How to Move Really
Fish
by WARREN FEUER and MARK SOBERMAN
e've all had it happen to us. What was once a small, cute fish has suddenly (actually, it probably has taken a while, but seems sudden) become a larger, and usually not cuter, "tank buster". Now what do you do? There are generally two options open to you; one, move the fish to another, less crowded, and hopefully larger, tank of your own, or, two, locate another home for the fish (hopefully in someone else's tank). In either case, the fish will have to be moved. By sharing some of our experiences with moving fish, we hope to help you make the transition less stressful for both you and your fish. The first decision is where the fish will go. If you are locating the fish to another tank within your fish room, or even your house, the logistics of moving said fish are much less complicated, but not necessarily simple. For example, check out what happened when we tried to move a 12 inch Leiarius pictus (a South American predatory catfish) from Mark's living room, where it was temporarily quartered in a 30 gallon tank to Mark's basement/fish room where it was slated to go into a 55 gallon tank. We already knew that we could not use a net to get the fish out of the 30 gallon tank because: a) having long barbels and fins it would become entangled in a net, and, b) we had no net large enough to hold the fish! We decided instead to use a plastic spaghetti colander to lift the fish out of the tank and into a 5 gallon bucket we had placed on the floor specifically to carry the fish down stairs. About 50% of the water was drained out and we positioned the colander under the fish, preparing to lift the fish out. Then the unexpected happened. The fish leapt out of the tank, and, somehow, landed in the bucket! Both of us stood there dumb struck. One observer, author Feuer's son Eric, had the following comment: "Did you train the fish to do that?" Actually, we were lucky. Had the fish not landed in the bucket, it might have been seriously injured — perhaps even killed. As it was, the fish separated one of its pectoral fins, but this quickly healed. With this in mind, here's lesson 1: Prepare carefully for the move, no matter how large or small, and after you've made all your preparations, prepare for the unexpected. Anticipate what you suspect cannot, but probably might, happen. Always have contingency plans, just in case your well-planned move hits a bump in the road.
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Modern Aquarium - Greater City A.S. (NY)
When it is necessary to relocate a fish or several fish outside of your own location to some where else, even more planning and equipment is called for. We had to move two rather large Tin Foil Barbs that had actually out-grown their 75 gallon home. Unlike the quandary we faced with the pictus, here we could use a net to catch the fish, but then had to decide how to transport them. The fish would be in a car for approximately one half-hour. We needed to carry them in a container that would accomplish the task. A five gallon bucket would not nearly be large enough for these behemoths. Fortunately, Mark was in the possession of a 30 something gallon plastic container with a secure lid. Catching the fish turned out to be easier than we thought as both of the fish to be moved swam right into the net we were using and did not create any fuss at all once they were lifted out of the tank. We would not be so lucky with one other fish we were attempting to move. Also resident in the tank was one Megaladoras irwinei. If you are not familiar with this fish, it is a South American catfish that tends to be totally inactive by day, lying around almost totally immobile and waiting for evening to become active. Unlike many nocturnal, large catfish, the irwinei is most peaceful, and decidedly not predatory. Although it has a rather large mouth and could easily make a meal of many of its tank mates, the irwinei never would. It had, however, become rather large and appeared to also be out-growing the 75 gallon tank that was its home. Using the time tested colander method, the fish was quickly gathered and brought up to the surface for transport. Then, all hell broke loose. As the fish was brought out of the water it began thrashing violently, lifting its body out of the colander and splashing about. As author Feuer tried to cover the colander to contain the fish and lessen the splashing, the barbed extensions on the fish's caudal peduncle caught his hand and left a rather large gash. From this experience we learned the importance of proper equipment. Had we not been able to transport the Tin Foils in the large container we had available to us, the stress of the move might have harmed them. Fortunately, the fish transported quite well and quickly adapted to their new 125 gallon home. We also learned that moving armored, barbed fish such as the irwinei, and many other catfish requires more preparation
December 1999
A Weekend To Remember: The North Jersey Extravaganza by JOSEPH FERDENZI
hat a weekend it was. It was the Discus), Lee Finley (on catfish), Mark and Anne widely publicized Fall 1999 Tropical Broadmeyer (on the aquarium Internet and show Fish Weekend Extravaganza, hosted fish, respectively), Tom Neal (marine tanks), by the North Jersey Aquarium Society. Held on Dr. Sallie Boggs (on anabantoids), and North the 22nd through 24th of October at the Hilton Jersey's own Dr. Ted Coletti (biotope Hotel in Parsippany, New Jersey, it was billed as aquariums) and Matt Kaufman (on killifish). the last great aquarium event of the millennium. Imagine having access to all these people Well, it lived up to the advance billing. There in one place, at one time. But, of course, there were several ingredients that added up to produce were many other great hobbyists to share the a fantastic hobby event. weekend with, including many from the local First, there were the people. There were societies here in the tri-state area — Mike lots of them, from all McNamaee (former over the U.S.A., president of the Long including as far away Island Killifish as California. This Association), Sal gave everyone a S i l v e s t r i (former chance to speak with president of the Norwalk Aquarium knowledgeable aquarists they Society), and Seth otherwise would Kolker (current probably never get a of the President chance to meet. For Brooklyn Aquarium example, noted cichlid Society), just to name breeder Myles Neiman a few. was there — he's Our own club from California (he was well represented probably came, in part, Left to Right; Lee Finley? who writes columns for by long-time members to get awayfromthose both TFH md AFM and expert on both catfish and s u c h a s M a r k annoying earthquakes). aquarium literature; Joe Ferdenzi; Ted Coletti, NJAS Soberman, former C o n v e r s e l y , the member and columnist for FAMA: and Mark G C A S p r e s i d e n t out-of-towners could Soberman Vincent Sileo, Rosie get to t a l k to Sileo, Greg Wuest, well-known New York hobbyists such as Ginny Carlotti DeJager, Ellen Halligan, and Tom Miglio Eckstein (although you know she's not much of (who is also a very active member of the Brooklyn Aquarium Society), and newer a conversationalist — said tongue-in-cheek). members such as Claudia Dickinson, Harry These noted hobbyists were present even though Faustman, Bill Adams, and Bob Wranovics. they were not among the scheduled speakers — Well, by now, I'm sure you get the idea — it that says something about the drawing power of was a lot of fun to be with all these people. the event. There were many great hobbyist items And, speaking of speakers, there was for sale, including rare fish, gorgeous plants, quite an assortment of interesting presentations. aquarium artwork, custom blended fish food, and I was able to see several of them, and found them both new and antique books. In short, if money all informative and entertaining. The list of was burning a hole in your pocket, you could presenters included: Rosario LaCorte (stories easily quench the fire (when asked how much my from the legendary hobbyist), Dr. Stan Weitzman "fire" cost by my wife, Anita, who participated in (the famous ichthyologist on tetras), Chuck Davis the show, I "took the Fifth"). (on show fish), Mike Sheridan (on New World One of the highlights of the weekend cichlids), Neil Frank (on planted aquariums), Dr. was the Saturday evening banquet. Here was a Wayne Leibel (Geophagus cichlids), Steve truly convivial gathering of aquarists, punctuated Linblad (on Malawi cichlids), Mark Weiss (on
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Modern Aquarium - Greater City A.S. (NY)
December 1999
by fine food and conversation. (In my case, it upcoming show on May 6-7, 2000. Incidentally, was also punctuated by my buddy, Ray the Best of Show trophy was won by a fish from "Kingfish" Lucas, poking fun at my inability to the Suckermouth Catfish Class (there were three talk without frenetic hand gestures.) The show catfish classes in the show) — a huge (about a awards and various tokens of appreciation for foot in body length) chocolate-brown "pleco" those who had worked so hard on the show were type with magnificent orange streamers on its presented during the affair to enthusiastic rounds lyre-shaped caudal fin. The fish is owned by of applause. A feature presentation of the North Jersey's long-time treasurer, Frank banquet was several skits staged by Wayne Leibel Policastro. Frank has been in the hobby for and Lee Finley, who spoofed past, present, and decades — a nicer guy you won't meet — and "future" hobbyists. This production included everyone was pleased for him. costume and "scene" changes, and an And, you may ask, what was Reserve Best of Show? Well, leave it to North Jersey to accompanying musical score. It was quite a rollicking affair (their not bad actors, I must say). have as the second best entry in the show something that looked like a cross between a For example, they donned period costumes to crocodile and Godzilla. No, it wasn't a fish — give their version of an imagined conversation it was some gigantic lizard. Yes, you see, North between the famed William T. Innes and C. H. Jersey shows are somewhat unique (actually, Peters, from the 1930s. They surprised Rosario LaCorte with a very funny version of "This Is come to think of it, this won't be the only Your Life." (I should also mention that North reason they are unique — the year Ricky Geis Jersey's own "nut," Ricky Geis, did a short, but entered a chicken in the "Egg-layer" division hilarious imitation of Dr. comes to mind) because Paul Loiselle, when the they have reptile and absent doctor, who was amphibian classes (things away on another expedition that live in tanks). I don't to Madagascar, was know much about lizards, honored with a Life but whoever owned that Membership in their beast deserved the award society.) just for being brave enough Oh, and there were to lug it to the show. show fish at this event, too! (Now, aren't you wishing Three hundred and forty you were there?) entries to be exact — that In short, the North is a tremendous number for Jersey club is to be a contemporary show. The commended on a job GCAS members Mark Soberman Joe competition was fierce. well-done. The show Ferdenzi with their trophies logistics were under the Several GCAS members able command of Show Chairman Chris Borgese had entries in the show, Tom Miglio (who and society President Helen DiBartolomeo (who claims to be a "disciple" of the author!) entered claims she must be nuttier than most because she over 20 fish! Tom garnered four prizes, doesn't even keep fish — her husband Joe is including First Place in the Killifish Class. (Tom reputed to have some, however). They had does so well at fish shows — he recently won the everything very professionally organized — this Best of Show trophy at the 1999 Norwalk event was a fun event and easy to participate in. For with a beautiful Betta splendens — that I accused example, the fish room, under the auspices of my "disciple" of using "holy water" in all his Larry Jinks and Jack Borghese, had tanks and show tanks.) As for myself, I took First Place in bowls already set-up and pre-labeled so that all the Smooth-skinned Catfish Class, and First in an entrant had to do was put the fish and the the Armoured Catfish Class (with my new "star," water in the container. This freed you to go on a Corydoras schwartzi, the same one that won the to other things quickly (beer, for example, needs Catfish Championship at the 1999 Norwalk to be drunk when it's fresh). Show). And, since Mark Soberman took Second I know this weekend will go down in and Third Place in the Armoured Catfish Class aquarium history (or, at least, in a future Ted (he had several beautiful Corydoras entries), it Coletti "time-line") as one of the most became a clean sweep for GCAS — the only memorable events of the '90s. Members of class sweept by an outside club. This leads me North Jersey — thanks for the memories. to hereby issue a "challenge" to North Jersey to try and do the same — sweep any class — at our Modern Aquarium - Greater City A.S. (NY)
December 1999
Bernard Harrigan, Artist;
Warren Feuer, Research
Scientific Name: Apistogramma pertensis Common Name: Net or Amazon Dwarf Cichlid Adult Size: 2%"<J — 13/4n9 Native Habitat: Brazil, Amazon & Rio Negro Water Conditions: pH 5.5; temperature 73°F-86°F Degree of difficulty to keep: 3 (Moderate) Degree of difficulty to breed: 3 (Moderate) GCAS Breeders1 Point Value: 15
Articles about this fish in Modern Aquarium: None to date ~ can YOU write one?
December 1999
Modern Aquarium - Greater City A.S. (NY)
& by CLAUDIA DICKINSON
s I return to Montauk each month, I am totally rejuvenated and full of exhilaration from our Greater City Aquarium society meeting! In my great exhuberation, I always want to pick up the phone and let you, the membership, know how very special that each and every one of you are and how important that you are to the club. Upon my return from November's meeting, I immediately wanted to call and thank Warren Feuer. He has been my hero by taking the membership data and entering it into a data base system. This has been an invaluable assistance to me in organizing my membership procedures, as my computer is not yet set up to record this type of information. Thank you Warren! What would we all do without Pete D'Orio? I will call him right now...but no, he must be at work. Well, I will call Roberta and tell her how wonderful that Pete is...but, she already knows that! Pete is unassuming, always right there for any of us who need a hand. Pete quietly goes about the business of making sure that our meetings run smoothly. Thank you so much Pete - you are TERRIFIC! Tom Miglio ~ well, what more can I say? Tom along with many of you, has been one of those generous contributors to our auctions that really keep GCAS auctions exciting and helpful in defraying overhead for the club. I have been so very fortunate as to have several of Tom's fabulous fish become a part of my fishroom. Tom ~ a big thank you! When I finally curl up for the night, I indulge in the treasured ritual of opening up Modern Aquarium. Al and Susan Priest, what
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would we ever do without you? Thank you could never be enough! Speaking of the treasured ritual of indulging in the Modern Aquarium, I am working with Rainbow fish and there appears a Rainbow fish article, just fiill of all the information that I am looking for! I am working with Killifish and trying to locate information; and what appears in Modern Aquarium, but great Killifish articles! My Killie egg packets have all been labeled, placed away for different lengths of time, brought out, hatched and producing their next generations. These articles were and are referred to many times. Now comes November's meeting and I have received some lovely tetras and killies that are just craving a spawning mop. The front cover of Modern Aquarium features the spawning mop with the most precisely written article on two methods of creating ones own mop! The diagrams that accompany the article are invaluable, and the directions couldn't be easier to follow. Joe Ferdenzi, there isn't a month that goes by that I don't return home and wish to send you a big thank you, and I'm certain that goes for all of us at GCAS! Your articles are articulate, educational, easy to comprehend and perfectly seasoned with your great sense of humour. For this, we all thank you! (I was going to tell you all about how I ran out and bought 20 skeins of different shades of green yarn, had huge plans of making spawning mops for ALL of Greater City, didn't have a 2x4 handy, so I wrapped the yarn around the gear shift and the seat belt...well another time!)
Next month (January), there NOT be a regular meeting (that means no speaker, no bowl show, no auction). Instead, the Greater City Aquarium Society will be having its annual Holiday Party and Awards Banquet at the Palace Diner. Advance reservations are required. Tonight's meeting is your last chance to register for this very special event! Members participating in the Breeder's Award Program (BAP) are reminded that strict "witnessing" rules are in effect. Consult your BAP booklet or our BAP chairpersons, Greg vWuest or Carlotti DeJager, for details and witnessing forms. Modern Aquarium is available at meetings for MEMBERS ONLY. Don't even ask for a copy, unless you have renewed your GCAS membership for our current season.
Modern Aquarium - Greater City A.S. (NY)
December 1999
News From:
The Northeast Council Of Aquarium Societies by CLAUDIA DICKINSON
ilver Anniversary Celebration! Come celebrate the Northeast Council's big 25th Anniversary and the bright new Century 2000 with what promises to be the convention of a lifetime! If it could be possible, it may even top last year's extravaganza, as our incredibly enthusiastic convention team has been busy all year with exciting preparations. Word has it that they have an unbelievable speaker line-up so far, which includes Stuart Grant, who will travel all the way from Malawi, and Claus Christensen from Denmark. The ever-fabulous Chuck Davis will be there, as well as our beloved Ginny Eckstein, Rosario La Corte, Wayne Leibel, Lee Finley, Ad Konings, and Mike Shadle. The weekend will be full of action-packed "fishy-fun " with seminars, vendors galore, books and auctions like you've never witnessed of dry goods, plants and fish. Most of all, there will be the wonderful people to share the time with ~ lots of good friends and many new people that will fast become your best fish pals. The dates are March 17th through the 19th. For further information please contact myself and/or our Convention Chairperson Janine Banks at 802-372-8716; e-mail dbanks@together.net. Chuck Davis ~ December 5th General Meeting! Don't miss out on meeting that most wonderful fish person who shares his great ideas and knowledge with us in his monthly Aquarium Fish Magazine "Society News" column. Chuck is traveling far to make a special appearance for us at the NEC general meeting. It is a short and lovely drive to the Farmington Marriott where I will see you at 12:30. Please come to me with any questions ~ I can't wait to see you there! NEC Coming Events! December 5th: NEC General Meeting - Special Guest Star ~ Chuck Davis! You are welcome and encouraged to join in this great fun-filled afternoon! February 13th: Pioneer Valley Aquarium Society Auction. March 5th: Tropical Fish Society of Rhode Island "Buck-a-Bag" Auction. March 17-19: NEC 25th Annual Convention. April 2nd: Worcester Aquarium Society Auction. April 30th: Monadnock Region Aquarium Society Auction. May 5-9: Greater City Aquarium Society Show & Auction. May 19th~21st: Aqua-Land Aquarium Society Show and Auction. You Could Be A Judge! The Northeast Council is planning on conducting another one of its well-known judging schools held by the prestigious Anne Broadmeyer. The knowledge to be gained from this experience will broaden your fish-keeping horizons and remain with you forever! Please contact Anne Broadmeyer at 203-775-0030. I know I'm going to go call her right now! Until next month... Take Care!
Modern Aquarium - Greater City A.S. (NY)
December 1999
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Exchange Editors: Send all mail, including exchange publications, for Modern Aquarium, or for the Greater City Aquarium Society to: Alexander A. Priest % Greater City A.S. 1558 McDonald Street Bronx, NY 10461-2208 To contact us via e-mail, send your message or inquiries to GreaterCity@compuserve.com Or, leave us a message on our website at http://ourworld.compuserve.com/homepages/greatercity If you are sending an electronic file (including any article), please save the file as either: (1) .RTF (Rich Text Format); or (2) ASCII (or text); or (3) WordPerfect 5.1 for MS-DOS. Please use an "8 plus 3" file name (that is, no more than 8 letters or numbers, no spaces, and with an (optional) file extension of no more than three letters or numbers). You can send 3.5" (Amiga, Macintosh, MS-DOS/Windows) or 5.25" (CBM, MS-DOS) size disks, either high or low density. If you mail a disk, keep a copy of the file on your hard drive or on another floppy (the Post Office has been known to "cancel" programs on a disk), and include a printed copy, along with information indicating what program you used to create the file.
THE ANTIQUAIUUM GLO-STONES. Another NEW, FASCINATING INVENTION from HYDRO-ELECTRONICS! THE FIRST LUMINOUS DECORATION FOR FRESH WATER AQUARIUMS. SOLD IN PLASTIC VIALS, JUST HEAT VIAL WITH HOT WATER AND POUR LIQUID CONTENTS INTO AQUARIUM. IT WILL IMMEDIATELY UPON TOUCHING WATER, SOLIDIFY INTO SYNTHETIC STONES OF MANY DIFFERENT SHAPES. IN LESS THAN A MINUTE, THEY WILL BEGIN TO GLOW BRIGHTER AND BRIGHTER, UNTIL THEY ARE THE BRIGHTEST OBJECTS IN THE AQUARIUM!
NOW, TURN OUT THE LIGHTS! UNBELIEVABLY BEAUTIFUL, GLOWING RED, BLUE, AND GREEN, GLOSTONES LIGHT UP THE WHOLE AQUARIUM! PERFECTLY HARMLESS TO TROPICAL FISH, GLO-STONES KEEP THEIR BRILLIANCE FOR 25 YEARS OR MORE. GLO-STONES ARE AVAILABLE IN 3 COLORS AT YOUR LOCAL PET SHOP OR BY SENDING $3.49 for either Red, Blue, or Green to
HYDRO-ELECTRONICS P.O. BOX 181 FLUSHING, N.Y. 11352 Please add .500 shipping, OR ORDER ALL THREE COLORS FOR $10.47 AND WE WILL PAY SHIPPING. Dealers, please use letterhead when writing for details.
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December 1999
Modern Aquarium - Greater City A.S. (NY)
North Jersey's Grande Extravaganza! by CLAUDIA DICKINSON t was heralded as one of the last great aquarium events of the 20th century ~ and that it was! Greater City Aquarium Society turned out in full force with Joe and Anita Ferdenzi, Mark and Robin Soberman, Tom Miglio, Seth Kolker, Vince and Rosie Sileo, Harry Faustman, Bob Wranovics, Greg Wuest, Carlotti DeJager, Ellen Halligan, and Bill Adams. Along with the many other attendees, we were treated to the extravaganza of a lifetime! The North Jersey Aquarium Society staff greeted us, led by dynamic President Helen DiBartolomeo and Vice President Chris Borgese who, besides running a top notch show, seemed to be everywhere, handling all aspects of the convention with apparent ease. Undaunted by the many long hours of pre-event work, Larry Jinks' patience never missed a beat as he cheerfully organized contestants with their assigned show tanks. Larry's right-hand man, Jack Borgese, was always ready to lend a helpful hand. Ted Coletti had certainly done a top-notch job advertising the event as the crowds poured in and filled the hotel, spilling out into a neighboring hotel. The friendly Ricky Geis, Frank Policastro, and Kevin Carroll never hesitated to find a moment in their busy schedules to answer questions, offer assistance and to engage in amicable fish talk with their guests. Christine Colonna ran an unbelievable speaker program that drew an impressive audience from all walks of the world such as TFH Editor Mary Sweeney, Pam Chin, Ginny and Charlie Eckstein, Tony Orso, Pam Marsh, and Randy Carey to name a few. Friday evening kicked off with a "Meet the Speakers" and "Speaker Roundtable" emceed by Chuck Davis. Wayne Leibel treated a packed room to his expertise on Geophagus Cichlids and was followed by a Giant Dry Goods Auction. The showroom filled with entrants and was open for public viewing, as onlookers were given the opportunity to see 25 classes of fabulous specimens of fish and herps, as well as photography, original art work, and tank beautiful setups. The vendor room was a bustle of activity, the air filled with chatter and laughter as people converged to rehash "the good old days" and view the array of wares. You know you're at a major event when Ray "Kingfish" Lucas has taken his time and efforts to travel so far and set up his huge booth of manufacturer's goods; and Lee and Aline Finley have brought their incredible
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collection of books from Rhode Island. GCAS stars Vince and Rosie Sileo had a wide selection of plants displayed for sale and Tom and Peggy Neal had come down from New Hampshire with their wonderful selection of fish foods and plastic bags. Tony Orso had his fabulous variety of hard to find fish for sale, and Pam Marsh had her beautiful and creative T-shirts displayed. Saturday brought on Dr. Ted Coletti, Dr. Sallie Boggs, Mike Sheridan, Marc Weiss, Dr. Stan Weitzman, Mark Broadmeyer, Steve Lundblad, Tom Neal, Neal Frank, Matt Kaufman, Rosario LaCorte, Anne Broadmeyer, and Chuck Davis Wow!!! Need I say more?! Saturday night's awards banquet was highlighted by Wayne Leibel and Lee Finley, who showed their extraordinary talents in the performance of a three-act play on "The History of the Aquarium Hobby." Their creativity and ingenuity met with thunderous applause as they glided through costume changes, period music and props as well as a hilarious and well-delivered script. It was time for the awards presentation, and the GCAS beamed with pride as Joe Ferdenzi took 1st place in the Smooth Skin Catfish class AND 1st place in the Armored Catfish class. Marc Soberman cleaned up the Armored Catfish class, with his prize fish taking 2nd and 3rd places. Tom Miglio took home 4 prizes, his spectacular fish hitting a home run with 1st place in the Killifish class. The competition was fierce and all of the winners, as well as those who tried, deserve congratulations for having made the effort. Sunday was an early start with the auction lot sign-in and registration. Lee Finley conducted a "Catfish Chat," and Jan Bastmeyer a "Plant Chat." The viewing of the auction fish began at noon, and at 1:00 it was standing room only for a HUGE auction of hundreds of bags of fish. The auction carried on at a lively pace for eight hours until the last bag was reached. Our goodbyes were said and we each traveled home in our separate directions, but our thoughts, our hearts and our spirits were as one ~ and THAT is what makes a great convention! In 2001, the North Jersey Aquarium Society will be hosting the ACA Convention. If you attended this event, I know you won't miss that, and if you weren't able to come to this, you have a great weekend to look forward to ~ I know I'll see you there!
December 1999
Modern Aquarium - Greater City A.S. (NY)
WET LEAVES A Series On Books For The Hobbyist by SUSAN PRIEST
ith all of this hoopla about what to expect from the year 2000 and beyond, everything around us seems larger and more demanding of our attention. I'll bet that many of you have already made a New Year's resolution. Have you considered which fish or fishes you will be keeping in the future? Many factors may affect your choice. (I know, I know; I'm supposed to be writing about a book. Just give me a couple more sentences.) I started scanning my library with an eye for a century-spanning fish with enough backbone to carry the aquarium hobby firmly forward. Out of the many worthy candidates, my focus kept narrowing, and I hope that many of you will agree with my choice; the humble and honorable guppy. "The aim of this book is to present a guidebook to producing beautiful, healthy guppies." I feel that there are two other equally distinguishing features. The photographs and illustrations are dazzling. Sometimes, there are several pages in a row of photos with barely a paragraph of text, and each photo is more arresting than the one before it. If you want to see photos and more photos of gorgeous fancy guppies, this book is for you. It also serves as a primer on genetics in general, and guppies in particular. (The topic of genetics is one which I have long wanted to see covered in the pages of Modern Aquarium, but I don't feel myself to be equal to the task of writing about it. Is there anyone out there who would like to tackle it?) The first three chapters cover basic fish keeping information, including water preparation and changing, filtration, lighting, feeding, and common illnesses. "In an aquarium without gravel, the water gets dirty quickly, and quickly becomes acidic. If the pH drops below 6.0, the guppy's tail doesn't open well, and its caudal fin becomes ragged." Large-grained sand is recommended, and plants are considered a "must." The chapter on Classification and Characteristics gives detailed descriptions of the most popular varieties. Some of those featured are Mosaic, Grass, Tuxedo, Leopard; top, bottom,
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Modern Aquarium - Greater City A.S. (NY)
and double Swordtails. The description of a King Cobra says, in part, that "their defining characteristic is a cobra design that covers the whole body, not dots but a connected pattern. The design is not on the caudal peduncle section. The dorsal fin is not very long; it is even skimpy." The chapters on "Breeding Techniques," and "Special Points of Breeding" offer detailed instructions on producing top quality guppies. It is clear to this reader that the author is describing his personal techniques and experiences. There are many charts illustrating the results of "outbreeding" different established varieties. In selecting the parents: outward appearance is not as important as confirmation of family line, choose a male with a thick caudal peduncle which swims energetically and actively pursues females. An established strain will be more expensive to purchase, but cheaper in the long run because they will produce larger litters. A litter should be separated by sex as soon as possible (about three weeks after birth) to ensure virgin females. The author is billed as Japan's foremost guppy breeder. This is the English version of a book that was originally published in Japan. The Contents page refers to a bibliography. In actuality, this is a list of suggested reading; other titles (by the same publisher) that may be of interest to readers of this volume. There is a General Index, as well as an Index of Illustrations. As natural habitats fall prey to ever-increasing varieties of pollution, the humble and honorable guppy may need a little help from some dedicated aquarists to carry the hobby into the future. Let's give them a hand! There are some expert guppy breeders in this club, and you can usually find examples of their fish in our monthly bowl shows and auctions. Where can you go for some good quality "seed fish?" Check the Happenings Page for two Guppy Clubs that meet right here at the Queens Botanical Garden.
Let's all slow down and take stock of our spiritual present, strength from age-old promises, and hope from each other. Happy Holidays
December 1999
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In the year 2000, you'll see many "Y2K Millenium Ultimate (etc., etc.)" fish shows announced. Only one will be held by Greater City, one of the oldest (78 years young by show time) & most respected aquarium societies in the nation!
Queens, New York City - NY proudly announcers its
y 6 At the Queens Farm Museum: 73-50 Little Neck Parkway Between the Grand Central Parkway and Union Turnpike ERE'S WHAT TO EXPECT AT A WORLO CLASS SHOW L I K E OURS:
Fish & aquatic plant competition - trophies awarded Auction of home-bred and raised fish and plants Auction of aquarium supplies/drygoods Top name speakers/workshops HERE'S WHAT YOU'LL FINIO ONLY GREATER CITY'S SHOW:
AT
Show held at a "working" farm museum with tours available for a real family fun day! Treasure hunt competition - compete for fun and prizes!
AJNTD EVEN MORE TO COME! Visit the Greater City website j:pr updated information at: http://ourworldxompusery^.com%omepages/greatercity E-Mail us at: north228@ai^.com^oi7 serpae@aol.com I c^>r< \ÂŁf|u - / Or contact Show Chairpersoii^P^^&id Roberta D'Orio: 89-32 118th Street - RichftS^Bffll, NY 11418 (718)847-2030 7
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December 1999
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Modern Aquarium - Greater City A.S. (NY)
The Federation of American Aquarium Societies by ALEXANDER A. PRIEST
H
ere is my final report on the activities of the Federation of American Aquarium Societies this year (in fact, for this century).
Officers: The new FAAS President is Hedy Padgett (a member of the Circle City Aquarium Society of Indianapolis, Indiana), with John Clark (Medina County A.S. of Ohio) serving as V.P. Several major committees have no one to chair them, and Hedy has asked for volunteers. Anyone interested in helping can contact me for a list of positions, or you can e-mail Hedy at: HMPadgett@aol.com The 1998 Publication awards: Probably due to the changes made last year, there were twice as many entries for last year, which has taken much longer to judge. (With the elimination of the prior restriction on multiple submissions and the confusion as to the new categories introduced at the "eleventh hour," many societies undoubtedly submited the same article in as many categories as their imaginations would allow.) In addition, the person who chaired the Publications Committee was in the hospital for two months and the entries didn't even get logged in until after his return home; only then were they sent to the judges. Based on the latest available information, results from the judging of the last three classes have now been received, and the member societies will be receiving notice of their awards shortly. The list of winners will be in the January/February FAAS Report. There is, as yet, no information about the 1999 awards (such as rule changes, where to send entries, deadlines, etc.).
Modern Aquarium - Greater City A.S. (NY)
The logo contest: This has now officially been declared to be a dead issue. None of the logos received the appropriate amount of votes, and the FAAS Board of Directors could not decide on how to handle this, effectively killing the contest. The FAAS Website: The information on the FAAS website is very outdated. There are plans for adding many areas to the website such, as a chat room, an area for questions and/or comments, a sales area (for selling FAAS patches, booklets, etc.), a delegates' page, a p a g e for F A A S sanctioned shows, and an Officers and committee persons page. The FAAS Report: The FAAS Report (FR) is the main vehicle for communications from FAAS to the society delegates (and through the delegates, to the individual member societies). While the outdated FAAS website (see above) still shows Marge Anderson as Editor of FR, she was replaced several months ago by Randy Seufert (as reported in Modern Aquarium in our April 1999 issue), who has now also resigned. Hedy Padgett served as interim Editor for the recent Nov/Dec issue, but there will be a new permanent FR Editor in January.
December 1999
17
BIRDS, REPTILES SMALL ANIMALS TROPICAL & MARINE FISH
HUGE SELECTION OF LIVE ROCK & CORALS ALWAYS IN STOCK IN OUR MARINE FISH & INVERTEBRATE
THE PET BARTf FRANKLIN SQUARE'S COMPLETE PET CENTER 212 FRANKLIN AVE FRANKLIN SQUARE, NY 11010 Come see our large Aquarium Plant display and receive J ONE FREE cultivated plant, just for stopping by!
Sit
EXOTIC FRESHWATER FISH AFRICAN CICHLIDS IMPORTED GOLDFISH AND KOI
1183
CORAL AQUARIUM 75-05 Roosevelt Ave Jackson Heights, NY 11372 718-429-3934 Open Mon.-Fri. 10AM-8:OOPM Sat. 10AM - 7:OOPM Sun. 12PM - 6:OOPM • LIVE CORALS
• LIVE ROCKS
• INVERTEBRATES
• TROPICAL FISH
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FANCY GOLDFISH
• LIVE PLANTS
• WET-DRY FILTERS
•
PROTEIN SKIMMERS
• BIRDS
• REPTILES
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DOG & CAT SUPPLIES
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DOG & CAT FOOD
• BIRD CAGES
• RABBITS
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HAMSTERS
• COMPLETE AQUARIUMS
• SALTWATER FISH
All Major Credit Cards Accepted
18
December 1999
Modern Aquarium - Greater City A.S. (NY)
Publish information on risks associated with air travel for animals, conditions under which animals are transported, the carrier's safety record, and plans for handling animals before and after the actual flight and during flight delays.
A Federal Case A series by "The Undergravel Reporter"
Make structural modifications to aircraft which include installation of positive airflow and heating/cooling systems.
|^^
ormally, tropical fish hobbyists consider themselves on the side of the angels. That is to say, we think of ourselves as pro-environment, and anti-animal abuse. This should put us in general agreement with animal rights groups. However, a recent development shows how the good intentions of one group (which logically should be our ally), can do serious harm to another. Senator Lautenberg authored the Safe Air Travel for Animals Act (S.B. 1193). The provisions of that act were added to the Federal Aviation Administration reauthorization bill, which deals with many air transport issues, and authorizes funding to maintain the nation's air transportation system. However, with the addition of the provisions from S.B. 1193, it would have added new rules for commercial airlines carrying live animals â&#x20AC;&#x201D; rules which could have severely restricted commercial air transport of animals in the United States. As reported in a PetAlert distributed to the industry in early August, Senate Bill 1193 would have required airlines to modify both their planes and procedures. Air carriers of live animals would have been required to
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Submit detailed reports about each incident involving the loss, injury, death or mishandling of an animal. â&#x20AC;˘
Ensure crew members are alerted that the aircraft is carrying animals, and institute a training program. Submit information about each flight carrying animals to the United States Department of Agriculture at least 24 hours in advance.
Modern Aquarium - Greater City A.S. (NY)
If this became law, only planes and companies conforming to these rules could legally transport animals in a cargo or baggage compartment after December 31, 2000. S.B. 1193 and S.B. 82 would have amended Title 7 of the U.S. Code (Animal Welfare Act) and Title 49 (regulation of air carriers). While "animals" in the context of the AWA includes only warm-blooded animals, this term is not defined for purposes of Title 49, Chapter 417. Therefore, all animals could be subject to these provisions, including birds, reptiles, amphibians, and even fish. The most likely outcome, if these provisions became law, would be that most airlines would simply refuse to transport "animals" (including fish). Those airlines who made costly changes to their planes and operations would likely charge hefty fees in order to recover their costs (fees that would be passed to the shipper and, ultimately, to you). Now, I'm not advocating animal abuse. I don't want to see Fido and Fluffy frozen or asphyxiated in an airless cargo hold. On the other hand, common sense should tell politicians and animal advocates that fish are transported in their own "environment." They are not subject to asphyxiation as a result of conditions in a cargo hold. As a result, fish should be exempted from a law governing conditions of air transport. Can't our politicians see the difference between fish and warm blooded animals in this case? Then again, what do you expect from a profession whose leaders can't agree on a definition of sexual activity or drug use? Can't right minded hobbyists and animal rights activists come to a reasoned meeting of the minds? The good news is that the Lautenberg amendment was not adopted, and that the FAA Reauthorization Bill is dead for this year. The bad news is we may see it, or a similar bill, next year. It is very likely that a bill calling for a study will be introduced next year. If a study is agreed upon, hearings and a period for public comment will likely follow. If that happens, it's up to aquarists to make our views, and the logical reasons for those views, known.
December 1999
19
G.C.A.S. HAPPENINGS Last Month's Bowl Show winners: 1) Claudia Dickinson - Pseudotropheus demasoni 2) Tom Miglio - Red Guppy (male) 3) Jeff George - Pseudotropheus saulosi The standings to date are: Sept '99 — June '200Q Bowl Show Season: 1) Tom Miglio - 19 points ;;;: ; ; :^:^^:<.:,:.^... 2) Claudia Dickinson &:ff6mis ^ xx 3) (tie) Carl^tti Befager an4 Jeff Ge|||e -ln|ointi iji; Let's welcomelflie following bfend new GCAS members: Bernard CS|ipbeil[ Kin Tung Ha Richard Levy and the foJjSwing reii^wals: ^g*& Sharkowitz Evan Rosenthal .^ill^O1' J^Svember's O&or Prize: African Cichlids L Cichlids was won by Al Grusell ...^W^'./.<-V^yw ...^W Deceiil&'s Door Prize will be:
(by Horst Link & Wolfgang &i!9
AquariuiB ft v Bfc Paul V. Loiselle, Tetra Pre|||*;|l
Here aremeeting times and locations of aquarium societies til the Metropolitan New AQUARIUM|OpiatY
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N||iij||eeting : January 5f^^^^^i^ • HoiicJiay Party and A^vpls Bancjuet ||::i Re§|if||ion requii:0; - sigttyp tonight ! 1| 8P1VI : Que|ias jSSlanical piarden | Telepe: mai :
Aquarium Society
ber 10 Party and Hall, N.Y.
18)8-7190
: BAS Events H o g e : (718) 837-4411^;
. com
Melts: montl;;at the Que^Os Botanical Garden Contacts ^Mf Georp!|;||ene Telephone:
Queens;.JS|aii:ieal:::Ciarcli;
Nassau County Aquarium Society
Long Island AqMgriun1 Society
Tuesday of each M. Grouse Post 3211 V.F.W., Rte. 107, Hicksville, NY Contact: Mr. Ken Smith Telephone: (516) 589-0913
Meets: 8:00 P.M. -'"1^^H|^ month at Holtsville Park and Zoo, Buckley Rd. Holtsville, NY 11801 Contact: Mr. Vinny Kreyling Telephone: (516) 938-4066 North Jersey Aquarium Society
Norwalk Aquarium Society
Meets: 8PM - 3rd Thursday of the month at the American Legion Hall, Nutley, NJ (exit 151 Garden State Pkwy., near Rt. 3) Contact: NJAS Hotline at (201) 332-4415 or e-mail: tcoletti@obius.jnj.com
Meets: 8:00 P.M. - 3rd Thursday of each month at the Nature Center for Environmental Activities, Westport, CT Contact: Mrs. Anne Stone Broadmeyer Telephone: (203) 834-2253
Viodern Aquarium - Greater City A.S. (NY)
December 1999