-up considerations, you can ensure that your aquarium is a healthy, safe, and enjoyable environment for your fish. Feeding and Care Guidelines Regarding the care and feeding of fish, there are some basic guidelines that all beginners should follow. First, it’s important to remember that each type of fish has different dietary needs and requirements. When selecting a fish, research the type of fish and determine its dietary needs. Once you’ve determined the food requirements of the species, develop a regular feeding schedule to ensure the fish are getting the proper nutrition. In addition to selecting the right food, you’ll also need to provide the right environment for your fish. Be sure to use a tank with the appropriate size and capacity for the type of fish you are keeping. It’s important to use a filter to maintain the water quality and cycle the tank regularly. Finally, it’s essential to monitor the fish’s health. Be sure to observe the fish for any signs of illness or disease, and if something appears wrong, take the fish to a veterinarian for a check-up. This can help you identify any potential issues before they become a major problem. By following these simple guidelines, any beginner can easily care for their fish and ensure they are getting the proper nutrition and environment they need.

The rainbow darter is a beautiful and unique freshwater fish that is perfect for any aquarium. They are peaceful and easy to care for, and make a great addition to any community tank. However, they are also very sensitive to changes in water quality and parameters. This means that they require a bit more care than some other fish. In this guide, we will teach you everything you need to know about rainbow darter care. You will learn about their diet, tanks mates, habitat, and more! Table of contents Species overview Appearance Lifespan Size Tank Size Water parameters What To Put In Their Tank Common diseases Behavior & Temperament Tank Mates Breeding Conclusion Species overview Rainbow darters (Etheostoma caeruleum) are found in the central and eastern United States, primarily in the Mississippi River basin. They prefer habitats with plenty of plants and hiding places, as well as a moderate current. This is something to keep in mind when setting up their tank. Rainbow darters are mostly peaceful, although they can be territorial with their own species. They are also known to eat smaller fish, so it’s best to keep them with fish that are too large to fit in their mouths. These fish are named for their bright colors, which can include a mix of blues, greens, yellows, and oranges. This makes them a popular choice for many freshwater aquariums. Appearance The first thing you’ll notice about this fish is their bright and vibrant colors. As their name suggests, they have a beautiful rainbow hue that really makes them stand out. The colors on their body are separated into a few different stripes. The base color is usually a light silver or white. This is then followed by a stripe of blue, green, yellow, orange, and finally red. This coloration can vary slightly depending on the specific fish and their location. The fins on a Rainbow Darter are rather long in comparison to their body. The dorsal fin starts about two-thirds of the way back and extends almost to the end of the fish. The caudal and anal fins are both forked and begin closer to the middle of the fish. The pectoral fins are on the shorter side and start close to the head. All of the fins have a beautiful rainbow hue that matches the body. Lifespan The average lifespan of a rainbow darter is 3 to 5 years. Rainbow darters are relatively short-lived fish. A variety of factors can impact their lifespan, but the main one is water quality. These fish are very sensitive to changes in their environment and even a small fluctuation can cause stress. That stress can lead to disease and an early death. Size The average size of a rainbow darter is about 2.5 inches long. Males are typically a bit larger than females, but not by much. These fish are relatively small, so they don’t need a lot of space to swim and be happy. Tank Tank Size The recommended tank size for rainbow darters is 10 gallons. If you’re planning on keeping more than one fish, you should add an additional 2 to 3 gallons per fish. While rainbow darters don’t grow to be very large, they are active swimmers and prefer to have a lot of space to move around. They also like to hide in plants and other aquarium décor, so it’s important to give them plenty of places to explore. Water Parameters The rainbow darter is a freshwater fish that is found in the United States. It is a fairly small fish, only reaching about 2.5 inches in length when fully grown. This fish is very colorful, as its name suggests. The body is primarily yellow with dark stripes running vertically down the length of the fish. The fins are bright red, which really makes this fish stand out in a crowd. The rainbow darter is a very hardy fish and can tolerate a wide range of water conditions. However, to ensure the health and well-being of your fish, it is important to maintain the following water parameters. Water temperature: 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit pH levels: 6.5 to 7.5 Water hardness: 4 to 10 dGH Alkalinity Levels: 4-8 dKH What To Put In Their Tank Rainbow darters are a species of fish that come from North America. They’re found in a variety of habitats but prefer slow-moving waters with plenty of vegetation. When it comes to setting up an aquarium that’s suitable for them, you’ll want to recreate this as best as you can. The substrate should be a dark color with plenty of small rocks and gravel. This will give them plenty of places to hide and feel secure. As for plants, you have a few different options. You can go with live plants if you wish, but make sure they’re tough enough to withstand a little bit of nibbling. Rainbow darters are known to nip at vegetation (although it’s not considered harmful). If you don’t want to deal with live plants then you can always go with plastic ones. Make sure they’re securely anchored in the substrate though since these fish will dig around a bit. In terms of other decorations, feel free to get creative. Rainbow darters don’t have any specific needs so you can add whatever you think looks nice. Just make sure there are plenty of places for them to hide! Common Diseases Rainbow darters are relatively hardy fish, but they are still susceptible to the same diseases and illnesses as any other freshwater fish species. The most common disease that these fish experience is ich. This is a parasitic infection that will cause white spots to form on the body, fins, and gills of your fish. If left untreated, ich can be fatal. However, it is relatively easy to treat with the right medication. Other potential diseases include bacterial infections, fungal infections, and parasites. These are all rather common in the freshwater aquarium world and can be treated with the proper medication. As with any other fish, the best way to keep your rainbow darter healthy is to maintain a clean and stable tank. This will help to prevent any diseases from taking hold and will also make your fish more resistant to sickness. Behavior & Temperament The rainbow darter is a peaceful fish that is relatively easy to care for. They are not aggressive and will do well in a community tank as long as they are kept with other peaceful fish. Rainbow darters are active fish that enjoy swimming in groups. They are not shy and will often be seen swimming in the open. They are bottom-dwellers and prefer to stay near the substrate where they can look for food. Rainbow darters are not known to be fin nippers but they may eat small fish if they are small enough to fit into their mouths. Tank Mates Because of their small size and peaceful disposition, there are a number of different fish that work well as tank mates for rainbow darters. These fish occupy the middle to bottom of the water column and prefer to stay near the vegetation. As a result, you’ll want to choose fish that occupy different levels of the tank. Here are some compatible species that tend to do well: Guppies Platies Mollies Swordtails Neon Tetras Cardinal Tetras Rasboras Corydoras Catfish Breeding The rainbow darter is a beautiful and popular fish that is relatively easy to breed in captivity. They are typically found in the eastern United States and Canada, living in freshwater streams and rivers. In the wild, rainbow darters breed in the spring. The males build nests out of plant material, which the females then lay their eggs in. The males will then guard the eggs until they hatch. To breed rainbow darters in captivity, you will need to set up a breeding tank. The tank should be at least 20 gallons and should have a sandy bottom. You will also need to add some plants and hiding places. To trigger spawning, you will need to lower the water level and raise the temperature to around 75 degrees Fahrenheit. You may also need to add a bit of salt to the water. When the female is ready to lay her eggs, she will do so in the plant material. The male will then fertilize them. Once the eggs are fertilized, the male will stay with them to protect them. The eggs will hatch in 7-10 days. When they hatch, the fry will be very small and will need to be fed live food. You can purchase live baby brine shrimp or you can culture your own. Once the fry are a bit older, you can start to feed them pellets or flakes. Conclusion The rainbow darter is a beautiful and unique fish that is perfect for the beginner aquarist. They are easy to care for and will add a splash of color to your tank. If you are looking for a fish that is low maintenance and easy to care for, the rainbow darter is a great choice.

Orangethroat darters are a beautiful and unique freshwater fish that are perfect for any aquarium. This guide will teach you everything you need to know about Orangethroat darter care. You’ll learn about their diet, size, lifespan, and more! Table of contents Species overview Appearance Lifespan Size Tank Size Water parameters What To Put In Their Tank Common diseases Behavior & Temperament Tank Mates Breeding Conclusion Species overview The orangethroat darter (Etheostoma spectabile) is a freshwater fish that is native to the southeastern United States. They can be found in a wide variety of habitats, but prefer slow-moving streams with sand or gravel bottoms. Orangethroat darters are carnivorous and eat a variety of small invertebrates. These fish are relatively small, only reaching a maximum length of about 3 inches. Orangethroat darters are popular among aquarium hobbyists because of their bright colors and patterns. Appearance The Orangethroat Darter is one of the most colorful freshwater fish that you’ll find in North America. They’re a small fish that only grows to be about 3-4 inches long. The body of the Orangethroat Darter is long, thin, and slightly flattened from top to bottom. They have a forked tail that tapers off to a point. Both the dorsal and anal fins are short and reach about halfway back on the body. What really makes this fish stand out is their coloration. The front half of their body is a beautiful golden color. The back half is a deep green. In-between these two colors is a bright orange stripe that runs down the length of their body. This orange stripe is what gives this fish their name. The males are usually more colorful than the females with the orange being more vibrant. The face of the Orangethroat Darter is quite unique. They have large eyes that sit on top of a protruding forehead. Underneath their chin, you’ll find a large orange sack. This is used to attract mates and can be quite prominent in males. Lifespan The typical lifespan of an orangethroat darter is 3 to 5 years. These fish are relatively long-lived compared to other fish in the wild. However, their lifespan in captivity is often shorter due to the stress of being in an artificial environment. They’re also more susceptible to disease in captivity. With good care, though, these fish can live up to 10 years in captivity. Size The orangethroat darter grows to an average length of 4 inches. Tank Tank Size The recommended tank size for Orangethroat darters is 20 gallons. If you’re looking for a small freshwater fish that can fit in an average-sized tank, this is a good option. Orangethroat darters are a peaceful species of fish and can be kept in a community tank with other small, peaceful fish. If you’re looking to keep more than one Orangethroat darter, you should add at least 10 gallons for each additional fish. Water Parameters The Orangethroat darter is a freshwater fish that is native to the United States. Its range extends from the Mississippi River basin east to the Appalachian Mountains. This fish prefers clean, well-oxygenated water with a moderate amount of flow. It is often found in rivers and streams with gravel or sand substrates. The ideal water parameters for Orangethroat darters are: Water temperature: 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit pH levels: 6.5 to 7.5 Water hardness: 5 to 15 dGH Alkalinity Levels: 4-8 dKH What To Put In Their Tank The Orangethroat darter is a small freshwater fish that is found in the United States. They prefer slow-moving waters with plenty of hiding places. When setting up an aquarium for Orangethroat darters, it is important to provide them with plenty of hiding places. Driftwood, rocks, and caves are all great options. Plants can also be used, but be aware that these fish may eat them. The substrate should be soft and sandy to help prevent injuries. Common Diseases The Orangethroat darter is a hardy fish that doesn’t often fall ill. However, like all fish, they can still get sick if the conditions in their tank are not ideal. The most common disease that these fish experience is ich. This is a very contagious disease that is caused by a parasite. It can be fatal if left untreated, so it’s important to be on the lookout for the symptoms. These include white spots on the body, gills, and fins. The fish may also scratch themselves on objects in the tank and have a decreased appetite. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to act fast. Begin treatment immediately and consult your vet if necessary. Another disease that these fish can experience is hole-in-the-head disease. This is caused by poor water quality and the presence of activated carbon in the tank. It will present itself as one or two pits/holes in the skin of your fish’s head. While it’s almost always curable, it will usually leave some scarring on your fish. To prevent these diseases, it’s important to maintain the quality of the water in your tank. A tank with clean and stable water conditions is always the best way to keep your fish healthy and disease-free. Behavior & Temperament The orangethroat darter is a peaceful fish that is also known to be shy. It is not an aggressive fish and will not bother other tank mates. It is a bottom-dwelling fish that spends most of its time near the substrate. The orangethroat darter is a nocturnal fish, so it is most active at night. During the day, it will often hide among the plants and rocks in the aquarium. Tank Mates The Orangethroat darter is a peaceful fish that can get along with most tank mates. These fish are relatively small, so they’re not a threat to other fish in the tank. In fact, they’re more likely to be on the receiving end of aggression. With that said, it’s important to choose tank mates that are compatible in terms of size and temperament. Here are some good Orangethroat darter tank mates: Guppies Mollies Platies Swordtails Neon Tetras Cherry Barbs White Cloud Mountain Minnows Breeding The Orangethroat Darter is a beautiful little fish that is perfect for the home aquarium. They are relatively easy to care for and make a great addition to any community tank. Orangethroat Darters are also one of the easier fish to breed in captivity. If you follow a few simple guidelines, you should have no problem getting them to spawn. First, you need to set up a breeding tank. The tank should be at least 20 gallons in size and should have a sandy bottom. Live plants are also a good idea. Next, you need to adjust the water parameters. The pH should be between 6.5 and 7.0 and the temperature should be between 72 and 78 degrees Fahrenheit. Once the tank is set up, you need to add a pair of Orangethroat Darters. It’s best to add one male and one female. The male will have a more colorful throat than the female. The next step is to start feeding the fish live foods. This will help to bring them into breeding condition. Once the fish are ready to breed, the female will lay her eggs on the plants. The male will then fertilize the eggs. After the eggs are fertilized, the parents should be removed from the tank. The eggs will hatch in about a week. Once the fry hatch, they will feed on small live foods. You can also give them finely crushed flake food. As the fry grow, you can start to add them to your community tank. Conclusion The Orangethroat Darter is a great choice for anyone looking for a unique and beautiful fish to add to their aquarium. They’re not the easiest fish to care for, but with a little bit of knowledge and dedication, they can be a great addition to your tank. If you’re up for the challenge, we say go for it! These fish are definitely worth the effort.

The gilt darter is a small, freshwater fish that is native to the southeastern United States. It is a member of the perch family and is closely related to the walleye and yellow perch. The gilt darter is a popular game fish and is often caught by anglers. The gilt darter is a small fish, typically reaching a length of 4-6 inches (10-15 cm). It is a slender fish with a long, narrow body. The body is olive-green to brown in color, with a yellow or orange belly. There are dark bars on the sides of the body, and the fins are often brightly colored. The gilt darter is found in freshwater streams and rivers. It is a bottom-dwelling fish and is often found around submerged logs and rocks. The gilt darter is a carnivorous fish and feeds on small invertebrates, such as insects and worms. The gilt darter is an important part of the aquatic ecosystem. It is a food source for larger predators, such as birds and fish. The gilt darter is also a popular game fish and is often caught by anglers. The gilt darter is not considered to be a threatened or endangered species. However, it is listed as a species of concern in some states, due to declining populations. Table of contents Species overview Appearance Lifespan Size Tank Size Water parameters What To Put In Their Tank Common diseases Behavior & Temperament Tank Mates Breeding Conclusion Species overview The Gilt Darter (Percina evides) is a small freshwater fish that is found throughout the southeastern United States. The Gilt Darter prefers streams with clear water and a sand or gravel bottom. They are often found in areas with little or no current. The Gilt Darter feeds on small insects and other invertebrates. The Gilt Darter is a sexually dimorphic species, meaning that the males and females look different. The males are typically more brightly colored than the females. The Gilt Darter is not a popular aquarium fish, but it is sometimes kept by hobbyists. Appearance The Gilt Darter is a beautiful freshwater fish that is easily recognizable. These fish have a very thin and long body that is mostly a golden color with black spots. The spots on their body are small and round. They start at the head of the fish and continue all the way down to the tail. The dorsal fin of the Gilt Darter is tall and thin. It starts just behind the head of the fish and extends back about two-thirds of the way. The anal fin is shorter than the dorsal fin and is located just before the tail. The caudal fin is forked and symmetrical. The pectoral fins of the Gilt Darter are fairly small and thin. They’re located just behind the head of the fish. The Gilt Darter also has a very long and thin snout. This is where their small mouth is located. Gilt Darters are a beautiful freshwater fish that are perfect for any aquarium. They’re easy to care for and make a great addition to any community tank. Lifespan The lifespan of a gilt darter in the wild is around 3 years. This is a relatively short lifespan for a fish, but it’s not unusual for fish in the wild. The lifespan of a gilt darter in captivity is a bit longer. They can live for up to 5 years in captivity, although the average is closer to 4 years. This is still a relatively short lifespan for a fish, but it can be lengthened with proper care. Size The average gilt darter size is about 3 inches. Some individuals may grow to be 4 inches, but this is rare. These fish are relatively small, which is why they make good additions to smaller tanks. Tank Tank Size A single gilt darter can be kept in a tank as small as 5 gallons. If you’re looking for a nano fish to add to your freshwater aquarium, the gilt darter is a great option. However, we recommend going with a slightly larger tank if you can. A 10-gallon tank would be ideal but 20 gallons would be even better. This will give you some extra room to add more fish or decorations to the tank. Water Parameters The gilt darter is a small, colorful freshwater fish that is found in North America. It prefers slow-moving waters with plenty of hiding places. Gilt darters are not very tolerant of changes in water parameters. They need a consistent environment to stay healthy and thrive. The ideal water parameters for gilt darters are: Water Temperature: 68°F to 75°F pH Levels: 6.5 to 7.5 Water Hardness: 4 to 10 dGH Alkalinity Levels: 2 to 8 dKH What To Put In Their Tank The Gilt Darter is a species of freshwater fish that is found in the United States. It’s a fairly small fish, only reaching lengths of about 3 inches. In the wild, these fish can be found in a variety of habitats. This includes slow-moving rivers, creeks, and even ponds. When it comes to setting up an aquarium for Gilt Darters there are a few things you need to take into account. The first is the size of the tank. These fish are small, so you don’t need a huge aquarium. A 20-gallon tank should be more than enough. The second thing you need to think about is the water conditions. Gilt Darters prefer water that is on the cooler side (around 68-72 degrees Fahrenheit). They also prefer water that is on the softer side (with a pH around 6.5-7.0). Finally, you need to consider the decorations in the tank. These fish like to have a lot of places to hide. This means you should include plenty of rocks, driftwood, and plants. Java Fern and Anubias are great choices. Common Diseases There are a few common diseases that can affect gilt darters. The most common is probably ich, which is a parasitic infection that manifests as white spots on the body of the fish. Other common diseases include bacterial infections, fungal infections, and viral infections. All of these can be fairly serious if left untreated, so it’s important to keep an eye out for any signs of illness in your fish. The best way to prevent these diseases is to maintain a clean and healthy environment for your fish. This means regular water changes, filtration, and keeping an eye on water quality. If you can do all of these things, you’ll be well on your way to keeping your gilt darter healthy and disease-free. Behavior & Temperament The gilt darter is a shy and retiring fish that is best kept in a quiet aquarium with plenty of hiding places. It is a peaceful fish that will do best when kept with other peaceful species. The gilt darter is a bottom-dweller that spends most of its time hiding among the plants and decorations in the aquarium. It is nocturnal and will be most active at night. This fish is not particularly aggressive, but it may nip at the fins of other fish if it feels threatened. It is best to keep only one gilt darter per aquarium, or to keep it with other darter species. Tank Mates The gilt darter is a small, peaceful fish that is best kept in a community tank with other small, peaceful fish. Because the gilt darter is so small, it is important to choose tank mates that will not view the gilt darter as food. Some good tank mates for the gilt darter include: Cherry barb Neon tetra Ghost shrimp Guppy Platy Mollies Swordtail Breeding Gilt darters reach breeding maturity at one year old. They are polygamous and will mate with multiple females. Males will establish and defend a territory in which females will lay their eggs. The female will lay up to 200 eggs on the substrate within the male’s territory. The male will then guard the eggs until they hatch. The eggs hatch in 7-10 days and the fry are free-swimming within a few days after that. The fry will eat small insects and zooplankton. They grow quickly and are fully mature within one year. Conclusion The Gilt Darter is an amazing freshwater fish that is perfect for beginner and experienced fishkeepers alike. They’re easy to take care of, and their bright colors and patterns make them a beautiful addition to any tank. If you’re looking for a new fish to add to your collection, we highly recommend the Gilt Darter!

The European perch is a stunning freshwater fish that is native to Europe. This fish is a great addition to any freshwater aquarium, and is known for being a very active swimmer. If you’re thinking about getting a European perch, you’ll need to know how to care for them properly. In this guide, we’ll teach you everything you need to know about European perch care. You’ll learn about their diet, tank size, lifespan, and more! Table of contents Species overview Appearance Lifespan Size Tank Size Water parameters What To Put In Their Tank Common diseases Behavior & Temperament Tank Mates Breeding Conclusion Species overview The European Perch (Perca fluviatilis) is a freshwater fish that is native to Europe and Asia. It is a predator that is most commonly found in lakes, but can also be found in rivers and streams. The European Perch is a popular game fish, and is also raised commercially for food. This species is considered to be an invasive species in North America, where it is believed to have been introduced through the release of bait fish. The European Perch is a long, slender fish with a greenish-brown back and sides, and a yellowish-white belly. Adults can reach up to 60 cm (24 in) in length, and can weigh up to 4 kg (9 lb). Appearance The European Perch is an easily identifiable fish due to their unique coloration. The body of this freshwater fish is olive green in color with a series of dark vertical bands running down their sides. The dorsal and caudal fins are similarly colored with these bands. The anal fin is a bit lighter in color and doesn’t have any markings. The ventral fins are white in color which really stands out against the rest of the fish. The pectoral fins are a bit darker and also have these vertical bands. One of the most interesting features of the European Perch is their eyes. These fish have orange eyes which really stand out against their green bodies. Their bodies are quite long and thin, giving them a snake-like appearance. They have a long dorsal fin that starts about halfway back on their body. The caudal fin is forked and fairly tall. The European Perch is a predatory fish that uses these fins to help them swim quickly and navigate through the water. Lifespan The average lifespan of a European Perch is 15 years. This is a pretty long lifespan for a fish and it’s largely due to their low stress levels. These fish aren’t very active and don’t need a lot of food. As long as they have a good diet and their water is clean, they’ll live a long time. Size The average European Perch size is between 12 and 14 inches, with some fish getting as big as 18 inches. They are one of the larger freshwater aquarium fish, so you need to be prepared for that when setting up their tank. Tank Tank Size The recommended tank size for European perch is 60 gallons or more. If you’re keeping them in a smaller tank you will need to be extra vigilant about your water quality and do more frequent water changes. While 60 gallons is the minimum, we recommend going for a larger tank if you can. It will make your life a lot easier and provide the fish with a much more comfortable environment. Water Parameters Perch prefer cooler water, and will do best in an aquarium with a temperature between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. They are a schooling fish, so it is best to keep them in groups of at least six. Perch are not particularly fussy when it comes to water quality, but they do prefer slightly alkaline water with a pH of 7.5 to 8.5. They also prefer water that is on the harder side, with a hardness of 10 to 20 dGH. Water Temperature: 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit pH Levels: 7.5 to 8.5 Water Hardness: 10 to 20 dGH Alkalinity Levels: 6 to 12 dKH What To Put In Their Tank When it comes to setting up the inside of an aquarium for European Perch, you can be as creative as you want. There aren’t any specific things that this species NEEDS to have, which gives you plenty of options. We recommend some of the standard decorations that you find in a lot of freshwater tanks. There are a ton of great plants you can include (like hornwort or water wisteria). You can even throw in some floating aquarium plants too! Rocks, driftwood, and caves are all suitable as well. It’s important to avoid going overboard with this since these fish like some room to swim. Also, if you’re keeping your European Perch in a smaller tank then it’s going to be difficult to include a lot of this stuff anyway. A classic gravel substrate is always a good choice, but you can do with something soft and sandy if needed too (use other species you keep as a guide with this). Common Diseases The European Perch is a fairly hardy fish, but that doesn’t mean they can’t get sick. There are a few diseases that these fish are particularly susceptible to. The most common disease that affects the European Perch is called “red pest”. This is a viral infection that is most commonly seen in young fish. The symptoms of this disease are pretty easy to spot. The most obvious one is red blotches on the body of the fish. These blotches will eventually turn into ulcers. Other symptoms include loss of appetite, lethargy, and increased mucus production. If you notice any of these symptoms in your fish, it’s important to act fast. This disease is highly contagious and can quickly kill off your entire tank if it’s left untreated. The best way to prevent this disease is by keeping your tank clean and maintaining stable water conditions. Quarantining new fish is also a good idea, just to be safe. Another disease to watch out for is “gill flukes”. This is a parasitic infection that is most commonly seen in wild-caught fish. The symptoms of this disease include gill damage, increased mucus production, and difficulty breathing. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to take your fish to the vet as soon as possible. This disease is fairly easy to treat if it’s caught early, but it can be fatal if it’s left untreated. The best way to prevent this disease is by keeping your tank clean and avoiding wild-caught fish. Quarantining new fish is also a good idea, just to be safe. Behavior & Temperament The European perch is a predatory fish, which means it’s not the best choice if you have a peaceful aquarium. It’s known for being aggressive and territorial, and will often attack smaller fish. This fish is also quite active, so it needs plenty of space to swim. A small tank will only stressed out, and that will lead to health problems down the road. If you do decide to keep European perch, it’s best to do so with fish that are roughly the same size. They can coexist with fish that are larger than them, but the smaller the fish, the more likely it is to become prey. It’s also worth noting that European perch are escape artists. They’re known for jumping out of tanks, so you’ll need to make sure your tank is well-sealed. A mesh top is usually enough to keep them contained. Tank Mates When it comes to finding tank mates for your European perch, the first thing to consider is their adult size. These fish can grow quite large, which means they need a lot of space. They’re also not the best community fish since they’re known to be a bit nippy. This is especially true when they’re kept in smaller tanks. With that being said, there are still some species that can work as tank mates for European perch. Here are a few examples: Catfish Carp Tench Pike Rudd Goldfish Breeding The European Perch is a fairly easy fish to breed in captivity. You don’t need to make too many changes to your setup or water conditions. In fact, the process is almost entirely hands-off. To start, you’ll need to identify a male and female. The easiest way to do that is by looking at their size. Males are typically larger than females, although the difference isn’t huge. Once you’ve found a pair, the female will lay her eggs in an area that the male has claimed. He will then fertilize them and guard them until they hatch. It’s recommended to remove the adults at this point and let the fry grow in a separate tank. They will need to be fed baby brine shrimp or other small live foods. As they grow, you can slowly introduce them to larger foods. Once they’re big enough, you can move them into your main tank. Conclusion The European Perch is a great choice for a beginner fish keeper. They’re relatively easy to care for and are very hardy fish. They’re also a lot of fun to watch as they’re very active and have a lot of personality. Overall, we think the European Perch is a great choice for anyone looking for a fun and easy to care for fish.

The brook stickleback is a small but mighty freshwater fish that is perfect for beginner aquarists. This species is hardy, adaptable, and easy to care for, making them a great choice for those just starting out in the fishkeeping hobby. But even though they’re easy to care for, there are still some things you need to know to ensure your fish are happy and healthy. In this guide, we’ll teach you everything you need to know about brook stickleback care. From diet and tank size, to lifespan and breeding. Table of contents Species overview Appearance Lifespan Size Tank Size Water parameters What To Put In Their Tank Common diseases Behavior & Temperament Tank Mates Breeding Conclusion Species overview The brook stickleback (Culaea inconstans) is a small freshwater fish that’s found in North America. They’re most commonly seen in the eastern parts of the continent, particularly in the Great Lakes region and the Hudson Bay drainage basin. Brook sticklebacks prefer slow-moving water with a lot of vegetation. This could be in the form of a river, stream, or even a lake. One of the most notable things about the brook stickleback is its diet. These fish are known to eat a wide variety of things, including other small fish, insects, and crustaceans. Due to their wide diet and their adaptability to different environments, brook sticklebacks are a very popular choice for aquariums. They’re also a popular choice for scientific study, as they’re often used in research on the effects of different pollutants on freshwater ecosystems. Appearance The brook stickleback is a small freshwater fish that has a dark olive-green back and a white belly. The males of this species are usually more brightly colored than the females and have a red throat. The brook stickleback has a long and slender body with a small mouth. They have two dorsal fins, the first of which is much smaller than the second. The brook stickleback also has a forked tail. Lifespan The average lifespan of a brook stickleback is 2 to 3 years. These fish have a relatively short lifespan, but that doesn’t mean they can’t be kept successfully in captivity. Good water quality and a healthy diet are important for all fish, but it’s especially important for those with a shorter lifespan. That’s because they don’t have as much time to recover from any setbacks. Size Brook sticklebacks only grow to be about 2-3 inches long. Tank Tank Size The recommended minimum tank size for Brook sticklebacks is 10 gallons. Water Parameters The brook stickleback (Culaea inconstans) is a freshwater fish that is endemic to North America. It is found in streams and rivers with cool, clean water and a gravel bottom. The brook stickleback is a small fish, reaching a maximum length of about 4 cm (1.6 in). The body is compressed and elongated, with a small head and a large mouth. The back and sides are olive-green to brown, with a dark stripe along the sides. The belly is white. The brook stickleback is a hardy fish that can tolerate a wide range of water conditions. However, it is best to maintain the following water parameters: Water temperature: 50 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit pH levels: 6.0 to 7.5 Water hardness: 2 to 12 dGH Alkalinity Levels: 4-8 dKH What To Put In Their Tank Brook sticklebacks are a species of freshwater fish that are found in North America. They’re known to inhabit streams, rivers, and lakes. In the wild, these fish are used to having a lot of space to swim around in. They’re not a species that spends a lot of time hiding so you won’t need to worry about including a ton of decorations in their tank. A few pieces of driftwood or some rocks should be plenty. As for plants, you can use whatever you want. Just make sure they’re not too big or they might get in the way of these little fish. The substrate you choose for their tank is up to you. Gravel is always a good choice, but sand can be used as well. Common Diseases While the Brook stickleback is a hardy fish, there are still a few diseases that it can fall victim to. The most common seem to be parasites and bacterial infections. One of the most common parasites is ich. This is a very contagious disease that can quickly spread throughout your tank. The most obvious symptom is the presence of white spots on the body of your fish. If you notice this, it’s important to take action immediately. There are a variety of ich treatments available, but the sooner you start the better. Another common disease is bacterial gill disease. This is a fairly serious illness that can be fatal if left untreated. The most obvious symptom is difficulty breathing. If you notice your fish gasping for air at the surface of the water, this is a cause for concern. Bacterial gill disease is usually the result of poor water quality, so the first step is to improve the conditions in your tank. If you notice any other symptoms that seem out of the ordinary, it’s always best to consult a vet. They will be able to give you a definitive diagnosis and recommend a course of treatment. Behavior & Temperament The brook stickleback is a small, peaceful fish that is native to North America. It is a bottom-dweller that spends most of its time scavenging for food. The brook stickleback is a shy fish that does best in a tank with other peaceful fish. It is not an aggressive fish and does not have any special care requirements. Tank Mates When it comes to brook stickleback tank mates, you have a few different options. In the wild, these fish are found in freshwater streams and ponds. They’re not fussy when it comes to water conditions, so you can keep them in a wide range of setups. The same goes for their tank mates. You can mix and match different species to create a community tank that suits your fancy. Here are some compatible fish to get you started: Guppies Platies Mollies Swordtails Endler’s Livebearers Cherry Barbs Pygmy Corydoras Dwarf Gouramis Neon Tetras Harlequin Rasboras Breeding The brook stickleback fish is a great choice for beginner fish breeders. They’re easy to care for and their breeding process is relatively simple. The first thing you need to do is set up a breeding tank. It should be at least 10 gallons and have a few hiding places. Then, you need to adjust the water conditions. Sticklebacks prefer cool water, so aim for a temperature between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. They also like water that’s on the acidic side, so aim for a pH of 6.5. Now you need to add your fish. Sticklebacks are social creatures, so you should add at least six of them to the breeding tank. It’s best to have an even ratio of males to females. Once the fish are in the tank, you need to give them time to adjust. After a few days, you should start to see the males build nests out of plant material and rocks. When the females are ready to lay their eggs, they’ll enter the nests and the males will fertilize them. After that, the males will stay and guard the eggs until they hatch. Once the fry have hatched, you can remove the adults and start feeding them baby brine shrimp. Conclusion The Brook Stickleback is a great fish for beginner aquarists. They’re easy to care for and don’t require a lot of special attention. They’re also a lot of fun to watch as they interact with the other fish in your tank. If you’re looking for a fish that’s low-maintenance and fun to watch, the Brook Stickleback is a great choice!

The Pickerel is a freshwater fish that is closely related to the pike. They are a long and slender fish with a torpedo-shaped body. Pickerel are known for their voracious appetite and their ability to grow quickly. Pickerel are a popular choice for aquariums because of their unique appearance and their relatively easy care. In this guide, we will go over everything you need to know about Pickerel care, diet, and tank mates. Table of contents Species overview Appearance Lifespan Size Tank Size Water parameters What To Put In Their Tank Common diseases Behavior & Temperament Tank Mates Breeding Conclusion Species overview Pickerels are a type of freshwater fish that belongs to the pike family. There are three main species of pickerel fish: the chain pickerel, the redfin pickerel, and the grass pickerel. Pickerels are typically found in North America, specifically in the eastern United States and Canada. They prefer slow-moving waters and can often be found in ponds, lakes, and streams. Pickerels are carnivorous fish and their diet consists mostly of smaller fish, insects, and crustaceans. Pickerels are a popular choice for sport fishing due to their fighting ability and their tasty flesh. They are also a popular choice for aquariums, although they can be quite aggressive toward other fish. Appearance The Pickerel is a freshwater fish that’s easily distinguished by its long and slim body. These fish can grow quite large (up to 24 inches in some cases) but are typically around 12 inches when fully grown. The body of the Pickerel is dark green in color with a brown or black mottled pattern. The belly of the fish is a lighter white or cream color. You’ll also notice that the Pickerel has a rather long and pointed head. The mouth of this fish is filled with sharp teeth that they use to snag their prey. The dorsal fin of the Pickerel is rather tall and starts about two-thirds of the way back on the body. The anal fin is a bit shorter and also starts around two-thirds of the way back. Both of these fins have a dark color with a light edge. The caudal fin is forked and symmetrical. The Pickerel is a fast-moving fish that’s known for being quite aggressive. They’re not the best fish to keep in a community tank unless you have a very large tank and your other fish can outswim them. Lifespan The average lifespan of a Pickerel is around 6 to 8 years. However, there are a number of factors that can impact this. For starters, Pickerel that are wild caught generally don’t live as long as those that are born in captivity. This is because they’re not used to the water conditions and diet that they’ll encounter in most home aquariums. Additionally, Pickerel are relatively delicate when they’re young. It’s not uncommon for them to die within the first year of life if they’re not properly cared for. As these fish get older, they become more resilient and their lifespan increases. With proper care, it’s not uncommon for Pickerel to live for 10 years or more. Size The average size of a Pickerel is between 18 and 20 inches long. However, they can grow to be up to 30 inches long! Tank Tank Size The recommended tank size for a pickerel is 30 gallons. If you’re planning on keeping more than one fish, you should add an additional 10 gallons for each fish. Pickerel are a predatory fish and can be aggressive, so it’s important to give them enough space to hide and feel safe. Hiding places can be created with rocks, plants, and other decorations. Water Parameters The best way to ensure a healthy environment for your pickerel is to recreate its natural habitat as closely as possible. That includes the water parameters. Here are a few things to keep in mind. First, pickerel prefer cool water. They’re a freshwater species, but they do best in water that’s on the cooler side. That’s why you often see them in ponds and lakes with a lot of vegetation. Second, they like their water slightly acidic. The ideal pH range is 6.5 to 7.5. Third, pickerel need plenty of dissolved oxygen in the water. A good rule of thumb is at least 4 ppm. Finally, water hardness isn’t as critical, but they prefer soft to moderately hard water. Water Temperature: 50°F to 70°F pH Levels: 6.5 to 7.5 Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard Alkalinity Levels: Not as critical What To Put In Their Tank Pickerel are a freshwater fish that are often found in ponds and lakes. In the wild, they typically inhabit areas with a lot of vegetation. When it comes to setting up their tank, you’ll want to recreate this environment as best as you can. The substrate should be a dark color to help camouflage the Pickerel. You can use gravel or sand, but make sure it’s not too light in color. Plants are a must in a Pickerel tank. They provide cover for the fish and help to filter the water. We recommend using a mix of live and fake plants. Live plants are nice because they help to oxygenate the water, but they can be a pain to take care of. Fake plants are low maintenance and can be just as effective. Just make sure to get ones that are made of a soft material (silk or plastic). Rocks, driftwood, and caves are all great additions to a Pickerel tank. They provide hiding spots for the fish and help to make the tank look more natural. Avoid using anything that’s too small. Pickerel are known to eat smaller fish, so you don’t want to give them any potential snacks. Common Diseases The Pickerel is a hardy fish that doesn’t often fall ill. However, there are still a few diseases that you should be aware of. The most common disease that these fish experience is called “Hexamita”. This is a parasitic infection that can cause a variety of symptoms, the most common being weight loss and a loss of appetite. Other potential symptoms include: – lethargy – listlessness – cloudy eyes – white spots on the skin If you notice any of these symptoms in your Pickerel, it’s important to take them to the vet as soon as possible. If left untreated, Hexamita can be fatal. Another disease to be aware of is “Dropsy”. This is a condition that causes the fish’s body to swell up with fluid. It’s often the result of poor water quality and can be fatal if left untreated. If you notice your Pickerel starting to swell up, it’s important to take them to the vet immediately. The best way to prevent these diseases is to maintain the quality of the water in their tank. A tank with clean and stable water conditions always leads to healthier fish who are more resistant to disease. Behavior & Temperament The Pickerel is a freshwater fish that is native to North America. It is a member of the pike family and is closely related to the Muskellunge. The Pickerel is a predatory fish and is known for being a voracious eater. It is an aggressive fish and is not afraid to take on fish that are much larger than itself. The Pickerel is an opportunistic feeder and will eat just about anything that it can fit into its mouth. It is not a picky eater and will even eat other Pickerels if given the opportunity. The Pickerel is a solitary fish and is not known to school with other fish. It is a territorial fish and will often defend its territory from other fish. The Pickerel is a fast swimmer and is known for its quick and sudden movements. It is an agile fish and is able to maneuver itself in and out of tight spaces. The Pickerel is a popular game fish and is sought after by many anglers. It is known for putting up a fight when hooked and is considered to be a good fighter. Tank Mates When it comes to finding the right tank mates for a Pickerel, the options are unfortunately quite limited. This is because these fish are rather territorial and can be quite aggressive. They’re not the best community fish and are better off being kept alone or with a very select few tank mates. That being said, there are a few species that can hold their own against a Pickerel. These fish are typically large, fast, and aggressive themselves. Some possible tank mates for a Pickerel include: Muskellunge Northern Pike Lamprey American Eel Huchen Wels Catfish Arowana Payara Breeding Pickerels are easy to breed in captivity. All you need is a large tank and a few other fish to help with the process. To start, set up a tank that’s at least 50 gallons. Then, add some plants and hiding places. These fish like to have a lot of cover. When ready, add 2-3 females for every male. The males will be the larger fish. You don’t need to make any changes to the water. Just keep it clean and well-filtered. Feed the fish a high-quality diet. Then, wait for spawning to occur. Females will lay their eggs in the plants. After they’re fertilized, the males will guard them. The eggs will hatch in about a week. When they do, remove the adults and begin feeding the fry baby brine shrimp. Conclusion The Pickerel is a great fish for beginner and experienced fishkeepers alike. They’re easy to care for and don’t require a lot of work to keep them healthy and happy. They’re also a great addition to any community tank, as they get along well with other fish. If you’re looking for a low-maintenance fish that will add some color and personality to your tank, the Pickerel is a great choice!

The freshwater blenny is a unique and interesting fish that is perfect for the nano aquarium. They are peaceful by nature and have a very calm demeanor which makes them a great addition to any community tank. What’s more, they are very easy to care for and are very tolerant of a wide range of water parameters. In this guide, we will teach you everything you need to know about freshwater blenny care. You’ll learn about their diet, tank mates, lifespan, and more! Table of contents Species overview Appearance Lifespan Size Tank Size Water parameters What To Put In Their Tank Common diseases Behavior & Temperament Tank Mates Breeding Conclusion Species overview The freshwater blenny (scientific name: Salarias fasciatus) is a type of fish that’s native to certain areas of Southeast Asia. They are most commonly found in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand. These fish prefer to live in brackish waters, which is a mix of salt and freshwater. This is something that you’ll need to keep in mind if you’re thinking about keeping them in your aquarium. They are relatively small fish, only growing to be about 3 inches in length. This makes them a good choice for smaller aquariums. Freshwater blennies are relatively peaceful fish, although they can be a bit nippy. They are also known to be good jumpers, so you’ll need to make sure that your aquarium has a tight-fitting lid. Appearance The Freshwater blenny is a small, brownish-red fish with a long, slender body. They have a small head with large eyes, and a small mouth that is often hidden beneath their protruding snout. The dorsal fin is located towards the back of their body and is relatively small. The anal fin is located towards the back of their body and is slightly larger than the dorsal fin. The caudal fin is forked and located at the very back of the fish. The pectoral fins are located towards the front of their body and are relatively small. The pelvic fins are located towards the front of their body and are slightly larger than the pectoral fins. Freshwater blennies have smooth, scaleless skin and are covered in mucus. This mucus helps to protect them from parasites and pathogens. Lifespan The lifespan of a freshwater blenny is typically 5 to 8 years. However, some captive specimens have been known to live up to 10 years with proper care. As with all fish, there are a number of factors that can impact the lifespan of a freshwater blenny. These include water quality, diet, and stress levels. Size The maximum size of a freshwater blenny is about 3 inches in length. Tank Tank Size The recommended minimum tank size for freshwater blennies is 10 gallons. This is assuming you’re only keeping one fish and don’t plan on having any tank mates. If you want to keep a school of blennies or add other fish to the tank you’ll need at least 20 gallons. Water Parameters The freshwater blenny is a tropical fish that does best in warm water with a moderate pH. It’s also important to maintain high water quality and perform regular water changes to keep the blenny healthy. Water Temperature: 75 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit pH Levels: 7.0 to 8.5 Water Hardness: 5 to 15 dGH Alkalinity Levels: 4 to 8 dKH What To Put In Their Tank The first thing you need to do is select the right type of substrate. These fish love to sift through sand and small rocks in search of food. Aquarium gravel can work, but it’s not the ideal choice. We recommend using something like black sand or small pebbles instead. The next thing you need to do is make sure there are plenty of places for your fish to hide. Blennies are timid fish that like to have a safe place to retreat to when they feel scared or threatened. Caves, rockwork, and driftwood are all great choices. Just make sure there are plenty of nooks and crannies for them to explore. If you’re keeping more than one blenny in the same tank then you might need to provide even more hiding spots. Plants are a personal preference, but we recommend avoiding them if possible. These fish love to nibble on vegetation, and they can quickly decimate a plant-based aquarium. If you must have plants in their habitat then go with something tough and fast-growing (like Java Fern). Common Diseases Freshwater blennies are known for being a hardy and disease-resistant fish. They’re not immune to illnesses, but they’re certainly not as susceptible as some other freshwater species. The most common disease that affects freshwater blennies is ich. This is a parasite that can quickly spread and become quite serious if it’s not treated early on. The most obvious sign of ich is the presence of white spots on the body of your fish. If you notice this, it’s important to take action immediately. There are plenty of other potential diseases that can affect blennies, but they’re not nearly as common. Some other things to look out for include fungal infections, bacterial infections, and parasites. As with any fish, the best way to keep your blenny healthy is by maintaining a clean and stable tank. This will go a long way in preventing disease and keeping your fish happy and healthy. Behavior & Temperament The freshwater blenny is a unique fish that is known for its interesting behavior and personality. These fish are relatively peaceful, but they can be a bit nippy towards tank mates that they don’t know. They are also known to be a bit aggressive towards their own species. Freshwater blennies are very active fish. They are constantly swimming around the tank and exploring their surroundings. They are also known to be very curious. They will often approach humans and other animals that are near their tank to investigate them. Freshwater blennies are also known to be very good jumpers. They have been known to jump out of tanks that are not properly covered. So, it is important to make sure that your tank is covered if you have one of these fish. Overall, the freshwater blenny is a great addition to any aquarium. They are interesting fish to watch and can be a lot of fun. Tank Mates The freshwater blenny is a unique looking fish that does best in a community tank. These fish are peaceful and get along well with other fish, making them a great choice for beginners. When choosing tank mates for a freshwater blenny, it’s important to select fish that occupy different areas of the tank. This will help reduce aggression and stress levels. Here are some compatible freshwater blenny tank mates: Guppies Mollies Platies Swordtails Neon Tetras Danios Tetras Rasboras Clownfish Damselfish Breeding Breeding freshwater blennies is a bit more difficult than other fish species. They are not as prolific as, say, guppies, and the fry are very delicate. Still, it is possible to breed them in captivity with some patience and care. The first step is to set up a breeding tank. It should be at least 20 gallons in size and well-filtered. You’ll also need to add some live plants and a few hiding places. Blennies like to have plenty of places to hide. Next, you’ll need to sex your blennies. Males and females have different coloring. Males are usually more brightly colored, while females are a bit drabber. In addition, males tend to have longer fins. Once you’ve sexed your blennies, it’s time to add them to the breeding tank. Add two females for every male. This will help to ensure that the males don’t harass the females too much. Now you just need to wait. It can take a few weeks for the blennies to adjust to their new surroundings and start breeding. Once they do, you’ll see the female lay her eggs in a hidden area of the tank. The male will then fertilize them. After about a week, the eggs will hatch. The fry are very delicate, so you’ll need to take care when feeding them. Live baby brine shrimp are a good option. You can also crush up some flake food and sprinkle it over the water. With some patience and care, you should be able to successfully breed freshwater blennies in captivity. Conclusion Overall, we think the freshwater blenny is a great fish for both beginner and experienced aquarium owners. They’re not too difficult to care for and make a great addition to any community tank. We do want to caution you that they can be aggressive towards other fish, so make sure to do your research before adding them to your tank. Other than that, we think they’re a great fish and you should definitely consider them for your next aquarium!

The tropical gar is an absolutely stunning fish that is perfect for the freshwater aquarium. These fish have a very unique appearance with their long bodies and needle-like teeth. They’re also very active swimmers and make a great addition to any community tank. But before you go out and buy one, there are a few things you need to know about tropical gar care. In this guide, we’ll teach you everything you need to know about keeping these fish happy and healthy. Table of contents Species overview Appearance Lifespan Size Tank Size Water parameters What To Put In Their Tank Common diseases Behavior & Temperament Tank Mates Breeding Conclusion Species overview Tropical Gar (scientific name: Atractosteus tropicus) are found in tropical freshwater habitats in Central and South America. The majority of these fish are found in the Amazon Basin, but they can also be found in smaller numbers in the Orinoco Basin. They prefer habitats with little to no current and a lot of vegetation. This is because they are ambush predators and prefer to lie in wait for their prey. Tropical Gar are some of the largest freshwater fish in the world and can grow to be over six feet long! They are also one of the most dangerous fish in the world and have been known to attack and kill humans. Despite their size and potential danger, Tropical Gar are a popular choice for freshwater aquariums. This is because they are such unique and impressive-looking fish. Appearance The first thing you’ll notice about this freshwater fish is their unique shape. These fish have a very long and thin body that’s been described as eel-like by many aquarists. Their bodies are covered in large scales that give them a bit of armor. These scales are diamond-shaped and have a rough texture. The majority of their body is a dark gray with a bit of a greenish tint. The underside of these fish is a light gray or white. This color extends up their sides in a V-shape and continues until it meets the black stripe that runs along their dorsal fin. This black stripe is quite thin and extends from the tip of their nose all the way to the end of their caudal fin. Tropical Gars have a long and thin mouth that’s filled with sharp teeth. They have small eyes that are set far back on their head. Their dorsal fin is tall and starts about halfway back on their body. This fin is continuous and doesn’t have any rays sticking out. Their caudal fin is forked and their anal fin is rather small. They have two small pectoral fins that are located just behind their gills. Lifespan The average lifespan of a tropical gar is 15 to 20 years. This is quite a long time for a fish, and is a testament to their hardiness. Of course, their lifespan can be affected by a number of different factors. As with any fish, the quality of their environment has a big impact on how long they live. If the water is too cold or too hot, has the wrong pH, or is otherwise unsuitable, their lifespan will be shortened. Stress is also a major factor. If they’re constantly being harassed by other fish or don’t have enough hiding places, their lifespan will be lower. Size The average size of a Tropical Gar is around 24 inches, but they can grow to be up to 36 inches long. These are some of the larger freshwater fish, so you’ll need a pretty big tank to accommodate them. They can live in smaller tanks when they’re young, but they’ll need to be moved to a larger one as they grow. Tank Tank Size The minimum tank size for a single gar is 180 gallons. If you want to keep more than one gar, you’ll need an additional tank for each fish. Gars are large, active fish that need a lot of space to swim and explore. They’re also predators, so they need enough space to hunt for food. Water Parameters The tropical gar is a freshwater fish, so the water parameters you need to maintain are pretty standard. As with any fish, it’s important to be consistent with these parameters. That means no sudden changes that could stress the fish out. The good news is that tropical gar are very adaptable fish. They can tolerate a wide range of water conditions, which gives you some wiggle room. Just remember that the closer you can stick to their natural habitat, the better. Here are some basic water parameters to help create a healthy environment for your tropical gar. Water Temperature: 72 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit pH Levels: 6.0 to 8.0 Water Hardness: 4 to 20 dGH Alkalinity Levels: 3 to 10 dKH What To Put In Their Tank The inside of a tropical gar’s tank doesn’t need to be too complex. A few pieces of driftwood and some plants are really all you need. As for the plants, we recommend something that can withstand a fair amount of abuse. These fish are known to uproot plants as they’re swimming around, so something that can bounce back is ideal. Java Fern and Anubias are both great choices. You could also go with something like Hornwort or Water Wisteria if you wanted to add a bit more color to the tank. The substrate is another important consideration. These fish like to sift through the substrate looking for food, so you’ll want something that won’t be too harsh on their gills. A soft, sandy substrate is ideal. If you can’t find sand then a gravel substrate will work too. Just avoid anything too sharp or jagged. Common Diseases The tropical gar is a hardy fish that can withstand a wide range of water conditions. However, this doesn’t mean that they don’t ever get sick. There are a few diseases that these fish are particularly susceptible to. The most common is gill flukes, which are parasites that attach themselves to the gills of the fish and cause irritation. If left untreated, gill flukes can eventually kill the fish. Another common disease is columnaris, which is an infection that attacks the skin and fins of the fish. This can be caused by poor water quality, and it can eventually lead to the death of the fish if it’s not treated. The best way to prevent these diseases is to maintain good water quality in the tank. This means regular water changes, filtering the water, and keeping an eye on the ammonia and nitrite levels. If you notice any strange behavior or changes in the appearance of your fish, it’s always best to consult a vet or experienced fish keeper so you can get a diagnosis and begin treatment as soon as possible. Behavior & Temperament Tropical gar are one of the most aggressive freshwater fish. They are not afraid to attack other fish, and they will even eat smaller fish whole. This fish is not for the faint of heart, and it is not recommended for beginners. If you are considering keeping a tropical gar, be sure to do your research and be prepared for a challenge. Tank Mates Tropical Gar are one of the most difficult fish to keep. They’re very sensitive to water conditions and need a lot of space. For these reasons, it’s best to keep them alone. If you must have tank mates, choose species that are much smaller and can tolerate the same water conditions. Some good choices include: Neon Tetras Ghost Shrimp Guppies Platies Mollies Breeding Breeding tropical gars is not for the faint of heart. It’s a difficult and dangerous process that should only be attempted by experienced fishkeepers. Tropical gars are huge, reaching lengths of up to six feet. They’re also extremely aggressive. For these reasons, you must take extra care when breeding them. The first step is to set up a breeding tank. It should be at least 300 gallons and well-filtered. The water should be clean and well-oxygenated. Aim for a pH of 7.0 and a temperature of 82 degrees Fahrenheit. You’ll need to add a lot of hiding places to the tank. That way, the female can escape the male when she’s ready to lay her eggs. Caves, rocks, and driftwood all work well. When the tank is ready, add one male and two or three females. The female will lay her eggs in a hidden area of the tank. The male will then fertilize them. Once the eggs are fertilized, the male will guard them. He’ll also fan them with his fins to keep them oxygenated. The eggs will hatch in about two weeks. At that point, you can remove the adults and raise the fry in a separate tank. Feed them live foods like baby brine shrimp. Conclusion Overall, we think the Tropical Gar is a great fish for experienced aquarists. They’re not the easiest fish to take care of, but they’re certainly not the hardest. They’re also a lot of fun to watch and are very unique-looking fish. If you’re looking for something a little different for your tank, the Tropical Gar is a great option. Just be sure to do your research before getting one and be prepared for a bit of a challenge.

The Cuban Gar is a beautiful and unique freshwater fish that is perfect for the advanced fishkeeper. This species is not for the beginner, as they can be difficult to care for and are very sensitive to water conditions. But if you have the time and patience to care for them properly, they make a stunning addition to any aquarium. In this guide, you will learn everything you need to know about Cuban Gar care. From diet and tank mates, to breeding and common problems. Table of contents Species overview Appearance Lifespan Size Tank Size Water parameters What To Put In Their Tank Common diseases Behavior & Temperament Tank Mates Breeding Conclusion Species overview Cuban Gars (Atractosteus tristoechus) are a species of freshwater fish that are native to Cuba and the Isle of Youth. They are found in a wide variety of habitats, but prefer slow-moving waters with plenty of vegetation. This could be rivers, lakes, or even marshes. Cuban Gars are carnivorous and primarily eat other fish. In the wild, they have been known to grow up to 6 feet long, although they are typically much smaller in captivity. This fish is most popular for its unique appearance. It has a long, snake-like body and a wide mouth that is filled with sharp teeth. It is also one of the few species of freshwater fish that can change its color. Appearance The Cuban Gar is an eel-like fish that can grow to be quite large. They have a long and slender body that can reach up to 6 feet in length! The Cuban Gar is a silver color with black spots that cover their entire body. These spots are most prominent on the dorsal half of the fish. The Cuban Gar has a long and thin head with a small mouth that is filled with sharp teeth. They have small eyes that are located on the top of their head. Their dorsal fin is located towards the back of their body and is tall and thin. Their anal fin is located towards the back of their body as well and is shorter than their dorsal fin. The Cuban Gar has a long and thin tail that is used for propulsion. Lifespan The Cuban Gar is a long-lived fish with a lifespan that can extend up to 20 years in captivity. Of course, this depends on a number of factors, including the quality of care they receive. As with any pet, if they’re not well cared for, their lifespan will be significantly shorter. But if you do everything right, you can expect your Cuban Gar to stick around for a very long time. Size Cuban Gars are one of the largest freshwater fish in the world, and they can grow to be massive! The average size of a Cuban Gar is between 6 and 8 feet long, but some have been known to grow up to 10 feet! Tank Tank Size The recommended minimum tank size for a Cuban Gar is 100 gallons. If you’re looking for a smaller freshwater fish, this is not the fish for you. Cuban Gars are active swimmers and will often swim laps around your tank. Providing them with a larger tank will help ensure they have enough space to comfortably swim around. Water Parameters The Cuban Gar is a freshwater fish that prefers warm, slightly brackish water. They are very tolerant of different water conditions, but prefer water with the following parameters. Water Temperature: 72-82 degrees Fahrenheit pH Levels: 7.0-8.5 Water Hardness: 10-18 dGH Alkalinity Levels: 5-15 dKH What To Put In Their Tank As an apex predator, Cuban Gars don’t have a lot of natural predators in their environment. This means they can be a little on the aggressive side when it comes to other fish in their tank. For this reason, we recommend setting up their tank with some pretty basic decorations. There’s no need to go overboard with plants or anything like that. A few pieces of driftwood or some rocks should be plenty. When it comes to the substrate, these fish don’t really care too much. You can use gravel, sand, or even a bare bottom tank if you want. One thing we do recommend is adding a decent amount of hiding spots. Cuban Gars are known to be pretty shy fish and like to have a place to retreat to when they feel threatened. This can be in the form of caves, driftwood, or even plants. Just make sure whatever you use is big enough that your fish can fit inside it! Common Diseases The Cuban Gar is a tough fish that can withstand a lot of different water conditions. This makes them fairly resistant to disease, but they’re not immune to everything. The two main diseases that you need to look out for are ich and hole-in-the-head disease. Ich is the more common of the two and it will present itself as white spots on the body, fish, and gills of your fish. Hole-in-the-head disease is less common but it’s still something you need to be aware of. This disease is caused by poor water quality and the presence of activated carbon in your tank. It will present itself as one or two pits/holes in the skin of your Cuban Gar’s head. Both of these diseases are treatable, but they’re both serious illnesses that need to be dealt with immediately. The best way to prevent your Cuban Gar from getting sick is to maintain a high quality of water in their tank. A clean and stable environment will go a long way in keeping your fish healthy and disease-free. Behavior & Temperament The Cuban Gar is a large, beautiful fish that is native to the Caribbean. It is a popular choice for aquariums because of its unique appearance. The Cuban Gar is silver with black spots and has a long, eel-like body. This fish is a peaceful creature that is not known to be aggressive. It is a good community fish and can be kept with other peaceful fish. The Cuban Gar is a bottom-dweller and does best in an aquarium with plenty of hiding places. This fish is a nocturnal creature and is most active at night. During the day, it will often hide among the plants and rocks in the aquarium. The Cuban Gar is a carnivore and will eat smaller fish, crustaceans, and insects. Tank Mates Cuban Gars are large, predatory fish. In their natural habitat, they’re known to eat smaller fish, reptiles, and amphibians. As a result, it’s important to be strategic when choosing Cuban Gar tank mates. The best tank mates for Cuban Gars are other large, predatory fish. These fish are large enough to not be seen as prey and can hold their own against a Cuban Gar. Some good Cuban Gar tank mates include: Arowana Peacock Bass Oscar Green Terror Jack Dempsey Firemouth Cichlid Breeding Cuban Gars are one of the harder species of fish to breed. They’re very particular about their habitat and water conditions. If everything isn’t just right, they simply won’t spawn. The first step is to set up a breeding tank. It should be at least 100 gallons and contain a lot of hiding places. Driftwood, plants, and caves should all be added. The water should be kept at a temperature between 82 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit. The pH should be between 7.0 and 8.0. Once the tank is set up, add two females for every male. The male Cuban Gars will be the larger of the two sexes. When ready, the female will lay her eggs in an area that the male has claimed. He will then fertilize them and guard them until they hatch. Eggs usually hatch within 10 days. When they do, remove the adults from the tank. The fry will be very small and need to be fed live foods. Baby brine shrimp is a good option. As they grow, you can begin to transition them to flakes or pellets. Conclusion The Cuban Gar is a freshwater fish that is native to Cuba. It is a member of the family Characidae and is closely related to the African tetras. The Cuban Gar is a popular aquarium fish due to its unique appearance. It is silver in color with black spots on its body. The Cuban Gar can grow to be about 18 inches in length. The Cuban Gar is a peaceful fish that is good for community tanks. It is not aggressive and gets along well with other fish. The Cuban Gar is an easy fish to care for. It is not picky about its food and is not sensitive to water conditions. The Cuban Gar is a good beginner fish for people who are new to keeping aquariums.

The alligator gar is a giant freshwater fish that can reach lengths of over 10 feet! This species is native to North America and can be found in slow-moving rivers and lakes. Alligator gars are unique-looking fish with a long body, large scales, and a toothy snout. They’re often considered to be a “nuisance” species due to their size and voracious appetite. In the wild, alligator gars are known to eat just about anything they can fit in their mouth. This includes other fish, reptiles, mammals, and even birds! While they’re not the most popular fish in the aquarium trade, alligator gars can make interesting and low-maintenance pets. In this guide, we’ll teach you everything you need to know about alligator gar care. From tank size and diet to tank mates and lifespan, it’s all here! Table of contents Species overview Appearance Lifespan Size Tank Size Water parameters What To Put In Their Tank Common diseases Behavior & Temperament Tank Mates Breeding Conclusion Species overview Alligator gar (scientific name: Atractosteus spatula) are a type of fish that’s native to North America, primarily in the southern United States. They are the largest freshwater fish in the entire country and can grow to be quite large (up to 10 feet in length)! Alligator gars prefer slow-moving waters with a lot of vegetation. This could be anything from ponds and lakes to marshes and swamps. Due to their size and the fact that they’re a predator, alligator gars can be quite dangerous. They’ve been known to attack and kill humans on occasion, which is something to be aware of if you live in an area where they’re present. If you’re interested in keeping one of these fish as a pet, it’s important to note that they require a very large tank (at least 200 gallons). They’re also not the easiest fish to care for, so it’s important to do your research before getting one. Appearance The Alligator Gar is one of the most intimidating freshwater fish out there. They have a long, thin body that can reach lengths of up to 10 feet! These fish have a row of large scales running down the middle of their back. These are called scutes and they’re very tough. The scutes on the Alligator Gar are what give them their “alligator” nickname. Alligator Gars have a large head with a very long and pointy snout. They have rows of large teeth that can reach up to 4 inches in length! The dorsal fin on these fish is located far back on their body and is very tall. The anal fin is located about halfway back on the body and is also tall. Alligator Gars have a long, thin caudal peduncle that leads into their large, paddle-shaped caudal fin. The coloration of these fish can vary quite a bit. They can be olive green, brown, or even almost black. The belly of the Alligator Gar is usually a lighter color than the rest of their body. Lifespan In the wild, alligator gars typically live for 20 to 30 years. But in captivity, their lifespan is often much shorter. One of the reasons for this is that alligator gars are very difficult to keep in captivity. They’re very large and require a lot of space. They also have specific dietary requirements that are often hard to meet. All of these factors can lead to a shorter lifespan in captivity. Size Alligator Gars are one of the largest freshwater fish in the world, and can grow to be massive! The average size of a wild Alligator Gar is between 6 and 8 feet long, but they have been known to grow up to 10 feet or more in length. In captivity, they typically reach between 4 and 6 feet in length. Tank Tank Size The recommended tank size for Alligator Gar is 1000 gallons. This is due to their large size and their aggressive nature. If you’re looking for a smaller fish that can fit in an average-sized tank, this is not the fish for you. If you want to keep two Alligator Gars in the same tank you’ll want to add at least another 1000 gallons to that minimum number if you want them to thrive. Water Parameters Alligator Gars are one of the most unique and prehistoric-looking freshwater fish available in the aquarium trade. Their massive size, razor-sharp teeth, and reptilian appearance make them a fish that commands attention. While their size and appearance are intimidating, they are actually a fairly peaceful fish. They are also very hardy, making them a great choice for beginner aquarists. Alligator Gars are found in slow-moving rivers and lakes in North America. They prefer warm water with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. The water temperature should be between 75 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Alligator Gars are not very tolerant of cold water and will go into shock if the temperature drops too low. Water Temperature: 75-85 degrees Fahrenheit pH Levels: 6.5-7.5 Water Hardness: 5-19 dGH Alkalinity Levels: 3-10 dKH What To Put In Their Tank Alligator Gar are a bit different than most of the fish on this list. They’re actually a bit easier to care for since they don’t need any special decorations or substrate in their tank. A lot of aquarists like to include a piece of driftwood or two in the tank. This not only looks good, but it also provides a place for these fish to hide if they need to. Other than that, feel free to use whatever substrate you want. These fish don’t spend a lot of time at the bottom of the tank so the type of substrate isn’t as important as it is for other species. One decoration we recommend avoiding is plants. Alligator Gars are known to uproot and eat plants (even tough ones), so it’s best to just avoid them altogether. Common Diseases The Alligator Gar is a hardy fish that isn’t too susceptible to diseases. However, there are a few things that you should look out for, just in case. The most common illness that these fish experience is parasites. These can be anything from worms to leeches, and they can quickly make a meal out of your fish if left unchecked. The best way to deal with parasites is to treat the entire tank, not just the affected fish. This will ensure that all of the parasites are killed, and it will also help to prevent re-infestation. There are a few other illnesses that these fish can get, but they’re not as common. Things like bacterial infections and fungal infections can occur, but they’re usually not too serious. As with any fish, the best way to keep your Alligator Gar healthy is to provide clean and stable water conditions. A well-maintained tank will go a long way in keeping your fish happy and disease-free. Behavior & Temperament The alligator gar is a solitary creature that is more often seen alone than in groups. In the wild, these fish tend to stick to themselves, only coming together to mate. The same is true for alligator gars in aquariums. While they may not be the most social fish, alligator gars are relatively peaceful. They’re not known for being aggressive and will leave other fish alone as long as they’re not being bothered. The alligator gar is a top predator, so it’s important to be aware of that when stocking your tank. These fish have been known to eat smaller fish, so it’s best to avoid keeping them with anything that could fit in their mouth. Alligator gars are also known for being jumpers. They’re strong swimmers and have been known to jump out of aquariums that aren’t properly sealed. So, if you’re keeping an alligator gar, make sure your tank has a tight-fitting lid. Tank Mates Alligator Gars are typically solitary fish. They’re not social creatures and don’t interact much with other fish. For this reason, it can be difficult to find good tank mates for Alligator Gars. They’re not impossible to keep with other fish, but it’s definitely a challenge. The best tank mates for Alligator Gars are other large, fast-moving fish. These fish need to be able to out-swim the Alligator Gar and avoid being eaten. Some good choices include: Arowana Peacock Cichlid Oscar Green Terror Convict Cichlid Jack Dempsey Pleco Breeding Alligator Gars are a fairly difficult species to breed. They have very specific water requirements and their fry are very delicate. The first step is to set up a breeding tank. It should be at least 200 gallons and have a water temperature between 80 and 82 degrees Fahrenheit. The water should also be very soft with a pH between 6.5 and 7.0. Next, you need to add some plants and hiding places. Alligator Gars like to lay their eggs in plants, so make sure to include a good amount. When the tank is ready, add two males and two females. The males will be larger with a more pronounced snout. The next step is to trigger spawning. You can do this by slowly raising the water temperature by a couple of degrees over the course of a week. Once spawning begins, the female will lay her eggs in the plants. The male will then fertilize them. It’s important to remove the adults at this point. They will eat the eggs if given the chance. The eggs will hatch in about two weeks. The fry are very delicate and need to be fed live food. You can offer them brine shrimp or bloodworms. As they grow, you can slowly introduce them to pellets and other dry foods. Conclusion The Alligator Gar is a truly impressive fish species that is sure to add some excitement to your aquarium. They’re relatively easy to care for but do require some specific conditions to stay healthy. Overall, we think the Alligator Gar is a great fish for experienced fishkeepers who are looking for a new challenge. They’re not for everyone, but if you’re up for it, they’re definitely worth considering!

The Florida gar is a large, impressive freshwater fish that is native to, you guessed it, Florida. This fish can grow to be over 4 feet long and is covered in large scales. They’re also known to be good jumpers, so a tight-fitting lid is a must. But don’t let their size or appearance intimidate you. Florida gars are actually quite peaceful and make great additions to a community tank. In this guide, we’ll teach you everything you need to know about Florida gar care. Diet, tank mates, size, and more. Table of contents Species overview Appearance Lifespan Size Tank Size Water parameters What To Put In Their Tank Common diseases Behavior & Temperament Tank Mates Breeding Conclusion Species overview The Florida Gar (Lepisosteus platyrhinus) is a fish that is found primarily in the southeastern United States, particularly in the state of Florida (giving it its name). They prefer slow-moving waters with a lot of vegetation, such as swamps, canals, and ponds. This is likely due to the fact that their primary food source is fish that live in these types of habitats. Florida Gars are some of the largest freshwater fish in the US, with some individuals reaching lengths of up to 6 feet! They are also one of the longest-lived freshwater fish, with some individuals living for over 20 years. Due to their size and lifespan, Florida Gars are not recommended for most home aquariums. However, they can be found in many public aquariums and zoos across the country. Appearance The Florida Gar is an incredibly unique-looking fish that is sure to stand out in your aquarium. The first thing you’ll notice about this fish is their long and slender body. They have a very hydrodynamic shape that tapers off at the tail. The majority of their body is covered in large scales. These scales have a very tough texture and help to protect the fish from predators. The coloration of the Florida Gar is usually a olive green on the top half and a white on the bottom half. There are also some dark spots that are distributed evenly throughout their body. The fins on this fish are also quite unique. The dorsal fin is long and runs the entire length of their body. The anal fin is much shorter and is located towards the back of the fish. The pectoral fins are located towards the front of the fish and are used for steering. The caudal fin is forked and helps the fish to swim quickly. The mouth of the Florida Gar is located on the bottom of their head. This is because they are bottom-dwelling fish. The mouth is filled with sharp teeth that are used to capture prey. Lifespan The average lifespan of a Florida Gar is around 10 to 15 years. But there have been reports of these fish living for up to 20 years in captivity. As with most fish, their lifespan will be impacted by the quality of care they receive. Things like water quality, diet, and stress can all shorten their lifespan. Size The average Florida Gar size is around 3 feet, but they can grow to be as long as 6 feet! These fish are some of the largest freshwater fish in North America and can weigh up to 60 pounds. Tank Tank Size The recommended minimum tank size for Florida Gar is 120 gallons. If you’re looking for a smaller freshwater fish, this is not the fish for you. You will also need to make sure your tank has a strong filter and good aeration. This fish is a messy eater and produces a lot of waste. A good filter is a must to keep the water quality high. Water Parameters The Florida gar is a freshwater fish that is found in rivers and lakes in the southeastern United States. They prefer slow-moving waters with plenty of vegetation. The water parameters you need to maintain for Florida gars are as follows: Water temperature: 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit pH levels: 6.0 to 8.0 Water hardness: 2 to 12 dGH Alkalinity Levels: 4-8 dKH What To Put In Their Tank When it comes to setting up the inside of an aquarium for Florida Gar you can be as creative as you want. There aren’t any specific things that this species NEEDS to have, which gives you plenty of options. We recommend some of the standard decorations that you find in a lot of freshwater tanks. There are a ton of great plants you can include (like hornwort or water wisteria). You can even throw in some floating aquarium plants too! Rocks, driftwood, and caves are all suitable as well. It’s important to avoid going overboard with this since these fish like some room to swim. Also, if you’re keeping your Florida Gar in a smaller tank then it’s going to be difficult to include a lot of this stuff anyway. A classic gravel substrate is always a good choice, but you can do with something soft and sandy if needed too (use other species you keep as a guide with this). Common Diseases The Florida Gar is a hardy fish that can withstand a lot of different water conditions. However, they are still susceptible to illness and disease just like any other fish. The most common disease that affects this species is parasites. These can be internal or external, and both can cause a lot of problems for your fish. The most obvious sign that your fish has parasites is if you see them scratching themselves on objects in the tank. This is usually a sign of external parasites, and can be treated with a variety of different methods. Internal parasites are a bit more tricky to spot, but some signs to look out for include a loss of appetite, lethargy, and weight loss. If you think your Florida Gar has parasites, the best course of action is to take them to a vet or experienced fish keeper for a diagnosis. From there, you can treat them with the appropriate medication. Another thing to keep an eye out for is fungal infections. These are usually caused by poor water quality, and can be treated with a variety of different methods. If you think your Florida Gar has a fungal infection, the best course of action is to take them to a vet or experienced fish keeper for a diagnosis. From there, you can treat them with the appropriate medication. Behavior & Temperament The Florida Gar is a predatory fish, which means it’s not the best choice if you’re looking for a peaceful community tank inhabitant. It’s known to be aggressive towards smaller fish and can even eat fish that are half its size. While they’re not the most cuddly creatures, they are interesting to watch. They’re fast swimmers and are constantly on the move. They’re also known to be good jumpers, so make sure you have a lid on your tank! In the wild, Florida Gar are solitary fish. They only come together to mate. In captivity, they can be kept in groups, but it’s best to only keep one per tank. If you do choose to keep more than one, make sure the tank is large enough and there are plenty of hiding places. These fish are also known to be escape artists. They can squeeze through tight spaces and are known to jump out of open tanks. So, if you decide to keep one, be sure to keep a close eye on it. Tank Mates When it comes to Florida Gar tank mates, there are a few things to consider. First, these fish are large. They can easily reach sizes of 3 feet or more in the wild. That said, they’re not overly aggressive. The main thing you need to worry about is finding species that can handle being in close proximity to a large predator. Secondly, Florida Gar like to occupy the middle to top of the water column. This means that their tank mates need to be comfortable staying near the bottom. Third, these fish come from warm waters. As a result, their tank mates should be able to tolerate similar water conditions. Some compatible Florida Gar tank mates include: Green Sunfish Largemouth Bass Channel Catfish Brown Bullhead Catfish Bluegill Pumpkinseed Redbreast Sunfish Longear Sunfish Breeding Florida Gar are pretty easy to breed in captivity. They reach maturity around 3 years of age and can live to be over 20 years old. To breed them, you’ll need a large tank. A 55-gallon tank is a good size, but you may need something even larger depending on the number of fish you have. The water should be clean and well-oxygenated. A good filtration system is a must. The temperature should be between 70 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Plants are not necessary, but you can add them if you want. Just make sure that they’re tough and can withstand the Gar’s roughness. When you’re ready to breed, add 1 female for every 2 males. The female will lay her eggs in a nest that the male has built. He will then guard the eggs and keep them clean. After about 2 weeks, the eggs will hatch. The fry will be very small, so you’ll need to feed them live food. Baby brine shrimp are a good option. As they grow, you can gradually add larger food items to their diet. Conclusion The Florida Gar is a truly unique fish that is sure to add some excitement to your aquarium. They are relatively easy to care for as long as you provide them with the proper environment and diet. However, they can grow to be quite large, so make sure you have the space to accommodate them. Overall, we think the Florida Gar is a great option for experienced fishkeepers who are looking for something a little different.

The longnose gar is a freshwater fish that is native to North America. They are a popular fish in the aquarium trade, and their popularity is well deserved. They are a beautiful fish that is relatively easy to care for. However, there are a few things that you need to know before you get one. In this guide, we will go over everything that you need to know about longnose gar care. Table of contents Species overview Appearance Lifespan Size Tank Size Water parameters What To Put In Their Tank Common diseases Behavior & Temperament Tank Mates Breeding Conclusion Species overview The longnose gar (scientific name: Atractosteus spatula) is a fish that’s native to freshwaters all throughout North and Central America. They prefer areas with little to no vegetation and a lot of open space to swim. This is something to keep in mind when setting up their tank because you’ll want to make sure there’s plenty of room for them to move around. Longnose gars are some of the largest freshwater fish in North America and can grow to be over six feet long! They are a popular choice for fishing because of their size and the fact that they put up quite a fight when hooked. They are also a popular choice for aquariums, although they can be difficult to care for. This is mostly due to their size, but as long as you have the space and resources to care for them properly they can make for an impressive addition to any freshwater setup. Appearance The Longnose Gar is an intimidating fish that’s sure to turn heads when people see it. It has a long, thin body that can grow up to 6 feet in length! The coloration on this fish is quite unique. The base color is a dark olive green that has a bit of a metallic sheen to it. There are also a series of dark spots that run along the length of the body. These spots are elongated and have a bit of a jagged appearance. The fins on the Longnose Gar are also quite unique. The dorsal fin is located about halfway back on the body and extends the entire length of the fish. The anal fin is much shorter and located closer to the tail. The pectoral fins are located on the side of the fish and are used for steering. The caudal fin is forked and helps the fish move through the water. The Longnose Gar has a long, thin snout that gives it its name. This snout is lined with sharp teeth that are used to capture prey. The eyes of the Longnose Gar are located on the top of the head. This allows them to see prey both above and below them. Lifespan The lifespan of a Longnose Gar in captivity is typically between 10 and 20 years. These fish have been known to live even longer in captivity though, with some reports of individuals reaching 30 years of age or more. As is the case with most fish, the quality of care they receive will have a big impact on how long they live. If they’re kept in poor conditions, their lifespan will be significantly shorter. Size The average size of a Longnose Gar is between 4 and 5 feet long, but they can grow to be up to 7 feet long. These fish can also weigh up to 30 pounds when they are fully grown. Tank Tank Size The recommended minimum tank size for longnose gar is 180 gallons. If you’re looking for a freshwater fish that can fit in an average-sized tank, this is not the fish for you. Longnose gar are very active fish and need a lot of space to swim. They are also very sensitive to water quality and need very clean water to thrive. Water Parameters The longnose gar is a freshwater fish that’s native to North America. It’s a popular choice for aquariums because of its unique appearance and peaceful demeanor. Despite its popularity, the longnose gar is not a beginner-friendly fish. They’re very sensitive to poor water conditions and require a well-maintained aquarium. If you’re up for the challenge, here are a few water parameters to keep in mind. Water temperature: 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit pH levels: 6.8 to 7.8 Water hardness: 5 to 20 dGH Alkalinity Levels: 3-10 dKH What To Put In Their Tank When it comes to setting up the inside of an aquarium for a Longnose Gar you have a few different options. The first (and most important) thing you need to include is a lot of open swimming space. These fish are constantly on the move and need room to roam. The second thing you need to consider is the type of substrate you use. We recommend a sand substrate for two reasons. First, it’s softer on their bellies which can get scratched up easily. Second, it provides a better buffer against potential injuries. Rocks and driftwood are fine to add as well, but use them sparingly. Too much and you’ll decrease the amount of open space in the tank which is the last thing you want. Plants are a bit of a touchy subject with Longnose Gars. They’re known to nibble on vegetation, but some aquarists have had success keeping live plants in their tanks. If you decide to go this route we recommend fast-growing plants that can handle a little abuse (Hornwort, Water Wisteria, or Java Moss are all good choices). Common Diseases Longnose Gar are actually pretty hardy fish. They don’t fall ill often and are rather resistant to disease. However, that doesn’t mean that they can’t get sick. In fact, the most common ailment that these fish experience is actually hole-in-the-head disease. This disease is caused by a number of things, but the most common culprit is poor water quality. It can also be brought on by the presence of activated carbon in your tank. This disease will present itself as one or two pits/holes in the skin of your Longnose Gar’s head. While it’s almost always curable (fixing your water quality and removing activated carbon is usually all you need to do), it will usually leave some scarring on your poor fish! The other disease you might see in your Longnose Gar is ich. This is a very common freshwater disease that can affect any fish, no matter the species. This will show itself as white spots on the body, fish, and gills of your fish. We won’t do a full ich treatment guide here (there are plenty of those online) but it’s something you need to take very seriously if it affects your Longnose Gar. Behavior & Temperament The longnose gar is a predatory fish, so it’s important to be aware of that before adding one to your tank. It’s not necessarily aggressive, but it will eat smaller fish if given the chance. So, it’s best to keep them with larger fish. These fish are also known to be jumpers, so you’ll need to make sure your tank is covered. They can launch themselves out of the water and onto the floor, which can hurt them. Other than that, the longnose gar is a relatively peaceful fish. It’s not going to bother other fish unless it’s hungry. And, even then, it’s more likely to eat smaller fish that are swimming near the bottom of the tank. The longnose gar is a curious fish, so it’s fun to watch. It will often swim near the surface of the water to check things out. And, it’s not uncommon to see them “playing” with other fish in the tank. Tank Mates When it comes to finding tank mates for Longnose Gar, the options are unfortunately quite limited. These fish are large, aggressive, and have a voracious appetite. They’re also fast and can easily outmaneuver most other fish in the tank. The good news is that the fish is peaceful towards its own kind. You can safely keep multiple Longnose Gar together in the same aquarium. As for other tank mates, the only real option is other large, aggressive fish. These fish need to be able to hold their own against the Longnose Gar. Some suitable tank mates include: Alligator Gar Arowana Pacu Piranha Tiger Shovelnose Catfish Wels Catfish Arapaima Breeding Longnose Gar are one of the easier fish to breed in captivity. They’re not too picky about their environment and will readily spawn in most aquariums. The first step is to set up a suitable breeding tank. It should be at least 100 gallons and have a sandy bottom. You’ll also need to add some plants and hiding places. Once the tank is set up, you’ll need to sex your fish. This can be tricky since they don’t have too many physical differences. The best way to tell is by their size. Males grow to be about 3 feet long while females only get to be about 2 feet. Once you’ve determined the sexes of your fish, it’s time to add the female. She should be added a few days before the male to give her time to acclimate. When ready, add the male to the tank. He will usually start to court the female within a few hours. The spawning process itself is pretty quick. After the eggs have been laid, the male will guard them. He will fan them with his fins to keep them oxygenated and free of debris. The eggs will hatch in about a week. You can start feeding the fry live foods like brine shrimp and bloodworms. As they grow, you can transition them to pellets and flakes. Conclusion The Longnose Gar is a great fish for the beginner to intermediate fish keeper. They are relatively easy to care for and can be a great addition to your freshwater aquarium. With their unique appearance and peaceful nature, they are sure to be a hit with everyone in the family. Just be sure to do your research before bringing one home, as they do require a bit of a larger tank than most fish. Other than that, we think you’ll be very happy with your Longnose Gar!

Spotted Gars are one of the coolest freshwater fish you can get. They’re unique, interesting, and relatively easy to care for… as long as you know what you’re doing. Unfortunately, there’s a lot of misinformation out there about these guys. We’ve seen all sorts of crazy suggestions on care and diet that just don’t work. So we made this guide to set the record straight. In it, you’ll learn everything you need to know about Spotted Gar care. From tank size and diet, to tank mates and breeding. It’s all here! Table of contents Species overview Appearance Lifespan Size Tank Size Water parameters What To Put In Their Tank Common diseases Behavior & Temperament Tank Mates Breeding Conclusion Species overview Spotted Gar (Lepisosteus oculatus) are a freshwater fish that can be found in slow-moving rivers and lakes throughout the southeastern United States. They have a long, snake-like body and can grow to be over two feet in length. These fish are predators and primarily eat other fish, although they will also consume insects and crustaceans. Spotted Gar are not a popular choice for aquariums due to their large size and predatory nature. However, they can be kept in captivity if their tank is large enough and they are not kept with smaller fish. Appearance The Spotted Gar is an impressive-looking fish that can reach up to five feet in length! They have a long and slender body that is covered in large, hard scales. The coloration of this fish is rather unique and can vary depending on the water conditions and food availability. The body is usually a olive green or brown with large dark spots that cover the entire fish. The belly is usually a lighter color, sometimes white or yellow. The fins are also usually a light color, often times clear or white. The dorsal fin is rather tall and starts about halfway back on the body. This fin has a very jagged edge and can be used as a weapon against predators. The anal fin is also tall and jagged, but it starts closer to the tail. The pectoral and pelvic fins are small and located near the head of the fish. The tail is forked and used to propel the fish through the water. Lifespan Spotted Gar have a lifespan of around 15 to 20 years. This is actually quite long for a fish, especially one that gets as large as they do. As with any other animal, there are a number of things that can impact the lifespan of a Spotted Gar. Poor water quality, for example, can lead to a number of health problems that can shorten their life. Stress is also a big factor. If these fish are constantly being harassed by tank mates or if they’re not getting enough to eat, it can lead to a shortened lifespan. Size Spotted Gar can grow to be quite large, with some individuals reaching lengths of up to 4 feet! However, the average size for these fish is between 2 and 3 feet. Tank Tank Size The recommended minimum tank size for a Spotted Gar is 100 gallons. This is a fish that gets big, fast. If you start with a smaller tank you may find yourself having to upgrade sooner than you’d like. As with most fish, the larger the tank the better. If you have the space and the resources, a 150 gallon or even a 200 gallon tank would be ideal for a Spotted Gar. Water Parameters Spotted Gar are a freshwater fish that come from large rivers and lakes in North America. They have a long and slender body with a greenish-brown coloration and spots that are darker in color. Spotted Gar are a predator fish and will eat just about anything they can fit in their mouth. They are known to eat other fish, frogs, snakes, and even small mammals. The water parameters you need to maintain for Spotted Gar are as follows: Water Temperature: 60°F to 86°F pH Levels: 6.0 to 8.0 Water Hardness: 2 to 12 dGH Alkalinity Levels: 4-8 dKH What To Put In Their Tank Spotted Gars are one of the most unique freshwater fish that you can keep. They’re not often seen in home aquariums, but they make for an interesting addition. When it comes to setting up the inside of their tank you’ll want to stick with a few key things. First, the substrate should be a dark color. This will help them feel more comfortable and make it easier for them to blend in (they’re a shy species). Second, include some pieces of driftwood and rocks. These will create hiding spots for your fish and help reduce their stress levels. Third, plants are a must. We recommend going with floating plants since they’re less likely to be disturbed by your gar. Hornwort, water wisteria, and java moss are all great choices. And finally, don’t forget to include a filter! These fish are messy eaters and produce a lot of waste. A quality filter will help to keep the water clean and help your fish stay healthy. Common Diseases There are a few diseases that you should be aware of if you’re thinking about keeping Spotted Gar. The most common disease that these fish experience is a skin condition called “blotchiness.” This is a result of poor water quality and will present itself as dark, blotchy patches on the skin of your fish. If left untreated, this can eventually lead to ulcers and open wounds. Thankfully, this is easily avoidable by simply maintaining clean water conditions in your tank. Another disease to keep an eye out for is “swim bladder disease.” This is a condition that affects the swim bladder, and as a result, your fish may have trouble swimming properly. This can be caused by a variety of things, but the most common is constipation. This can be avoided by simply feeding your fish a diet that is high in fiber. The best way to prevent disease in Spotted Gar is to maintain clean water conditions and to feed them a healthy diet. If you do this, you shouldn’t have any problems! Behavior & Temperament Spotted Gar are one of the few fish on this list that are actually predators. They’re not the type to go after other fish in your tank. But, they will go after smaller prey like insects, crustaceans, and smaller fish. Spotted Gar are relatively shy fish, so they tend to stick to themselves. They’re not the type of fish that will interact with their tank mates often. In fact, they’re more likely to hide than to swim out in the open. Even though they’re shy, they’re not the type of fish that gets easily stressed. So, you don’t have to worry about them getting sick if they’re not getting along with the other fish in your tank. Tank Mates Spotted Gar are predators, so they need to be kept with other fish that can hold their own. These fish are not to be trifled with, and they will eat anything they can fit in their mouths. That said, they can be kept with other fish as long as you take care to choose the right tank mates. The fish need to be too large to be eaten and also able to defend themselves. Here are some examples of good tank mates for Spotted Gar: Alligator Gar Arowana Pacu Plecostomus Oscar Green Terror Jack Dempsey Flowerhorn Breeding Spotted Gar are one of the easier fish to breed in captivity. They are egg-scatterers, so no parental care is needed once spawning is complete. To increase your chances of success, start by setting up a large breeding tank. It should hold at least 100 gallons of water. Then, add some live plants and some hiding places. Driftwood pieces work well. The water conditions are important, too. Keep the temperature between 70 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. The pH should be between 7.0 and 8.0. When ready, add two females for every male. Remember: Males have the more pronounced spots. Feed the fish plenty of high-quality foods. Then, begin changing about 50 percent of the water. That should trigger spawning. You’ll know you’re successful when you see the female deposit eggs on the plants or driftwood. After she does that, the male will guard them diligently. In about ten days, the eggs will hatch. You can move the babies into a nursery tank to improve their odds of survival. Feed them mashed peas and other green vegetables until they’re ready to join the adults in your main tank. Conclusion The Spotted Gar is an amazing fish that is perfect for the more experienced fish keeper. They are very unique in both their appearance and their behavior. If you are looking for a fish that is a little bit different than the others, the Spotted Gar is definitely the fish for you. They are not the easiest fish to take care of, but they are definitely worth the effort.

The shovelnose sturgeon is a freshwater fish that is native to North America. It gets its name from its long, shovel-like snout. This fish is a popular choice for aquariums because of its unique appearance and calm demeanor. Shovelnose sturgeon are not difficult to care for, but there are a few things you need to know before you get one. In this guide, we will teach you everything you need to know about shovelnose sturgeon care. Table of contents Species overview Appearance Lifespan Size Tank Size Water parameters What To Put In Their Tank Common diseases Behavior & Temperament Tank Mates Breeding Conclusion Species overview The shovelnose sturgeon (scientific name: Scaphirhynchus platorynchus) is a freshwater fish that’s found in a number of large river systems in North America. The most prominent of these rivers is the Missouri River, where a large population of shovelnose sturgeon can be found. They have a wide, flat body that’s well-suited for life in rivers and streams. Their diet consists mostly of small fish, insects, and crustaceans. Due to overfishing and habitat loss, the shovelnose sturgeon is currently considered to be a threatened species. This means that it’s illegal to fish for them in many areas. If you’re looking for a fish that’s both unique and interesting, the shovelnose sturgeon is a great choice. They’re not the easiest fish to care for, but they’re definitely worth the effort. Appearance The Shovelnose Sturgeon is a large and unique-looking fish. They get their name from their long, narrow snout that resembles a shovel. This snout is great for digging around in the mud for food. The body of the Shovelnose Sturgeon is long and slender. They have a series of scutes (bony plates) running down the length of their body. There are usually 5-7 of these scutes on each side. The Shovelnose Sturgeon has a long dorsal fin that runs almost the entire length of their body. This fin has 22-25 rays in it. They also have a long anal fin with 18-21 rays. Both of these fins are positioned towards the back of the fish. The pectoral fins of the Shovelnose Sturgeon are large and triangular. They’re located just behind the head of the fish. The caudal fin of the Shovelnose Sturgeon is forked and relatively small compared to the rest of their body. The Shovelnose Sturgeon is olive-brown in coloration with a white belly. There are often dark spots on their body as well. Lifespan In the wild, shovelnose sturgeons can live for up to 25 years. But in captivity, they typically only live for 10 to 15 years. One of the main reasons for this difference is that sturgeons in the wild have a lot more space to swim around. They’re also not typically subject to the same water quality issues that captive sturgeons face. Additionally, sturgeons in the wild have a lot more food options. In captivity, they’re usually only fed a diet of pellets or fish food, which isn’t as nutritious as their natural diet. Size The average size of a shovelnose sturgeon is between 3 and 5 feet long. However, they can grow to be up to 7 feet long and weigh up to 200 pounds! Tank Tank Size The recommended minimum tank size for a Shovelnose Sturgeon is 500 gallons. If you want to keep more than one fish, you should add an additional 250 gallons for each fish. Water Parameters The shovelnose sturgeon is a bottom-feeder that is common in the Mississippi River system. In the wild, they prefer deep, slow-moving water with a sandy substrate. To replicate this environment in your aquarium, you’ll need to maintain the following water parameters. Water Temperature: 50°F to 75°F pH Levels: 7.0 to 8.5 Water Hardness: 4 to 30 dGH Alkalinity Levels: 2-12 dKH What To Put In Their Tank When it comes to the Shovelnose Sturgeon, there are a few things you’ll need to take into account when setting up their tank. First and foremost, these fish get huge. We’re talking over 6 feet long in some cases. This means you need a tank that can accommodate their size (1000 gallons or more). The good news is that you don’t need to worry about a lot of decorations since these fish prefer a more natural habitat. That being said, there are a few things you should include. First, you need a good quality filter. Sturgeon are messy eaters and produce a lot of waste. A powerful filter will help to keep the water quality high. Second, you need to make sure there’s plenty of oxygen in the water. These fish are bottom dwellers and need access to oxygenated water. The best way to achieve this is with an air stone or powerhead. Third, you need to include some hiding spots. Sturgeon are shy fish and need places to hide. Driftwood, rocks, and caves are all suitable options. Finally, the substrate should be soft and sandy. Anything too harsh can damage their delicate skin. Common Diseases The most common disease that affects Shovelnose Sturgeon is White Sturgeon Disease. This is a bacterial infection that can be deadly if not treated properly and quickly. The main symptom of this disease is large white lesions on the skin of the fish. If you see these, you need to act fast and get your fish to a vet as soon as possible. Other potential diseases include: Hepatosomatic Disease: This is a condition where the liver of the fish becomes enlarged. It’s most commonly seen in captive fish that are fed a diet that is too high in fat. Swim Bladder Disease: This is a condition where the swim bladder (a gas-filled sac that helps the fish stay buoyant) becomes damaged or infected. It can be caused by a variety of things, including poor water quality, constipation, or even physical trauma. If you think your fish might be sick, the best thing to do is to take them to a vet that specializes in fish. They will be able to properly diagnose and treat whatever is wrong with your fish. Behavior & Temperament Shovelnose sturgeon are gentle giants. Despite their size, they are very docile fish. They are not known to be aggressive at all and usually get along well with other fish. They are a slow-moving fish, so they are not the best swimmers. They prefer to stay near the bottom of the tank where they can find food. They are also known to be a bit shy, so they may hide when there are too many people around. Tank Mates Shovelnose sturgeon are a bit difficult to keep. They’re very large and require a lot of space. They also need pristine water conditions and require a specialized diet. Because of these factors, it’s best to only keep one shovelnose sturgeon per tank. They’re simply too much for most aquariums (and aquarium enthusiasts) to handle. If you do have the space and resources to care for one of these fish, you’ll need to be careful about choosing tank mates. The best tank mates for shovelnose sturgeon are other large, peaceful fish. They should also be able to tolerate cooler water temperatures since sturgeon prefer water on the cooler side. Some good shovelnose sturgeon tank mates include: Catfish Carp Bichir Arowana Eels Knifefish Pacu plecos Breeding Shovelnose Sturgeon are a unique freshwater fish that is well-known for its long life span and prehistoric appearance. These fish are not easy to come by and can be very expensive, so many people choose to breed them instead. If you’re interested in breeding Shovelnose Sturgeon, there are a few things you need to know first. First, you need to have a male and female. It’s best to buy young fish so you can be sure of their gender. If you buy adults, you can try to sex them yourself by looking for the barbels on the male’s snout. Once you have your male and female, you need to set up a breeding tank. The tank should be at least 200 gallons and should have a sand or gravel bottom. You should also add some plants and rocks for hiding places. The water temperature should be between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. The pH should be between 6.5 and 7.5. When the tank is set up, you can add the fish. The female will lay her eggs in the sand or gravel. The male will then fertilize them. The eggs will hatch in about two weeks. The fry will be very small, so you need to feed them live food. Brine shrimp and bloodworms are a good option. As the fry grow, you can start to feed them pellets. You can also add them to your main tank once they’re big enough. Conclusion The Shovelnose Sturgeon is an amazing fish that is perfect for the intermediate to advanced fish keeper. They are not a fish for beginners. If you are looking for a fish that is low maintenance, then the Shovelnose Sturgeon is not the fish for you. They require a lot of care and attention. But if you are willing to put in the time and effort, then the Shovelnose Sturgeon will be a great addition to your aquarium.

The Sterlet is a beautiful freshwater fish that is perfect for the home aquarium. They are peaceful, relatively easy to care for, and make a great addition to any community tank. This guide will teach you everything you need to know about Sterlet care. You’ll learn about their diet, size, lifespan, and more! Table of contents Species overview Appearance Lifespan Size Tank Size Water parameters What To Put In Their Tank Common diseases Behavior & Temperament Tank Mates Breeding Conclusion Species overview Sterlets (scientific name: Acipenser ruthenus) are a species of freshwater sturgeon that are found throughout Eurasia. Their habitat ranges from the Black Sea all the way to Siberia, and they can even be found in some parts of Central Asia. They prefer large rivers with a lot of vegetation and a moderate current. However, they are known to be very adaptable and can live in a wide range of different water conditions. Sterlets are one of the smaller sturgeon species, only growing to be about 3-4 feet in length. However, they can live for a very long time – up to 60 years in the wild! This fish is commonly consumed in Russia and other parts of Eurasia. However, it is also becoming increasingly popular in the aquarium trade. Appearance The Sterlet is a freshwater fish that really looks like it belongs in the ocean. It has a long and slender body that’s silver in color with a black line running down the center of its back. The sides of this fish are covered in small black spots. The fins on the Sterlet are also black except for the tips which are white. The dorsal fin is tall and starts about two-thirds of the way back on the body. The anal fin is shorter but still quite tall and starts closer to the center of the fish. The caudal fin is forked and symmetrical. The Sterlet also has a very long and thin snout. The mouth of this fish is located at the very end of the snout and is quite small. The eyes of the Sterlet are silver with a black pupil. Lifespan The average lifespan of a Sterlet is around 15 years. This is a pretty long time for a fish and it really underscores the importance of giving them the best care possible. Like all fish, there are a number of things that can impact the lifespan of a Sterlet. Poor water quality, stress, and a bad diet can all lead to a shorter life. On the flip side, good care can help them live to a ripe old age. If you give them everything they need, it’s not uncommon for Sterlets to live well over 15 years. Size The average Sterlet size is about 18 to 24 inches when fully grown. These fish can grow to be fairly large, so you’ll need to make sure you have a spacious tank for them to live in. Tank Tank Size The Sterlet is a large freshwater fish that can reach up to three feet in length in the wild. In captivity, they typically max out at around two feet. As a result, you’re going to need a fairly large tank to keep them healthy and happy. The minimum recommended tank size for a Sterlet is 100 gallons. If you want to keep more than one Sterlet in the same tank you’ll need to add at least another 100 gallons for each fish. While they can be kept in smaller groups, they are typically happier and healthier when kept in pairs or larger groups. Water Parameters The Sterlet is a freshwater fish that is native to large rivers in Europe and Asia. In the wild, they can be found in the Danube River, the Dnieper River, and the Volga River. They prefer slow-moving waters with a lot of vegetation. The water temperature should be between 68 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit and the pH should be between 6.5 and 7.5. The Sterlet is a hardy fish that can tolerate a wide range of water conditions. However, it’s important to maintain consistency to ensure a long and healthy life. Water Temperature: 68-72 degrees Fahrenheit pH Levels: 6.5-7.5 Water Hardness: 5-19 dGH Alkalinity Levels: 3-10 dKH What To Put In Their Tank The Sterlet is a freshwater fish that’s native to Europe. In the wild, they can be found in large rivers like the Danube. In terms of setting up their aquarium, you’ll want to mimic their natural habitat as much as possible. This means a large tank with plenty of space to swim and some plants to hide in. The substrate you choose is important too. Sterlets are known to sift through the substrate in search of food. This means you’ll want something that won’t be too abrasive on their gills (like sand). As for plants, you have a few different options. We recommend something that will provide them with plenty of cover (like water wisteria or hornwort). Java fern is another good choice since it can survive in a wide range of water conditions. Rocks and driftwood are always a nice addition to any freshwater tank. Just be sure to avoid anything too sharp or jagged. Common Diseases The most common disease that affects sterlets is white sturgeon syndrome (WSS). This is a viral infection that can cause a variety of symptoms in your fish. The most common symptom is the presence of white spots on the skin, but others include lethargy, appetite loss, and ulcers. This disease is unfortunately incurable, and the only thing you can do is to humanely euthanize your fish if they are affected. The best way to prevent this disease is to only purchase sterlets from a reputable breeder or dealer. This will help to ensure that your fish are healthy and free of any diseases. You should also quarantine new fish before adding them to your main tank. This will help to stop the spread of any diseases if any of your new fish are sick. Behavior & Temperament The Sterlet is a peaceful fish that is relatively easy to care for. It is a slow swimmer that spends most of its time in the middle to lower levels of the tank. The Sterlet is a bottom feeder that will eat most anything that falls to the bottom of the tank, including algae, plants, and small invertebrates. Sterlets are schooling fish and do best when kept in groups of 3 or more. They are shy fish that may be intimidated by larger, more active fish. The Sterlet is not an aggressive fish, but it may nip at the fins of long-finned fish. Tank Mates Sterlets are bottom-dwelling fish, so they do best with tank mates that occupy different areas of the water column. This will give everyone plenty of room to swim and explore without running into each other all the time. It’s also important to find fish that can tolerate colder water since Sterlets prefer cooler temperatures. Some compatible tank mates for Sterlets include: Goldfish Koi Rainbowfish Barbs Danios White Cloud Mountain Minnows Cherry Shrimp Ghost Shrimp Breeding The Sterlet is a freshwater fish that is native to Europe. It is a member of the Acipenseridae family, which includes other well-known fish such as the sturgeon. The Sterlet is the smallest member of this family. The Sterlet is a relatively easy fish to breed in captivity. The first step is to set up a suitable breeding environment. Sterlets need clean water with a high oxygen content. They also need plenty of hiding places. Driftwood, rocks, and plants can all be used for this purpose. Once the breeding tank is set up, you will need to add a pair of Sterlets. It is best to add one male and one female, but you can also add two males if you cannot find a female. The male Sterlet will build a nest out of plants and debris. The female will then lay her eggs in this nest. After the eggs have been laid, the male will guard them until they hatch. This usually takes between 10 and 14 days. Once the fry have hatched, they will need to be fed small live foods such as brine shrimp or bloodworms. They can also be fed crushed flake food. As the fry grow, they will need to be moved to larger tanks. Once they reach adulthood, they can be moved back to the main tank. Conclusion The Sterlet is a beautiful fish that is perfect for the beginner aquarist. They are easy to care for and are very peaceful, making them a great addition to any community tank. While they are a bit more sensitive to water quality than some other fish, as long as you are diligent about cleaning your tank and doing regular water changes, they will do just fine. Overall, we think the Sterlet is a great choice for anyone looking for a low-maintenance fish that is still stunning to look at.

The glass knifefish is a freshwater fish that is native to South America. This species is relatively new to the aquarium trade, but they’re becoming more and more popular due to their unique appearance. Glass knifefish are see-through, which gives them a very cool and ethereal look. But before you run out and buy one of these fish, there are a few things you need to know. In this guide, we’ll teach you everything you need to know about glass knifefish care. Tank size, diet, lifespan, and more. Table of contents Species overview Appearance Lifespan Size Tank Size Water parameters What To Put In Their Tank Common diseases Behavior & Temperament Tank Mates Breeding Conclusion Species overview Glass knifefish (Eigenmannia virescens) are a type of electric fish that’s found in freshwater habitats throughout much of South America. They prefer slow-moving waters with a lot of vegetation, and they are often found in close proximity to other electric fish species. Electric fish are able to generate electrical fields which they use for communication and navigation. These fields are also used to detect prey. The glass knifefish is a popular choice for aquariums because of its unique appearance and the fact that it is relatively easy to care for. Appearance The first thing you’ll notice about the Glass knifefish is their unique shape. These fish are long and eel-like with a transparent body. This transparency isn’t just limited to their skin either. You can actually see some of their internal organs if you look closely enough! Their eyes are fairly large and sit on top of their head. Right behind their eyes, they have a long dorsal fin that runs the length of their body. This dorsal fin is tall and quite noticeable. The Glass knifefish also has a small anal fin and a forked caudal fin. All of their fins are clear like the rest of their bodies. The only thing that isn’t transparent is their black eyes. Lifespan In captivity, glass knife fish have an average lifespan of 5 to 8 years. In the wild, their lifespan is probably a bit shorter due to predation and other risks. As with all fish, there are a number of things that can impact their lifespan. Poor water quality, for example, can shorten their life considerably. Stress is also a big factor. If these fish are constantly being harassed by tank mates or if they’re not getting enough to eat, their lifespan will be reduced. Size Glass knifefish typically grow to be about 12 inches in length, but they can reach up to 18 inches in some cases. Tank Tank Size The recommended minimum tank size for glass knifefish is 30 gallons. This is assuming you’re keeping them in a school of at least 5 or 6 fish (which you should). We personally recommend a slightly larger tank if you can accommodate it. Every extra space will make a big difference and allow you to keep a larger school or more tank mates if you’re interested in a community tank. Water Parameters This is a freshwater fish that is found in the Amazon Basin. The water parameters that you will need to maintain for the Glass Knife fish are: Water temperature: 21 to 27 degrees Celsius pH levels: 6.0 to 7.5 Water hardness: 2 to 12 dGH Alkalinity Levels: 4-8 dKH What To Put In Their Tank When it comes to setting up the inside of an aquarium for glass knifefish you can be as creative as you want. There aren’t any specific things that this species NEEDS to have, which gives you plenty of options. We recommend some of the standard decorations that you find in a lot of freshwater tanks. There are a ton of great plants you can include (like hornwort or water wisteria). You can even throw in some floating aquarium plants too! Rocks, driftwood, and caves are all suitable as well. It’s important to avoid going overboard with this since these fish like some room to swim. Also, if you’re keeping your glass knifefish in a smaller tank then it’s going to be difficult to include a lot of this stuff anyway. A classic gravel substrate is always a good choice, but you can do with something soft and sandy if needed too (use other species you keep as a guide with this). Common Diseases Glass knifefish are pretty hearty creatures and don’t fall ill often. However, there are a couple of diseases that you should be aware of. The first one is white spot disease, also known as ich. This is a pretty common parasite that can plague any freshwater fish. It’s most easily identified by the white spots it leaves on the fish’s body. If left untreated, ich can be pretty serious. However, it’s usually pretty easy to treat with a little bit of medication. The other disease you might see in your glass knifefish is hole-in-the-head disease. This is another pretty common disease, especially in cichlids. It’s caused by poor water quality and is most easily identified by the holes it leaves in the fish’s head. Again, this is a disease that can be pretty serious if left untreated. However, it’s usually pretty easy to fix by simply improving the water quality in your tank. In general, the best way to keep your glass knifefish healthy is to simply maintain a clean and healthy habitat. These fish are pretty hearty, but they’re not immune to poor water quality. By keeping the tank clean and the water quality high, you’ll significantly reduce the chance of your fish getting sick. Behavior & Temperament The glass knifefish is a nocturnal creature, so it’s most active at night. During the day, it rests in hiding places, such as caves or thick vegetation. This fish is a loner by nature. It’s not a social creature and does not do well when kept with other fish. In fact, it’s best to keep only one glass knifefish per tank. The glass knifefish is a timid creature that is easily scared. It’s easily intimidated by larger fish and can be bullied by more aggressive tank mates. It’s important to make sure the glass knifefish has plenty of places to hide so it can feel secure in its environment. This fish is not aggressive and will not attack other fish. However, it is an opportunistic feeder. If it sees an opportunity to snag some food, it will take it. Tank Mates Glass knifefish are predators. In the wild, they feed on smaller fish, shrimp, and insects. As a result, it’s important to be careful about the tank mates you choose. These fish are best kept with other predators or large peaceful fish. Smaller fish are simply too easy for them to eat and should be avoided. Additionally, glass knifefish are shy and reclusive. They’re not social creatures and do best when left alone. As a result, it’s best to avoid tank mates that are too active or boisterous. Glass knifefish are also sensitive to water conditions. They come from slow-moving waters in the Amazon and require similar conditions in captivity. Some good tank mates for glass knifefish include: Oscar Fish Green Terror Cichlid Convict Cichlid Firemouth Cichlid Jack Dempsey Cichlid Plecostomus Breeding The glass knifefish is a rare find in the aquarium trade. They’re not the easiest fish to take care of, but their unique appearance and behavior make them a fun challenge for experienced aquarists. If you’re up for the task of keeping these fish, you might be interested in breeding them as well. It’s not an easy process, but it can be done with some patience and dedication. The first step is to set up a breeding tank. It should be at least 30 gallons in size and equipped with a filter and heater. The water should be kept at a temperature of 72 to 78 degrees Fahrenheit. Next, you’ll need to add some plants and hiding places. Glass knifefish like to have a lot of places to hide, so make sure the tank is heavily planted. You can also add driftwood and rocks. Once the tank is set up, it’s time to add the fish. You’ll need at least two, but more is better. It’s best to have two females for every male. The next step is to trigger spawning. The easiest way to do that is to lower the water level by about 10 percent. You can also raise the temperature a few degrees. If everything goes according to plan, the female will lay her eggs on the plants or driftwood. The male will then fertilize them. Once the eggs are fertilized, the male will guard them until they hatch. This can take anywhere from 24 to 48 hours. Once the fry have hatched, you can remove the adults from the tank. The fry will feed on microscopic organisms in the water, but you can supplement their diet with baby brine shrimp or crushed-up flake food. As they grow, you can slowly start to introduce them to live foods. Keep in mind that glass knifefish are not the easiest fish to take care of. They’re sensitive to water quality and can be shy. Make sure you do your research before you decide to add them to your tank. Conclusion Glass knifefish care is not for the faint of heart. These fish are difficult to keep and are not recommended for beginners. However, if you’re up for the challenge and have the necessary experience, these fish can be a joy to own. Their unique look and personality make them stand out in a crowd and they’re sure to be a conversation starter in your home. If you think you’re up for the challenge, we say go for it! Just be sure to do your research first and be prepared for a bit of a learning curve.

The electric eel is a freshwater fish that is capable of generating electric shocks. This fish is not for the beginner fishkeeper, and special care must be taken to ensure the electric eel’s environment is suitable. In this guide, we will go over everything you need to know about electric eel care. We will discuss their diet, tank size, tank mates, and more! Table of contents Species overview Appearance Lifespan Size Tank Size Water parameters What To Put In Their Tank Common diseases Behavior & Temperament Tank Mates Breeding Conclusion Species overview The electric eel (scientific name: Electrophorus electricus) is a type of fish that is capable of generating an electric field. It is found in the Amazon Basin in South America. This fish has a long, cylindrical body that can grow to be over eight feet in length. The electric eel has a dark brown or black coloration with a yellow or orange belly. The electric eel is a predatory fish that feeds on other fish, amphibians, and reptiles. It uses its electric field to stun its prey so that it can more easily catch and consume it. The electric eel is an important part of the Amazonian ecosystem. However, it is threatened by habitat loss and pollution. Appearance The electric eel is an impressive creature, to say the least. These eels can grow to be over eight feet in length and weigh over forty pounds! The vast majority of their body is taken up by their long, snake-like tail. Their head is relatively small in comparison and has a blunt nose. They have small eyes that are set far back on their head. Behind their eyes, you’ll find a pair of feelers that they use to sense their surroundings. The electric eel has a unique coloration that helps them to blend in with their surroundings. The top half of their body is a dark brown or black. The bottom half is a lighter brown or cream color. The electric eel is covered in tiny scales that are very hard to see. The only time you’ll really notice them is when this fish is viewed from the side. Lifespan The electric eel has a lifespan of 15 years in the wild. In captivity, they can live up to 20 years. Size The average size of an electric eel is about 8 feet long, but they can grow to be as long as 10 feet. These eels are one of the largest freshwater fish in the world. Tank Tank Size The recommended tank size for electric eels is at least 50 gallons. A larger tank is always better, but if you must keep them in a smaller tank make sure it is at least 50 gallons. Water Parameters The electric eel is a fascinating fish that’s unique in more ways than one. Perhaps most notably, it’s the only known species in the knifefish family that can generate electricity. This bony fish is native to the Amazon and Orinoco basins in South America. It’s an air-breathing fish that spends most of its time at the bottom of murky waters. In captivity, electric eels require similar water conditions. The most important thing to remember is that electric eels need plenty of space. They can grow to be over six feet long and need a tank that’s at least 200 gallons. Other electric eel care requirements include: Water temperature: 75 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit pH levels: 6.5 to 7.5 Water hardness: 2 to 12 dGH Alkalinity Levels: 4-8 dKH What To Put In Their Tank Electric eels need a lot of space to move around, so the first thing you’ll need to do is find a tank that’s big enough. A good rule of thumb is to have at least 50 gallons of water for each eel. The next thing you need to do is set up the inside of their tank. These fish like to have plenty of places to hide, so we recommend including some driftwood, rocks, and caves. The substrate you use is up to you, but we prefer something that’s soft and sandy. This will be more comfortable for them and it’s less likely to damage their skin. As for plants, you can include some if you want but electric eels are known to eat them. If you do decide to go with plants we recommend something that’s tough and fast-growing (like hornwort or water wisteria). Common Diseases Electric eels are actually quite resilient creatures. In the wild, they can live for over 20 years! However, that doesn’t mean that they can’t get sick. There are a few diseases that are common in electric eels, the most common being hole-in-the-head disease. This disease is caused by poor water quality and the presence of activated carbon in your tank. It will present itself as one or two pits/holes in the skin of your electric eel’s head. While it’s almost always curable (fixing your water quality and removing activated carbon is usually all you need to do), it will usually leave some scarring on your poor fish! The other disease you’ll want to keep an eye out for is ich. This is obviously not an electric eel-specific illness, but since ich is so common it’s definitely worth mentioning here. This will show itself as white spots on the body, fish, and gills of your fish. We won’t do a full ich treatment guide here (there are plenty of those online) but it’s something you need to take very seriously if it affects your electric eel. Behavior & Temperament The electric eel is a fascinating, if not dangerous, creature. It’s capable of delivering a 650-volt shock, which is enough to stun a human. So, it’s important to be careful when handling these fish. In the wild, electric eels use their shock as a way to defend themselves and to capture prey. The shock stuns the fish long enough for the electric eel to grab it and eat it. Electric eels are also known to be aggressive. In the wild, they have been known to attack humans. There have been reports of people being killed by electric eels. So, it’s important to be careful when you’re around them. In captivity, electric eels can be a bit easier to handle. They’re not as likely to attack humans, but they can still be aggressive towards other fish. It’s important to put them in a tank by themselves to avoid any problems. Electric eels are also known to be escape artists. They’re good at finding ways out of their tanks. So, it’s important to make sure your tank is secure. Tank Mates The electric eel is a fascinating fish that is best kept alone or with species of a similar size. These eels are not social creatures and do not do well with other fish. They are, however, peaceful fish that pose no threat to their tank mates. The electric eel will not attack other fish unless they are small enough to eat. The electric eel is a nocturnal fish that spends the majority of its time hiding in the shadows. This is another reason why they do not do well with other fish. The electric eel needs a tank that is at least 50 gallons. A larger tank is better. These eels can grow to be over six feet in length, so they need the extra space to swim. The electric eel is a sensitive fish that is not tolerant of poor water conditions. The tank must have a tight-fitting lid to prevent the eel from escaping. The water must be filtered and well-oxygenated. Aquarium salt should be added to the water at a ratio of 1 tablespoon per 5 gallons. Breeding Electric eels are a bit different when it comes to breeding. Unlike other fish, they don’t lay eggs. Instead, the female gives birth to live young. To breed electric eels, you’ll need to set up a tank that’s at least 200 gallons. The water should be around 75 degrees Fahrenheit with a pH of 6.5. You’ll also need to add some hiding places. When ready, add one female and two males to the tank. The female will be larger than the males. The female will give birth to around 20 young at a time. The gestation period is around six months. After the young are born, you’ll need to remove the adults from the tank. The young are very delicate and need to be handled with care. They need to be fed live food like small fish, shrimp, or worms. You can wean them onto frozen or pellets after a few weeks. Conclusion The electric eel is an amazing animal that is both feared and revered. They are a top predator in their environment and have few natural enemies. While they may seem dangerous, they are actually quite docile creatures that are unlikely to hurt humans unless they are provoked. If you are considering adding an electric eel to your home aquarium, we recommend doing your research first and making sure you are prepared to provide them with the care they need. These fish are not for everyone, but they can make a fascinating and unique addition to your tank!

The Black Ghost Knifefish is a beautiful, yet strange freshwater fish that is perfect for experienced fishkeepers. These fish are not for everyone though, as they can be difficult to care for and are not recommended for beginners. But if you’re up for the challenge, then a Black Ghost Knifefish might be the perfect addition to your aquarium! Below, you’ll find everything you need to know about Black Ghost Knifefish care. Tank size, diet, lifespan, and more. Table of contents Species overview Appearance Lifespan Size Tank Size Water parameters What To Put In Their Tank Common diseases Behavior & Temperament Tank Mates Breeding Conclusion Species overview The black ghost knifefish (scientific name: Apteronotus albifrons) is a freshwater fish that’s native to various parts of South America. They are most commonly found in the Amazon basin but have also been spotted in other river systems in Peru, Brazil, and Columbia. Black ghost knifefish prefer slow-moving waters with a lot of vegetation. This provides them with plenty of places to hide and forage for food. These fish are nocturnal and are known for being quite shy. They are also very sensitive to changes in their environment and can be easily stressed. Despite their shy nature, black ghost knifefish are still a popular choice for freshwater aquariums. They are especially popular with aquarium hobbyists who are looking for a fish that’s a little bit different. Appearance The Black Ghost Knife is an eel-like freshwater fish that is easily recognizable due to its long, thin body and unique coloration. As the name suggests, these fish are mostly black with a few white markings. The most notable of these is the horizontal white stripe that extends from the base of their tail all the way to their gill cover. This white stripe is actually reflective and can be used as a defense mechanism. When predators are approaching, the Black Ghost Knife will “flash” this stripe and hopefully startle them long enough to make a getaway. The body of the Black Ghost Knife is extremely long and thin. They have a small dorsal fin that is located near the base of their tail. They also have a small anal fin and a forked caudal fin. Both of these fins are black with a white margin. The Black Ghost Knife is a nocturnal fish, so they are most active at night. During the day, they will often hide in caves or other dark places. Lifespan The average lifespan of black ghost knife fish is around 5 to 8 years. As with most fish, there are a number of things that can impact their lifespan. Things like poor water quality, stress from bad tank mates, or a suboptimal diet can all shorten their lifespan. Size The average black ghost knife fish size is between 12 and 14 inches long when they are fully grown. Some have been known to grow up to 18 inches, but this is quite rare. They are a slender fish, so they don’t need a lot of width in their tank, but they do need enough length to move around comfortably. Tank Tank Size The recommended tank size for a Black Ghost Knifefish is at least 125 gallons. This fish is a little bit on the large side and needs a tank that can accommodate its size. Another reason why you need a larger tank is because this fish is a bit of a messy eater and produces a lot of waste. The larger the tank, the easier it will be to keep the water quality high. Water Parameters The Black Ghost Knifefish is a freshwater fish that is found in the Amazon Basin of South America. They are a nocturnal fish that prefer to hide during the day and come out to feed at night. The Black Ghost Knifefish is a very delicate fish and needs to be in water that has the following parameters: Water Temperature: 72-82 degrees Fahrenheit pH Levels: 6.5-7.5 Water Hardness: 2-12 dGH Alkalinity Levels: 4-8 dKH What To Put In Their Tank The most important thing you need to put in a Black Ghost Knifefish tank is a good filter. These fish are notorious for being messy eaters and they produce a lot of waste. A strong filter will help keep the water quality high and prevent any ammonia or nitrite spikes. As for the substrate, these fish don’t really care. They’re not known for digging so gravel or sand will work just fine. Just avoid anything too small that they could potentially eat by mistake. When it comes to plants, Black Ghost Knifefish don’t really bother them. This species is more interested in hiding so you can go with live or artificial plants without any issues. Just be sure to leave some open swimming space in the tank. These fish like to move around a lot and they’re not shy about using their entire bodies to do so. A few rocks or pieces of driftwood can be added for decoration, but be sure not to go overboard. Black Ghost Knifefish are known to get spooked easily and too many hiding spots will make them even more skittish. Common Diseases The Black Ghost Knifefish is a fairly hardy fish, but that doesn’t mean they can’t get sick. The most common disease that affects this species is Ich. This is a parasitic infection that will present itself as white spots on the body of your fish. If left untreated, Ich can be fatal. However, it is fairly easy to treat if you catch it early. Another disease that can affect the Black Ghost Knifefish is infection from cuts. This is most common in fish that are kept in tanks with rough substrates (or with other aggressive species that like to fight). The best way to prevent these fish from getting sick is to maintain the quality of the water in their tank. A tank with clean and stable water conditions always leads to healthier fish who are more resistant to disease. Behavior & Temperament The Black ghost knifefish is a nocturnal creature, so you won’t see much of it during the day. It’ll spend most of its time hiding in caves or other dark places in the tank. When night falls, it’ll come out to feed. This fish is a loner. It’s not a social creature and does not do well when kept with other fish. In fact, it’s best to keep only one Black ghost knifefish per tank. Otherwise, you may see them fighting each other. The Black ghost knifefish is an apex predator, so it’s not afraid to go after smaller fish. It’s known to eat fish that are half its size! If you do decide to keep more than one in the same tank, make sure they are all around the same size. While they have a reputation for being aggressive, Black ghost knifefish are actually quite shy. They are easily scared and will often hide when they feel threatened. Tank Mates The black ghost knifefish is a unique and interesting species. It’s also one of the few animals on this list that’s not technically a fish! Despite not being a fish, they can still be kept in a freshwater aquarium. These animals are often found in the wild in slow-moving rivers and streams. The black ghost knifefish is a nocturnal species that’s most active at night. During the day, they like to hide in dark areas of the tank. Because of their timid nature, it’s best to keep them with other peaceful tank mates. Some good options include: Corydoras Catfish Tetras Guppies Platies Mollies Swordtails Breeding Black ghost knifefish are notoriously difficult to breed in captivity. In fact, it wasn’t until recently that the first successful spawning occurred in an aquarium. The main issue is that these fish are extremely sensitive to changes in their environment. Even the slightest change can stress them out and prevent them from breeding. That’s why it’s so important to create a stable environment for them. The water temperature should be between 82 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit. The pH should be between 6.5 and 7.5. And the water hardness should be between 5 and 15 dGH. It’s also important to have the right setup. Black ghost knifefish prefer to live in blackwater environments with plenty of hiding places. That’s why a heavily-planted tank with driftwood is ideal. When everything is in place, you can start to look for a breeding pair. These fish are solitary creatures, so it can be difficult to find a male and female that get along. If you can’t find a pair, your best bet is to buy six or seven juveniles and let them pair off on their own. The next step is to trigger spawning. The best way to do that is to mimic the wet season in their native habitat. To do that, you need to raise the water level in the tank by about 10 centimeters. Then, you need to lower the temperature by a few degrees. You should start to see the fish spawning within a few days. The female will lay her eggs in a hidden area, and the male will fertilize them. After that, he’ll stay close by to protect them. The eggs will hatch within a week. The fry will be extremely small, so you need to be very careful when feeding them. Live foods like microworms and baby brine shrimp are best. As they grow, you can start to introduce them to flakes and pellets. Just be sure to crush them up first. Black ghost knifefish are difficult to breed, but it’s definitely possible with the right setup and some patience. Conclusion The Black Ghost Knife is a truly unique and amazing fish that is sure to stand out in any aquarium. They are not the easiest fish to care for, but they are definitely worth the effort. If you are up for the challenge, we highly recommend this fish. Just be sure to do your research and be prepared for a bit of a learning curve.

The Black Devil Stingray is one of the most popular freshwater stingrays in the aquarium trade. This is largely due to their unique black coloration, which is really only found in a handful of other species. But their popularity also has a lot to do with their easy care requirements. They’re a hardy species that can adapt to a wide range of conditions. If you’re thinking about getting a Black Devil Stingray, this guide will teach you everything you need to know about their care. Table of contents Species overview Appearance Lifespan Size Tank Size Water parameters What To Put In Their Tank Common diseases Behavior & Temperament Tank Mates Breeding Conclusion Species overview The Black Devil Stingray (Dasyatis brevis) is a species of stingray that is found in parts of Australia, New Zealand, and Fiji. They prefer shallow coastal waters and can be found in both estuaries and reefs. The Black Devil Stingray is a bottom-dweller and feeds primarily on small fish, crustaceans, and mollusks. This stingray gets its name from its dark coloration. The Black Devil Stingray is mostly black, with a white or light-colored underside. The Black Devil Stingray is a popular choice for aquariums because of its unique appearance. However, it is important to note that stingrays can grow to be quite large, so make sure you have a tank that is large enough to accommodate a full-grown ray. Appearance The Black Devil Stingray is an impressive freshwater fish that is sure to turn heads. As their name suggests, these fish are almost entirely black. The only exception to this is a white or light-colored band that runs along their dorsal and caudal fins. This band is usually broken up into a few sections that run along the length of the fins. The Black Devil Stingray has a very large and flat body. Their dorsal and pectoral fins are very large and make up a good portion of their body. Their caudal fin is also very large and is almost as tall as their dorsal fin. These fish have a very long and wide mouth that is filled with small teeth. They also have small eyes that are set far back on their head. Lifespan The average lifespan of black devil stingrays is 15 to 20 years. However, there are reports of them living up to 30 years in captivity. As with most animals, their lifespan will be determined by the quality of care they receive. If they’re kept in poor conditions, they obviously won’t live as long as those that are well cared for. Size Black devil stingrays can grow to be quite large, with some specimens reaching up to 2.5 meters in length and weighing over 100 kg. However, the average size of a black devil stingray is more like 1.5-2 meters. Tank Tank Size The minimum tank size for a black devil stingray is 500 gallons. While this fish is not as large as some of the other stingrays (it only grows to about 2 feet in length), it is still a very active swimmer and needs a lot of space to move around. It is also important to note that these fish are very messy eaters and produce a lot of waste. As a result, you will need to have a very good filtration system to keep the water quality high. Water Parameters The Black Devil Stingray is a freshwater fish that is found in the rivers of South America. The water parameters you need to maintain for Black Devil Stingrays are as follows: Water Temperature: 72-82 degrees Fahrenheit pH Levels: 6.5-7.5 Water Hardness: 5-19 dGH Alkalinity Levels: 3-10 dKH What To Put In Their Tank The interior of their tank is just as important as the exterior. A black devil stingray needs a place to feel comfortable and safe, which means there are some things you’ll need to include. First and foremost, you need to have a soft substrate. This will help protect their delicate skin from any cuts or scrapes. We also recommend including some hiding places. These can be anything from driftwood to rocks. Stingrays like to have a place to hide when they’re feeling threatened or stressed. Last but not least, you need to make sure there’s plenty of room for them to swim. These fish can grow quite large, so a tank that’s too small will quickly become cramped. A good rule of thumb is to have at least a 100-gallon tank for a single stingray. If you’re planning on keeping more than one then you’ll need an even larger tank. Common Diseases Black devil stingrays are relatively hardy fish and don’t often fall ill. However, like any other animal, they can still get sick if the conditions in their tank are not ideal. The most common disease that these fish experience is bacterial infection. This can be caused by a number of things, but the most likely culprit is poor water quality. If you notice your fish acting strangely or see any open wounds, it’s important to act fast. Bacterial infections can progress quickly and be fatal if they’re not treated. The best way to prevent your fish from getting sick is to maintain a high level of water quality in their tank. Regular water changes and filtration will go a long way in keeping your fish healthy and disease-free. Behavior & Temperament Black devil stingrays are not the kind of fish that you can keep in a community tank. They are aggressive, territorial, and will attack anything that they see as a threat. They are also known to eat smaller fish, so it’s best to keep them in a tank by themselves. The good news is that they are not aggressive towards humans. So, if you want to keep one as a pet, you won’t have to worry about them hurting you. These fish are also known to be quite shy. They like to hide and will often stay hidden for long periods of time. When they do come out, they are usually only active at night. Tank Mates The black devil stingray is a large, aggressive freshwater fish. In the wild, these fish occupy rivers and streams in South America. As a result, they’re used to having plenty of space to themselves. In the aquarium, you can provide them with plenty of space by keeping them in a tank that’s at least 200 gallons. Black devil stingrays are also known to be quite aggressive. They’re not shy about attacking other fish, and they have been known to kill smaller stingrays. For these reasons, it’s best to keep black devil stingrays alone. If you must add tank mates, make sure they’re large enough to defend themselves and that they can occupy their own space in the aquarium. Breeding Black devil stingrays have been bred in captivity, but it’s still a very rare event. There are only a handful of cases where this has been done successfully. The biggest challenge with breeding stingrays is getting them to mate. In the wild, they do this by rubbing their ventral side (the underside) against each other. This process is called “coupling”. In captivity, you can encourage this behavior by putting them in a tank with a smooth substrate. This can be anything from sand to gravel. If the bottom of the tank is too rough, it can damage their delicate skin. The other thing you need to do is keep the water quality high. Stingrays are very sensitive to water conditions. They need clean, well-oxygenated water. To breed stingrays, you need at least one male and one female. The female will lay eggs, which the male will then fertilize. Once that’s done, the eggs need to be incubated. The incubation period for stingray eggs is about three months. During this time, the eggs need to be kept in water that’s around 80 degrees Fahrenheit. After they hatch, the baby stingrays need to be fed live food. Conclusion The Black Devil Stingray is an absolutely stunning freshwater fish. They have a unique look that is bound to turn heads whenever someone sees them. They’re also relatively easy to care for, which is always a bonus. Overall, we think the Black Devil Stingray is a great choice for anyone looking for a freshwater fish that is both beautiful and relatively easy to take care of.

The ocellate river stingray is a freshwater fish that is native to the Amazon River Basin. This species is a member of the stingray family and is known for its beautiful spotted pattern. The ocellate river stingray is a popular fish in the aquarium trade and is sought after by many fishkeepers. If you’re thinking about getting one of these fish, you need to read this guide first. In it, you’ll learn everything you need to know about ocellate river stingray care. Table of contents Species overview Appearance Lifespan Size Tank Size Water parameters What To Put In Their Tank Common diseases Behavior & Temperament Tank Mates Breeding Conclusion Species overview The ocellate river stingray (Potamotrygon motoro) is a species of freshwater stingray that’s found throughout a large portion of South America. They inhabit rivers in countries like Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Peru, Suriname, and Venezuela. This stingray prefers slow-moving waters with a lot of sediment and vegetation. Due to their large size, they need a lot of space to move around and are not suited for most home aquariums. Ocellate river stingrays are one of the most popular species of stingrays in the aquarium trade. They are prized for their unique coloration and patterns. Appearance Ocellate river stingrays are one of the more unique looking freshwater fish out there. They have a very distinct diamond-shaped body with large pectoral fins that make up a good portion of their sides. These fins are used for steering and stopping as they make their way through the water. Speaking of water, Ocellate river stingrays are well-adapted to living in rivers with fast-moving currents. The coloration on these fish is very striking. The background color is usually a light brown or beige. This is then dotted with black spots that are arranged in a diamond pattern (hence the name). The spots on the dorsal (top) side of the fish are larger than the spots on the ventral (bottom) side. Males tend to have more distinct and larger spots than females as well. The tail of these stingrays is long, thin, and whiplike. At the very end of the tail, you’ll find a stinger. This stinger is used for self-defense and is venomous. While the venom isn’t deadly to humans, it can still cause a lot of pain. It’s best to avoid getting stung if at all possible! Lifespan The lifespan of an ocellate river stingray in captivity is largely unknown. There are no reports of any ocellate river stingrays living for more than a few years in captivity. In the wild, these fish can live for up to 25 years. However, they are very sensitive to changes in their environment and often do not do well in captivity. Size The ocellate river stingray is a freshwater fish that can grow to be quite large. They have been known to reach lengths of up to 6.6 feet (2 meters) and weigh over 220 pounds (100 kilograms)! Tank Tank Size The recommended minimum tank size for an Ocellate river stingray is 500 gallons. If you’re looking for a freshwater fish that can fit in an average-sized tank, this is not the fish for you. If you want to keep two Ocellate river stingrays in the same tank you’ll want to add at least another 500 gallons to that minimum number if you want them to thrive. Another reason why you need to provide enough space is for the sake of enrichment and comfort. These fish like to roam and will often run gentle but steady laps around your tank. Giving them a little bit of extra space can go a long way in making sure they can comfortably turn around in the tank. Water Parameters The ocellate river stingray is a freshwater species that is found in the rivers and streams of Central and South America. They are a hardy species that can tolerate a wide range of water parameters. However, it is important to maintain consistency to avoid stress and health issues. Here are a few guidelines to help you create a healthy environment for your ocellate river stingray. Water Temperature: 70 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit pH Levels: 6.5 to 7.5 Water Hardness: 4 to 20 dGH Alkalinity Levels: 3 to 8 dKH What To Put In Their Tank The ocellate river stingray is a species of freshwater fish that is native to the Amazon Basin. When it comes to setting up the inside of their tank, there are a few key things that you need to take into consideration. The first is the substrate. These fish love to burrow and will do so frequently. A soft, sandy substrate is ideal since it’s easy for them to move around in and won’t damage their skin. The second is the plants. These fish are not plant-friendly and will uproot or eat anything that you put in their tank. We recommend avoiding plants altogether to prevent any issues. The third is the décor. These fish love to hide and feel safe, so including hiding spots is a must. Driftwood, caves, and rocks are all great choices. Just make sure that any rocks you use are smooth so they don’t scratch the fish. Common Diseases The Ocellate river stingray is a hardy fish that is resistant to most diseases. However, there are a few illnesses that they are susceptible to. The most common disease that these fish get is bacterial infection. This is usually the result of a cut or scrape. The best way to prevent this is to make sure that the environment in their tank is clean and free of any potential hazards. Another disease that these fish can get is parasites. The most common type of parasite that affects stingrays is the gill fluke. This is a small parasite that lives in the gills of the fish and can cause a lot of problems if it’s not dealt with. The best way to prevent parasites is to quarantine new fish before adding them to your tank. This will give you a chance to make sure they don’t have any parasites that could potentially infect your other fish. Behavior & Temperament The ocellate river stingray is a bottom-dweller that is known for its shy and retiring nature. These fish are not aggressive and will usually only attack if they feel threatened. They are a peaceful species that is not known to bother other fish. However, they can be territorial with other stingrays and may fight if they feel their space is being encroached upon. Ocellate river stingrays are not known to be good jumpers, but they can be good swimmers. They will often swim close to the bottom of their tank or hide in the substrate. These fish are shy by nature and can be easily scared. They may try to flee if they feel threatened. As a result, it is important to have a tank that is large enough for them to feel comfortable and safe. Tank Mates Ocellate river stingrays are not easy fish to keep. They’re rare, expensive, and require a very specific setup. As a result, they don’t have a lot of compatible tank mates. These fish need a large tank with plenty of hiding places and a soft, sandy substrate. They’re also sensitive to water quality and need pristine conditions to thrive. Because of all these requirements, the best tank mates for ocellate river stingrays are other ocellate river stingrays. These fish are social creatures and do best in groups. If you’re determined to keep other fish with your ocellate river stingrays, your best bet is to choose species that occupy different parts of the water column. Some compatible fish include: Silver Arowana Fire Eel Green Terror Cichlid Jaguar Cichlid Oscar Cichlid Pleco Breeding For the ocellate river stingray, it is best to set up a tank that is at least 180 gallons in size. The tank should have a sandy bottom and plenty of hiding places. Rocks, driftwood, and plants can all be used to create hiding spots. It is also important to have a good filtration system. Ocellate river stingrays are messy eaters and produce a lot of waste. A canister filter or sump system is best. The water temperature should be kept between 77 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit. The pH should be between 6.5 and 7.5. The water should also be on the softer side, with a hardness of 10 dGH or less. When ready to breed, you will need to add one male and two females to the tank. The female ocellate river stingrays will be larger than the males. To trigger spawning, the water temperature should be increased to 86 degrees Fahrenheit. The male will then start to dig a pit in the sand. Once the pit is completed, the female will lay her eggs in it. The male will then fertilize the eggs. After about two weeks, the eggs will hatch. The fry will be tiny, so they will need to be fed small live foods. Baby brine shrimp or microworms are good options. As they grow, you can start to add larger live foods and then eventually move them onto pellets or flakes. Conclusion The Ocellate River Stingray is an absolutely stunning fish that is sure to turn heads whenever someone sees it. Their unique appearance is only matched by their personality, which is said to be very friendly. They’re also a very hardy fish, so they can withstand a lot of different conditions. The only downside to this fish is that they can get quite large, so you’ll need to make sure you have a tank that can accommodate them. Other than that, we think they make an excellent addition to any aquarium!

The South American lungfish is a freshwater fish that is native to South America. As the name suggests, this fish has lungs and can breathe air. This guide will teach you everything you need to know about South American lungfish care. You’ll learn about their diet, size, lifespan, and more! Table of contents Species overview Appearance Lifespan Size Tank Size Water parameters What To Put In Their Tank Common diseases Behavior & Temperament Tank Mates Breeding Conclusion Species overview South American lungfish (scientific name: Lepidosiren paradoxa) are some of the most interesting fish in the world. They are a type of lungfish that is native to South America, specifically Brazil, Uruguay, and Argentina. Lungfish are a very ancient species of fish that first appeared on Earth over 400 million years ago. They are one of the few fish that have retained the ability to breathe air, and they do so using a primitive lung. In the wild, South American lungfish live in slow-moving rivers and ponds. They are mostly found in the Amazon basin, but they can also be found in the Paraná and Uruguay river basins. South American lungfish are not a very popular choice for the home aquarium, but they are kept by some hobbyists. They are a very unique fish that is sure to interest anyone who sees them. Appearance The first thing you’ll notice about this fish is their large size. They can grow to be over five feet long and weigh over 100 pounds! Their bodies are long and eel-like with a brown or olive green coloration. They have small scales that are tough to see unless you’re looking up close. Running along the middle of their backs is a long fin that extends from their head all the way to the end of their tail. This fin is used for steering and stopping. South American lungfish also have two smaller fins on their sides. These are used for balance and stability while swimming. The most distinctive feature of this fish is their long mouth. It extends past their eyes and is filled with sharp teeth. This species also has a lung that they use to breathe air. This is located behind their head and is used when they’re unable to get to the surface of the water. Lifespan The average lifespan of a South American lungfish is 10 to 20 years. These fish have been known to live for much longer in captivity though. The oldest recorded South American lungfish was over 100 years old when it died! Size South American lungfish can grow to be quite large, reaching lengths of up to 6 feet! However, most captive specimens only grow to be 3-4 feet in length. Tank Tank Size The recommended tank size for South American lungfish is at least 125 gallons. This is a very large fish that needs a lot of room to move around. If you want to keep more than one lungfish in the same tank you’ll need to add at least another 55 gallons for each fish. Water Parameters The South American lungfish is a freshwater fish that is native to the Amazon River basin. They are a hardy fish that can adapt to a wide range of water parameters. However, it is always best to provide them with water that is as close to their natural habitat as possible. The ideal water parameters for South American lungfish are as follows: Water temperature: 72 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit pH levels: 6.5 to 7.5 Water hardness: 4 to 12 dGH Alkalinity Levels: 4-8 dKH What To Put In Their Tank When it comes to the inside of their tank, you don’t need to worry too much about decoration. These fish are content to spend most of their time at the bottom so there’s no need for a lot of fancy stuff. A good substrate to use is sand. This will protect their delicate barbels and allow them to root around without any issues. You can also use gravel, but we recommend going with something on the smaller side. As for plants, you can include whatever you want. These fish don’t tend to bother vegetation, but they might uproot something if they’re feeling frisky. If you want to add some wood to their habitat, that’s fine too. Just make sure it’s fully submerged and free of any chemicals. Other than that, feel free to get creative! These fish are pretty low-maintenance when it comes to their tank setup. Common Diseases South American lungfish are pretty hearty creatures, but that doesn’t mean they can’t get sick. There are a few diseases that these fish are prone to, the most common being ich. Ich is a pretty common disease in freshwater fish, and the South American lungfish is no exception. This disease is caused by a parasite that attaches itself to the fish and begins to feed off of them. The most obvious symptom of ich is the presence of white spots on the fish’s body. If you notice this, it’s important to act quickly. Ich can spread rapidly and kill your fish if it’s left untreated. Other diseases that can affect the South American lungfish include bacterial and fungal infections. These are usually the result of poor water quality and can be quite serious. If you notice any unusual symptoms in your fish, it’s always best to consult a vet. They will be able to give you a diagnosis and recommend a course of treatment. Of course, the best way to prevent these diseases is by maintaining a clean and healthy environment for your fish. This means regular water changes and keeping an eye on water quality. Behavior & Temperament The South American lungfish is a strange creature that has both gills and lungs. It’s an ancient species of fish that has remained relatively unchanged for millions of years. In the wild, these fish are found in stagnant ponds and slow-moving rivers in South America. They’re not very active fish and tend to spend most of their time at the bottom of their environment. In captivity, they behave much in the same way. They’re not very active and prefer to stay in one spot most of the time. The only time you’ll see them moving is when they’re looking for food. They’re not aggressive fish and tend to get along with other peaceful species. Tank Mates The South American lungfish is a popular choice for community tanks. They’re not overly aggressive and can get along with most species. These fish are also peaceful bottom-dwellers. This means that you can add fish that occupy different areas of the water column without any issues. The only thing to watch out for is their size. When fully grown, these fish can reach lengths of over four feet! This means that you’ll need a tank that’s at least six feet long to accommodate them. Other than that, here are some good tank mates for South American lungfish: Angelfish Oscar Cichlid Green Terror Cichlid Convict Cichlid Firemouth Cichlid Jack Dempsey Cichlid Plecostomus Silver Dollar Fish Rainbow Shark Breeding The South American lungfish is a fascinating creature. It’s one of the few fish that can live on land, thanks to its ability to breathe air. It’s also one of the oldest fish species in existence, dating back to the Devonian period. This fish is extremely rare in the wild. As such, very little is known about their breeding habits. In captivity, however, they have been known to breed successfully. The first step is to identify the sexes. Unfortunately, there is no easy way to do this. The best thing to do is to wait until they are ready to breed. The female will develop a thickened area behind the pectoral fins. This is where she will lay her eggs. The next thing you need to do is set up a breeding tank. It should be at least 50 gallons in size. The water should be around 75 degrees Fahrenheit and neutral in pH. You’ll also need to add some plants and hiding places. Once the tank is set up, you can add the lungfish. It’s best to add a single male and two females. The male will chase the females around until he finds a mate. The female will then lay her eggs on a plant leaf or piece of driftwood. The male will fertilize them and then guard the eggs. The eggs will hatch in about two weeks. The fry will be extremely small, so you’ll need to feed them live foods. After a few months, you can start to feed them pellets. Conclusion The South American lungfish is a great addition to any aquarium. They’re hardy, peaceful, and easy to care for, making them a great choice for beginner fish keepers. While they’re not the most exciting fish to look at, they more than make up for it with their personality and charm. If you’re looking for a low-maintenance fish that will be a great addition to your community tank, the South American lungfish is a great choice!

The Spotted lungfish is a stunning freshwater fish that is native to Africa. These fish are not commonly kept as pets, but they are becoming more popular in the aquarium trade. If you are thinking about getting a Spotted lungfish, then you need to read this guide. We will go over everything you need to know about Spotted lungfish care. From diet and tank size, to lifespan and tank mates. Table of contents Species overview Appearance Lifespan Size Tank Size Water parameters What To Put In Their Tank Common diseases Behavior & Temperament Tank Mates Breeding Conclusion Species overview Spotted lungfish (scientific name: Protopterus dolloi) are a type of air-breathing freshwater fish that is native to the Congo River Basin in Africa. They are one of the largest freshwater fish in the world and can grow to be up to 10 feet in length! Spotted lungfish are very unique fish and have a number of features that set them apart from other fish species. For one, they have a pair of lungs in addition to gills, which allows them to survive in water with very low oxygen levels. They are also able to survive out of water for long periods of time by aestivating (burrowing into the mud and essentially going into a state of hibernation). Due to their unique features and large size, spotted lungfish are not a common choice for most aquariums. However, they are popular among fish enthusiasts and are definitely an interesting fish to keep! Appearance The Spotted lungfish is a very large and curious-looking creature. These fish can grow up to 6 feet in length, making them one of the largest freshwater fish in the world. The bodies of these fish are long, slender, and eel-like with a small head. They have a pair of small pectoral fins near their head and a larger dorsal fin further back. Their caudal fin is large and paddle-like, which helps them move through the water. They also have a pair of small pelvic fins near their ventral (belly) side. The most notable feature of the Spotted lungfish is the large “lung” on their ventral side. This is used to help them breathe in low-oxygen environments. The skin of the Spotted lungfish is smooth with a layer of mucus. They are usually a brown, gray, or black color with spots that can be white, yellow, or cream-colored. Lifespan In the wild, the average lifespan of a spotted lungfish is unknown. In captivity, they can live for decades—the oldest recorded spotted lungfish was 56 years old! While their long lifespan is certainly impressive, it’s important to keep in mind that these fish have very specific care requirements. Without the proper environment, they will not thrive (or live nearly as long). Size The average Spotted lungfish size is around 4 feet, but they can grow to be up to 6 feet long! These massive freshwater fish are some of the largest in the world and can weigh up to 100 pounds. Tank Tank Size The recommended minimum tank size for a spotted lungfish is 125 gallons. This is a very large and active fish that needs plenty of room to move around. It’s also a messy fish that produces a lot of waste, so a large and well-filtered tank is a must. Water Parameters Spotted lungfish are a bit more challenging to care for than some of the other fish on this list. They come from Africa and prefer murky, stagnant water with very little flow. This can make things difficult when trying to maintain water quality in the aquarium. It’s important to do regular water changes and to use a good filter. You should also be aware of the potential for parasites. These fish are often wild-caught and may not have been treated for parasites before being imported. It’s always a good idea to treat new fish before adding them to your aquarium. Here are a few guidelines for keeping spotted lungfish healthy and happy. Water temperature: 73 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit pH levels: 6.5 to 7.5 Water hardness: 4 to 15 dGH Alkalinity Levels: 3-8 dKH What To Put In Their Tank Spotted lungfish are not a very demanding species when it comes to the inside of their tank. A lot of the time you’ll see these fish kept in tanks with very little decoration. This is perfectly fine and they will do just fine without a lot of frills. That being said, we still recommend including some basic decorations. Driftwood, rocks, and plants are all great choices. The plants you include don’t need to be anything special. Hornwort, water wisteria, and java moss are all great options. For the substrate, these fish don’t have any specific needs. You can use gravel, sand, or a mix of the two. Just avoid anything too sharp or jagged. Common Diseases Spotted lungfish are a hardy species of fish, but that doesn’t mean they can’t get sick. There are a few diseases that these fish are particularly susceptible to. The most common is Hole in the Head Disease. This disease gets its name from the pits that form in the fish’s skin, usually around the head area. This disease is caused by poor water quality and the presence of activated carbon in the tank. The best way to treat it is to improve the water quality and remove the activated carbon. The other disease that these fish are prone to is Ich. This is a parasites that affects freshwater fish of all kinds, not just lungfish. The most obvious symptom of Ich is the presence of white spots on the body of the fish. If you notice this, it’s important to act fast and consult a vet. There are plenty of other potential diseases that these fish can get, but these are the most common. By keeping a close eye on your fish and maintaining a clean and stable habitat, you can help prevent them from getting sick. Behavior & Temperament Spotted lungfish are not the most active fish in the world. They’re relatively sedentary, only moving when they need to. Even when they do move, it’s not with a lot of urgency. This low activity level is likely due to the fact that they don’t need to move much to get the food they need. In the wild, these fish lie in wait for their prey. When an unsuspecting victim comes by, the lungfish will snatch it up and consume it. This same behavior can be seen in aquariums. Spotted lungfish don’t swim around looking for food. Instead, they remain relatively stationary and wait for food to come to them. They’re not aggressive fish, but they will eat anything that fits in their mouths. This includes smaller fish, so it’s best to keep them with fish that are too large to be considered food. Tank Mates Spotted lungfish are best kept alone or in pairs. They’re not an especially social fish and don’t do well in groups. They can be territorial with their own kind as well. If you do decide to keep more than one, make sure you have a large enough tank. A 125-gallon aquarium is a good starting point. As for other tank mates, there aren’t many options. These fish are large and need a lot of space. They’re also slow-moving, which makes them an easy target for predators. The only other fish that can really work is another lungfish. But even then, you’re pushing it. It’s best to stick with just one or two of these fish in a tank. Breeding The spotted lungfish is a bit of an enigma when it comes to breeding in captivity. There have been reports of success, but it’s still considered to be quite difficult. These fish are very particular when it comes to their spawning environment. They need still water with a high oxygen content. That’s why most breeders use a special chamber that’s connected to an oxygenated tank. The chamber is usually filled with clay pellets. That’s where the female will lay her eggs. After she does that, the male will come in and fertilize them. The eggs will hatch in about two weeks. The fry will spend the next few months in the chamber before they’re large enough to move to a regular tank. Feeding the fry can be a challenge. They need to eat small insects and other invertebrates. Some breeders use a special diet of live foods, while others raise their own insects. Conclusion The Spotted Lungfish is a great fish for the beginning aquarist. They’re relatively hardy, can adapt to a wide range of water conditions, and are relatively peaceful. They are, however, on the large side so you’ll need to have a tank that can accommodate them. Overall, we think the Spotted Lungfish is a great choice for anyone looking for a new fish for their tank.

The West African lungfish is a fascinating and unique freshwater fish that is sure to add intrigue to your aquarium. This species is not for everyone, however, as they require a very specific type of setup and care. But if you’re up for the challenge, these fish can be very rewarding. In this guide, we’ll teach you everything you need to know about West African lungfish care. From tank size and water requirements, to diet and tank mates. Table of contents Species overview Appearance Lifespan Size Tank Size Water parameters What To Put In Their Tank Common diseases Behavior & Temperament Tank Mates Breeding Conclusion Species overview The West African lungfish (scientific name: Protopterus annectens) is a type of fish that’s native to various parts of West Africa. They tend to inhabit shallow water with a lot of vegetation, although they can also be found in deeper water as well. West African lungfish are some of the most unique fish in the world due to their ability to breathe air. They have a lung-like sac that helps them to take in oxygen when they’re not in water. This adaptation is something that’s helped them to survive in their native habitat for millions of years. West African lungfish are also notable for their extremely long lifespan. They can live for over 50 years in captivity! Appearance The first thing you’ll notice about this freshwater fish is their long bodies and fins. They can easily grow to be over 4 feet long in some cases, but the average size is usually around 2-3 feet. Their bodies are very eel-like with a small head and a long tapering tail. The majority of their body is covered in small scales that have a shiny appearance. The dorsal fin on these fish is very long and extends almost the entire length of their body. It starts just behind their head and runs all the way back to their tail. The anal fin is also very long, but it’s not as tall as the dorsal fin. It starts about halfway back on the body and ends just before the tail. The pectoral and pelvic fins are small and located on the sides of the fish near the head. The caudal fin is large and fan-shaped. It’s located on the end of the fish’s tail and helps them to move through the water. West African lungfish have a unique ability to breathe air. They have a long tube-like structure that extends from their mouth to the surface of the water. This allows them to get oxygen from the air when they need it. Lifespan The maximum lifespan of a West African lungfish in captivity is unknown. In the wild, they can live for over 50 years! While we don’t know exactly how long they can live in captivity, we do know that their lifespan is significantly shorter. This is due to a number of factors, including the stress of captivity, poor water quality, and inadequate diets. Even with all of these factors working against them, West African lungfish in captivity can still live for 20 years or more. Size The West African lungfish is the largest freshwater fish in the world, with some individuals reaching over 6 feet in length and weighing over 200 pounds. Tank Tank Size The recommended tank size for a West African lungfish is 500 gallons. This is one of the largest freshwater fish available and it definitely needs a large tank to accommodate its size. While you could technically keep this fish in a smaller tank, it’s not recommended. They need a lot of space to move around and a smaller tank will just stress them out. Water Parameters TheWest African lungfish is a freshwater fish that is native to the rivers and lakes of West Africa. In the wild, they can grow to be over 6 feet long! TheWest African lungfish is a hardy fish that can adapt to a range of water conditions. However, they prefer water that is slightly alkaline with a pH of 7.5-8.5. The water temperature should be kept between 72-82 degrees Fahrenheit. Ammonia and nitrite levels should be kept at 0 ppm. Nitrate levels should be below 20 ppm. Water changes of 20-30% should be done every month. What To Put In Their Tank The first thing you need to do is decide what type of substrate you want to use. This fish is a burrower, so something that won’t collapse on top of them is ideal. We recommend a mixture of sand and gravel. This will give them something to burrow into while also providing a little bit of stability. The next thing you need to consider is what kind of plants you want to put in their tank. These fish are known to eat plants, so you need to be careful about what you choose. We recommend going with something that’s either fake or very tough (like java moss). After that, it’s just a matter of adding some rocks and driftwood to the mix. These fish don’t need much in the way of decoration, so a few pieces should be plenty. Common Diseases While the West African lungfish is a pretty tough fish, there are still a few diseases that you need to be on the lookout for. The most common disease that these fish experience is called “ Hole in the Head Disease”. This is a pretty serious condition that is caused by a parasite called Hexamita. This disease will cause a lesion to form on the fish’s head, and if left untreated it can be fatal. The best way to treat this disease is to use a medication that is specifically designed to kill Hexamita. Another disease that these fish are prone to is “Dropsy”. This is a bacterial infection that causes the fish’s scales to protrude. If left untreated, this disease can also be fatal. The best way to treat Dropsy is to use a broad spectrum antibiotic. You can get these at your local fish store or online. As with any other fish, the best way to prevent these diseases is to maintain a clean and stable environment. A dirty tank is a breeding ground for disease, so make sure to do regular water changes and keep the tank clean. Behavior & Temperament The West African lungfish is a very unique creature. It’s a survivor that has been around for millions of years, and it has the ability to live in water or on land. In the wild, these fish are found in rivers and lakes in Africa. When the water starts to dry up, the lungfish is able to burrow into the mud and aestivate (a state of dormancy) until the rains come and fill up the water again. In captivity, they can live in either freshwater or saltwater environments. They’re not too fussy, as long as the water is clean and there is plenty of food. When it comes to temperament, the West African lungfish is a peaceful creature. It’s not aggressive and will get along with other fish, as long as they’re not too small (the lungfish might see them as food). Tank Mates There are a few things to consider when thinking about what tank mates to put with a West African lungfish. First, these fish are on the larger side. They can reach up to 4 feet in length, so you need to have a tank that can accommodate their size. Secondly, West African lungfish are bottom-dwellers. They prefer to stay near the substrate where they can scavenge for food. This means that you need to choose tank mates that occupy different parts of the water column. Finally, these fish are relatively peaceful. They’re not known for being aggressive, so you don’t need to worry about them harming other fish. With all of that in mind, here are some compatible tank mates for West African lungfish: African cichlids Synodontis catfish Plecostomus catfish Knife fish Electric eels Arowana Bichir Polypterus Breeding The West African lungfish is a species of fish that is native to Africa. It is a member of the family Protopteridae, which contains six other species of lungfish. Lungfish are so named because they have a pair of lungs in addition to gills, which allows them to breathe air. The West African lungfish can grow to be up to six feet in length and can live for over 50 years. Lungfish are not easy to keep in captivity, and they are even harder to breed. In the wild, they live in murky waters with very little oxygen. This makes it difficult to recreate their natural habitat in an aquarium. The best chance of success is to purchase a juvenile lungfish from a breeder. These fish are more likely to acclimate to captivity and are less likely to die. Once you have your lungfish, you need to set up an aquarium that is at least 200 gallons. The water should be kept at a temperature of 75 degrees Fahrenheit and should have a pH of 7.5. The tank should also be equipped with a filter and an air stone. It is also important to provide plenty of hiding places for your lungfish. This can be accomplished with rocks, caves, or plants. The West African lungfish is a carnivore and needs to be fed live food. This includes crickets, worms, and small fish. Lungfish are not easy to breed in captivity. The best chance of success is to purchase a juvenile fish from a breeder. Once you have your lungfish, you need to set up an aquarium that is at least 200 gallons. The water should be kept at a temperature of 75 degrees Fahrenheit and should have a pH of 7.5. The tank should also be equipped with a filter and an air stone. It is also important to provide plenty of hiding places for your lungfish. This can be accomplished with rocks, caves, or plants. The West African lungfish is a carnivore and needs to be fed live food. This includes crickets, worms, and small fish. Conclusion All in all, the West African lungfish is a great fish for the advanced fish keeper. They’re not for everyone, but if you’re up for the challenge then we think you’ll be very pleased with them. They’re unique, interesting fish that will add a lot of character to your tank. Just be sure to do your research before you get one and be prepared for the extra work that comes along with owning one.

The Amazon Puffer is a beautiful freshwater fish that is native to the Amazon Basin. They are a popular choice for many aquarists because of their unique appearance and personality. However, they are also a challenging fish to care for and are not recommended for beginner aquarists. In this guide, we will go over everything you need to know about Amazon Puffer care. We will cover topics such as diet, tank size, tank mates, and more. by the end of this guide, you will be an expert on Amazon Puffer care! Table of contents Species overview Appearance Lifespan Size Tank Size Water parameters What To Put In Their Tank Common diseases Behavior & Temperament Tank Mates Breeding Conclusion Species overview Amazon puffers (scientific name: Tetraodon discoides) are a freshwater fish that’s found in the Amazon Basin in South America. They’re a fairly large fish, reaching up to 18 cm (7 inches) in length. Amazon puffers are also known for being very aggressive, and they’ve been known to attack other fish (and even people!) This fish is a popular choice for aquariums because of its unique appearance. It has a round body with a beak-like mouth, and it can inflate its body to twice its size when it’s threatened. Although they are a popular choice for aquariums, Amazon puffers are not a good choice for beginners. They require a lot of care and attention, and they’re not compatible with most other fish. Appearance The Amazon Puffer is a very unique fish that is sure to stand out in any aquarium. The first thing you’ll notice about this fish is their body shape. They are very stocky and their bodies are almost spherical. They have a very short tail and their fins are very small in comparison to their body. Their dorsal fin is very large and starts about two-thirds of the way back on their body. This fin is almost as tall as their body is wide. The Amazon Puffer has a very large mouth that is filled with sharp teeth. They also have a beak-like structure that is used for crushing their food. Their eyes are very small and are located on the sides of their head. The Amazon Puffer is covered in small, sharp scales. These scales have a very rough texture. This fish is brown or olive green in color. They may also have spots or stripes of other colors. Lifespan In the wild, the Amazon puffer has a lifespan of 3 to 5 years. But in captivity, these fish have been known to live much longer — up to 10 years or more with proper care. A number of factors can contribute to a shortened lifespan in captivity, including poor water quality, stress, and a suboptimal diet. Size The average size of an Amazon puffer is about 4 inches. However, some have been known to grow up to 6 inches. Tank Tank Size The minimum tank size for an Amazon puffer is 30 gallons. If you want to keep more than one pufferfish, you’ll need an additional 10 gallons for each fish. Pufferfish are some of the most interesting (and potentially dangerous) freshwater fish you can keep. They have the ability to inflate their bodies to twice their size when they feel threatened. This is why they need a lot of space; they need room to puff up without injuring themselves or damaging their tank. Water Parameters Amazon puffers are a bit more challenging to keep than some of the other fish on this list. They come from slow-moving rivers and don’t do well with sudden changes in water parameters. You’ll need to take special care to maintain consistent water quality. That includes temperature, pH, and hardness. Amazon puffers are also very sensitive to nitrates. They can’t process them well and high levels can cause health problems. Perform regular water changes and vacuuming to help keep nitrate levels in check. You may also want to consider using a nitrate filter. Here are some basic water parameters to help you create a healthy environment for your pufferfish. Water temperature: 72 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit pH levels: 6.5 to 7.5 Water hardness: 5 to 15 dGH Alkalinity Levels: 2 to 12 dKH What To Put In Their Tank Amazon puffers are a species of fish that come from murky waters. Because of this, they’re not too picky about what you put in their tank. We recommend a substrate of sand or gravel. Something too smooth might irritate their bellies. As for decorations, you can go with live or artificial plants. If you choose live plants, make sure they’re robust enough to handle a puffer’s constant grazing. We also recommend adding some driftwood or rocks to their tank. This gives them places to hide and makes the tank feel more natural. Common Diseases The Amazon puffer is a hardy fish that doesn’t usually succumb to disease. However, there are a few things that you should look out for, just in case. The first is hole-in-the-head disease. This is a condition that is caused by poor water quality and the presence of activated carbon in the tank. It presents itself as one or two pits/holes in the skin of your fish’s head. While it’s almost always curable, it will usually leave some scarring on your poor fish! The other disease you might encounter is ich. This is a very common parasite that can become quite serious if it’s not dealt with. The most obvious sign of this disease is the series of white spots that will begin to cover the body of your fish. There are plenty of other potential diseases that can affect this species as well, but they’re not as common. Another thing to look out for is infection from cuts. The most common cause of this is keeping your Amazon puffer in a tank with a rough substrate (or aggressive species that want to fight). In general, the best way to prevent these fish from getting sick is to maintain the quality of the water in their tank. A tank with clean and stable water conditions always leads to healthier fish who are more resistant to disease. Behavior & Temperament The Amazon puffer is a unique fish with a few quirks. The most notable one is its teeth. These fish have human-like teeth that they use to grind down their food. Besides that, they’re not too different from other fish. They’re social creatures that prefer to be around others, but they can be a bit aggressive. They may nip at the fins of their tank mates or try to eat them. Amazon puffers are also known to be escape artists. They can jump out of the water and onto the floor, so it’s important to have a tight-fitting lid on their tank. These fish are also known to be finicky eaters. They may not eat for days and then gorge themselves. This can cause problems with their health, so it’s important to be aware of their eating habits. Tank Mates Amazon puffers are not recommended for the general community aquarium. These fish have specific dietary and housing needs that can be difficult to accommodate. Additionally, they’re known to be nippy. They have a habit of biting other fish and even their own tank mates. This can lead to serious injury and even death in some cases. For these reasons, it’s best to keep Amazon puffers in a species-only tank. If you must keep them with other fish, consider these compatible species: Congo Tetras Clown Loaches plecos Rope Fish Bichirs Arowanas Breeding Amazon puffers can be bred in captivity, but it’s a difficult process. These fish are very picky about their breeding environment and water conditions. If everything isn’t just right, they may not spawn at all. First, you need to set up a breeding tank. It should hold at least 50 gallons of water. The water temperature should be between 75 and 82 degrees Fahrenheit. The pH should be between 6.5 and 7.5. Next, you need to add some plants. Amazon puffers like to lay their eggs on plants. Java moss is a good option. You can also use live plants, but they may get eaten. Finally, you need to add a few hiding places. Amazon puffers are shy fish. They need places to hide when they’re not breeding. When everything is set up, add one male and two females. The male will chase the females around until they’re ready to spawn. Spawning usually happens at night. The female will lay her eggs on a plant leaf. The male will fertilize them. Then, the female will pick them up in her mouth and carry them to a different plant. She does this to spread the eggs out and increase the chances of survival. After the eggs are laid, the parents will stop paying attention to them. The eggs will hatch in about four days. The fry are very small and need to be fed live food. Baby brine shrimp and daphnia are good options. You can also use a commercial fry food. As they grow, you can slowly start introducing them to other foods. Once they’re big enough, you can move them to a larger tank. Conclusion The Amazon Puffer is a great fish for the beginner aquarist. They’re relatively easy to care for and are very hardy. They’re also a lot of fun to watch as they swim around and explore their tank. If you’re looking for a fish that’s a little bit different and a lot of fun, then we recommend the Amazon Puffer!

The Congo pufferfish is a beautiful freshwater fish that is native to the Congo River basin. They are a popular fish in the aquarium trade and are known for their interesting patterns and colors. Pufferfish are a bit more high maintenance than other freshwater fish, so it’s important to do your research before getting one. In this guide, we will teach you everything you need to know about Congo pufferfish care. You’ll learn about their diet, tank requirements, and more! Table of contents Species overview Appearance Lifespan Size Tank Size Water parameters What To Put In Their Tank Common diseases Behavior & Temperament Tank Mates Breeding Conclusion Species overview The Congo pufferfish (scientific name: Tetraodon miurus) is a freshwater fish that is found in the Congo River basin in Africa. This fish is unique in that it is one of the few freshwater pufferfish species in the world. Most pufferfish are saltwater fish. The Congo pufferfish is a relatively small fish, only growing to be about 4 inches long. It is a brown or olive color with black spots. This fish is not recommended for beginner aquarists because it is a very aggressive fish. It is also not recommended for community tanks because it will likely eat any fish that it can fit into its mouth. Appearance The Congo Pufferfish is a rather large freshwater fish that can reach up to 18 inches (45 cm) in length. They’re a bit on the stocky side and have a rather round shape. The Congo Pufferfish has a very unique coloration. They’re mostly a light brown or tan color with dark brown spots all over their body. These spots are relatively large and tend to be in groups of three. The fins on this fish are also rather unique. Their dorsal fin is rather large and starts almost halfway back on their body. This fin has a dark brown color with light brown spots. The anal fin is also dark brown with light brown spots. This fin is a bit smaller than the dorsal fin and starts closer to the fish’s head. The caudal fin is forked and brown with light brown spots. The pectoral fins are also brown with light brown spots. All of the fins on this fish have a bit of a ragged appearance. Lifespan Congo pufferfish have a lifespan of 3 to 5 years. The Congo pufferfish is a freshwater fish that is native to the Congo River Basin. These fish are known for their unique appearance and their ability to inflate their body when they are threatened. The Congo pufferfish is not a common fish in the aquarium trade, but they are becoming more popular among fishkeepers. Size The Congo pufferfish can reach a maximum size of 18 inches, but the average size is usually closer to 8-10 inches. Tank Tank Size Congo pufferfish need a minimum of 50 gallons but we recommend going as large as you can. A 50-gallon tank is on the small side for these fish and they will likely outgrow it quickly. The extra space will give you a lot more room to work with when it comes to decorating and adding hiding places. It will also give your fish the room it needs to move around and stay active. Water Parameters The water parameters you need to maintain for Congo pufferfish are very generous. This makes them a great freshwater fish for a beginner since there’s a lot of room for error. The most important thing to remember when it comes to their water parameters is consistency. Even though these are very hardy fish, they can be sensitive to sudden changes just like any other freshwater species. Even though they’re still a bit more durable in this regard, you should use this as practice. Challenge yourself to see how consistent you can keep the water parameters and how easily you can make an adjustment if needed. These skills will come in handy with other species you keep in the future! Water Temperature: 75°F to 82°F pH Levels: 7.0 to 8.5 Water Hardness: Moderately hard to very hard Alkalinity Levels: 4-12 dKH What To Put In Their Tank Congo Pufferfish are a freshwater species that’s native to Africa. In the wild, they can be found in rivers and lakes. A lot of people think that because they’re a freshwater fish they can be kept in a standard aquarium. This isn’t the case. These fish get BIG (up to 18 inches) and need a lot of space to swim. We recommend a tank that’s at least 75 gallons for a single Congo Pufferfish. If you want to keep more than one you’re going to need an even bigger tank. The inside of their tank should be pretty straightforward. These fish aren’t fussy when it comes to decorations. We recommend a gravel substrate with some rocks and driftwood thrown in. You can also include some plants if you want, but Congo Pufferfish are known to uproot them so be prepared for some casualties. Common Diseases The most common disease that affects Congo pufferfish is called “Dropsy”. This is a condition where the fish’s body swells up with fluid. The most common symptom of this disease is a fish that looks bloated and has scales that are standing up (due to the swelling). Other symptoms can include lethargy, loss of appetite, and increased respiration. Dropsy is usually caused by poor water quality, so the first thing you need to do if you think your fish has this disease is to test the water and make sure everything is in order. If the water quality is fine, then it’s possible that your fish has a bacterial infection. In this case, you’ll need to take your fish to a vet so they can prescribe the proper medication. As always, the best way to prevent disease is to maintain a clean and healthy environment for your fish. Regular water changes and keeping an eye on water quality will go a long way in keeping your Congo pufferfish healthy and happy. Behavior & Temperament The Congo pufferfish is a unique creature that is both beautiful and deadly. It is one of the most poisonous freshwater fish in the world, so it’s not a good idea to keep them in a community tank. These fish are best kept alone in a species-only tank. They are semi-aggressive and can be a threat to smaller fish. They have been known to eat their tank mates, so it’s best to err on the side of caution. Although they are aggressive, Congo pufferfish are also very intelligent. They are curious creatures that will often investigate their surroundings. They are also known to be escape artists, so it’s important to have a secure lid on their tank. Tank Mates While the congo pufferfish is a popular freshwater aquarium fish, it’s not the easiest to keep. They’re not very tolerant of water conditions and are also known to be a bit nippy. This means that their tank mates have to be carefully chosen. The best tank mates for a congo pufferfish are other fish that can tolerate similar water conditions. Some examples of compatible fish include: Synodontis Catfish Featherfin Knifefish African Knife Fish Upside-down Catfish Bichir Ropefish Arowana Archerfish Breeding The Congo pufferfish is a freshwater species that is native to the Congo river basin. They are a popular aquarium fish due to their unique appearance and personality. Breeding Congo pufferfish is not an easy task. They are a mouth-brooding species, which means that the female carries the eggs in her mouth until they hatch. This makes it difficult to provide the fry with the proper environment and food. The best way to breed Congo pufferfish is to set up a separate breeding tank. The tank should be at least 20 gallons and have a sandy bottom. The water should be clean and well-filtered. Keep the temperature between 76 and 82 degrees Fahrenheit. Adding some plants can help to provide the fry with hiding places and food. Java moss is a good option. When ready, add two males and two females to the breeding tank. The males will chase the females and try to mate with them. The female will lay her eggs in a secluded area of the tank, usually among the plants. Once the eggs have been laid, the female will pick them up in her mouth and carry them around. The male will often follow her and help to protect the fry. The fry will hatch after about two weeks. At this point, they will be too small to eat baby brine shrimp. Instead, you will need to feed them microworms or other live foods. As they grow, you can slowly start to introduce them to baby brine shrimp and other frozen foods. Conclusion The Congo Pufferfish is a great addition to any freshwater aquarium. They’re beautiful fish that are relatively easy to care for as long as you’re aware of their potential size. They can be a bit nippy, so be sure to keep that in mind when choosing tank mates. Other than that, we think they make a great addition to any community tank!

The Mbu Puffer is a freshwater fish that is native to Africa. They are known for their large size and voracious appetite. Mbu Puffers are a popular choice for aquariums because of their unique appearance and personality. However, they are not a fish for beginners. Mbu Puffers require a large tank, a good filtration system, and a lot of patience. This guide will teach you everything you need to know about Mbu Puffer care. Table of contents Species overview Appearance Lifespan Size Tank Size Water parameters What To Put In Their Tank Common diseases Behavior & Temperament Tank Mates Breeding Conclusion Species overview The Mbu puffer (scientific name: Tetraodon mbu) is a freshwater fish that’s native to the Congo River basin in Central Africa. This fish is quite large, reaching up to two feet in length! They are a type of pufferfish, which means they have the ability to inflate their bodies with water (or air) to deter predators. Mbu pufferfish are not a common sight in the aquarium trade, but they are starting to become more popular due to their unique appearance and size. If you’re thinking about getting an Mbu puffer, it’s important to note that they require a very large tank (at least 100 gallons) and should only be kept with other large, non-aggressive fish. Appearance The Mbu Puffer is one of the largest freshwater fish in the world and can reach up to 4 feet in length! Despite their large size, they are very peaceful fish and are often found in community tanks. Mbu Puffers are dark gray or black in color with white spots all over their bodies. They have a large, round body with a very wide mouth. They have small eyes and large fins. The dorsal fin is tall and triangular, while the anal fin is shorter and rounded. The caudal fin is forked and the pectoral fins are large and paddle-shaped. Lifespan The Mbu puffer can live for 20 years or more in captivity with proper care. These fish are very sensitive to water quality and need a well-maintained tank to thrive. They’re also susceptible to stress and need to be kept in a peaceful tank with appropriate tank mates. Size Mbu pufferfish can reach a whopping 24 inches in length, making them one of the largest freshwater aquarium fish available. They are a slow-growing species, however, so it will take several years for them to reach their full size. Tank Tank Size Mbu pufferfish need a lot of space to swim and should ideally be kept in an aquarium of at least 180 gallons. If you don’t have that much space available, you can try keeping them in a 125-gallon tank but they may not do as well in the long run. These fish are also known to be jumpers so it’s important to have a tight-fitting lid on your tank to prevent them from escaping. Water Parameters The Mbu Puffer is a freshwater fish that is found in the Congo River Basin. They are a very large fish, with some specimens reaching up to two feet in length. The Mbu Puffer is a very unique fish with a number of different physical characteristics. They have a large mouth that is filled with sharp teeth, and they also have a very large stomach. The Mbu Puffer is a very aggressive fish, and they are known to attack other fish in the tank. They are also known to be very messy eaters, and they will often leave a large mess in the tank after they have eaten. The Mbu Puffer is a very sensitive fish, and they are very sensitive to changes in water parameters. It is very important to keep the water quality in the tank very high, and to make sure that the water parameters are stable. The Mbu Puffer is a very sensitive fish, and they are very sensitive to changes in water parameters. It is very important to keep the water quality in the tank very high, and to make sure that the water parameters are stable. Water temperature: 72 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit pH levels: 6.5 to 7.5 Water hardness: 5 to 15 dGH Alkalinity Levels: 4-8 dKH What To Put In Their Tank Mbu puffer fish are one of the few freshwater species of pufferfish. They’re also one of the largest, which means they require a pretty big tank. When it comes to setting up their habitat, you have a few different options. You can go with a standard gravel substrate, but we prefer something a little softer. These fish like to dig, and a softer substrate will be easier on their fins. You should also include some plants in their tank. These fish are known to nibble on vegetation, but they generally won’t do too much damage. Hornwort, water wisteria, and Java moss are all great choices. Rocks, driftwood, and caves are all suitable as well. It’s important to avoid going overboard with this since these fish like some room to swim. A classic gravel substrate is always a good choice, but you can do with something soft and sandy if needed too (use other species you keep as a guide with this). Common Diseases The Mbu Puffer is a freshwater fish that is rather hardy and resistant to disease. However, they are not immune to illness and can still fall ill if the water conditions in their tank are not up to par. The most common disease that affects this species is ich. This is a parasitic infection that will present itself as white spots on the body, fins, and gills of your fish. If left untreated, ich can be fatal. However, it is fairly easy to treat if you catch it early. Another disease that can affect the Mbu Puffer is hole-in-the-head disease. This is a condition that is caused by poor water quality and the presence of activated carbon in the tank. It will present itself as pits or holes in the skin on the head of your fish. While it is not usually fatal, it can be quite uncomfortable for your fish and will usually leave some scarring. The best way to prevent your Mbu Puffer from getting sick is to maintain clean and stable water conditions in their tank. A well-maintained tank will lead to healthier fish who are more resistant to disease. Behavior & Temperament The Mbu Puffer is one of the largest freshwater fish in the world, and they have the personality to match their size. They are a top predator in their environment and have been known to attack and eat other fish, even ones that are much larger than them. They are also known to be very aggressive towards other Mbu Puffers. In fact, it’s recommended that you only keep one Mbu Puffer per tank unless you have a very large tank and you’re sure that they will have enough space to avoid each other. Mbu Puffers are also known to be escape artists. They are strong swimmers and can jump out of the water, so it’s important to have a tight-fitting lid on your tank. Overall, Mbu Puffers are not a good choice for a community tank. They are better suited for a single-species tank or a tank with fish that are much larger than them. Tank Mates The Mbu Puffer is a large, aggressive freshwater fish. As a result, they are not compatible with most tank mates. In fact, the only fish that can safely be kept with them are other large, aggressive fish. Some examples of compatible tank mates include: Other Mbunas Peacock Cichlids Flowerhorn Cichlids Oscar Cichlids Green Terror Cichlids Jack Dempsey Cichlids Convict Cichlids Breeding Mbu pufferfish are not easy to breed in captivity. It is estimated that only about 1% of fry survive to adulthood. However, if you are determined to try, there are a few things you can do to improve your chances of success. First, you need to set up a large tank. Mbu puffers can grow to be over a foot long, so you will need at least a 200 gallon tank. The tank should have plenty of hiding places and a sandy bottom. Next, you need to find a group of Mbu puffers. It is best to have at least 6 fish, but more is better. You will need to sex the fish to make sure you have a good ratio of males to females. Once you have your fish, you need to slowly acclimate them to the new tank. This process can take several weeks. During this time, you should feed the fish live food. When the fish are acclimated, you can start to induce spawning. This is done by slowly raising the water temperature over the course of a few days. Once the temperature reaches 86 degrees Fahrenheit, the fish should start to spawn. The female Mbu puffer will lay her eggs on the sandy bottom of the tank. The male will then fertilize them. Once the eggs are fertilized, the female will leave the area and the male will stay to guard the eggs. The eggs will hatch in about 5 days. The fry will be very tiny and will need to be fed live food. After a few weeks, you can start to feed them frozen food. Mbu pufferfish are not easy to breed in captivity, but it is possible with patience and dedication. Conclusion Mbu Pufferfish are one of the most unique and interesting freshwater fish you can keep. They’re not for everyone, but if you’re up for the challenge then we think you’ll be very happy with them. They’re not the easiest fish to take care of, but they’re definitely not the hardest either. With a little bit of research and planning, you should be able to provide them with the care they need to thrive. If you’re looking for a fish that will really stand out in your tank, then the Mbu Pufferfish is definitely worth considering.

The Fahaka Puffer is an absolutely massive freshwater fish that can reach up to two feet in length. This species is definitely not for the faint of heart, and is only recommended for experienced fishkeepers. But if you’re up for the challenge, these fish can be absolutely incredible pets. This guide will teach you everything you need to know about Fahaka Puffer care. You’ll learn about their diet, tank mates, size, and more! Table of contents Species overview Appearance Lifespan Size Tank Size Water parameters What To Put In Their Tank Common diseases Behavior & Temperament Tank Mates Breeding Conclusion Species overview The Fahaka puffer (scientific name: Tetraodon lineatus) is a freshwater fish that’s native to various parts of Africa and the Middle East. They are most commonly found in the Nile River basin but have also been spotted in smaller rivers and streams throughout the region. Fahaka puffers are relatively large fish and can grow up to 18 inches long in some cases. They have a very unique appearance with their long bodies and large mouths. This fish is considered to be semi-aggressive and is not recommended for beginner aquarium hobbyists. They require a lot of care and attention and should only be kept by experienced fishkeepers. Appearance The Fahaka Puffer is a large and in charge freshwater fish. Even when they’re juveniles, these fish are still quite big (reaching up to 18 inches). As they age and mature, they can grow even larger and some specimens have been known to reach 24 inches! Their body is very thick and stocky with a slightly flattened appearance when you look at them from the side. Their dorsal and anal fins are both very large and begin about halfway back on their bodies. Both of these fins are roughly the same size. The caudal fin is also large, but it’s more of a traditional fan shape. The Fahaka Puffer’s tail makes up almost a third of their total length. One of the most unique things about this fish is their teeth. They have 4 large teeth in the front of their mouths that they use for crushing shells (more on that later). These teeth are so big that they actually protrude out of the fish’s mouth when it’s closed! The Fahaka Puffer is covered in small scales that have a rough texture. These scales are very closely spaced and give the fish a sandpaper-like feel. Their coloration is very drab and muted. They’re usually some shade of brown or olive green with a few darker spots. Lifespan The average lifespan of a Fahaka Puffer is around 10 years. However, it’s not uncommon for them to live up to 15 years in captivity. As is the case with most fish, their lifespan will be impacted by the level of care they receive. Things like poor water quality, stress, and a suboptimal diet can all shorten their lifespan. Size Fahaka pufferfish can grow to be pretty big—up to two feet in length! But in the home aquarium, they’re usually much smaller. A full-grown Fahaka puffer will only be about a foot long. Tank Tank Size A single Fahaka puffer needs at least a 75-gallon tank. If you want to keep more than one fish, you will need an additional 55 gallons for each fish. This fish is not for beginners and we only recommend keeping them if you have experience with freshwater fish and a large tank. Water Parameters The Fahaka puffer is a brackish water fish, which means it needs a higher concentration of salt than freshwater fish but not as much as marine fish. The specific gravity, or salinity, of the water should be between 1.005 and 1.010. You can achieve this by adding marine salt to your freshwater aquarium. As for other water parameters, the Fahaka puffer prefers slightly alkaline water with a pH between 7.5 and 8.5. The water hardness should be between 10 and 20 dGH. The water temperature can range from 72 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit. What To Put In Their Tank Fahaka puffers are one of the most interesting (and challenging) fish to keep in the aquarium hobby. One of the most important things to consider when setting up their tank is the substrate. These fish love to dig and will often uproot plants in the process. For this reason, we recommend a soft substrate like sand. This will be more comfortable for them and will help reduce the chances of any injuries. Another important thing to consider is the addition of plenty of hiding spots. Fahaka puffers are shy fish and will often spend a lot of time hiding. Caves, driftwood, and rocks are all great choices. Just make sure that any rocks you use are smooth and won’t damage their skin. Finally, we recommend including some plants in their tank. Not only will this help with water quality, but it will give them another place to hide if needed. Just be aware that they might uproot them from time to time! Common Diseases There are a few diseases that you should be aware of if you’re keeping Fahaka puffers. While these fish are fairly hardy, they are still susceptible to the same illnesses as other freshwater fish. The most common disease that affects these fish is ich. This is a parasite that will attach itself to your fish and begin to feed off of them. The most obvious sign of ich is the presence of white spots on the body of your fish. If left untreated, ich can be fatal. However, it is fairly easy to treat if you catch it early. There are plenty of ich treatment guides online, so we won’t go into detail here. The other disease you need to be aware of is Hole in the Head disease. This is another fairly common disease that can affect a variety of fish species. Hole in the Head disease is caused by a variety of factors, but the most common is poor water quality. This disease will present itself as one or more pits/holes in the skin of your fish. If you notice this, the first thing you should do is improve the water quality in your tank. This is usually all you need to do to treat the disease. Of course, the best way to prevent these diseases is to simply maintain a high-quality environment for your fish. This includes clean water, a stable temperature, and the right diet. If you can provide all of these things, your Fahaka puffer will be much less likely to get sick. Behavior & Temperament The Fahaka puffer is not a fish for everyone. They are one of the most aggressive freshwater fish and have been known to eat other fish, even those that are much larger than them. They are also known to be very territorial and will not hesitate to attack anything that they see as a threat. This fish is not recommended for beginners or anyone that does not have a lot of experience with fish. They are also not recommended for community tanks as they will most likely eat any other fish that they are housed with. The Fahaka puffer is a very active fish and will often swim around the tank for long periods of time. They are also known to be very curious and will often investigate anything new that is introduced into their tank. Overall, the Fahaka puffer is a very aggressive and territorial fish that is not recommended for beginners or community tanks. Tank Mates Fahaka puffers are best kept as solitary fish. They’re not aggressive by nature, but they will eat just about anything that fits in their mouth. This includes fish, invertebrates, and plants. You might be able to get away with keeping them with other fish, but it’s not recommended. The same goes for inverts and plants. Fahaka puffers are better off being the only fish in the tank. This gives them the best chance to thrive and prevents them from accidentally harming (or eating) their tank mates. Breeding The Fahaka puffer is a bit of an enigma when it comes to breeding in captivity. While it’s possible, it’s certainly not easy. These fish have very specific requirements, and even then, there’s no guarantee that they will spawn. The first thing you need is a large tank. We’re talking at least 100 gallons. This is a must. The Fahaka puffer is a large fish, and it needs the extra space to move around. Next, you need to create the perfect water conditions. The pH should be between 7.5 and 8.5. The water hardness should be between 10 and 15 dGH. The temperature should be around 82 degrees Fahrenheit. Now, for the tricky part: you need to find two Fahaka puffers that are ready to breed. This is easier said than done, as these fish don’t reach maturity until they’re around two years old. Even then, not all of them will be ready to spawn. When you do find two ready to breed, put them in the large tank and let them do their thing. The female will lay her eggs in the water, and the male will fertilize them. Once that’s done, you need to remove the adults immediately. They will eat the eggs if given the chance. The eggs will hatch in about three days. When they do, you need to start feeding them immediately. Baby brine shrimp is a good option. Keep in mind that the success rate for breeding Fahaka puffers in captivity is quite low. Even if you do everything right, there’s no guarantee that they will spawn. But if you’re up for the challenge, it can be a rewarding experience. Conclusion Fahaka pufferfish are definitely not for everyone. They’re large, messy, and require a lot of care. However, if you’re up for the challenge, they can make amazing pets. These fish are very intelligent and have a lot of personality. They’re also very beautiful, which is a nice bonus. If you’re thinking about getting a Fahaka puffer, make sure you do your research first. These fish are not for beginners!

The Dwarf Pufferfish is a freshwater fish that is becoming increasingly popular in the aquarium trade. These pufferfish are relatively easy to care for, and make a great addition to any community tank. However, there are a few things you need to know about Dwarf Pufferfish care before you add one to your tank. In this guide, we will go over everything you need to know about Dwarf Pufferfish, from diet and tank mates, to care and breeding. Table of contents Species overview Appearance Lifespan Size Tank Size Water parameters What To Put In Their Tank Common diseases Behavior & Temperament Tank Mates Breeding Conclusion Species overview Dwarf pufferfish (Carinotetraodon travancoricus) are small freshwater fish that are found in Kerala, India. They prefer slow-moving waters with a lot of vegetation, and they are often found in areas with heavy rainfall. Dwarf pufferfish are very popular in the aquarium trade due to their small size and unique appearance. They are also considered to be one of the easier species of pufferfish to care for. One of the most important things to remember when caring for dwarf pufferfish is that they are very sensitive to changes in water quality. This means that you need to be extra diligent in your tank maintenance and water changes. Appearance The first thing you’ll notice about this fish is their unique shape. These fish have a round body that’s very short and stocky. This shape gives them a very cute appearance that’s a big part of their appeal. Their fins are all very small except for their dorsal fin. The dorsal fin is quite tall and triangular in shape. It starts about halfway back on their body and extends almost to the tip of their tail. The pectoral fins on these fish are very small and sit close to their bodies. Their ventral fins are also quite small and sit just behind their pectoral fins. The caudal fin of the Dwarf Pufferfish is also small, but it’s very wide. This gives them a lot of power when swimming in short bursts. The eyes on these fish are very large in comparison to their body size. This gives them excellent vision and they’re very good at spotting potential prey. The mouth of the Dwarf Pufferfish is also quite large. They have a beak-like mouth that’s perfect for crushing the shells of their prey. These fish are covered in small scales that have a unique texture. The scales are very hard and have a rough feel to them. Lifespan Dwarf pufferfish have a lifespan of 3-5 years in captivity, though some have been known to live up to 8 years. Size A Dwarf Pufferfish can grow to be about 1.5 inches in length when fully grown. Tank Tank Size The minimum tank size for a dwarf pufferfish is 5 gallons. This is assuming you’re only keeping one fish and don’t plan on adding any tank mates. If you want to keep more than one pufferfish in the same tank you’ll need to increase the size of the tank accordingly. We recommend adding at least 2 to 3 gallons per additional fish. Water Parameters The ideal pH range for a dwarf pufferfish is between 6.5 and 7.5. The ideal water hardness is between 4 and 8 dGH. The ideal water temperature is between 75 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The most important thing to remember when it comes to their water parameters is consistency. Even though these are very hardy fish, they can be sensitive to sudden changes just like any other freshwater species. Even though they’re still a bit more durable in this regard, you should use this as practice. Challenge yourself to see how consistent you can keep the water parameters and how easily you can make an adjustment if needed. These skills will come in handy with other species you keep in the future! Water Temperature: 75°F to 80°F pH Levels: 6.5 to 7.5 Water Hardness: 4 to 8 dGH Alkalinity Levels: 4-8 dKH What To Put In Their Tank When it comes to setting up the interior of their tank there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind. The first is that these fish like to have a lot of places to hide. This can be in the form of plants, caves, or even just a bunch of rocks arranged in a certain way. The second is that they love to eat. A lot. So you’ll want to make sure there’s plenty of food for them to munch on. And the third is that they’re pretty small, so you don’t need a ton of space for them. When it comes to the substrate, we recommend something soft and sandy. This will be more comfortable for their little bellies and less likely to injure them if they decide to go on a digging spree. As for plants, anything that can rooted in the substrate is a good choice. Just be sure to leave some space for them to swim around! And finally, rocks and caves are a must. Arrange them in a way that provides plenty of hiding spots and you’ll be good to go. Common Diseases Dwarf pufferfish are relatively hardy creatures, but that doesn’t mean they’re immune to disease. Poor water quality is the number one cause of sickness in these fish, so it’s important to keep a close eye on your tank conditions. The most common disease you’ll see in dwarf pufferfish is ich. This is a parasite that manifests as white spots on the body of your fish. It’s important to treat this quickly, as it can be fatal if left untreated. Other common illnesses include infections, fungus, and various parasites. As with ich, it’s important to treat these quickly to give your fish the best chance of recovery. The best way to prevent your dwarf pufferfish from getting sick is to maintain a high quality of water in their tank. Regular water changes and using a good filter will go a long way in keeping your fish healthy and disease-free. Behavior & Temperament Dwarf pufferfish are one of the most popular freshwater aquarium fish for a reason: they’re absolutely adorable. But they’re not just a pretty face. They’re also interesting, unique, and relatively easy to care for. Dwarf pufferfish are known to be a bit feisty. They’re not the most aggressive fish in the world, but they can hold their own against other fish that try to pick on them. They’re not afraid to use their beak-like mouths to take a chunk out of another fish if they feel threatened. However, they can also be very peaceful. It really depends on their personality and the environment they’re in. If they’re in a tank with other fish that leave them alone, they’ll likely be fine. Dwarf pufferfish are also known to be escape artists. They’re good jumpers and can squeeze through small spaces. So, it’s important to have a tight-fitting lid on your tank. Tank Mates When it comes to dwarf pufferfish, there are a few things you need to take into account. First, these fish are known to be aggressive. They’re also known to be escape artists. As a result, their tank mates need to be able to hold their own. That being said, there are a few species that work well. Here are some examples: Mollies Platies Swordtails Guppies Endler’s Livebearers Pygmy Corydoras Otocinclus Catfish Cherry Shrimp Amano Shrimp Breeding Dwarf pufferfish are one of the easier species of pufferfish to breed in captivity. They’re also one of the most rewarding, as they’re quite beautiful fish. The first step is to set up a breeding tank. It should hold at least 10 gallons of water and be heavily planted. Pufferfish like to have a lot of places to hide, so make sure there are plenty of caves and hiding spots. You’ll also need to add a sponge filter. Pufferfish are notorious for getting into trouble, and you don’t want your fry getting sucked into the filter! When ready, add two males and two females to the tank. Pufferfish are polygamous, so each male will mate with both females. The next step is to wait. Pufferfish have a very long gestation period, so it can take up to two months for the eggs to hatch. When they finally do hatch, the fry will be very small. You’ll need to feed them live foods, such as brine shrimp or daphnia. As they grow, you can start to add frozen or freeze-dried foods to their diet. Just make sure to crush them up into small pieces. Pufferfish are notoriously difficult to care for, so make sure you do your research before you decide to breed them. Conclusion Overall, we think that Dwarf Pufferfish are a great addition to any freshwater tank. They’re beautiful fish that are a joy to watch and are relatively easy to care for. Of course, there are some things you need to be aware of before you get one, but we think that’s the case with any fish. If you’re looking for a new fish to add to your tank, we highly recommend the Dwarf Pufferfish!

The Figure 8 Pufferfish is a beautiful and unique freshwater fish that is perfect for the intermediate to experienced fishkeeper. These fish are not for beginners, as they can be quite nippy and need a bit more care than the average tropical fish. But if you’re up for the challenge, a Figure 8 Pufferfish can make a great addition to your aquarium. In this guide, we’ll teach you everything you need to know about Figure 8 Pufferfish care. From tank size and diet, to compatible tank mates and common problems. Table of contents Species overview Appearance Lifespan Size Tank Size Water parameters What To Put In Their Tank Common diseases Behavior & Temperament Tank Mates Breeding Conclusion Species overview Figure 8 pufferfish (scientific name: Tetraodon biocellatus) are found throughout a wide range of Southeast Asia. This includes countries such as Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, and Malaysia. They prefer slow-moving waters with a lot of vegetation. This could be anything from marshes to swamps, and they’re often found in rice paddies. Figure 8 pufferfish are a very popular choice for aquariums because of their unique appearance and personality. They are known to be very curious and active fish, and they can often be seen swimming around the tank exploring their new home. One thing to keep in mind with these fish is that they have the ability to puff up their bodies to almost twice their size when they feel threatened. This is why it’s important to make sure they have plenty of hiding places in their tank and that they are not being bullied by any of their tank mates. Appearance The first thing you’ll notice about this unique freshwater fish is their distinct shape. The body of the Figure 8 Pufferfish is very long and thin. About two-thirds of the way back, their body does a complete loop, giving them the namesake “figure 8” shape. This fish is completely covered in scales that have a very rough texture. The coloration of these fish can be a bit variable. The most common colors you’ll see are brown, tan, and green. You might also see some that have a mottled appearance with spots of different colors. The fins on this fish are very small in comparison to the rest of their body. The dorsal fin is the longest and starts just behind the head. The anal and caudal fins are very short and stubby. The pectoral fins are very small as well and sit just behind the gill plates. One unique feature of the Figure 8 Pufferfish is their eyes. These eyes sit on top of small stalks that can be moved independently from each other. This gives them some very unique expressions and almost makes them look like they’re winking at you! Lifespan The average lifespan of a Figure 8 pufferfish is 5 to 8 years. Once again, there are a number of factors that can influence this number. For example, if the Figure 8 pufferfish is kept in a tank that’s too small then its lifespan will be shortened. These fish also need to have a lot of hiding places and plenty of space to swim around. A diet of live food will also help them live longer since it’s more nutritious than processed pellets or flakes. Size The average Figure 8 pufferfish size is about 2.5 inches, but they can grow to be up to 4 inches long. These fish are one of the smaller species of pufferfish, which is why they are a popular choice for aquariums. Tank Tank Size The minimum tank size for a figure 8 pufferfish is 30 gallons. If you want to keep more than one pufferfish, you will need to increase the size of your tank by at least 10 gallons for each additional fish. Keep in mind that these fish can grow to be up to 6 inches long, so you will need to provide them with plenty of space to swim and explore. Water Parameters As with any fish, the figure 8 pufferfish needs the right water parameters to stay healthy. These parameters are based on the fish’s natural habitat in brackish and fresh water rivers and estuaries in Southeast Asia. In the wild, the figure 8 pufferfish is an opportunistic feeder. That means they’ll eat just about anything they can find. That includes other fish, crustaceans, and small invertebrates. They’re not too picky when it comes to water conditions either. As long as the water is clean and the temperature is consistent, they’ll do just fine. Here are a few parameters to keep in mind when setting up a figure 8 pufferfish tank. Water Temperature: 72 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit pH Levels: 7.0 to 8.5 Water Hardness: 5 to 25 dGH Alkalinity Levels: 3-10 dKH What To Put In Their Tank First off, these fish are notorious for being messy eaters. They will often leave behind uneaten food, which can quickly foul up the inside of your tank. For this reason, we recommend using a gravel substrate instead of sand. The gravel will help to catch and collect any uneaten bits of food before they have a chance to decompose. Another important aspect of their tank is the inclusion of plenty of hiding places. These fish are shy and reclusive by nature and will often seek out places to hide when they feel threatened. Caves, driftwood, and plants are all great choices for providing them with some security. Just make sure that any openings are large enough for them to fit through easily. Finally, these fish are known to be fin nippers. If you’re keeping them with other fish then you’ll need to provide plenty of space for everyone to coexist peacefully. A good rule of thumb is to have at least 10 gallons of tank space per fish. Common Diseases Figure 8 pufferfish are actually pretty hardy fish and don’t get sick often. However, when they do get sick it’s usually because of something that could have been prevented. The most common disease that affects these fish is freshwater Ich. This is a parasite that can quickly kill your fish if it’s not treated properly. The most obvious symptom of Ich is the presence of small white spots on the body of your fish. If you notice this, it’s important to act quickly and begin treatment immediately. Another disease that affects these fish is “Dropsy”. This is a disease that causes the fish to bloat up and fill with fluid. It’s usually caused by poor water quality and is often fatal. The best way to prevent these diseases is to maintain a clean and stable tank. These fish are rather sensitive to changes in water quality, so it’s important to keep a close eye on things. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, it’s always best to consult your veterinarian. They will be able to help you diagnose and treat the problem. Behavior & Temperament The figure 8 pufferfish is a unique creature both in terms of appearance and behavior. These fish are interesting to watch and can be relatively easy to care for, as long as you’re prepared to deal with their specific needs. One of the most notable things about the figure 8 pufferfish is their diet. These fish are carnivores and need a protein-rich diet to stay healthy. That means they’ll need live food, such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and other small insects. In terms of behavior, figure 8 pufferfish are relatively active. They’re constantly swimming around the tank and exploring their environment. They’re also known to be one of the more aggressive pufferfish species. They may nip at the fins of other fish and can be territorial. Tank Mates The figure 8 pufferfish is a unique creature. It’s not like other freshwater fish because it has the ability to change its salinity. In the wild, these fish are found in brackish water. This is water that’s between freshwater and saltwater. As a result, the figure 8 pufferfish is pretty adaptable. It can live in both freshwater and saltwater tanks. The figure 8 pufferfish is also a brackish water fish. This means that it does best in water that’s between freshwater and saltwater. The figure 8 pufferfish is a unique creature. It’s not like other freshwater fish because it has the ability to change its salinity. In the wild, these fish are found in brackish water. This is water that’s between freshwater and saltwater. As a result, the figure 8 pufferfish is pretty adaptable. It can live in both freshwater and saltwater tanks. The figure 8 pufferfish is also a brackish water fish. This means that it does best in water that’s between freshwater and saltwater. The figure 8 pufferfish is a unique creature. It’s not like other freshwater fish because it has the ability to change its salinity. In the wild, these fish are found in brackish water. This is water that’s between freshwater and saltwater. As a result, the figure 8 pufferfish is pretty adaptable. It can live in both freshwater and saltwater tanks. The figure 8 pufferfish is also a brackish water fish. This means that it does best in water that’s between freshwater and saltwater. The figure 8 pufferfish is a unique creature. It’s not like other freshwater fish because it has the ability to change its salinity. In the wild, these fish are found in brackish water. This is water that’s between freshwater and saltwater. As a result, the figure 8 pufferfish is pretty adaptable. It can live in both freshwater and saltwater tanks. The figure 8 pufferfish is also a brackish water fish. This means that it does best in water that’s between freshwater and saltwater. Breeding Figure 8 pufferfish are one of the easier fish to breed in captivity. They’re not picky about their habitat and will readily breed in most tanks. The first thing you need to do is set up a breeding tank. It should hold at least 20 gallons of water. Then, add some plants and other decorations. It’s important to give the fish plenty of places to hide. Next, you need to adjust the water conditions. The pH should be between 7.5 and 8.5. The temperature should be between 77 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit. When everything is ready, add two females for every male. The males will start to chase the females around until they’re ready to spawn. When spawning begins, the female will lay her egg...