24 PRINCIPLES OF THE AQUARIUM. 



CHAPTER III. 



PRINCIPLES OF THE AQUARIUM. 



THERE can be no question that portable fresh-water 

 and marine aquaria may become sources of endless 

 amusement and instruction ; and at the same time be 

 so constructed as to ornament the rooms in which 

 they are placed. Fresh-water aquaria especially, 

 may be arranged so as to add to the usual cheerful 

 aspect of our English homes. The sight of the moving 

 objects, and of the green water-plants covering and 

 shooting above the surface of the water is undoubtedly 

 cheering. Invalids, or people of sedentary habits, who 

 are much confined within doors, might find com- 

 fort and enjoyment from keeping an aquarium. The 

 antics of its little inhabitants, and the little care 

 required to keep this miniature world in a healthy 

 condition, will draw off their attention from many 

 an hour of suffering or care, and unconsciously 

 develop a love for God's creatures. To children, 

 aquarium keeping may be the means of imperceptibly 

 teaching those feelings of humanity towards the 

 lower animals which have hitherto been too much 

 neglected. The " hunting instinct " is strong in most 



