THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE BERMUDA FRY

May 2013
ISSUE 177
FREE
See who is the 2013 BAP Winner Turn to
page 7
THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE BERMUDA FRY-ANGLE AQUARIUM SOCIETY
uda’s
Berm
1Source
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for your Aquatic needs
• Huge Variety of Tropical Fish
• Wide selection of Aquariums, equipment
essentials, filters, tank decorations,fish foods
and dry goods.
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equipment including,
pumps, uv’s filters, liners,
and all essential items to
build and maintain a pond,
not to mention the Fish.
Everything you need
under one roof.
Whether you are a long time fish hobbyist
or just starting out the knowledgeable
and helpful staff of Noah’s Ark can give
you the advice you need.
Your Reliable Animal Care Specialist
You and your pets are our
#1 responsibility!
Come by and see us.
Mon-Fri 9:30am-6:00pm • Sat 8:30-6:00pm
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FISHTALES
3
P O D I U M
The Home Show held in April continues to be one of the Club’s most anticipated
events of the year (see page 5 for the article on the Home Show). Last year’s winners must
have been deserving of being awarded the top honors because visiting speaker and Home Show judge Kris
Weinhold also felt that they were number one in their respective category.
Kris’ April 19th talk on the basic methods for designing, planting, and maintaining an aquascape was very
informative and enlightening. Also of note at the April meeting was the joining of three members. Sinder Daniels’
membership bolsters the number of younger fish enthusiasts within the Club; David Gibbons decided to rejoin
after first coming to the Club a few years ago; and Dervin Wright who was a member during the beginning years
of the Club turned back the hands of time and rejoined after a long hiatus.
With no speaker scheduled for May, Vice-President David organized a combined social gathering and
consignment auction at Peter Marsh’s home to allow members a chance to off-load excess and unused items
or buy items at a good price.
With this year being the 25th anniversary of the Club, a huge charity fish auction has been planned for June 8th
at the Aquarium. The proceeds of the fish auction will be distributed among fish related conservation projects
and research funds. With three major sources donating fish for this auction, I can guarantee you that there will
be species of fish that haven’t been seen in Bermuda for some time, are hard to obtain in Bermuda or have
never been seen in Bermuda before. There will be a lot of fish! And with that volume of fish, there might be quite
a few deals to be had. The auction will be opened up to non-members for a $10 entry fee or for $20 become
a member of the Club. Non-members interested in attending the June meeting/auction can contact any of the
Executive for more information.
Prior to the auction getting underway, Club friend and favorite Rusty Wessel will give a talk on “Fishes of Maya”
that will showcase the area the Maya inhabited thousands of years ago from Southern Mexico, Guatemala
and Western Honduras. Rusty’s talks are always captivating and very informative, and with an auction as well,
June’s meeting/auction is not one that you dare miss!
So the welcome mat is extended. It would be great to see members old and new, as well as anyone interested
in seeing what all the fuss is about or who just wants a chance to get a few rare gems (fish).
BERMUDA FRY-ANGLE AQUARIUM SOCIETY
4
FISHTALES
IN THIS ISSUE
THE TEN BEST REASONS
TO JOIN!
Expand your knowledge about
tropical fish keeping.
2. Meet & share experiences with
other hobbyists.
3. Auctions!
4. Annual Tropical Fish Show
5. Visiting speakers on a variety of
aquarium related topics.
6. Receive a monthly issue of Fish
Tales the Society’s newsletter, in
the mail.
7. Special events throughout the
year.
8. Join the Breeder’s Award
Program and compete for the
Breeder of the Year award.
9. Access to the Society’s Library.
10. Presentations by other members
on many interesting topics. We’re
on the Web! www.fryangle.com
2013 Annual Home Show ................................................ 5
Wet Leaves ...................................................................... 9
Knowing What You Want ................................................10
Species Profile: Ancistrus temminckii................................12
Breeding Microgeophagus altispinosa, the Bolivian Ram ....14
BAP Standings ...............................................................19
1.
NEXT MEETING
• Friday, May 17th, 2013 – 8pm
We will have a social gathering/consignment auction at Peter
Marsh’s house. Bring with you any unwanted aquarium items
to be auctioned off (equipment, tanks, books, plants, fish, etc.).
There will be a 60/40 split (40% going to the Club) on items
auctioned. This will be a great opportunity for members to
either get rid of excess and unused items or to buy items at a
good price.
Cover Photo:
Cleithracara Maronii
One of the longest kept cichlid species in
the hobby. C. maronii is a very shy fish and
one that is not abundant in any location
in the wild. It is advisable to add a tetra or
pencilfish to the aquarium in order to reduce
the shyness of this fish. The “Keyhole
Cichlid” gets its nickname from the obvious
marking on the flank.
Bermuda Fry-Angle Society
If you are inerested in joining the Bermuda Fry-Angle Society, just come along to our next meeting to see what we are about. Meetings are held on the third Friday or Saturday of every month
at the Lecture Rooms, behind the Bermuda Aquarium, Museum & Zoo, or contact Scott Dunstan
[email protected] He will be happy to provide any further information or just sign you up. Application forms are also available at Noah’s Ark (just ask at cashier’s desk.) You can also download an
application form from our website: www.fryangle.com
Membership fees are $20 for the year, and payable to Bermuda Fry-Angle Aquarium Society.
BERMUDA FRY-ANGLE AQUARIUM SOCIETY
FISHTALES
5
Overall, Kris judged Robert’s 75G aquarium to be the
winner. He had really nice plants, and while he did had
some wood in the tank, he basically pulled off a nice
planted aquarium without much hardscape visible. The
Marsilea still needs to fill in a little bit in the foreground,
but his plants were not showing any deficiencies,
and he had them nicely groomed.
Kris presenting
Robert the trophy
for his winning
75 gallon Natural
Aquarium
2013 Annual Home Show
By Nyon Steede, BFAS
Now how does that story begin? I know, “It was the
best of times, it was the worst of times…”
Just before Kris Weinhold began his talk to the Club, I
surveyed the members in attendance to ascertain who
was interested in entering the Home Show. There was
the usual exuberance from those members who have
been a worthy adversary for years, trepidation from
those not sure what to expect or if their tank was ready
and utter vacillation from the “on the fence” sitters. It
took us a while but we finally got a good indication
of who was really interested so the next step was to
decide which end of the island we would start from.
Like last year, I offered to have a barbeque at my house
to end the afternoon and to present the winners their
awards so that meant that we would have to start east
and work our way west. Normally, starting east meant
that the caravan will meet at Robert’s house and move
west from there. But with new member Sinder Daniels
and David Gibbons entering the Home Show we had
two new unknown geographic locations. I asked Sinder
where he lived and his response of near St. David’s
Lighthouse drew a simultaneous crowd reaction of “ST.
DAVID’S!” So it looked like we were REALLY going to
start east.
Since Home Show judge Kris and his wife Lauren
were first-timers to the island I thought that starting
at Sinder’s house would allow them to really see the
island. Little did I know that by starting in St. David’s
there would be others who would find that experience
a first as well. Scott had offered to chauffer Kris and
Lauren around while here, but he protested at that
meeting that he did not know where St. David’s
Lighthouse was or how to get there. Oh, no! Our Club
members are not ones to let something like that to
slide easily. Talk about the blind leading the blind! After
a few minutes of ribbing and belly laughing at Scott’s
BERMUDA FRY-ANGLE AQUARIUM SOCIETY
6
FISHTALES
Nyon won the designer category with his aquarium.
He had several pieces of driftwood suspended and
hanging into the aquarium. He had incorporated
some Amazon Swords to add a splash of
greenery to the tank, which Kris liked.
expense we decided to meet Sunday, 12:00 noon at
the lighthouse.
Sunday morning my 2IC (second in command) came to
my house and we took a leisurely ride St. David’s. We
arrived about 11:45 and waited patiently for the others
to turn up. Just before 12:00, one by one members
drove in. Scott, with wife Michelle, judge Kris, Lauren
and children in tow, actually found their way to the
lighthouse with the help of a GPS he borrowed. Okay!
He didn’t have a GPS… he followed Robert. But all
things considered, a GPS would be a great birthday or
Christmas present Michelle! Hint, Hint!
We all parked at the lighthouse and walked a few yards
down a grassy embankment to Sinder’s house. As
usual, on the way the members couldn’t help but make
fun of Mr. “My Tank is not ready.” Also, as usual David
Patterson took it in stride. When told that he would
finish 5th out of 5 entries in the planted tank category,
David’s retort was, “Well at least I would have been in
every position!” That led to David receiving yet another
nickname… Kama sutra!
We filed into Sinder’s house and congregated in his
bedroom where his two entries were. One tank was
entered in the natural (planted) tanks category and
Kris presenting
Nyon the trophy
for his winning ??
gallon Designer
Aquarium
the other in the designer tank category. While Kris
gave some advice and encouraging words, members
took turns viewing the two tanks and while some
were waiting their turn to have a look they took the
opportunity to have a glance over Sinder’s impressive
miniature plane collection. Apparently, Sinder’s
fascination with theses miniature planes has led him
into an expensive hobby of collecting. Well my new
friend, once you contract that fish disease you will find
that you will have two expensive hobbies.
With judging done we loaded up, formed the travelling
caravan of 5 cars and two bikes and headed to David
Gibbon’s house which was the next stop on our travels
westward. David welcomed us as we arrived since he
wasn’t able to make it to Sinder’s house due to a prior
engagement of a higher calling. As we walked through
the garage past a well behaved Boxer, we entered a
beautiful home with décor to match. But as stunning as
the décor was, it was over shadowed by a gorgeous
180 gallon planted tank that immediately captured
your gaze as soon as you entered the room. To say
that everyone was impressed would be a serious
understatement. I think it was at that point that David
Patterson decided to withdraw his entry from the Home
Show because now, as you may have guessed, it really
BERMUDA FRY-ANGLE AQUARIUM SOCIETY
FISHTALES
7
The tank above is Sinder’s aquarium, who is a
teenager that is wonderfully inspired by aquarium keeping. He entered two tanks and this
is his designer tank. Kris liked the idea behind
the hardscape, and thought that overall it just
needed a little more growth and polish.
wasn’t ready! Here I was, thinking that this new guy is
going to have a half way decent tank, I’d give it a once
over and be ready to hit the next house. I was literally
mesmerized! Some people join the Club to learn a few
things but David is at the point where he can teach a
few.
As we finally tore ourselves from David’s tank to head
to Robert’s house I knew that the bar to win had just
been set high. Now with an additional car joining the
caravan we traveled to Robert’s. As we entered, we
were greeted with a seductive darkness illuminated
by a fish tank that was reminiscent of a lush, well
manicured Japanese garden. Robert wanted to make
sure that members who entered the planted tank
category were aware that they were stepping on the
porch with the big dogs. The dark, vibrant hues that
the plants displayed were accentuated by a glowing
On the planted aquarium side, Sinder had a
very nice Aponogeton 10G aquarium that included
mostly South American fish and represented a
nice biotope-style aquarium.
school of Cardinal Tetras swimming around without
a care in the world. It was clear why Robert won last
year and he made sure that his tank didn’t disappoint
our expectations. I asked Robert which Cardinal in the
tank won the Reserve Best in Show at last year’s Fish
Show? He pointed to one with an air of certainty but
not a person was fooled. Each Cardinal was just as
luminescent as the next.
Robert also entered a tank in the designer category
but for some reason the image of that tank eludes me.
One reason might be that another tank I saw reminded
me of Ken Davis’ tanks of fish for sale at an American
Cichlid Association Convention. The tank had so many
fish crammed in there that if you added one more the
fish would have thought that they were kin to sardines.
Come on Robert, Westgate is less crowed! What made
it even worse, he had a tank in the kitchen that was
Michelle had a very nice Anubias tank that flowed very nicely from one side to the other. Overall Kris liked
the tank, but was hoping for a small amount of intrigue from a background or from some pieces
of wood jutting from the main section.
BERMUDA FRY-ANGLE AQUARIUM SOCIETY
8
FISHTALES
Scott had a beautiful cluster
of Cryptocoryne wendtii in his
75G aquarium. He had started
to planted dwarf sag across
the foreground, but it hadn’t
really filled in yet. The plants
looked very nice though, and
I’m looking forward to seeing
the finish aquascape once
everything grows in.
about a 50 gallon the seemed void of fish and just
housed extra plants. Next stop, Scott and Michelle’s
house.
There was a lot more to see at Scott and Michelle’s but
after lingering for quite some time we headed to the last
house, mine. Most people have seen my fish room and
show tank before but I had added a little more to my
tank design than last year. This year I added some rock
Scott entered his tank in the planted tank category and
Michelle after assessing her competition decided to
enter her tank as a designer
tank. If was clear that Scott’s
tank was not at the stage
that he wanted or was use to
but he showed it any way…
not like some other person
who shall remain nameless
because his tank is never
ready. Even as a tank under
construction Scott has a very
David had a 180G aquarium in his kitchen with and really nice hardsacpe in
nice and healthy planted tank.
place. He used lacerock, mixed with wood to a simple minimalist scape using
His plants were pearling away!
just C. wendtii, Val, C. lutea, and some Anubias. It is a stunning aquarium to
Kris commented on the lack
sit in front of, and had a lot of activity going on from a nice selection of fauna.
of foreground plants but I saw
some there the day before that Scott obviously decided
to the hardscape and topped it off with some Amazon
to take out. To me, I rather fancied the negative space
Swords that I bought from Wendy a few weeks prior.
the plucked foreground plants provided. I don’t know
Just by adding a few more details to interest the eye,
if the lack of denseness that I was use to seeing was a
a more inviting and attractive tank emerged. With a
factor, but the 5 inch Betta pi emerged from the plants
bit more than just one tanks to see in my fish room,
more readily to gaze at what must have been seen as
members spent a bit of time taking in the additional
an odd spectacle of people gathering.
sights as I got the barbeque heated up.
Michelle’s tank was a simple design that in its simplicity
By this time it was just after 3:00 in the afternoon and
was quite stunning. If you have ever seen a piece
people were a bit hungry. We retired to the porch and
of art that you related to due to the artists simplicity
took solace in the shade provided as the sun dipped
approach, than you could have related to the aesthetic
below the roof line. With the food on the barbeque it
impact of Michelle’s design. Kris pointed out that had
wasn’t long before the lines started to assemble as
there been a background on the back of the tank it
hamburgers, chicken burgers and hot dogs started to
would have provided an even more dramatic effect.
sizzle amidst the sounds of popping from the juices
Michelle scaped a line of drift wood in the center of
released. Soon after the rumblings were quieted (and
the tank from almost end to end that was topped
not just those from the members mouths) we gathered
with Anubias nana. Most of the time you see Anubias
in my living room to hear the results. Since the designer
with spots of green algae because they are such slow
growing plants but Michelle’s were immaculate.
Continued on Page 18
BERMUDA FRY-ANGLE AQUARIUM SOCIETY
(the cover of which is reproduced here), is the
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FISHTALES
9
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AMAZONAS is published bi-monthly. Each issue has
featured topic in the January/February 2013 issue a few.
more. Suddenly I findmyself floundering for the right
W
W
a featured topic with four or five articles devoted to
words. I think that the wide range of authors which are
various aspects of it. For example, the featured topic in
Modern18
Aquarium
- Greater
City A.S
(NY)cover of whichMarch
15 result a cernew to American
hobbyists
gives
the(NY)
overall
March
2013
Modern Aquarium
- Greater
City A.S.
the January/February
2013
issue
(the
is 2013
tain
depth
as
well
as
a
fresh
coat
of
polish.
And yes, you
reproduced here), is the “classic aquarium fishes of the
will find familiar names as well, such as Dr. Paul Loiselle,
genus Pterophylum.” There are four articles discussing
Dick Au, and Karen Randall, to name but a few.
the regal altum, genetics, and more. “We have deliberBERMUDA FRY-ANGLE AQUARIUM SOCIETY
10
FISHTALES
Reprinted from “www.Guitarfish.org”
Knowing What You Want
By Kris Weinhold
Starting a planted aquarium can seem like a daunting task. Most hobbyists start out small,
gradually learning by trial and error what works and what doesn’t, and piece together information
from books and websites until they finally either succeed or get frustrated and leave the hobby
forever. In this series of articles, I’m going to attempt to outline the most important aspects of
setting up a planted aquarium. Hopefully this will become a valuable resource to anyone new
to the hobby, or experienced fish-keepers who are looking to setup a planted aquarium.
One of the most important things you can do to
ensure a successful planted aquarium should be done
before you ever start the project. There are a number
of factors that must be determined that will impact
the time required to upkeep the aquarium, the cost of
your final setup, and type of fish/plants you can keep.
Time spent per week
There are many different styles of planted aquariums,
and some require far more day-to-day effort than
others. Upfront, you should determine how much
time every week you would like to devote to this
hobby. Remember, that in addition to the plants, living
creatures will be dependant upon your care, so it’s not
fair to them or you if your aquarium goes south due to
your inactivity. Realistically decide whether you have
2 hours every week or an hour once a month, or less.
Much less than that, and you may wish to reconsider
all but the most modest endeavors into the planted
aquarium hobby.
The beauty of
this hobby, is that
often, time spent
is rewarded with
healthy, hriving plants,
and a magnificent
aquascape. It is also
possible to spend less
time, and allow the
nature of the plants
themselves to grow
and develop into more
of a jungle aquascape.
Obviously, there’s also
BERMUDA FRY-ANGLE AQUARIUM SOCIETY
FISHTALES
11
something in-between. The types of plants you are
attracted to may also help influence this decision. In
general, stem plants, or plants that grow vertically
from a stalk, usually require more upkeep than plants
that are rooted with rosette leaves coming from their
base.
Plecostomus algae-eating catfish at your fish store will
not turn into a foot-long beast.
Cost
You knew that cost had to enter the equation at some
point, right? In general, planted aquariums are fairly
expensive, although they do not have to be. If you
buy everything new from your local aquarium store,
you could easily spend $500-$1,000 for a mid-range
setup. Of course, tempering your ambitions, and being
willing to buy used equipment, can significantly lower
your total expenditure. If you are fortunate enough
to have a local aquarium society in your area, this is
a great place to acquire equipment, plants, fish, and
lots of great advice. If you are handy, there are plenty
of Do-It-Yourself possibilities in the aquarium hobby,
which can help save some cash.
Inhabitants
The type of fauna that you wish to have in your
planted aquarium can go a long way in determining
what type of plants you should grow along side them.
In general, smaller fish (0”-6”) are the best fish to
keep. Much larger, and they can unknowingly uproot
plants when swimming by. Fish that dig, eat plants, or
rearrange their territory should be avoided in nearly all
situations. Do your research and make sure that the 3”
Plants
Finally, you must decide whether you want to be able
to grow just about any plant out there, or whether you
are willing to trade a more limited plant selection for
less upkeep, fertilization, and equipment costs.
Summary
In conclusion, the ideas introduced in this article
should be kept in the back of your head when reading
future installments of this series. I will further expound
upon these topics, introducing all of the complexities
of various equipment and techniques, but do not lose
sight of what you ultimately want to get out of this
hobby.
Next Month:
Choosing the Right Aquarium
July 18-21, 2013.
The Rocky Mountain Cichlid Association proudly welcomes back the American
Cichlid Association National Convention! Registration at 2013aca.com. Click the
“Registration” link from the menu. Event registration, bowl show registration,
vendor tables, rental tanks, tours and awards banquet are all available to purchase
via Paypal through our secure online store.
When you check out, you will create an account which will also allow you to easily
make additional purchases later on.
BERMUDA FRY-ANGLE AQUARIUM SOCIETY
12
FISHTALES
The Lateral Line
Reprinted from Hill Country Cichlid Club’s Newsletter “The Lateral Line”
Page 4
Species Profile:
Species Profile:
Ancistrus temminckii
Ancistrus temminckii
Before I get started I want to point out that
achieve a size of 5 inches and are yellowish
most of the information regarding Ancistrus
white body with flat underside and sucker
temminckii or Albino Bristle-nose is from
mouth. Most males have longer tentacles than
By Jim Beck
books or the internet. I was unable to observe
the females. The bristle-nose is very compatiany
of
the
spawning
due
to
the
fact
that
the
two
with to
thesupplement
other fish intheir
the tank,
but do notthey are
Before I get started I want to point out that most of the ble
pellets
diet because
information
regarding
Ancistrus
temminckii
or Albino
bristle-noses
were
put in the
tank at about
1
play
well
with otheralgae
maleseaters
of theso
bristle-nose
highly
aggressive
they will not starve. I
Bristle-nose
from books
or were
the internet.
I was
unable clan.
feed the tabs at night after lights out. Information also
year 9ismonths
old and
still small.
They
to observe
of the
spawning
due
to theof
fact
suggests that you can feed blanched spinach and
wereany
picked
randomly
from
a group
24that
and the
two bristle-noses
were
put
in
the
tank
at
about
1
year
lettuce
also getting
to fulfillinformation
feeding requirements.
Also
anyone
on feeding A word of
were not sexed. I just picked the first two I
9 months old and were still small. They were picked
caution,
before
proceeding
with
the blanched produce,
and
caring
for
bristle-nose
will
undoubtedly
could catch to help with the algae in the tank. I
randomly from a group
do further
research, so
realize
they are
never
thought
of 24 and
were
not
you
will
not
end up with a
herbivorous and
them breedsexed. about
I just picked
the
tank of yucky do (Yucky
love the green
and was
unfirst twoing
I could
catch
do is not a technical term
stuff.
to help aware
with the
but However
you get the picture).
thatalgae
it had
they
are not
in the tank.
I
never
occurred until fry
My bristle-nose
harmful
to plants bred in
thoughtwere
about
them
found
in the
a
150
gallon tank which
breeding
and
wassump
but eat those
box
to my
contained medium gravel
unaware that it had
undesirable
pump. That was
and no liveal-plants. The
occurred until fry were
gae.
Just
tank
didmake
contain artificial
found inalso
thedue
boxtotothe
my
sure
that
you
add
plants
and
holey rock
keen eye
of was
Jeff
sump pump.
That
sinking
algae
and
was
a
community
Johnson
also
also due
to the keen
tank to
8 adult fish and
pellets
to suppleeye of Jeff
Johnson
known
as jjoilrig
4
Synodontis
ment their diet catfish.
also known
jjoilrig foon theasHCCC
The water
because
they was
are filtered
on the HCCC
rum. forum.
Photo by Robby Maxwell
through a sump pump
highly aggresThe Ancistrus temminckii are found in the fast flowing
with a large amount of bio filter. Also I added floss filter
TheofAncistrus
temminckii
found
in the fast
sive
algae
eaters
so
they
will
I feed
tributaries
the Amazon
River inare
South
America.
I
to the drip plate that is overnot
thestarve.
bio balls
and floss to
flowing
tributaries
of
the
Amazon
River
in
the
tabs
at
night
after
lights
out.
Information
obtained 24 fish 3/4 inch long, from JJ Tropiquatics
the tower intake tube in the box on the back of the
SouthMales
America.
I obtained
246fish
3/4 inch
also
suggests
canforfeed
(not jjoilrig).
achieve
a size of
inches
and are
tank.
I addedthat
theyou
floss
twoblanched
reasons:spin1) is I over feed
long,
from
JJ Tropiquatics
(not jjoilrig).
lettuce
to fulfill
requireyellowish
white
body
that is flat underside
withMales
a sucker ach
andand
2) too
lazyalso
to get
downfeeding
and turn
off pump during
type mouth.
Bristle
onare
lower
head over
feeding.
This floss
helpedbefore
save proceeding
5 of the fry and at this
achieve
a sizetype
of 6tentacles
inches and
yellowish
ments.
A word
of caution,
nose and
mouth
characteristics
point
any moredofryfurther
have resurvived. I did
white
bodymake
that isthe
flatgeneral
underside
with a suckerof
with
theunknown
blanchedifproduce,
the bristle-nose.
Females
a size on
of lower
5 inches
not doso
a you
pH test
but Iado
perform
weekly
type mouth.
Bristle achieve
type tentacles
search,
will on
notthe
endtank
up with
tank
of
and are yellowish white body with flat underside and
water changes equal to 20% - 30% of the tank volume
head over nose and mouth make the general
yucky do (Yucky do is not a technical term
sucker mouth. Most males have longer tentacles than
religiously. I used fluorescent lighting for duration of
characteristics
of
the
bristle-nose.
Females
(Continued
on page 14) algae
the females. The bristle-nose is very compatible with
14 - 15 hours each day. I fed
the bushy-nose
the other fish in the tank, but do not play well with
tabs and flake food that made it to the bottom and
other males of the bristle-nose clan.
not consumed by the others. I only feed once a day,
normally around 10 pm and then turn off the lights
Also anyone getting information on feeding and caring
around 11 pm.
for bristle-nose will undoubtedly realize they are
herbivorous and love the green stuff. However they
The info I have found indicates that they require a
are not harmful to plants but eat those undesirable
hardness of 2-20° dGH and a pH of 5.8 to 7.5 with
algae. Just make sure that you add sinking algae
water temperature ranging between 23-27° C (73 - 80
BERMUDA FRY-ANGLE AQUARIUM SOCIETY
k did contain artificial plants and
at 80 degrees F. One of the articles on the web
was a community
FISHTALES tank to 8
13
recommends the condition of the water for
Synodontis
breeding to be 5-10° dGH
for three days before I fed fry in the over flow box, small
ter was filand 6.5-7.0 pH.
particles of algae tabs. They were also receiving flake
sump pump
that was not consumed in the tank. I am not going to
ount of bio
The pair may have laid
feed on a regular basis because of the food they are
ded floss
any where from 50 - 75
already getting off the floss.
p plate that is
eggs, according to the
Although
I was unable to observe any interesting
lls and floss
book South
American
habits in this spawning, it was very exciting seeing
ake tube in
Catfishes by David Sands.
fry in a tank where you would not expect to see new
back of the
The male guarded the
fish. Its one thing to be watching spawning tanks,
The
Lateral
Line
e floss for
eggs and waiting
also fanned
themthe action, but not to even be aware
to catch
is I over
to circulate
water
of itthe
and
then find the fry, very exciting. I did not know
As I have said before, the fry didn't require any
ess lasted about 9 months with no result
lazy to get
around them.
Laterparents
when were mature enough to reproduce.
the small
special care on my part. Spawning was not
used drift wood and fed them the foods
I amswimming
hoping to observe the next spawning. I do have
off pump
fry were free
even known about until fry were caught in
ommended, but only a stinky tank result
an adult to
male and female that I attempted to breed in
This floss
he attached
overflow box
for sump them
pump. Forhis
filtration the
Inexperience on my part was the culprit
a 20He
gallon
long. The process lasted about 9 months
f the fry and
bristles.
accomtank used nose
wet and
dry sump
pump.
Not being
with no results. I used drift wood
and
them
theLuck" for not onl
I want
to fed
thank
"Lady
known if any
plished
byspawning
secretingnor
a the
able to witness
anythis
of the
foods recommended, but onlyinga me
stinky
tank
resulted.
some
fry
but
also a mated pair. N
male caring
for thesubstance
fry, I missed
this time,
survived. I
mucus
on out
his
Inexperience
on my part was the
thehard
culprit.
parts
begin.
I must wait till the
but hopefully
next encounter.
H test on the
noseprepared
and theforfrythestuck
large enough
I have waited for
erform
themselves there
move and get
three days before I
hanges equal
(authority: JJ). No special
out of that bo
fed fry in the over
of the tank
my part was
whew, going
flow box, care
smallon
partouchy. And I
usly. I used
given.
Approximately 5
ticles of algae
tabs.
also remove t
ting for durepresenting 5 of the
They wereeggs
also rePhoto by Robert Starks ceiving flake that
pair to anothe
5 hours each
total hatch were viable
F). I keep my water at 80 degrees F. One of the articles
tank. I will at
was
not
consumed
in
the tabs
web and
recommends
theand
condition
ofafter
the water
for The fry were a light
ushy-noseon
algae
flake
hatched
20 days.
to trap them a
the
tank.
I
am
not
breeding
be con5-10° dGH and
6.5-7.0
pH.Unknown what size when free
it to the bottom
andtonot
yellow
color.
night in a tub
going to feed on a
thers. I only
day,laid any where
swimming,
but
when
found they had grown to
Thefeed
paironce
may ahave
from 50
75
eggs,
ing algae tabs
regular basis because
according
to the
book South1/2
American
by
d 10 pm and
then turn
off the
inch. Catfishes
bait. The last
of the food they are
David Sands. The male guarded the eggs and also
is moving the
1 pm.
already getting off
fanned them to circulate the water around them. Later
and catching
the floss.
when fry were free swimming he attached them to
I will have to
his nose bristles. He accomplished this by
secreting
Although
I was unmore research
a mucus substance on his nose and theable
fry stuck
to observe any
find out when
Photo by Joe Candelaria
themselves there (authority: JJ). No special
care onhabits
my in
interesting
I want to thank “Lady Luck” for not only giving me will be ready
part was given. Approximately 5 eggs representing
5 of
this spawning,
it wassome
very exciting
seeing
fry in pair.
spawn
fry but also
a mated
Nowagain.
the hard parts
the total hatch were viable and hatched after 20 days.
a tank where you would
not
expect
to
see
new
begin.
I
must
wait
till
the
fry
are
large
enough to move
The fry were a light yellow color. Unknown what size
I wish to thank Jeff Johnson again for hi
fish. Its one thing to and
be watching
spawning
get them
out of that box, whew, going to be
when free swimming, but when found they had grown
vice and information. To him it was just
tanks, waiting to catch
the action,
not to
touchy.
And but
I must
also remove the pair to another
to 1/2 inch.
mon knowledge but to me it was very he
even be aware of it and
then
findattempt
the fry, to
very
tank.
I will
trap them at night in a tube using
As I have said before, the fry didn’t require
any special
exciting.
I did not know
the
small
parents
were
algae tabs as bait. The last resort is moving the rocks
care on my part. Spawning was not evenmature
known
aboutto reproduce.
enough
I am hoping
and catching
them. to
I will have to do more research to
■ Jim
until fry were caught in overflow box for sump
observepump.
the next spawning.
find out when they will be ready to spawn again.
For filtration the tank used wet and dry sump pump.
I do have
andto
female
I wish
thankthat
JeffI atJohnson again for his advice and
Not being able to witness any of the spawning
noran adult male
tempted
breed in ainformation.
20 gallon long.
To The
him procit was just common knowledge but
the male caring for the fry, I missed out this
time,tobut
hopefully prepared for the next encounter. I have waited to me it was very helpful.
BERMUDA FRY-ANGLE AQUARIUM SOCIETY
14
FISHTALES
Reprinted from Pioneer Valley Aquarium Society’s Newsletter “The Underwater News”
Breeding Microgeophagus altispinosa,
the Bolivianaltispinosa,
Ram the Bolivian Ram
Breeding Microgeophagus
by Edward
D. Burress
by Edward
D. Burress
This article is meant to outline the breeding of Bolivians Rams in detail, including courting,
This article is meant
to outline
thecare
breeding
of Bolivians
Rams
in detail,
including
courting,
spawning, parental care
spawning,
parental
and raising
fry. I tried to
include
as detailed
of information
as possible
from my
experience,
and I hopeas
that
this article
will my
provide
framework forand
whatI to
expect
fry. I tried to include
asown
detailed
of information
possible
from
owna experience,
hope
that this article wil
from spawning
Bolivian Bolivian
Rams, andRams,
answerand
any answer
questions
youquestions
might have.
framework for what to expect
from spawning
any
you might have.
Adult male in breeding coloration
Introduction
Introduction
change, I measure the fresh water to 2 degrees below
I have spawned Bolivian Rams in a relatively small range ofthat
parameters,
pHsimulate
6.8-7.4,
3-4, kH
1-2,of and
of the tank to
thegH
cooling
effects
rain.76-80F. T
I have
spawned
Bolivian
in a relatively
said, I have
come
to prefer
the Rams
measures:
pH 7.4,small
gH 3, kH During
2, and smaller
77F forwater
the changes,
husbandry
the species.
These param
theof
difference
can be
range
parameters,
1-2,except for
proximate
the of
conditions
ofpH
the6.8-7.4,
speciesgH
in3-4,
the kH
wild,
being mildly softer. The best spawning trigger I have
greater.
andchange
76-80F. of
That
being said,
I have by
come
to prefer
large water
40-50%
followed
a minor
tank rescape. During water change, I measure the fresh water to
Courting
the
measures:
pH
7.4,
gH
3,
kH
2,
and
77F
for
below that of the tank to simulate the cooling effects
of rain. During smaller water changes, the difference can be gr
the husbandry of the species. These parameters
The courting process can be quite short or drawn
approximate the conditions of the species in the wild,
out and dramatic, ranging from 2-7 days from onset
Courting
except for being mildly softer. The best spawning
to spawning.
The male
initiates
the to spawning.
The courting process can be quite short or drawn out and dramatic,
ranging
fromundoubtedly
2-7 days from
onset
trigger I have found is a large water change of 40courting with entertaining displays including, throat
undoubtedly initiates the courting with entertaining displays including, throat and gill flaring, body curling, display
50% followed by a minor tank rescape. During water
and gill flaring, body curling, displaying of the flanks,
flanks, body whipping, and tail lashing. The female may return some of the advances, or may forgo displaying entir
BERMUDA FRY-ANGLE AQUARIUM SOCIETY
do any special feeding to induce spawning. However,
make sure to feed foods high in protein for egg production, an
feed twice per day, and take additional care that the female gets an adequate amount. Breeding fishes typically disp
FISHTALES
body whipping, and tail lashing. The female may
return some of the advances, or may forgo displaying
entirely. I do not do any special feeding to induce
spawning. However, make sure to feed foods high in
protein for egg production, and I always feed twice
per day, and take additional care that the female gets
an adequate amount. Breeding fishes typically display
a strong yellow chest and abdomen, and sometimes
strong orange highlights in the dorsal and caudal fins,
and display transversal bars on the rear half of the
body. Courting escalates when the male begins to
prepare potential spawning sites, such as cleaning
stones. The male will often engage in head shaking
over the intended site, and pick at the substrate with
his mouth repeatedly while the female looks on. The
male may also construct a large depression in the
substrate, and even partially construct several more
depressions during courting. The female will also
engage in constructing these nests, but not to the
degree of the male. When the female begins taking
keen interest in cleaning a spawning site, typically
spawning is imminent.
15
Breeding
The spawning site may or may not prove to be any
of the sites prepared by the male during the courting
process. I believe the female always has final decision
and sometimes chooses a new location altogether.
All of my females greatly prefer to lay eggs on flat
stones, like slate. One female will only spawn on slate,
regardless of the presence of other potential sites.
However, it is quite common for Bolivian rams to
spawn in depressions in the substrate, on horizontal
driftwood, and even on broad leaved plants. My
Bolivians always spawn late in the evening, without
exception. The pair will diligently clean the chosen
surface until the female begins laying eggs, gliding
in a circular motion, depositing 6-10 eggs at a time.
She will then give way, and the male will fertilize the
eggs in a similar fashion. This process of exchange
may continue for up to an hour. Clutch sizes seem to
vary; young females may lay as few as 60 eggs, while
adult females can lay 200. My pairs will always cover
the clutch in sand 45-60 minutes after spawning is
complete, and remove the sand after 36-48 hours. My
During courting the degree of aggression is quite
theory is they do this to conceal the eggs while they
varied, sometimes the male is content to casually
are weak from spawning, and after they build back
follow the female around, and other times, the same
their strength, they remove the sand. I have noticed
male will outright harass the female, however no
that when they deviate from this schedule the spawn
damage is ever inflicted; ample cover for the female
is likely to be unsuccessful. For example, if they ever
is necessary for this reason. An adult pair can spawn
cover the eggs within 18 minutes of spawning, they
every 3 weeks, and most aggression is confined to
tend to remove the sand after as little as 24 hours,
the intermittent period between spawns, or early in
and almost always eat the eggs before they hatch. I
the courting process. After the female has developed
courting the degree of aggression is quite varied, sometimes the male is content to casually follow the female around,
think this is merely an indirect indicator that they are
eggs
and
shows
interest
in
the
male’s
advances,
er times, the same male will outright harass the female, however no damage is ever inflicted; ample cover for the female
stressed.
pair will take turns fanning the eggs
ssary for this reason.
An adult pair can
every 3 weeks,
anddramatic
most aggression
is confined to the
intermittentThe
period
any aggression
isspawn
converted
to the
courting
n spawns, or early in the courting process. After the female has developed eggs and shows interestand
in thedefending
male's ad- the territory from the other company
displays
previously
mentioned.
any aggression
is converted
to the dramatic
courting displays previously mentioned.
fishes. I have typically had success with spawns that
were in catfish free community tanks. I have had less
success when attempting to breed isolated pairs.
The two seem to fight a lot before the eggs hatch,
causing inadequate fanning shifts, and stirs up debris
around the clutch, both leading to increased losses
from fungus. In contrast, in a community environment,
the pairs prove to cooperate peacefully, and I have
spawns that hatched with no observable losses to
fungus! My dominant pair has actually protected a
clutch, from spawning to hatching, from a shoal of
Corydoras paleatus, without a night light! However,
my sub-dominant pair has not been able to achieve
such a feat, and such is certainly not typical.
Young adult male guarding potential spawn site
BERMUDA FRY-ANGLE AQUARIUM SOCIETY
ng
awning site may or may not prove to be any of the sites prepared by the male during the courting process. I believe the
always has final decision and sometimes chooses a new location altogether. All of my females greatly prefer to lay eggs
16
FISHTALES
Parental Care
The fry will live only a few days off of their yolk sac
and will then need to be fed. I use a plastic eye
In 24 hours, the eggs will turn an orange-amber
dropper while the fry are in the tank with their parents
color, and unfertilized eggs may begin to turn white,
to make sure the food gets to them, and so I can
along with those that fungus despite fertilization.
put the correct amount, since excess dirties the
Eye spots are clearly visible on the second day. The
tank so much. If you feed baby brine shrimp the fry
eggs hatch after 62-64.5 hours at 76-78F and are
should have full orange colored stomachs. If you
immediately transferred by both parents into the preuse a powdered food, such as First Bites, the fry will
constructed nests. During the egg stage, the male
develop golden-yellow stomachs. If you do not have
will begin constructing these nests for the wigglers,
means to have live BBS and feed powdered foods,
this usually happens late in the egg stage, within 12
it isshow
important
mixconspecifics
it up in aatsmall
water
My
Bolivians
mainly
interest in to
keeping
bay, andcup
reallyofseem
quite for
unstressed by nearby
hours of hatching. All of my Bolivians prefer to dig
species, and rarelyamake
great effort toso
chase
them
Theparticles
fry are free-swimming
seven days, and are
fewa seconds
that
alloff.
the
break upafter
and
down into the root systems of plants, and store
the
kept herded into a shallow depression by both parents, which are most aggressive during this time, however, th
soften
to
where
the
new
fry
can
eat
it
easily.
Portions
still quite
wrigglers there, and relocate them once or twice
permild mannered and seem content to just keep the other fishes on the other side of the tank, without d
the other fishes. My
pairs
fry gathered
that is
between larg
can
betypically
smallkeep
andtheonly
whatinto
thea shallow
fry willdepression
consume
insituated
a
day, usually to unique nests. Nests are rarely re-used
such as Echinodorus, or in areas with detritus, either for the small food particles there or the protection. They u
few
minutes.
However,
they
do
need
to
be
fed
every
this for the first 48 hours after free-swimming and will then start moving the fry and allow them to roam. How
for this purpose. They will occasionally dig down
do not guide the fry
around
the tankifaspossible.
much as other dwarf cichlid species, and tend to restrict the fry to the im
three
hours
underneath driftwood or large stones and store
the
breeding territory. A very interesting behavior also occurs during the free-swimming stage, during danger the
wigglers there, but a depression is always involved.
will drop quickly In
to the
often withwith
a shake
her head, andmost
immediately
the fry will mimic her. I fir
mysubstrate,
experience
theof species,
of the
served
when I accidently bumped the tank while attempting to take pictures of the mother and he
The pair continues to maintain shifts of fanning
thethis behavior
parental
during
the free-swimming
The fry stayed huddled
againstdeficiencies
the substrate untilarise
their mother
reassumed
normal behavior soon after.
wrigglers, and will constantly mouth and tumble the
stage when the parents have difficulty maintaining the
The fry will live only a few days off of their yolk sac and will then need to be fed. I use a plastic eye dropper w
larvae.
cloud of fry, and eventually they would get lost in the
fry are in the tank with their parents to make sure the food gets to them, and so I can put the correct amount, si
dirties the tank
so much.
you feed baby
the fry fishes.
should have
full orange colored
stomachs.
tank
andIfsnacked
onbrine
by shrimp
the other
However,
it
My Bolivians mainly show interest in keeping cess
a powdered food, such as First Bites, the fry will develop golden-yellow stomachs. If you do not have means t
is
worth
noting,
that
Bolivians
are
known
to
eat
their
conspecifics at bay, and really seem quite unstressed
live BBS and feed powdered foods, it is important to mix it up in a small cup of water for a few seconds so tha
and soften
to where
the newbefore
fry can eat
it easily.
Portions
can be small and only what the fry
several
times
they
have
a successful
by nearby characin species, and rarely make particles
a greatbreak upeggs
sume in a few minutes. However, they do need to be fed every three hours if possible.
I prefer
leave
thedeficiencies
fry with arise
theduring
parents
for as
effort to chase them off. The fry are free-swimming
In my experience spawn.
with the species,
most to
of the
parental
the free-swimming
stage whe
maintaining
the cloud of
fry, and
eventually
they would
get remove
lost in the tank
as possible,
and
then
as a last
resort,
theand snacked on
after seven days, and are initially kept herded ents
intohave
a difficultylong
other fishes. However, it is worth noting, that Bolivians are known to eat their eggs several times before they h
last remaining 20-30 fry and raise them, rather than
shallow depression by both parents, which are
most
cessful
spawn. I prefer to leave the fry with the parents for as long as possible, and then as a last resort, remov
remove
large
group
of frya prematurely.
and raiseathem,
rather
than remove
large group of fry prematurely.
aggressive during this time, however, they areremaining
still 20-30 fry
quite mild mannered and seem content to just keep
the other fishes on the other side of the tank, without
damaging the other fishes. My pairs typically keep the
fry gathered into a shallow depression that is situated
between larger plants, such as Echinodorus, or in
areas with detritus, either for the small food particles
there or the protection. They usually do this for the
first 48 hours after free-swimming and will then start
moving the fry and allow them to roam. However they
do not guide the fry around the tank as much as other
dwarf cichlid species, and tend to restrict the fry to
the immediate breeding territory. A very interesting
behavior also occurs during the free-swimming
Pair fanning sand covered clutch
(cont. Page 9)
stage, during danger the female will drop quickly to
Raising Fry
the substrate, often with a shake of her head, and
When it is time to remove the fry, I have found the
immediately the fry will mimic her. I first observed this
simplest way is to merely siphon the fry out of the
behavior when I accidently bumped the tank while
tank. If a good number of fry are left with the parents,
attempting to take pictures of the mother and her
I like to leave 10-15 behind with the parents. I believe
young. The fry stayed huddled against the substrate
this helps with pair stability and allows for more
until their mother reassumed normal behavior soon
opportunity to practice their parental skills. For this
after.
BERMUDA FRY-ANGLE AQUARIUM SOCIETY
Page 8
FISHTALES
17
of it on occasion. I use a small air pump to drive a
species, the initial grow out tank does not need to
bubble maker (only when using a small power filter),
be large, a standard 10 gallon is adequate. I have a
and use a suction cup mount to place it a few inches
routine for this process that has proven to be very
below the water surface (to where it is still submerged
successful. I do small water changes on the main
during maintenance, but as high as possible to limit
tank while the fry have been developing, but I do
any current created). Ideally the fry should be fed live
not vacuum the substrate. So, I fill the grow out tank
baby brine shrimp every three hours; however, I must
entirely with water from the main tank, and take
admit that I have had no difficulties raising the fry
caution to maintain the temperature precisely. This
entirely on powdered foods such as First Bites. A lot
allows for the least shock to the fry, and offers an
of species cannot adequately eat the particles, but I
opportunity to thoroughly clean the adult’s tank. I
have not found this to be a problem with this species.
equip my grow out tank with a heater, filter, small air
g Fry
it is time to remove
thedriven
fry, I have
found the simplest
is to clump
merely siphon
the fry
out of the tank. If a good
pump
bubbler,
and a way
small
of java
moss
r of fry are left with the parents, I like to leave 10-15 behind with the parents. I believe this helps with pair stabiland
nothingto more.
Sponge
work
great,thebut
allows for more
opportunity
practice their
parentalfilters
skills. For
this species,
initial grow out tank does not
o be large, a standard
gallon isfilters
adequate.
routineI for
this process
hasflow
proven to be very successful.
small 10
power
areI have
finea too,
merely
turnthat
the
mall water changes on the main tank while the fry have been developing, but I do not vacuum the substrate. So, I
minimum
and
cover
thetakeintake
mesh,
grow out tankdown
entirelyto
with
water from the
main
tank, and
cautionwith
to maintain
the temperature precisely.
lows for the least
to the
fry, to
andmaintain
offers an opportunity
to thoroughly
adult's
andshock
take
care
the water
level asclean
to the
limit
thetank. I equip my grow
k with a heater, filter, small air pump driven bubbler, and a small clump of java moss and nothing more. Sponge
current
created
by
the
return.
I
use
bare
bottom
tanks
work great, but small power filters are fine too, I merely turn the flow down to minimum and cover the intake
mesh, and take because
care to maintain
the water
levelfor
as to
limit cleanings,
the current created
the return. I use bare bottom tanks
of the
need
daily
yesbydaily.
e of the need for daily cleanings, yes daily.
Male fry at 5 months
The fry will need to be transferred to a larger grow out tank as needed,
small groups (20-30 fishes), and typically move the fry into this sized ta
grow out tank; I usually add a sand substrate and some vegetation for sh
conducive to cleaning. At this age, the fry do not seem bothered by a la
my fry will eat from my hand.
Fry at 3 weeks
The fry grow painstakingly slow, and after 11 weeks may only be 1/2"
andard routine is to siphon out two gallons everyday and clean the bottom while doing so. Using a small diameter
After the fry are 12 weeks old, you can start crushing up sinking cichlid
will keep the flow
and allowroutine
amble time
the entire
tank
bottom
and make it easier to avoid the fry.
Myslow,
standard
istotoclean
siphon
out
two
gallons
are to adjust the temperature of the incoming water. I believe the species is very sensitive toweaning
fluctuationsthem
in tem-onto that. I haven't had any trouble with juvenile Bolivia
everyday
and that
clean
the
bottom
while
doingtheso.
Using
re at this young
age, I will restate
77F is
ideal.
During these
cleanings,
water
volumeoffered,
exchangedand
is noteat eagerly. However, make sure the particles are an appro
but the debris a
andsmall
uneatendiameter
food is kepthose
from accumulating,
allowsslow,
for the cleanest
and most stable
will keep which
the flow
and tank
easily
ions for the fry. Care should be taken that the NO3 levels do not exceed 5ppm during the first
monthsconsumed
of develop- morsels. The food will also typically need to sink. Fry
allow
amble
time
to
clean
the
entire
tank
bottom
and
or significant losses could result. I add the clump of java moss for shelter, and although the fry
not eat it,but
theyit is easier for them if the food sinks readily. I feed the f
thewill
surface,
sp off of it on make
occasion.itI easier
use a small
pump to
drive
when using a small power filter),
toairavoid
the
fry.a bubble
Takemaker
care(only
to adjust
months,
then
three times per day up until the age of 6 months, when I a
e a suction cup mount to place it a few inches below the water surface (to where it is still submerged during mainFemale fry at 5 months
the temperature of the incoming water. I believe the
e, but as high as possible to limit any current created). Ideally the fry should be fed live baby brine shrimp every
species
is
very
sensitive
to
fluctuations
in
temperature
ours; however,
I must admit
that I have
had no difficulties
raising the fry
entirely
on powdered foods such as First
The frycannot
will need to be
transferredbuttoI have
a larger
grow to
out
tank as needed,
I have had success using a 36" tank for grow out of
A lot of species
eat theI particles,
foundisthis
be a problem withThe
this species.
fry will need to be transferred to a larger grow
at this adequately
young age,
will restate thatnot77F
ideal.
small groups (20-30 fishes), and typically move the fry into this sized tank between 12-16 weeks or age. In this secondary
tank as Ineeded,
I have
success
using
a is
36”
these
cleanings,
thePage
water
exchanged
10) volume
grow During
out tank;
I usually
add a(cont.
sand
substrate
and some
vegetation out
for shelter.
do still lean
on had
simplicity
so the
tank
still
for of
grow
out of
groups
(20-30
is nottogreat,
but the
debris
is bothered
kept
conducive
cleaning.
At this
age,and
the uneaten
fry do notfood
seem
bytank
a lack
shelter,
andsmall
are quite
social.
A 6fishes),
monthsand
of age,
typically move the fry into this sized tank between
which allows for the cleanest tank
my fryfrom
willaccumulating,
eat from my hand.
12-16 weeks or age. In this secondary grow out tank;
and most stable conditions for the fry. Care should be
usually
add a and
sand
substrate
and
some vegetation
taken
the NO3 levels
not
exceed
5ppm
during
The fry
growthat
painstakingly
slow,do
and
after
11 weeks
may
only be I1/2"
in length,
after
6 months
measure
1 1/4" or less.
for shelter.
I do
lean onyou
simplicity
the tank
months
of development,
or significant
losses
After the
the first
fry are
12 weeks
old, you can start
crushing up
sinking cichlid
pellets
(orstill
whatever
feed theso
adults)
and isstart
still conducive
to cleaning.
At this
age, the
fry do notfoods
could
result.
add Ithe
clump
ofany
javatrouble
moss for
weaning
them
ontoI that.
haven't
had
withshelter,
juvenile Bolivian
Rams, they
have readily
accepted
all prepared
seem bothered
a lack
of shelter,
and are
andand
although
the fry
will not eat
it, sure
theythe
willparticles
rasp off are an appropriate
offered,
eat eagerly.
However,
make
size, by
as the
fry and
adults alike;
doquite
prefer small,
easily consumed morsels. The food will also typically need to sink. Fry will become brave and learn that they can feed from
the surface, but it is easier for them if the food sinks
readily.
feedAthe
fry small portions, every three hours for the first two
BERMUDA
FRY-AINGLE
QUARIUM SOCIETY
months, then three times per day
up
until
the
age
of
6
months,
when
I
adjust
them to two feedings like the adults.
Page 9
18
social. A 6 months of age, my fry will eat from my
hand.
FISHTALES
caudal and dorsal fins will develop between 15-20
weeks, and the red in the anal fin shortly thereafter but
will not be fully developed until 6 months. The blue in
the pelvic fins also develops around 6 months. At this
age, the fry are of a sellable size, or large enough to
be combined with adults if the tank space allows. The
yellow abdomen may not develop until the fish are
mature, after 8-10 months.
The fry grow painstakingly slow, and after 11 weeks
may only be 1/2” in length, and after 6 months
measure 1 1/4” or less. After the fry are 12 weeks
old, you can start crushing up sinking cichlid pellets
(or whatever you feed the adults) and start weaning
them onto that. I haven’t had any trouble with
Poor quality Bolivian Rams are common in the hobby,
juvenile Bolivian Rams, they have readily accepted
The fry
need to
be transferred
to aeat
larger
grow However,
out tank as needed,
I have hadissuccess
usingwith
a 36"
for grow
and deformity
a problem
thetank
species.
Theout of
all will
prepared
foods
offered, and
eagerly.
small make
groupssure
(20-30
and
move thesize,
fry into
this sized
tankfor
between
12-16 weeks
or age.
In this
secondary
reason
this is inbred
fish, poor
strains
from
Asian
the fishes),
particles
aretypically
an appropriate
as the
grow fry
outand
tank;adults
I usually
add
sand substrate
and some
vegetation farms,
for shelter.
still
simplicity
so the
is still
and Iado
lack
oflean
wildon
fish
to mix into
the tank
breeding
alike;
doa prefer
small, easily
consumed
conducive to cleaning. At this age, the fry do not seem bothered by a lack of shelter, and are quite social. A 6 months of age,
lines. Take care to study your fry before dispersing
morsels. The food will also typically need to sink. Fry
my fry will eat from my hand.
them into the market. Common deformities include
will become brave and learn that they can feed from
bent spines, clamped tails, short bodies, large lips,
the surface, but it is easier for them if the food sinks
The fry grow painstakingly slow, and after 11 weeks may only be 1/2" in length, and after 6 months measure 1 1/4" or less.
and curled pectoral fins, if present these will be visible
readily. I feed the fry small portions, every three hours
After the fry are 12 weeks old, you can start crushing up sinking cichlid pellets (or whatever you feed the adults) and start
in fry after
three
months,
and usually
occur
in a low foods
for
the
first
two
months,
then
three
times
per
day
up
weaning them onto that. I haven't had any trouble with juvenile Bolivian
Rams,
they
have readily
accepted
all prepared
percentage.size, as the fry and adults alike; do prefer small,
until
theeatage
of 6 months,
when
them
to two
offered,
and
eagerly.
However,
makeI adjust
sure the
particles
are an appropriate
like
the adults.
easilyfeedings
consumed
morsels.
The food will also typically need to sink.Overall,
Fry willthe
become
learn
that they
feed from
fry arebrave
quiteand
easy
to raise,
carecan
needs
the surface,
but it is easier
them
if the
food sinks
readily.
small
every
hours forand
the first two
befry
given
toportions,
fluctuations
in three
temperature
The abdominal
spotsfor
and
facial
banding
will start
to I feedtothe
months,
then three
times
day up
until the
the age
6 months,
I adjust
thembut
to two
feedings
likedothe
adults.
Nitrate
levels,
otherwise
they
not
present any
develop
around
12per
weeks
of age,
red of
lining
of the when
ank as needed, I have had success using a 36" tank for grow out of problems.
nto this sized tank between 12-16 weeks or age. In this secondary
vegetation for shelter. I do still lean on simplicity so the tank is still
othered by a lack of shelter, and are quite social. A 6 months of age,
2013 Annual Home Show
y only be 1/2" in length, and after 6 months measure 1 1/4" or less.
sinking cichlid pellets (or whatever you feed the adults) and start Continued from Page 8
uvenile Bolivian Rams, they have readily accepted all prepared foods
es are an appropriate size, as the fry and adults alike; do prefer small,tanks category was the least contentious I asked Kris
eed to sink. Fry will become brave and learn that they can feed from to announce those results first. Robert’s tank captured
dily. I feed the fry small portions, every three hours for the first two the third spot, followed by Michelle and I again took the
top place in the designer category. In the natural tank
onths, when I adjust them to two feedings like the adults.
category Kris announced that third place went to Scott.
Male fry at 6 months
He12
went
on of
to age,
say how
close
it was
between
The abdominal spots and facial banding will start to develop around
weeks
the red
lining
of the
caudalsecond
and dorsal
firstthereafter
place. I knew
thatnot
it was
going
to be close
fins will develop between 15-20 weeks, and the red in the anal fin and
shortly
but will
be fully
developed
until 6
boththe
entries
where
very good.
tension
months. The blue in the pelvic fins also develops around 6 months.because
At this age,
fry are
of a sellable
size,Asorthe
large
enough to
of anticipation
in the room
between
the top
two
be combined with adults if the tank space allows. The yellow abdomen
may not develop
untilgrew
the fish
are mature,
after
8-10
entries from David Gibbons and Robert Wheatley, Kris
months.
declared Robert the winner.
Poor quality Bolivian Rams are common in the hobby, and deformity
is a problem
withwho
the species.
forwho
this is inThanks
to all of you
entered The
tanksreason
and all
bred fish, poor strains from Asian farms, and a lack of wild fish tocame
mix into
the
breeding
lines.
Take
care
to
study
your
along for the event. Your participation made itfry
a before dispersing them into the market. Common deformities includegreat
bent afternoon.
spines, clamped
tails,might
short be
bodies,
largeyear
lips,that
and
Next year
the very
curled pectoral fins, if present these will be visible in fry after three
months,
and are
usually
occur inWill
a low
the
two kings
dethroned.
thepercentage.
successor to the
throne be you, or will your tank not be ready?
Overall, the fry are quite easy to raise, care needs to be given to fluctuations in temperature and Nitrate levels, but otherwise
they do not present any problems.
Maturing female at 8 months
(End)
elop around 12 weeks of age, the red lining of the caudal
BERMUDAand
FRYdorsal
-ANGLE AQUARIUM SOCIETY
he anal fin shortly thereafter but will not be fully developed until
6
Page 10
d 6 months. At this age, the fry are of a sellable size, or large enough to
BAP
BREEDER AWARD TOTALS
Jeremy Lodge (Senior Breeder)......... 486
Craig Morfitt (Advanced Breeder) ...... 229
Chris Roy (Advanced Breeder) .......... 210
Toronte Caines (AdvancedBreeder) ... 190
Nyon Steede (Advanced Breeder) ..... 189
David Terceira (Breeder Award) ......... 119
Stephen Decouto (Breeder Award) ... 114
Jeffrey Porter (Breeder Award) ............ 78
Scott Dunstan .................................... 66
Justin Wall .......................................... 41
Paul Archer ......................................... 35
BERMUDA FRY-ANGLE AQUARIUM SOCIETY
Executive Committee
President
Vice President
Secretary
Treasurer
Nyon Steede
David Patterson
Peter Marsh
Wendy Pacheco
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
Librarian
BAP Chairperson
Newsletter Editor
Webmaster
Membership Coordinator
Carol Terceira
David Patterson
Peter Marsh
Peter Marsh
Scott Dunstan
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
Elected Officers
Wendy Corrado .................................. 30
Robert Wheatley ................................. 26
Eric Hirschberg ................................... 18
David Patterson .................................. 15
Simon Onabouale ............................... 13
Carol Terceira ..................................... 13
Klaus Gerbhardt ................................. 10
Torleair Caines ...................................... 7
Contact David Patterson
[email protected]
To Register your Spawn
We welcome contributions to Fish Tales,
including articles, comments, book or
equipment reviews, letters,
crosswords, puzzles etc.…
Any contributions should be sent to
PETER MARSH
Email: [email protected]
PLEASE NOTIFY IF YOUR
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Society Membership
Membership to the Bermuda Fry-Angle Aquarium Society
is open to any resident of Bermuda who has an interest in
tropical fish. The annual membership fee is $20. The Society’s
financial year runs from April 1st to March 31st.
Meetings are held on the third Friday or Saturday of every
month. Meeting place is the Lecture Rooms, behind the
Bermuda Aquarium, Museum & Zoo. Occasionally meetings
are held elsewhere.
If you would like further information please contact:
Peter Marsh at 537-3781
or email: [email protected]
Reprint Policy
Unless otherwise stated, articles appearing in Fish Tales have been
written by local (Bermuda) authors. These articles may be reprinted.
Should another aquarium society decide to reprint an article we ask
that they provide us with two copies of the publication containing the
re-print (one copy for the author, one copy for our Society).
FISH TALES
THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION
OF THE BERMUDA FRY-ANGLE
AQUARIUM SOCIETY P.O. BOX PG 240
PAGET PG BX BERMUDA PRESIDENT, NYON STEEDE
We ’ r e o n t h e We b !
w w w. f r y a n g l e . c o m
LOCALLY PRINTED MATERIAL
NEXT MEETING:
Friday, Friday 17th, 2013 – 8pm
Will be a social gathering/consignment
auction at Peter Marsh’s house.
Bring with you any unwanted aquarium items to be
auctioned off (equipment, tanks, books, plants, fish,
etc.). There will be a 60/40 split (40% going to the
Club) on items auctioned. This will be a great
opportunity for members to either
get rid of excess and unused items
or to buy items at a good price.