Nestled in the clear waters of Inlé Lake, Myanmar, the Celestichthys erythromicron or commonly known as Emerald Dwarf Rasbora is a small but vibrant tropical fish. It belongs to the order of Cypriniformes and the family of Cyprinidae. The species' name "erythromicron", eloquently defines its physical appearance – derived from Greek words for small and red.
This visually captivating species finds its origin in Lake Inlé, a unique ecosystem known for crystal clear, shallow waters teeming with diverse plant life. Celestichthys erythromicron thrives amidst dense aquatic plant growth, taking shelter within the labyrinth of floating islands in the lake.
Celestichthys erythromicron reaches a maximum size of about 0.8 inches (2 cm) and showcases a beautiful palette of colors. Male members of the species often exhibit more vibrant colors and a reddish-orange tinge on the fins compared to females.
To mimic the natural habitat of the Emerald Dwarf Rasbora, a well-maintained 10-gallon tank with plenty of aquatic plants, hiding spots, and dark substrate is recommended. Providing them with space outfitted with rocks, driftwood, and floating vegetation not only enhances their comfort but also brings their natural habitat to life. The waterparameters should be kept within the following range: 22 to 26°C temperature, pH 6.0 to 7.5, and soft to moderately hard.
As omnivorous fish, Emerald Dwarf Rasboras enjoy a diet of high-quality pellets and flakes along with small live or frozen foods. Their natural diet comprises small invertebrates, algae, and zooplankton. Supplying a varied menu replicates their natural feeding habits, promotes vitality, and enhances coloration.
The Celestichthys erythromicron, recognized as a shoaling species, thrives best in groups of six or more. They tend to exhibit peaceful behavior, compatible with other small, non-aggressive fish from the similar geographical area. Regular water changes of roughly 20-30% and constant monitoring of water quality and stability ensure their sustained well-being.
These egg-scattering spawners do not showcase any notable parental care. For breeding them in a controlled setup, providing fine-leaved plants or mesh spawning mop for egg attachment can be ideal. Breeding specifics may vary depending on individual conditions.
Previously classified under the Danio genus, they are now grouped under Celestichthys, a part of the danionin group noted for their unique body patterns. The evolution of this species is believed to have happened through the process of miniaturization, a common trait among Cyprinid species residing in nutrient-deficient, still, or slow-moving waters like Lake Inlé. The redefinition of the Danio genus led to the reclassification of certain species under fresh genera like Celestichthys and Brachydanio.
The Celestichthys erythromicron is marketed under various captivating names like 'Emerald Dwarf Rasbora', 'Emerald Dwarf Danio', and 'Thick Band Purple Zebra Danio', showcasing its diverse physical traits.
There are a variety of specialized aquarium stores and online platforms offering Emerald Dwarf Rasboras. Certain online providers like The Shrimp Farm even promise live arrival guarantee for shipped fish.
The Cuban Cichlid, or Nandopsis tetracanthus, is a striking specimen loved for its pointed snout and light-dark coloration. Found in western Cuba's brackish and freshwater bodies, these large, aggressive fish have grown in popularity due to the internet. However, their demand requires potential hobbyists to have a nuanced understanding and experience with their care.
These aggressive creatures, often reaching up to 10 inches in length, require a tank at least 100 gallons in size to thrive. Known for their lifespan of 9-12 years in captivity, the Cuban Cichlid often baffles aquarists with its sexual dimorphism, where the male and female can be distinguished by their dorsal fin coloration.
Tailor-made tank conditions really determine how well this Cuban beauty thrives. Ensuring your tank mimics their natural habitat with a water temperature range of 75.2-86 degrees Fahrenheit, and proper pH levels proves crucial in their well-being.
The diet of Cuban Cichlids includes a balanced mix of pellet food, flake food, baby brine shrimp, and blackworms.
Despite their robust nature, Cuban Cichlids are susceptible to certain diseases such as Ich and Hole in the Head, which often result from improper care.
Known for their aggressive nature, these fish usually fare best in species-only aquariums. However, certain resilient tank mates can sometimes coexist. Yet, this often proves tricky as their aggressive nature can lead to animosity against conspecifics or other cichlids, even when pair-bonds are formed.
Although breeding these fish can present a challenge, the reward remains high. Substrate spawners with thriving broods, breeders will need to carefully care for the fry until they reach juvenile size. Cross-breeding efforts have even resulted in a super red Cuban Cichlid, an attractive hybrid that many aficionados aspire to possess.
Anubias aquarium plants prove to be a versatile and aesthetic addition to your Cuban Cichlid's tank. Being able to survive in low light conditions and attach themselves to surfaces such as rocks, wood, or the tank background, they are ideal for providing the natural hiding spots that Cuban Cichlids love.
Keeping your Cuban Cichlid healthy during the shipping process is of utmost priority. Specialists in the field offer premium next-day air shipping services at flat rates. Notable packaging efforts consider factors like livestock size, as Cuban Cichlids, especially the more mature ones, require plenty of space. A minimum order requirement based on location is often implemented as well.
The Cuban Cichlid’s striking look, interesting behavior, and relatively easy care requirements make it a popular choice for aquarium enthusiasts. But it's crucial that hobbyists and breeders understand their unique needs and the commitment it takes to ensure the well-being of these impressive fish.
Commonly known as the Potato Puffer or the Congo Pufferfish, Tetraodon miurus captivates audiences with its wide spectrum of colors and unique, potato-like shape. Another defining attribute of this fascinating fish is its pointed mouth, which faces upwards, a strategic adaptation that makes catching prey remarkably easy.
This beautifully peculiar species is native to the Congo Basin and its accompanying tributaries. Tetraodon miurus thrives in clear, fast-flowing waters with elevated oxygen levels. A prototypical home for this fish is laden with plenty of hiding spots and a substrate of sandy nature, promoting this species' natural behavior of burying itself in the sand.
The Potato Pufferfish is an ambush predator, meticulously camouflaged, lying in wait for its next unsuspecting victim. Aside from its masterful stealth, these creatures are known for their permeating aggression towards other fish, making them more suitable for a solitary lifestyle in aquarium settings.
Tetraodon miurus requires a specific aquarium setup to ensure their health and longevity. Key elements include a sandy substrate, a tank large enough to facilitate their size (2" in size), and well-oxygenated water. Provide wooden and plant shelters in the tank for hiding, ensuring a minimum tank footprint of at least 60cm x 40cm.
Specific water parameters are crucial to the Potato Puffer's wellbeing. As a fish known for its sensitive nature, maintenance of pH, temperature, and nutrient levels must be consistent. Aim to keep nitrate levels below 15ppm to ensure optimal health of the Puffer. High levels of biological and mechanical filtration are also mandatory owing to their high waste output. Regular water changes should be conducted to maintain water quality.
Potato Puffers require a diverse diet similar to their natural feeding habits. Offer your Puffer a combination of fish, shrimp, insects, and other foods, including gut-loaded earthworms or insects, and Repashy Grub Pie. Avoid using live feeder fish due to the potential for introducing pathogens and to prevent nutritional deficiencies.
Introducing prepared foods to a Puffer who is used to live feeds can be challenging. Begin by offering live-earthworms before gradually introducing other food items such as insects and frozen-thawed fish.
Although their lifespan varies, with ideal conditions and proper care, Congo Puffers can live for several years. Regular monitoring of their health and behavior, good water quality, and a suitable diet can help ensure your Puffer lives a long, healthy life.
The Danio erythromicron, popularly known as the Emerald Dwarf Rasbora, is a species of cyprinid fish endemic to Inle Lake in Myanmar - a location characterized by clear, shallow, neutral to slightly alkaline water with lush vegetation. With their unique golden to pinkish body color, blue vertical stripes, red fins, and a maximum size of 0.8 inches, they are indeed a sight to behold in any community aquarium. This post aims to provide a comprehensive guide on how to care for this extraordinary species.
Renowned for their peaceful nature, Emerald Dwarf Rasboras thrive in groups, ideally of at least six individuals, making them a valuable addition to a community tank. Compatibility extends to other small, non-aggressive fish species such as Tetras, Livebearers, Dwarf Cichlids, Catfish, and Loaches. This community setting further enhances the natural behavior of the species, displaying a sense of security that smaller tank setups may not always afford. However, caution should be exercised against including aggressive or fin-nipping tankmates, as the Danio erythromicron is a friendly, non-confrontational species.
An aquarium of at least 10-gallon capacity duly furnished with a fine-gravel or sand substrate becomes an ideal dwelling place for these inhabitants. Decorating with ample live plants, floating vegetation, driftwood, and rocks not only replicates their natural habitat but also provides necessary hiding spots. The water parameters play a crucial role in keeping this species healthy – a temperature between 72°F and 79°F, pH balance of 6.0 to 7.5, and specific water hardness ought to be maintained.
Regular water changes are instrumental in ensuring stable water conditions. Monitoring water parameters and making necessary adjustments ensures the sustainability of the habitat, preempts diseases, and promotes overall health. Do remember, managing water quality is paramount as the species is rather adaptable to aquascape choices.
Emerald Dwarf Rasboras are proudly omnivorous, surviving on a diet of high-quality flakes, pellets, and small live/ frozen foods. A mix of these foods ensures a balanced intake of nutrients. A change in their feeding behavior or appetite could be signaling a potential health issue and calls for immediate attention.
Breeding of this species may vary and sometimes warrant specific conditions for successful reproduction. The use of fine-leaved plants or a mesh spawning mop for egg attachment is highly suggested. Post-spawning, it is usual for the eggs to hatch within 72 hours and for the fry to start swimming actively by day three or four. However, breeding in a community tank could pose a risk of the eggs being eaten, making a separate breeding tank a safer option.
Providing a well-planted tank with hiding spots and open swimming areas, maintaining stable water conditions, and providing a balanced diet largely sum up the crucial care requirements of the Emerald Dwarf Rasboras. While the tips in this guide provide a general overview, remember that individual fish may exhibit unique behaviors and preferences that might necessitate specific care attention. Hence, continuous observation and necessary adjustments are crucial in ensuring their wellbeing.
Cuban Cichlids or Nandopsis tetracanthus, often known as Biajaca, are endemic to Cuba. Possessing a unique blend of a whitish base with scattered gray/black spots and stripes, this visually striking species can grow up to a substantial 10 inches in length. They largely resemble Jaguar cichlids during their baby stage, making it pivotal for owners to avoid confusion between the two types.
For this species, housing them in a minimum tank size of 55 gallons is crucial to ensure their wellbeing. Notably, due to their size and specific needs, especially in terms of packing and space, larger Cuban Cichlids may not qualify for standard flat-rate shipping. As such, air cargo delivery is a recommended alternative.
Cuban Cichlids thrive best in water with a pH ranging between 6.0 - 7.2 and a temperature between 75.2 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit. Ensuring that ammonia, nitrite levels are at 0ppm, and nitrates remain below 30ppm is also critical.
As omnivores, Cuban Cichlids will eat most frozen and prepared foods. A high-protein diet is especially beneficial for their health. With their carnivorous nature, they often indulge in feeding on Tetra cichlid sticks and API's cichlid pellets.
Reaching formidable lengths of up to 9 inches as adults, the life span primarily varies depending on care conditions and environmental factors. Fruitful longevity can be expected under optimal conditions.
Despite being considered relatively hardy, Cuban Cichlids can fall prey to common cichlid diseases. Thus, understanding potential health issues – and their prescribed remedies – is essential to mitigating stress and introducing timely treatments.
Cuban Cichlids are characterized by their aggressive behavior, often leading to territorial disputes. Their aggression varies, with some being friendly than other Central American cichlids, while others are just the opposite.
Due to their dominant personality, Cuban Cichlids are recommended to breed in a species-only atmosphere. However, they could be paired with larger catfish/plecos or other large Central American cichlids.
This substrate-spawning breed tends to be protective parents. They lay eggs on a flat surface in the aquarium, and the fry are typically fed newly hatched brine shrimp until they mature. The couple usually cares for their fry until they're ready to spawn again.
The shipping price does not usually fall within flat rates due to their extensive size and unique packaging needs. It is thus more feasible to opt for air cargo. It's also noteworthy that shipping rates may differ based on region types.
They increase the overall aesthetics of the Cuban Cichlid's habitat, fostering a lively atmosphere for the cichlids and their owners alike. The right selection of plants, like Java fern, plays a pivotal role in providing necessary hiding places and territorial boundaries for them.
As they can be attached to rocks or wood pieces or planted next to these items, Anubias plants make a prime choice for decorating Cuban Cichlid tanks. These plants can also create a natural look and camouflage unsightly parts of the tank.
Undoubtedly, the magnificence of Cuban Cichlids add charm and life to your aquariums. Despite the challenges they bring due to their demanding size and partial aggression, the experience of owning them is nonetheless rewarding with a promise of vibrant coloration and unforgettable antics.
The Tetradon Miurus, affectionately known as the Potato Puffer or Congo Puffer, is a distinctive freshwater puffer species distinguished by its potato-like shape and upward-pointing mouth. It is a prevalent choice among the "odd-ball" aquarists due to its unique abilities and traits.
Endemic to Africa's Congo Basin, this freshwater dweller thrives in clear, fast-flowing waters with high oxygen levels. These specific environmental conditions contribute to their unique behavior patterns and revealing their various color adaptations.
One of the most fascinating traits of the Potato Puffer is its mastery of camouflage. It is capable of shifting its colors depending on its mood and surroundings. Furthermore, this species has an aggressive nature and is regarded as an ambush predator, providing another reason besides their potent toxin for their solitary lifestyle.
While the T.miurus is fascinating, it requires special care and attention when keeping it in captivity.
Aquarium for T.miurus should have specific conditions to mimic its natural environment—highly oxygenated water with medium to strong currents, and a sufficient amount of hiding spaces. It is advisable to provide a sand substrate of at least 5 centimeters depth to allow their typical wallowing behavior and give them ample cover.
The recommended tank volume is approximately 72 liters with a minimum footprint of 60 cm by 40 cm, and a height of at least 30 cm. The tank's water parameters should maintain a pH between 6.5-7.5, a temperature of 25-26.5°C, and nitrate level below 15 ppm, among others.
It's important to keep in mind the predatory nature of T.miurus when deciding tankmates. It's generally recommended that the Potato Puffer be kept as a solitary specimen to prevent any unfavorable aggressive encounters.
Feeding the Potato Puffer can be a meticulous task due to their particular series of dietary needs.
A balanced variety of foods like fish meat, shrimp, crustaceans, worms, and insects form a crucial part of their diet. That being said, it is essential to be cautious of thiaminase, an enzyme found in several fish, which can potentially lead to vitamin deficiencies in puffers. Also, live feeder fish are not advised due to the risk of transmitting harmful pathogens.
Generally, the Potato Puffer is a picky eater, and it may take some time for them to accept new foods. One useful trick is to initiate a weaning process by slowly introducing frozen-thawed foods using forceps.
Detailed and conscientious care is the secret to ensuring a healthy life for the Potato Puffer.
With proper care and under ideal conditions, the Potato Puffer can live up to 10 years. They are an unexpected commitment, given their lifespan and specialized care needs.
Considering the fish's waste production, proper filtration and regular water changes are imperatively necessary. Unsurprisingly, the Potato Puffer is a high-maintenance pet. It requires vigilant water quality management and an immaculate tank environment for their well-being.
In conclusion, the Tetraodon miurus, or the Potato Puffer, is a magnificent yet demanding pet, requiring substantial attention and care level. While the journey of caring for the fish can at times be intense, the reward of witnessing their unique behaviors and colorations amidst a faithfully recreated home habitat can indeed make it all worthwhile.
The Boraras brigittae, also known as the Mosquito Rasbora, is a small specie of ray-finned fish, widely admired for its striking appearance and fascinating behaviors. Native to the swamps of South West Borneo, Indonesia, this species exhibits vibrant red bodies with black stripes and a translucent caudal fin, making it a jewel of the freshwater world.
When it comes to names, the genus Boraras is an anagram of Rasbora communicating the switched ratio of abdominal and caudal vertebrae in this genus, while the species name, brigittae, draws its origin from the wife of the author who officially described the species.
Nestled under the Order Cypriniformes and the Family Cyprinidae, Boraras brigittae find its siblings within six other species, all unique and captivating in their own right.
This miniature wonder is mainly found in blackwater streams and ponds, specifically in the parts of southwestern Borneo related to ancient forest peat swamps of Indonesia. The waters of this habitat, often tinted brown by dissolving organic matter, provide a soft, acidic environment with dimmed lighting that the Mosquito Rasbora thrives in. While the Rasboras have carved out a living in these specific conditions, the balance is delicate and under constant threat from human activities.
Considering their small size, reaching only 15-20mm as adults, Boraras brigittae can do well in a tank with base measurements of at least 45 * 30 cm. Such an environment should be densely planted, mimicking their natural habitat with floating plants, driftwood, and a gentle filtration system to avoid creating too strong of a current.
The ideal water parameters for these fragile beauties range from a temperature of 20-28°C, pH levels of 4.0-7.0, and a hardness of 18-179 ppm.
Functioning as micropredators, these creatures have an omnivorous diet, favoring small invertebrates and plant matter for their main meals. Aquarists recommend a variety of live, frozen, and dried foods for a balanced nutritional intake.
Despite their small size and timid nature, the Mosquito Rasbora is peaceful and prefer to live in groups, preferably of 8-10 individuals. They do well with other smaller, passive species and freshwater shrimp, but their small size can make them less suitable for a standard-sized community tank.
These lovely specimens are egg-scattering, continuously spawning fish with little to no parental care. For controlled breeding, a separate tank with specified water conditions is recommended.
The miniature size of Boraras brigittae is not a coincidence but an evidence of their evolution in slow or still waters known in the Cyprinidae family. This miniaturization is common and gives them an interesting edge in the world of fishkeeping.
Termed as Chili Rasboras for their vibrant red bodies, these fish can temporarily lose their hues when moved to a new tank but regain their colors upon adjustment. With a maximum size of ¾ inches, these slender-bodied fish make for stunning additions to low-bioload tanks.
Small, floating or slow-sinking foods from the middle of the water column serve as their ideal meals. Breeding requires a mature aquarium, use of live plants, and plastic mesh to protect the eggs from adult preying. Adequate feeding of the fry is essential for their survival and growth.
In conclusion, whether you are an experienced aquarist or a novice, Mosquito or Chili Rasboras can make a vibrant addition to your tank. But it is essential to remember their fragile nature and specific requirements that will not merely make them survive but thrive with all their vivacity.
Building a substantial aquarium, particularly one as sizeable as a 180P or 650-liter aquarium, necessitates meticulous planning and forethought. Unlike their smaller counterparts, these larger tanks require an increased amount of hardscape, soil, plants, and filtration mechanisms, all of which must be planned and arranged with precision to ensure that the aquarium thrives.
Aquascaping is the strategic process of designing an aquarium layout that mirrors the beauty and serenity found in nature. This process necessitates a delicate balance of open valleys and Zen-style design elements, all of which contribute to the overall peace and aesthetic appeal of the environment. Over time, aquarists often develop a keen eye for detail, using hardscape and plant placement to subtly guide the viewer's eye towards the focal point of the aquarium.
Base layer fertilizing substrate, such as ADA Aqua Soil Amazonia, serves a dual function within the aquarium. First, it provides essential nutrients for plant roots and second, it offers a secondary form of biological filtration. This substrate, fortified with organic acids and multi-vitamins, can help in supporting the growth of aquatic plants.
Technology has offered exciting advancements for the field of aquascaping. The introduction of equipment such as the Eheim Professional 5e 700 filter and electronic UV filter has revolutionized how aquarists maintain the health and stability of their tanks. These tools allow for enhanced control over flow, UV filtration, and CO2 levels, thereby making it easier to manage the more intricate aspects of maintaining a large-scale aquarium.
Mimicking the natural environment is a central principle in aquascaping. By fostering an environment comparable to those found in the wild, aquarists are not only able to create visually stunning aquatic ecosystems but also provide natural and comfortable habitats for the fish.
Adding final details and plants to an existing aquarium layout involves collaboration and creativity. As an example, an upcoming planting session with Viktor will highlight the importance of teamwork and innovation in developing a visually appealing aquascape.
Driftwood is critical in creating natural-looking aquascapes. Varied types like Malaysian, Mopani, and American driftwoods, each with their unique properties and textures, can be utilized to suit different aquascape designs. Properly cleaned and prepped driftwood helps maintain a healthy pH balance in the tank. Its placement needs careful planning to create a balanced look when coupled with rocks and other hardscaping materials.
For aquatic flora and fauna enthusiasts, joining a platform where they can connect, interact, discuss, and showcase their passion is a valuable resource. Such platforms offer a unique opportunity for members to share their aquascaping experiences, seek advice, and present their planted tanks, making the whole hobby a lot more enjoyable and beneficial.
It comes as no surprise that anyone who has reared fish or aquatic flora has faced brown or silica algae issues. Often spotted in new aquariums, it brings about an unpleasant look despite not posing any harm to fish. Brown algae, or diatoms, are unicellular organisms that can thrive independently or develop colonies within the aquarium environment. The unique opal-like crystalline cover formed by diatoms around their cell wall gives them the much-needed protection. But what sparks the sudden growth of these algae in your aquarium and how can you handle it? Let's dive deeper.
Brown Algae is caused by diatoms which can be traced back to excess silica or nitrate in the water. The culprits behind this tend to be tap water or substrate with high levels of nitrate or silica. An abundance of nutrients in new tanks might also be a contributing factor. That's why new tanks tend to exhibit brown algae growth, a phenomenon often linked to the tank's maturation cycle which normally spans four to six weeks.
Diatoms are interesting microorganisms. They can naturally be found in freshwater and saltwater environments, utilize silica in the water for cell wall strengthening, and require light to grow. These creatures are particularly dominant in new aquarium setups that have high nitrate, phosphate, or silicate levels. Stagnant water and poor water quality could also trigger diatom growth habits leading to brown algae formation.
While brown algae pose no direct harm to fish, shrimp, or snails, they can be detrimental to aquatic plants. The algae may block plant access to light, thus hampering their photosynthesis process. The algae can also coat tank walls, decorations, and substrate, creating an unappealing look.
Eliminating brown algae from your aquarium calls for meticulous cleaning of your tank surfaces and vacuuming the gravel. In freshwater aquariums, the introduction of algae-eating fish could be a practical solution. You can also resort to manual methods such as scraping, brushing, or siphoning off the algae.
Preventing future appearances of brown algae in your aquarium largely depends on your cleaning prowess and ability to keep up with regular maintenance. Additional measures such as increasing lighting, feeding fish less, increasing water flow, adding more aquatic plants, and maintaining proper water chemistry can be impactful.
The ultimate strategy to combat and prevent brown algae lies in understanding the causes and acting appropriately. Consider adding scavengers, using phosphate and silicate removers, or filter your water with a reverse osmosis unit. Remember not to be discouraged by brown algae growth and instead employ these practical tips to control and prevent its presence in your aquarium.
The Dutch Aquarium Aquascape dates back to the 1930s in the Netherlands and has stood the test of time, cementing its place as one of the most popular aquascaping styles till today. At the heart of this style is a focus on displaying a thriving assortment of aquatic plant life, intertwined in visually striking arrangements. Additionally, this aquascape style employs specific rules and techniques for a unique and precise aesthetic result.
The Dutch-Style Aquascape forgoes the use of traditional hardscape materials such as rocks and driftwood in favor of a lush underwater garden. The primary design techniques include terracing, high-density plant demographics, color contrast, and the strategic incorporation of focal points with large or red plants.
Plant species used in this style come with diverse aesthetics. A popular choice includes a variety of stem plants, low-growing species like the Saurus cernuus and Lobelia cardinalis, and larger aquatic varieties like the Hygrofilia corymbosa and Limnophila aquatica.
Strategic planning in Dutch-style aquascaping involves careful selection of plant species based on factors like tank size, lighting, nutrient, and CO2 dosing. Plants are categorized into foreground, midground, and background, with a vibrant plant serving as a focal point, ensuring a well-balanced layout.
Not to be left out of the captivating Dutch Aquarium setup are schools of native fish species. They complement the array of aquatic flora, and large schools of such species as Congo tetras or Angelfish are often kept in these aquaria.
Creating an effective Dutch Aquarium requires the right equipment. Standard lighting, filtration systems, CO² addition, substrate systems, and regular fertilization are integral parts of this setup. These requirements may seem complex at first but prove vital for maintaining a healthy and visually appealing aquarium.
Discipline in maintaining the Dutch Aquarium includes performing frequent plant trimming and daily tasks such as regularly adding liquid fertilizer and checking tank parameters. Weekly maintenance includes cleaning the aquarium glass and filters. This regular upkeep ensures a balanced ecosystem within the tank and an aesthetic appeal that lasts.
Several key factors are considered when judging a Dutch Aquarium in a contest. These include the health of aquatic plants and fish, water parameters, plant selection and layout, and fish selection and compatibility. Other factors that play a part include general design, initial planning of substrate, planting layout, and equipment setup.
Important techniques in Dutch Aquarium include creating strong contrast between groups of plants and leaving room for a clear distinction between plant grouping. Variation in plant heights, leaf size, and leaf shape contributes to the visually appealing outcome in the Dutch Aquascape and can influence contest outcomes.
Emphasizing lush plant growth, Dutch style aquascaping creates a vibrant and dense underwater landscape that captivates viewers with its complexity and aesthetic appeal. It is a combination of deliberate plant selection, regular maintenance, careful planning, and adherence to traditional rules and techniques that help aquarists achieve this unique style. Once mastered, the Dutch style can transform any aquarium into a thriving piece of living art, providing both a stunning visual spectacle and a rewarding hobby.
Commonly known as Boraras Petch Noi, Boraras Thai, or Boraras Red Micros, the Strawberry Rasbora (Boraras naevus) is a stunning nano fish, renowned for its ruby red coloration and petite size. This species originates from the swampy locales north of Surat Thani, Thailand and is recognized by the distinguishing large black spot in the center of its body.
Strawberry Rasboras showcase an easily noticeable shoaling behavior. They are peaceful in nature and occupy the top and middle levels of the water column in the aquatic setting. Their compatibility with other small, peaceful aquatic life forms makes them suitable tankmates for Dwarf Shrimp and other large, peaceful invertebrates.
These fish are relatively small, with an estimated size at shipping of 0.5-0.75 inches. Males display a bright ruby red coloration, especially during breeding periods. This differentiates them from the Chili Rasbora which lacks the same intensity of red coloration. It's key to understand that each Strawberry Rasbora can display variable color and shape based on factors such as sex, age, or catch location.
In the natural habitat, Strawberry Rasboras are found in swampy locations in southern Thailand which are usually laden with driftwood and thick vegetation. Recreating this environment is necessary for the well-being of these fishes. A mature and well-established aquarium with concealed spaces, ample greenery, and gentle water movement provides a conducive environment for these nano fishes.
Water quality is foremost for these delicate beauties. They do not tolerate elevated nitrates or significant swings in water chemistry. Careful acclimatization is necessary when introducing them to a new tank. The fish thrive best in a water temperature range of 20-28 °C, pH level between 5.0-7.0, and Hardness ranging between 18-179 ppm.
Strawberry Rasboras are carnivorous by diet. While they are readily accepting of high-quality dried fish food, a carnivorous diet consisting of Tubifex or bloodworms, microworms, and freeze-dried Artemia is most satisying for them. Their small mouth size requires nanosized pellets or crushed flakes, and occasional supplementation with baby brine and microworms is suggested for good health.
These fishes are continuous breeders that lay small numbers of eggs each day in densely planted aquaria. To promote breeding, a conducive environment with small frozen foods such as baby brine shrimp, mini-bloodworms, and crushed flake or micropellets is required. A separate breeding tank is recommended where conditions suitable for the tiny fry can be created.
Strawberry Rasboras are primarily sourced through importers and wholesalers, with prices starting at $7.99. It is suggested to plan orders in multiples of the pack size to avoid potential cancellation due to supply disruptions.
In addition to offering a 100% Live Arrival Guarantee, several online retailers limit shipping to domestic locations and avoid weekends to ensure the safety of the fish. Processing times may vary between 1 to 3 working days.
Hopefully, this guide has provided you with a comprehensive understanding of the vibrant Strawberry Rasbora. If you have kept this beautiful species in your own home aquarium, please share your experience in the comments below. Doing so will not only enrich this guide but also help prospective aquarists in their decision-making.
Commonly known as Dwarf Baby Tears or HC, Hemianthus Callitrichoides takes the trophy as one of the tiniest aquarium plants out there. Scarcely clocking in at millimetre-sized, its round leaves set a scenic stage that nestles just above the gravel — a gleaming green landscape that adds a pop of colour to any aquarium. This dainty plant, native to Cuba, is also one of the most attractive foreground plants, popular among small aquarium keepers.
The courting of this petite plant requires careful handling and specific conditions. Required for this tiny gem to bloom are enough light, an abundance of CO2, ideal water circulation, and a healthy serving of fertilizer. Misstep on these stipulations and you may find your HC struggling to keep up, with its vibrant carpet fading into oblivion.
If keeping up with the precise needs of Hemianthus callitrichoides seems a bit too daunting, you might consider the Micranthemum ‘Monte-Carlo’. Also a foreground plant, this slightly less demanding alternative can provide much of the same effervescence that HC does, even when the conditions are a little less than perfect.
When it comes to planting your HC, proceed with a measured hand. Small clumps, spaced a few centimetres apart, will allow the plant to spread rapidly, carpeting the bottom of your aquarium in no time. Overhead, small pearls, or bubbles of oxygen generated by the plant, bob on the water surface, adding a subtle vivacity to the landscape.
While regular trimming will keep your carpet looking fresh, doing so also ensures that the lower parts of the plant receive enough light. This is crucial in preventing root death. The ideal cultivation temperature for an HC Cuba plant is below 26 degrees Celsius. Any fluctuations could lead to impediments in the growth of the plant.
This tiny but mighty plant can trace its roots back to Cuba, where it was first collected west of Havana. The plant grows faster than its alternative, the Monte Carlo, but requires more frequent trimming. Tissue culture HC can be sensitive to ammonia/raw new aquasoils, so it's recommended to pre-cycle the tank before planting.
Whether you're a seasoned aquarium enthusiast or a newcomer to the aquatic plant world, the Hemianthus Callitrichoides is a plant that will not disappoint. Its bright green carpet can transform your aquarium into a lush paradise that mimics nature. Though it may require special attention and regular maintenance, the end result will be a natural masterpiece that brings you joy every time you look at your aquarium.
