Chapter Seven 



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Native Fisnes 



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NATIVE AQUARIUM FISHES 



It seems to be human nature, especially in America, to assume 

 that the best things come from distant lands — the more distant, the 

 better. In this search for the rare and interesting we are apt to over- 

 look excellent material close at hand. We have many handsome na- 

 tive fishes admirably adapted to aquarium purposes. They are easily 

 managed, tenacious of life, varied in habits and easily tamed. Those 

 who have made collections of our own fishes have found much pleas- 

 ure in this form of aquarium hobby. 



COLLECTING WILD FISHES 



There are pleasures connected with the stocking of a wild-fish 

 aquarium which are unknown to those interested only in goldfishes. The 

 actual contact with Nature, the study of the fishes in their native habitat, 

 the ever-present possibility of finding something new, the companionship 

 and health afforded on outings are some of the pleasant assets of the 

 collector. For this work two kinds of nets should be provided. 



These- consist of a minnow seine and a large landing net of small 

 mesh, fitted with a sectional rod. The seine should be operated by 

 two persons. A pole is used at each end of the net, the sinker and 

 float lines being attached at their respective points. The bottom 

 line should be carried well in front of the top, and while a steady 

 forward motion is necessary, it should not be rapid enough to cause 

 the float line to sink. When working over grassy areas it is a help 

 to have a pole attached to the centre of the lower line, this to be 

 operated by a third man, the idea being to keep the sinker line close 

 to the bottom. Seines of this type are adaptable to streams from 10 

 to 20 feet wide and to any larger body of water having a gently 

 sloping shore of firm quality and without too many obstacles. If 

 the haul can be ended at a natural recession or "gut" in the bank it 

 will prevent the loss of some fishes. 



