NATIVE AQUARIUM FISHES 153 



THE SILVERFIN 



Notropis analostanus 



Of all the native fishes tried in the aquarium by the writer the Sil- 

 verfin stands out as one of the most satisfactory. For aquarium pur- 

 poses the male fish should be selected. The ends of their fins are of a 

 whitish, satiny color from May till September. Darting around in the 

 aquarium, their sleek bodies overcast with a pale steel-blue, and sides laced 

 with black-edged scales, they make a most attractive appearance. Two 

 of them will often indulge in what appears to be a game of tag, during 

 which they will chase each other around a short circle, producing the effect 

 of a pinwheel. 



A 50-gallon aquarium, with plenty of open space, containing about 

 ten adult male Silverfins is most fascinating. 



They may be caught in the open reaches of the fresh tidal portion 

 of the Delaware as well as its upland tributaries. 



Silverfins have been kept in aquaria for several years, but unusual 

 care should be exercised to cover with a screen to prevent their leap- 

 ing out. 



They are very hardy, tame, and will eat any prepared food. Harm- 

 less to other fishes. 



THE DARTERS 



With few exceptions the Darters have no swimming bladders and 

 are therefore heavier than water. They move along the bottom in jerky 

 motions somewhat like hopping. When in reach of their prey they make 

 a short leap. Although this seems to be short of the mark they always 

 succeed in getting what they go after. One would imagine them to have 

 a long tongue like a frog, moving with the same invisible rapidity. The 

 action is of course accomplished by suction. 



There is something quaint and droll about the Darters. Although 

 to the unscientific eye they look nothing like perches, nevertheless they 

 are classified with that family. They have occasionally been bred in the 

 aquarium. Spawning occurs among stones. The parents have not been 

 observed to protect eggs or young. The majority of them cannot stand 

 warm water. 



The Rainbow Darter Esteoma coerulea is probably the most bril- 

 liantly colored of our native fishes, being barred with red, blue, orange 

 and green in most striking fashion. On account of its brilliant coloring 

 it is known as the Soldier Fish. It occurs in shallow streams of the Mis- 

 sissippi Valley. Darters are extremely fond of daphnia or very small 

 worms, but may become trained to taking shreds of raw meat, shrimp or 

 fish. They can be kept best in cool water and are well worth the effort 



