Page 76 - Encyclopedia of Aquarium and Pond Fish, 3rd Edition

74 FRESHWATER FISH DIRECTORY

CYPRINIDS

The cyprinid family is the largest single grouping
of freshwater fish. It includes not only popular
tropical aquarium fish but also their
coldwater counterparts, notably goldfish
(Carassius auratus) and koi (Cyprinus
carpio). The majority of those kept in
tropical aquariums have a strong shoaling instinct
and are best kept in groups. Since a number of the
most widely kept species are bred commercially
on a large scale, color and fin variants occur,
some of which have been developed
into distinct ornamental strains.

The classification of cyprinids is still changing. The Narrow-
Wedge Harlequin used to be called Rasbora espei, but in
1999 its scientific name was changed to Trigonostigma espei.

Balantiocheilos melanopterus Crossocheilus oblongus Epalzeorhynchos kalopterus
Tri-Color Shark Siamese Flying Fox Flying Fox

ORIGINS Southeast Asia, occurring in Thailand, the ORIGINS Southeast Asia, occurring in Thailand and the ORIGINS From northern India and Thailand to parts of
Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, and Borneo. Malay Peninsula. Indonesia, including Sumatra and Borneo.
SIZE 12 in (30 cm). SIZE 5 ⁄2 in (14 cm). SIZE 6 in (15 cm).
1
DIET Live foods and flake. DIET Algae and live foods. DIET Algae and live foods.
WATER Temperature 72–77°F (22–25°C); soft (50 mg/l) WATER Temperature 72–77°F (22–25°C); soft (50 mg/l) WATER Temperature 72–77°F (22–25°C); soft (50 mg/l)
and acidic (pH 6.0–6.5). and acidic (pH 6.0–6.5). and acidic (pH 6.0–6.5).
TEMPERAMENT Relatively peaceful. TEMPERAMENT Relatively peaceful. TEMPERAMENT Relatively peaceful.
A silvery body and a deeply forked yellowish The Flying Fox has a body pattern very similar to
caudal fin edged with black help to identify Tri- Broad base its Siamese relative. It, too, feeds on algae, nibbling
to dorsal fin
Color Sharks. These active fish are fast swimmers algal growth from rocks with its low-slung mouth.
and good jumpers, so they need to be caught Flying Foxes require a range of other foods to
with care. As they grow, the females can be supplement the algae in their diet, with worms
recognized by the rounder shape of their being especially favored. The sleek body shape
underparts. Breeding requires more space than reflects the fact that these fish are strong
is available in the typical home aquarium. Large swimmers that naturally inhabit fast-flowing water.
Tri-Color Sharks may prey on smaller companions. Torpedo-shaped body They often become more territorial with age.
The Siamese Flying Fox has a broad, dark line
along its body. It can be distinguished from the
Flying Fox (see right) by its clear fins and the fact
that it has just one set of barbels. There is no
obvious way of sexing individuals. These fish
are highly valued because they keep algal growth
under control but do not damage aquarium
plants. They need well-oxygenated water and
often rest close to the bottom.

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