Page 30 - Encyclopedia of Aquarium and Pond Fish, 3rd Edition

28 INTRODUCTION TO FRESHWATER FISH

FISH MIXES
If you opt to keep large fish, one or two
individuals of the same species will be
enough to create a visual impact in the tank.
Some smaller species—especially shoaling
fish—also look their eye-catching best when
kept in a single-species group (far right).
Alternatively, fish may be mixed together in
a community aquarium (right). This may be
themed—perhaps a collection of fish from
a particular part of the world or that share
the same water chemistry requirements.

Breeding and longevity easier to breed than egg-laying species. With a little
Keeping fish is fun and brings great rewards, but breeding experience, more challenging species can be taken on—even
them in the home gives remarkable insights into their those with a reputation for being reluctant to spawn in
behavior and biology. Watching a fish build a nest from captivity or those in which reproduction is little documented.
bubbles, for example, or a cichlid protecting its young is both Alongside the reproductive potential of a fish, it is worth
fascinating and educational—especially for young children. considering its life span before buying. Adult guppies are
Breeding fish for sale can also generate a little income to help notoriously short-lived, for example, and are likely to live only
support your hobby and offset some of the additional costs of for a few months after purchase. Most tropical species live
breeding tanks and other necessary equipment. for about two to four years in the aquarium (although some
If breeding fish is a priority, bear in mind that some species catfish may live for well over a decade), which is longer than
will reproduce in aquariums far more readily than others. In they would survive in the wild. As a general guide, larger fish
general, livebearers, such as guppies (see pp.165–167), are tend to have a longer life span than smaller species.

SHOWING FISH
A number of tropical fish, such as guppies and discus (pictured
below), have been selectively bred to accentuate their attractive
characteristics, such as their color, patterning, and, in some cases,
fin shape and size. Many breeders exhibit their fish, and judging
standards have been set up for the most popular varieties, just as
they have for breeds of dogs and cats.

The Chocolate Gourami
is a fish with a reputation
for being hard to keep,
because it is susceptible
to disease. It poses a
worthy challenge to more
experienced fishkeepers.

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