SEMI-NATURAL REPRODUCTION Semi-natural reproduction can be carried out with those fish which normally live in groups and do not form stable pairs, such as the Characins. A group of ten can be inserted into a rearing tank adjusted to their requirements and left to reproduce. There are then two possible scenarios: - the adult fish […]
CARING FOR THE PARENTS Successful reproduction depends on the good health of the reproducing fish, and to achieve this they have to remain undisturbed, and therefore isolated, in a rearing tank. Their feeding is especially important, as the quality of the eggs, and above all that of the vitellin, depends on it. Fresh food, particularly […]
This is normally modest in size, as it is used to isolate a pair of reproducing fish and their future offspring. There is no need for a bed, except for some species (the Cichlasomas, for example). A rearing tank must be heated but only moderately filtered. Avoid any systems which may “swallow” the eggs and […]
Most fish kept by aquarists are oviparous (egg-layers), but there are some exceptions - viviparous fish (or livebearers). A varied and rich diet enables fish to accumulate reserves of proteins and lipids, which help them form eggs and spermatozoa. This is the maturing phase. When the female’s ovary swells, she is ready to lay eggs. […]
A hard-boiled egg yolk is added to water in a glass. This forms microparticles which are then sieved. This nutritious liquid is then given to the fry, taking care not to put too much into the tank, as it is always important to minimize pollution. Egg yolk, rich in proteins and lipids, can be used […]
Infusorians These are microscopic, unicellular animals, easy to produce in fresh water. They are usually present in small numbers in an aquarium. Riccia, a surface plant, gives them a chance to grow, as they find food (organicmatter) on its leaves. They can also be produced by leaving a piece of potato, a lettuce leaf, or […]
BREEDING BRINE SHRIMPS The dry eggs (known as cysts) are available in aquarium supply stores. They must be kept away from light and moisture. In order to make them hatch, salt water must be prepared with the following characteristics: temperature 25 C, salinity 35%, i.e. a specific gravity of 1.023. The salt water can be […]
When they are healthy and well adjusted to captivity, fish eat at a regular time and become accustomed to the spot where the food is given out. It is advisable to divide the daily ration into two parts - one in the morning and one in the evening, for example. The end of the day […]
Either fry or small fish can be used to feed marine fish doubtful about artificial food, or large freshwater fish. With this in mind, some aquarists breed prolific species that reproduce easily (Poeciliids, for example). Other live prey (larger than 1 cm) Keeping and breeding worms or insect larvae is also possible, though it sometimes […]
In fact, these are not worms but the aquatic larvae of various species of nonbiting mosquitoes. They are also commonly used as bait in fishing. Although it is sometimes thought that they live in mud, they are actually found in the water of areas that are well endowed with organic matter. It is useless trying […]