Black Neon Tetra Similar to the Neon Tetra in name, but a completely different species. As a schooling fish it does best when housed in groups of five or more of the same species in a tank. As this fish is a mid to top level swimmer, it will not eat food off of the bottom of the tank. The Black Neon Tetra is also similar to the Neon Tetra as it does best in established tanks. Black Neon Tetra – Living EnvironmentThese fish will remain in the open in a stunning display as long as there is a large amount of swimming space as well as a variety of hiding places. This species will look best in a tank with dark substrate and less intense lighting.
Filed under Tropical Fish by on Jul 11th, 2009. Comment. 
Red Wag SwordtailThe most active of the common livebearers, swordtails hold their own with other community fish. With colors including marigold, red, green, black, neon, and pineapple, swordtails are a welcome addition to almost any community tank. The green coloration is closest to the original swordtails, as the other colorations and patterns occur through breeding. Males have the long “sword” extending from the bottom of their tails. A well-planted tank with plenty of swimming space is ideal.
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Fire EelThe Fire Eel is not a true eel, but an elongated freshwater fish with spines. It is dark brown in color with a lighter belly and several red stripes along the body. As the Fire Eel is a burrowing fish a fine gravel substrate is ideal. This particular fish is best kept as the only Fire Eel in the tank with other larger fish. As with any long slender fish, a tight aquarium lid is recommended to prevent escape.
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Albino Tiger BarbBarbs are a hardy and active schooling fish with stunning coloration and distinct personalities that are recommended for the more advanced beginning aquarists. This active fish is best kept in schools of five or more, preferably with odd numbers to prevent pairing. A well planted tank with plenty of swimming space and slightly acidic soft water is ideal. Tiger Barbs tend to nip at the fins of larger, slower moving fish. However, extremely territorial and aggressive fish (such as African and New World Cichlids) are not recommended as tankmates.
Filed under Tropical Fish by on Jun 14th, 2009. Comment.
The Violet Crowntail Betta features an exotic and unusual coloration among Betta splendens. In addition, the Violet Crowntail Betta has impressive fringed fins that dramatically accent the highly desirable and appealing violet coloration. The “Crowntail” variety is notable for its deeply scalloped fins. The rays extend beyond the webbing of the fins, creating “peaks and valleys” for a striking crown-like effect.
The Violet Crowntail Betta shares the same care requirements as other Betta splendens varieties. As such, only one male Betta should be kept in an aquarium. However, the smaller, shorter-finned females may be housed together with caution. If kept in a community aquarium, the Violet Crowntail Betta should be housed with peaceful fish that will not nip at the Betta’s glorious, flowing fins.
An ideal environment for the Violet Crowntail Betta is a well-filtered aquarium that maintains a stable temperature between 75° and 86°F. Though other varieties of Bettas are often sold in small bowls in department stores, for the best care, the Violet Crowntail Betta should be kept singly in aquariums of at least 3 gallons. The Violet Crowntail Betta also prefers a variety of hiding places amongst the foliage of freshwater plants.
For breeding purposes, male and female Violet Crowntail Bettas can be temporarily housed together. Once the female lays the eggs, the eggs are placed inside a bubble nest and tended by the male Betta. Fry appear in about 24 hours and must be fed very small food initially, such as crushed or powdered flakes and newly hatched brine shrimp. Fry will also accept finely chopped hard-boiled egg yolk.
The Violet Crowntail Betta is a carnivore and its diet should consist of a quality flake food, pelleted Betta diet, frozen or freeze-dried bloodworms and brine shrimp.
Filed under Tropical Fish by on Jul 24th, 2008. Comment.
