THE CARE OF HOME AQUARIA 



23 



YOUNG LONG-EARED SUNFISH IN A BALANCED AQUARIUM. 



Smaller specimens of native sunfishes make as attractive aquarium pets 

 as could be desired and are easily kept. Note variety g'iven 



by two kinds of plants. 



vnW not have to be moved frequently. Fishes are sensitive to 

 vibrations in the water and jarring or moving the aquarium 

 frightens and disturbs the inhabitants. It should not be placed 

 too near a radiator, and if it is near a window it should be care- 

 fully guarded from draughts in cold weather. North windows 

 are the most suitable, since sufficient light is afforded for the 

 growth of the plants, and the direct rays of the sun, which tend 

 to heat up the water and to over-stimulate the plant growth, will 

 be avoided. If the southern exposure is the only one available, 

 the tank may be placed farther from the window or it may be 

 shaded from the strong sunlight by a small screen of cheesecloth 

 stretched upon a light frame. 



Too much light is not good for the plants, yet they must 

 have enough for starch-making or they will not thrive. At the 

 New York Aquarium small aquaria have been kept for years in 

 a satisfactory condition of balance, though situated under sky- 

 lights where the direct rays of the sun never strike them. 



PLANTING THE AQUARIUM. 



This is an important proceeding, as upon the successful 

 establishment of the plant growth depends the aeration of the 

 standing aquarium and consequently the health of the animals. 



