102 GOLDFISH VAKIETIES AND 



TROPICAL AQUARIA 



General Conditions, Where one has limited space and wishes for 

 a variety of fishes, it will be found that many of the tropical varieties now 

 available will do admirably. Most of them stand close quarters, thriving 

 in aquaria which are nothing more than quart jars. Some of the fishes 

 are of such belligerent disposition that they must be kept alone, and in 

 these cases it is well that they will stand cramped quarters. Larger 

 aquaria with divisions for separating the different species are a conveni- 

 ence, especially if artificial heating has to be resorted to. 



The question of space, however, is not the chief point in favor of 

 tropical fishes. It is the endless variety of habit, structure and coloring, 

 opening as it continually does new avenues for personal study and observa- 

 tion. Some idea of the variation in breeding habits alone is contained on 

 pages 92 to 98. 



Feeding. The majority of tropical fishes are not heavy feeders like 

 goldfishes and there is not great danger of overfeeding. Care should of 

 course be taken to leave no unconsumed food in the water. When they 

 are warm and comfortable they may be fed twice daily, although this is 

 not essential. 



The proper types of food are shown on pages 84 to 9L Those indi- 

 cated as "omniverous" may be fed the same as goldfishes, see page 128. 

 An exclusive diet of dried shrimp agrees with most tropical fishes, but 

 some variation is better. In summer they should have some daphnia, and 

 in winter, enchytrae, see page 136. 



Heating, The majority of tropical species thrive in temperatures 

 ranging from 65° to 80° F. Nearly all will do well at 70°. For short 

 periods they will stand temperatures below that at which they will thrive, 

 and it is very probable that after a few generations in our climate they 

 become accustomed to cooler water. When fishes are new and rare it is 

 emphatically a mistake to experiment on seeing how low a temperature 

 they will stand. That should be left for a later period after breeding has 

 been accomplished and a stock secured. Tight-fitting glass covers should 

 be provided for all tropical aquaria. This helps keep the temperature up 

 and prevents the fish from leaping out. Forgetfulness of replacing covers 

 has caused the loss of many prized fishes. They will not suffocate if glass 

 is down close. 



