Modern Aquarium June 2011

June 2011 volume XVIII number 4

Series III ON THE COVER Our cover this month features a stained glass depiction of a killifish, Pseudoepiplatys annulatus, with an Anubias plant, from the fishroom of former GCAS President Joe Ferdenzi. For more on Joe's stellar fishroom, see Tommy Chang's article, "Fish Friends," on page 19.

Photo by Joseph Ferdenzi

Vol. XVIII, No. 4 June, 2011

In This Issue From the Editor G.C.A.S. 2011 Program Schedule President’s Message

GREATER CITY AQUARIUM SOCIETY Board Members

President Vice-President Treasurer Corresponding Secretary Recording Secretary

Dan Radebaugh Edward Vukich Jules Birnbaum Mario Bengcion Tommy Chang

Members At Large

Claudia Dickinson Al Grusell Emma Haus Leonard Ramroop

Pete D’Orio Ben Haus Jason Kerner

Claudia Dickinson Leonard Ramroop Warren Feuer Mark Soberman Al Grusell Alexander A. Priest Marsha Radebaugh Claudia Dickinson Claudia Dickinson Warren Feuer

MODERN AQUARIUM Editor in Chief Copy Editors

Exchange Editors

Advertising Mgr.

Our Generous Sponsors & Advertisers My Favorite Fish The Kerri Tetra

by Stephen Sica

A Little Help

by Dan Radebaugh

Wet Leaves

by Susan Priest

Our Generous Members

Committee Chairs

A.C.A. Delegate Bowl Show Breeder Award

Early Arrivals F.A.A.S. Delegate Membership Programs N.E.C. Delegate Technology Coordinator

Our Guest Speaker: George Richter

Dan Radebaugh Sharon Barnett Susan Priest Alexander A. Priest Stephen Sica Donna Sosna Sica Mark Soberman

Member Classifieds Bowl Show Rules MA Classics Breeding the Red-Tailed Black Shark from the December, 1970 issue

Aquarium Plants 101

by Jules Birnbaum

Fishkeepers Anonymous

by Susan Priest

Fish Friends The Amazing Joe Ferdenzi and his Awesome Fishroom

by Tommy Chang

G.C.A.S. Happenings The Undergravel Reporter Caveat Emptor

Fin Fun (Puzzle Page) Tetrazzini

2 3 4 5 6 7 9 11 12 13 14 15 17 19 21 24 25 26

From the Editor

by Dan Radebaugh

his month we get to look at aquariums in a few different ways: keeping our favorite fish, keeping plants as part of our fishes’ aquarium habitat, taking care of our tanks, breeding our fish, integrating the entire activity into a “fishroom” experience, and allowing that experience to help us integrate into our own social habitat.

Steve Sica starts us off with his current favorite fish, the Kerri tetra (Steve seems to have a lot of favorites, I notice). Tetras have been a mainstay of the hobby virtually since there has been a hobby, and this is a nice one! Using plants to beautify our tanks and improve our fishes’ habitat is covered by Jules Birnbaum in “Aquarium Plants 101.” My own contribution is a photo essay on getting a little tank maintenance help from a family member, while providing a catty young lady with a positive outlet for her energies.

Fish breeding is covered by a rather curious “MA Classics” entry. This piece appeared in the December, 1970 Modern Aquarium, reprinted from a British society newsletter. The name of the author is not given. Today it is well known that the red-tailed black shark (currently classified Epalzeorhynchos bicolor, and extinct in the wild) is bred in groups in large vats, using the addition of hormones. This article, if accurate, reports successfully spawning the fish in an aquarium. I guess in those days they didn’t know better.

In her “Wet Leaves” column this month, Sue Priest reviews a book that tells us how to put all these elements together. Stuart Thraves’ Setting Up a Tropical Aquarium – Week by Week looks like a useful read.

Sue has reviewed a lot of books for us, and she seems particularly enthusiastic about this one. Speaking of useful, the Undergravel Reporter has some news of aquarium product recalls that we should all be aware of.

T

2

Tommy Chang, now officially one of our award-winning authors, takes us on a tour of former GCAS President Joe Ferdenzi’s fishroom―a worthy subject in itself―and also on a tour of Tommy's own experience as a member of Greater City.

In the “Fin Fun” puzzle, we end where we began―with tetras! * * *

Remember, as always, we need articles!

Modern Aquarium is produced by and for the members of Greater City Aquarium Society. Our members are our authors, and with ten issues per year, we always, always need more articles. I know several of you are keeping and/or breeding fish that I would like to know more about, and I’m certain other members would be interested as well. Share your experience with us. Write about it! If you’re a little unsure about the state of your writing technique, don’t worry – that’s why there are editors.

If you have an article, photo, or drawing that you’d like to submit for inclusion in Modern Aquarium, it’s easy to do! You may fax it to me at (877) 299-0522, email it to gcas@earthlink.net, or just hand it to me at a meeting. However you get it to me, I’ll be delighted to receive it!

June 2011

Modern Aquarium - Greater City A.S (NY)

GCAS Programs 2011

I

t is our great fortune to have another admirable cast of speakers who have so graciously accepted our invitation to join us throughout the coming season, bringing us their extensive knowledge and experiences. You certainly won’t wish to miss a moment of our prominent guests, not to mention the friends, fish, warmth, and camaraderie that accompanies each meeting. I know I can barely wait to see you here! Enjoy!

Claudia June 1

George Richter Adventures on the Amazon River!

July 6

TBA

August 3

Silent Auction

September 7

TBA

October 5

TBA

November 2

Ted Judy Going Gabon!

December 7

Holiday Party!

January

Winter Break

February

Winter Break

Articles submitted for consideration in Modern Aquarium (ISSN 2150-0940) must be received no later than the 10th day of the month prior to the month of publication. Please fax to (877) 299-0522, or email to gcas@earthlink. net. Copyright 2011 by the Greater City Aquarium Society Inc., a not-for-profit New York State corporation.

All rights reserved. Not-for-profit aquarium societies are hereby granted permission to reproduce articles and illustrations from this publication, unless the article indicates that the copyrights have been retained by the author, and provided reprints indicate source and two copies of the publication are sent to the Exchange Editor of this magazine. Any other reproduction or commercial use of the material in this publication is prohibited without express written prior permission.

The Greater City Aquarium Society meets every month, except January and February. Members receive notice of meetings in the mail. For more information, contact: Dan Radebaugh (718) 458-8437. Find out more, or leave us a message, at our Internet Home Page at: http://www.greatercity.org or http://www.greatercity.com Modern Aquarium - Greater City A.S (NY)

June 2011

3

President’s Message

by Dan Radebaugh

ot long ago I received a message from the Wildlife Conservation Society alerting me to the fact that New York City plans to cut the budgets of organizations like the Bronx Zoo and the New York Aquarium by 50 per cent, and urging all who support those organizations to write to the mayor and city council and tell them that we don’t agree with these cuts. I’m sure most of you remember a similar episode last year when Governor Patterson announced a similar measure in the State budget.

After the financial crisis of the past couple of years, we all can appreciate that local governments are being hard-pressed to make ends meet, as are many of us as individuals. I’m sure we also understand that as cuts are proposed, the people and organizations affected are going to fight as best they can to be spared. In the end, if anticipated revenues won’t cover anticipated expenses, cuts will have to be made. One would hope however, that some kind of common sense would prevail, and efforts made to share the pain with some sense of proportion. Fifty per cent doesn’t seem to me to be very proportional, and I wonder how

N

that particular figure keeps popping up vis-àvis the Zoo and the Aquarium.

If you do feel strongly about the importance of funding for the Zoo, the Aquarium, and other cultural institutions, now would be a good time to write, email, or phone your local government representatives to let them know how you feel. The animals can’t go out and picket in front of the TV cameras, so someone needs to be their voice.

If not us, then who?

On another matter, Tropical Fish Hobbyist has let us know about a program whereby, at a very minimal cost to the club, members of Greater City (and other clubs, of course) can obtain a 12-month, digital-only subscription to TFH. The club would need to provide TFH with your email address so that they can send you an “opt-in” request for their digital edition. This evening, along with your issue of Modern Aquarium, you’ll be given a sheet of paper so that you can let us know whether you’d like to participate in this program. If you would, just fill in your name and email address, sign it, and return it to me or Marsha by the end of the meeting.

Dan

Computer Consulting Jason Kerner Consultant

Repairs / Upgrades Virus Removal Data Recovery DSL / Cable Setup Wireless Internet A+ Certified

4

(718) 469-5444 Jasontech1@verizon.net June 2011

Modern Aquarium - Greater City A.S (NY)

The G.C.A.S.

Proudly extends a most Warm Welcome to

Our Guest Speaker George Richter Speaking on Adventures on the Amazon River

G

eorge Richter has been keeping and/ or collecting fish since his mother let him take responsibility for her guppies when he was 9 or 10. With her help and guidance they managed to kill those guppies. However, the guppies were soon

Modern Aquarium - Greater City A.S (NY)

replaced, and they persevered. He has always had some kind of fish since, and still manages to kill his share. George’s fish are now mostly South American, with many representing his multiple collecting trips to Peru. Over the years George has kept all sorts of fish from all over the world, including those from Lake Nyasa. Does that date him?

Rather than showing a bunch of fish pictures, people collecting, and streams cluttered with logs, George will give us a sample of the other wonders you will encounter on a collecting trip with MT Amazon Expeditions (formerly Margarita Tours). There is just much more to see in the area than fish.

June 2011

5

GCAS Thanks You! Our Generous Sponsors and Advertisers The Greater City Aquarium Society extends our heartfelt thanks to the following manufacturers for their generous donations. Thanks also to our advertisers, whose contributions to our success as a Society are deeply appreciated. Please patronize our supporters.

Aquarium Pharmaceuticals Aquarium Technology Inc Ecological Laboratories HBH Pet Products Koller-Craft Kordon, LLC Marineland Microbe Lift Ocean Nutrition America Omega Sea Red Sea

6

Rena Rolf C. Hagen San Francisco Bay Brand Seachem Zoo Med Laboratories Inc. Cameo Pet Shop Coral Aquarium Nassau Discus World Class Aquarium Zoo Rama Aquarium

June 2011

Modern Aquarium - Greater City A.S (NY)

My Favorite Fish

The Kerri Tetra Story and Photos by Stephen Sica

I

t’s all the fault of that T5 fluorescent bulb. Plain and simple. I was trying to cure myself of having too many favorite fish and plants when the bulb blew. I researched a replacement on the internet, but as I was soon to find out, thirty-inch bulbs are difficult to secure. Fortunately, a vendor that I queried one night had one readily available for a very reasonable price. But then, instead of finalizing the purchase, I went to bed and fell asleep. I think that I must have heard Joe Ferdenzi, or perhaps Ebenezer Scrooge, or maybe even a Christmas ghost of some sort, since it was just days before December 25th.

The mysterious voice kept telling me to patronize my local pet shop.

A few days later Donna and I were visiting her father, who resides in a local nursing facility. Coincidently, there is a fish pet shop just two blocks away from there that I occasionally visit. I told Donna that I would meet her shortly, and off I went to the shop with my faulty bulb in hand.

After a fruitless search, they informed me that they did not have the bulb in stock, but offered to order it. A promise was made that the supply house would deliver it in about four days. I agreed. Before leaving the shop, I browsed the freshwater fish and saw a tank full of “Kerri tetras.” Anyone who knows my fish habits knows that I like a small, schooling fish―especially if it’s a tetra. They looked somewhat

Modern Aquarium - Greater City A.S (NY)

like emperor tetras, but they were smaller and blue.

They were also less expensive than the emperors. The blue and the price caught my attention, but since I was leaving without the replacement bulb I didn’t want to purchase any fish. Also, I was looking forward to seeing my father-in-law, and a bag of fish would be inconvenient, as I had no idea when I would return home. “I’ll be back,” I thought.

Exactly one week later, after the first snowstorm of the winter, I returned to the pet shop. They retrieved all sorts and sizes of bulbs to show me, but not my T5. They told me that they would reorder it and phone me when it arrived. I again agreed.

No one ever phoned, but eleven days later I stopped off after another snowstorm and visit to Donna’s father. They had discarded the order list with my phone number, but they did have the bulb. I told them to set it aside while I browsed, and went to the Kerri tetra tank. More than half of the fish had been sold, so I hurriedly purchased a nice group of twelve.

Back home, I relegated them to a twenty gallon tank in the basement that housed five miscellaneous fish.

I put the five in another tank with more “odds and ends” fish, so that the Kerri tetras could have their own home. Later that evening, I prepped my digital camera, and in the course of the next three or four days I proceeded to snap over two hundred photos of those

June 2011

7

fish. After much aggravation and serious editing, a few photos were barely presentable. Those fish would not swim still! I got an urge to just drown them all, but realized that plan would not work, so I decided to write an article; otherwise I would have felt that I had wasted too much of my time!

I researched the internet and found a few facts about this fish窶付hese apply to most tetras. The Kerri tetra, Inpaichthys kerri, is in the family Characidae,

8

sub-family Aphyocharacinae. It has been commonly known as the blue emperor tetra and sometimes the king tetra. It originates in the Amazon Basin of Brazil, as well as the upper Rio Aripuana, and Rio Madeira. Care level is easy. This peaceful fish should be maintained in a school, and it enjoys a planted tank. These fish are omnivores with simple food requirements. They eat just about anything, and live food is always a treat.

In appearance the male has larger fins, especially the dorsal fin, and is more bluish than the female.

Males may reach 1.6 inches and females 1.2 inches in length. Ideal water parameters are soft and slightly acidic, with temperatures between 75 and 81 degrees Fahrenheit. A minimum tank length of 20 to 24 inches is recommended. With proper care, the Kerri tetra can live for up to six years.

P.S. Donna proof-read this and said that I should get a life! Say what?

June 2011

Modern Aquarium - Greater City A.S (NY)

A Little Help

by Dan Radebaugh

S

ometimes it all just gets to be too much. The water changes, the filter maintenance, making sure your fish aren’t killing one another, paying enough attention to the fish who like to be paid attention to, etc., etc. So maybe it’s time for a little help. Where do you turn? Well, maybe to someone whose presence you’re taking for granted, but who might be willing to pitch in. Does anyone else in your household regularly pay attention to your fish?

When you feel your new apprentice is ready for some hands-on (well...) experience, water changes can be a useful and entertaining first step.

Fun and games with water changes is all very well and good. The enjoyable side of the hobby shouldn’t be overlooked, and we don’t want to scare away newcomers with too Calvinist an approach. Sooner or later though, the real work must be addressed.

Filter maintenance can be complicated, so it’s best to demonstrate first. Your apprentice needs to be able to see exactly what you are describing. Be sure and provide, simple, clear explanations. A little theory in the beginning is not a bad thing, but don’t overwhelm your new helper with too many details. Do, however, be clear about the intended uses of the substrate!

If so, perhaps a little encouragement is in order.

Start by encouraging their curiosity to study the habits and preferences of the species in your care.

Be nearby to give advice when needed, but don’t baby your apprentice too much. Solo experience is a must!

Modern Aquarium - Greater City A.S (NY)

June 2011

9

As I’m sure we all remember, a first solo experience cleaning and re-assembling cannister filters can be a bit stressful. It’s only natural to want to grab a catnap afterward. In the end though, if your’re diligent and patient in your teaching, your new helper will be confident and ready to pitch in again when needed!

Photos by Marsha Radebaugh

10

June 2011

Modern Aquarium - Greater City A.S (NY)

arrived at my doorstep the very next day. A few days earlier I had ordered several titles from Amazon.com for future review in this column, and this one was the first to arrive. Well! I can’t describe this any other way; Walter and Stuart are a match made in heaven!

Thanks for taking a bit of your time to meet my friend Walter. His query helps me to illustrate A Series On Books For The Hobbyist the high regard which I have for this book. When I have completed my review, I will be passing it

by SUSAN PRIEST along to him. any authors have written books which Let me start out by saying that this author has attempt to be an alla lot to offer hobbyists of all in-one treatise on the levels of experience, and that Setting Up A Tropical subject of aquarium keeping in itself is akin to a magic Aquarium - Week by Week and tropical fish. In my trick. The “Contents” consists

By Stuart Thraves experience and opinion, no of a very nicely laid out timeFirefly Books, 2009 one has succeeded in this line of the first twelve weeks effort as well as Mr. Thraves. in the life of an aquarium. Mr. Before I begin my Thraves hasn’t spelled it out discussion of this book, I would like to share a for us in so many words, so I will simply insert at brief story with you. I am acquainted with a very this point that it is the life of a community fine gentleman by the aquarium. I like his name of Walter. He perspective on the knows that Al and I subject, which I will are active in the briefly quote: “Unlike tropical fish hobby, many hobbies, where and recently he told learning can be us of his interest in phased [in], and levels getting reacquainted of difficulty matched with swordtails, for with emerging ability, which he has had an fishkeeping requires affinity in the past. the immediate grasp Here is an excerpt of a crucial from an e-mail which technique—how to he sent us. “It has turn a transparent box been at least thirty of water into an years since I had an environment that will aquarium. Is there sustain life from day any book that you one and beyond.” could recommend Day one, that is, that would give me adding the first fish, an up-to-date doesn’t actually take account of the best place until week three. way to set one up? I The photography assume that there throughout is of have been advances outstanding quality. in aquarium plantings, feeding fish, disease Of particular usefulness are the many excellent control, filtration, aeration, etc., that make my old photos which demonstrate the “hands on” books obsolete. I want to do things right.” What techniques being described in the text.

Walter had no way of knowing is that I have been “First Thoughts and Decisions” is a detailed writing this column since 1994, and that I have discussion of siting and picking out a tank. reviewed over 100 books on the subject of tropical Beginners will want to take special notice, as these fish. pages are overflowing with good information.

Inwardly I groaned a bit as I started to scan Observe that choosing a site comes first. Mr. my bookshelves. I couldn’t imagine that a single Thraves suggests that you decide where you will book would meet his needs, and I started to put your aquarium before you purchase one. Don’t mentally compile as small an assortment as I could. worry; he will explain why.

Then, as coincidence would have it, this book

M

Modern Aquarium - Greater City A.S. (NY) Modern Aquarium - Greater City A.S (NY)

June 2011 June 2011

17

11

The opening paragraph of “Building the System” uses such terms as “accessories,” “checklist,” and “budget.” Right from the start he lets us know that a glass tank does not an aquarium make!

Types of filtration, feeding of fish, testing of water, choices of substrate, CO2 systems, even the addition of wood and rocks, are explained in detail within these 200 pages.

“Day Two” covers planting techniques, as well as the plants themselves, along with lighting and water chemistry. Plants are a major area of emphasis and interest for this author, as we will see evidence of more than once. The model tank that he is setting up which follows us from chapter to chapter has been planted with (among other things) several different varieties of Echinodoras (AKA Amazon sword plants).

“There are many swordplants to choose from. Bright light and iron rich fertilizers will maximize their potential.”

Another item under discussion here is the cutting edge technology of LED lighting for aquariums. “LED (light emitting diode) lighting can produce an intense balanced light while using minimal power and giving off very little heat.

They run cool enough to touch, and only need replacing every ten years.” Warning: this cutting edge lighting does not come cheap!

This author answers a question which I have asked myself many times. I have wondered what effect dead plant material has on the aquarium environment. The answer to this question is that “spent plants” (my term, not his), will produce ammonia, and therefore should be promptly removed.

The stunning photos of the fish show each of them off in larger-than-life detail. They will push your will power to its limits, as you will want to include each of them in your new community.

Even fish which you have known for years will take on a fresh appeal. The information on each fish is not so much of the “encyclopedia” or “atlas” variety, but having more to do with aesthetics. The maximum adult size for every fish is provided.

Mr. Thraves has us adding fish at three, five, and eight weeks. His suggestions range from the very small White Cloud Mountain minnow, measuring less than two inches, to a snakeskin gourami maxing out at eight inches. If you are a beginning aquarist, I would suggest that you start out with some of the smaller species.

I thought that an interesting suggestion for addition to a community aquarium were several of the dwarf cichlids, such as the caucatoides or the viejita. I have always thought of them as needing a species tank. Danios and barbs would appear to be among the author’s favorites.

Before you know it, you will have arrived at week twelve, “The Finished Display.” Zebra danios, harlequin rasboras, and yes, a few dwarf cichlids, are in evidence. However, what our author wants to talk about at this point are the plants, commenting on which ones need trimming, which ones need to be replaced, and even which ones are thriving.

No single book can do it all. (This one doesn’t have banana plants, bio-wheels, or a warning against using soaps or detergents on “fish stuff.”)

But, I firmly believe that you, as well as your fish, will find a complete aquarium experience within the pages of this one.

“It is vital that you proceed carefully in a patient frame of mind.” I can easily see that Walter, who is a retired geneticist, will bring a methodical and scientific approach to his new aquarium.

I wish him great success and enjoyment.

Detailed notes on fish health and routine maintenance complete the presentation, with photos doing most of the talking. I would like to offer you many more details from the pages of this excellent book, but in doing so I would no doubt omit something of interest or importance to each of you. The best advice I can offer is that you explore it for yourself. You won’t be disappointed.

Our Generous Members Each month a blue sheet is located on our auction table where those members who donate items to the auction can indicate their donations if they wish to do so. Due to the immense generosity of those who donate, we have no shortage of items to be auctioned. A warm thank you to the following members and others who so generously contributed, making last month’s auction the bountiful success that it was: Mario Bengcion Jules Birnbaum Jeff Bollbach Gerry Domingo Pete D’Orio 12

18

Rod DuCasse Al & Sue Priest Dan Puleo Charley Sabatino Ed Vukich June 2011 June 2011

Modern Aquarium - Greater City A.S. (NY) Modern Aquarium - Greater City A.S (NY)

Member Classifieds EQUIPMENT: Tanks: 2 15 gallon, 2 20 gallon Call Jack: 914-390-4682 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Computers (used): towers, laptops Call Dan: 212-957-5300 ext 231

Modern Aquarium - Greater City A.S (NY)

June 2011

13

BOWL SHOW RULES There is a Bowl Show at every GCAS meeting, except our Silent Auction/fleamarket meeting and our Holiday Party and Awards Banquet meeting (December). These shows are open to all members of GCAS. Rules are as follows:

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

14

Only current GCAS members may enter fish in the Bowl Show.

There is a limit of 2 entries per member per meeting.

Unlike some other clubs, every month is an “open” Bowl Show at the GCAS (i.e., there is no “theme,” such that one month cichlids are judged, the next livebearers, the next anabantoids, etc.).

Any fish that wins any prize (1st, 2nd, or 3rd) may not be entered again in the same meeting year.

The current Bowl Show Coordinator is Leonard Ramroop, who usually also serves as judge (although guest speakers are often asked to do the judging honors).

2.5 gallon containers are available for use (brought to the meetings by the Bowl Show Coordinator), but entrants are responsible for providing enough (and suitable) water for their fish.

For a fish too large (or too small) for those containers, entrants must supply a suitable container, which must be clear on at least three sides.

Only one fish per container (i.e., no “pairs”).

No plants, ornaments, or equipment (filters, airstone, etc.) are allowed in the judging tank (an external mirror, or opaque cards between containers is acceptable, as is a cover that does not obstruct side viewing).

Points are awarded: 5 points for 1st Place, 3 for 2nd Place, and 1 for 3rd Place.

Ribbons are awarded: blue for 1st Place, red for 2nd Place, and green for 3rd Place.

The person with the most points at the end of the meeting season receives the Walter Hubel “Bowl Show Champion” trophy at the Awards Banquet.

The decision of the judge(s) is final.

A running UNOFFICIAL total of the points awarded is printed in Modern Aquarium. Only the tally of points maintained by the Bowl Show Coordinator is official.

In case of ties: 1st Tiebreaker – most 1st Places 2nd Tiebreaker – most 2nd Places 3rd Tiebreaker – most entries

June 2011

Modern Aquarium - Greater City A.S (NY)

MA Classics

In this installment of our series showcasing articles from past issues of Modern Aquarium, we feature a piece from the December, 1970 issue. Why current wisdom is that breeding Epalzeorhynchos bicolor requires the use of hormones, this piece would seem to indicate that aquarium spawning is possible. No author is credited.

Modern Aquarium - Greater City A.S (NY)

June 2011

15

DANBURY AREA AQUARIUM SOCIETY Serving the Hudson Valley Area, Westchester, Fairfield, and Litchfield Counties

26th AUCTION - Spring 2011!    TO BE HELD AT THE: Carmel Firehouse 94 Gleneida Ave (Corner of Route 52 & Vink Drive) Carmel, NY 10512  , 1 red dot, 50/50 split, *60/40 for 6 or more lots, and preprinted lot #

labels (no description, please label your bags) *Acceptable lots will be determined by the auction committee Vendors: TBD

Food &Refreshments will be available 

REGISTRATION.................................8:30 AM TO 11:15 AM VIEWING OF GOODS........................10:00 AM TO 11:15 AM AUCTION..................................................11:30 AM TO 5 PM RAFFLE..........................................................................50 / 50

 16

June 2011

Modern Aquarium - Greater City A.S (NY)

Aquarium Plants 101

by Jules Birnbaum o my way of thinking, aquarium plants should The balance of this article will be devoted to my be living things. I hate plastic in a fish tank. personal experiences and preferences. I don’t claim to I’ve tried plastic plants, and they do nothing for be an expert in design, lighting, or water chemistry, me. As Joe Ferdenzi once told me long ago, if you buy but I try to use lots of common sense. plastic plants, you should buy plastic fish.

My first experience with aquarium plants was When putting together a new aquarium, the joy over 60 years ago, as a 13-year-old. A local pet shop of seeing the completed picture is its natural look in had common plants such as swords and vals. I selected your living room. I can’t tell you how often looking what I could afford, and the plants were folded up in at my aquarium has given me a sense of peace during wet newspapers for the trip home. We stuck them in the a day that was filled with news of war, death, and gravel and they grew. In fact they threw off runners. I unemployment. used no plant food, Years ago, no CO2, and no live plants were special light; the part of what was 20-gallon tank had called a balanced a light fixture with aquarium. Plants, two incandescent snails, fish, and bulbs. Before long other organisms I was supplying my were to balance the friends with young ecology within the plants. A box filter tank to create a true run by a small miniature system. air pump was the Guppies (and others) among the floating frogbit.

In William filtration system.

T. Innes’ book, Exotic Aquarium Fish, written in the Fifty years later I walked into Aquarium early 1900s, he describes plants not as oxy-generators, Adventure in Nassau County, a large and expensive but as purifiers and beautifiers. Mr. Innes was of pet shop that recently closed. I was greeted by huge the opinion that in theory, water changes don’t need acrylic tanks, complicated canister filters, expensive to be done in a well planted and properly populated compact florescent fixtures, and CO2 systems. The aquarium. He goes on to state that there were only plant section had an enormous selection, most of which I had never seen before. When I saw the $7 price five kinds of plants in general use: myriophyllum, tag for each plant, I realized a hundred dollars worth cabomba, vallisneria, sagittaria, and anacharis. His plant chapter also discusses then hard-to-find plants would still leave my tank looking empty. Thankfully, that are now common, such as cryptcoryne, water my son David told me about a business associate who was president of the premier aquarium society in the sprite, sword plants, and aponogeton. Innes discusses Metropolitan area. As a result of meeting Joe Ferdenzi, one interesting idea that you might want to try―the I joined the Greater City Aquarium Society, and have use of trays to contain the gravel and plants. This been able to pick up locally grown plants that are easy offers advantages such as house-cleaning or catching to raise. He has also been the source of much valuable elusive fish that hide among the plants. It might also advice just by asking. If you need some advice on be a good idea if you ever plan to move your plants to plants, I highly recommend speaking with some of our another tank. Glassware or earthenware trays at least experts in the club. two inches deep should be easy to find locally.

My fishroom has twenty tanks, and all but four are These days there are many varieties of plants planted. I’m not into tank design, and prefer the jungle being imported from the Far East and Africa, and there look. Most of my plants were picked up at Cameo are many websites devoted to the sale of every variety Pet Shop, our auctions, and from generous members. of aquarium plant and every type of lighting to exhibit The lighting is provided by 4-foot fluorescent shop and grow plants. Locally, Cameo Pet Shop (there’s lights hung above the tanks. Extra round, metal, clipan ad in this issue giving their address) usually has on shop lights containing full-spectrum cork-screw a good selection of healthy, low-maintenance plants. compact florescent bulbs sit directly atop some of the The proprietor, Steve, is very knowledgeable, and you tanks. This gets more light down to the bottom. The can see what you are buying. His prices are also very lights are on timers and stay on eleven hours a day. reasonable.

Modern Aquarium - Greater City A.S (NY) June 2011 17

T

There are general rules for lighting that can be found all over the internet. Moderate light is usually 2 watts per gallon. However, these are only guidelines, and have to be modified because of a number of factors, including the depth of the tank, and the plant varieties housed there.

I use number one or two gravel, which seems to work best for anchoring the plants and giving the roots

and the leaves die off. It does not mean the plant is dead―often the plant will come back. Crypts can also look different from tank to tank. There are many shapes and colors, and new plants will form around an existing plant, which can be separated to form still more new plants.

The filtration is in my fishroom is provided by a central air pump running sponge and box filters. Air flow should not be too violent, or CO2 needed by the plants will escape too quickly. Plants don’t do well with undergravel filters, so I don’t use them. I use Flourish Exel liquid plant food after weekly 50% water changes, but I’m not sure it’s doing much good.

I breed and use apple snails to help control algae, and they don’t seem to eat anything that is healthy.

They can spot a dying plant fast, and will attack the brown or yellow leaves. If you use them keep your eyes open. Young plecos are also good for controlling algae. The older ones get smart or lazy, and go after left-over fish food more than algae. My very heavily planted tanks have little problem with algae, but I try to feed the fish all they can eat in 30 seconds or less.

One hint to not overfeeding is to add water to a portion of dry food and use a turkey baster to squirt some into each tank. You will be surprised by how little food is needed. Keep in mind that heavy algae growth on a plant leaf prevents the light from getting through to the leaf. I sometimes scrape the algae off leaves with my fingernail and shut the lights off early for a day or so each week.

room. Stay away from sand, that can compact, or course gravel that will not anchor plants very well. I don’t recommend spending money on fancy substrate; I’ve tried it and it is just not necessary. The pH of my planted tanks is about 7.2 to 7.6. However one tank is buffered by peat and is more like 6.8. Most aquarium plants prefer soft water.

Several of my tanks have little or no gravel, and in these tanks I have Anubias species (Africa) and Java ferns attached to branches and driftwood. These slowgrowing plants should not be not planted in gravel, and require very little light. In fact, one of my small tanks containing Anubias has no lighting other from the other tanks in the room, and these plants are doing well. Anubias varieties are among my favorite plants.

A new plant I picked recently is a dwarf lily, Nuphar stellata. This is a bulb plant that sends stems up, with leaves opening at the surface. This fascinating plant is not planted ―the bulb is just dropped to the bottom, and its roots will anchor the plant. Some reports say it’s not for beginners, but the bulbs are not expensive, and it’s worth a try.

Floating plants tend to be fast growing, and are of course closer to the light source. They are great Frogbit (Limnobium) floating; Cryptocoryne below. for breeding purposes. I am presently growing Najas guadelupensis (North America), Java moss (actually Most plants take some time to root and establish grows from the bottom), salvinia (Brazil), duckweed themselves, so there is a lot of patience involved, but (local ponds), and Riccia fluitans. The riccia can it’s well worth it. Given the same conditions, and for also be anchored to branches, rocks and driftwood to reasons no one can completely explain, they will do grow at the bottom. These plants have to be thinned better in some of your tanks than in others. (bring these to our auctions), or light won’t get to any Give live plants a try. The look will give you of the plants at the bottom. I would not recommend much enjoyment, the fish will like them, and they will duckweed to everyone, because it multiplies very fast, keep our hobby pure. making it a high-maintenance plant.

Varieties of Cryptocoryne (Asia & New Guinea) are great looking, slow growing, require only moderate Photos by Alexandra Horton light, and are another favorite of mine. When transplanted, crypts sometimes can “melt down,” 18 June 2011 Modern Aquarium - Greater City A.S (NY)

by SUSAN PRIEST

H

ello, fellow fishkeepers! I know that many Please read and enjoy our: of you fondly remember reading this column in Modern Aquarium over the past few Anonymous Fishkeeper/ March 2010 years, and I know there are a lot of you who have never seen it before. On behalf of our hard working Please introduce yourself. editor Dan Radebaugh, who is always looking to fill a few pages, as well as for the enjoyment and Now if i did that, you’d guess too easily who i edification of the rest of us, I am hoping to rekindle am wouldn’t you? some interest in Fishkeepers Anonymous.

The first time this column appeared in Tell us about your favorite aquarium.

Modern Aquarium was in March of 2006, and our first anonymous fishkeeper was our own “Gypsy i had a saltwater tank in a 20-high when i was Mermaid,” Sharon Barnett. Since then many of you in high school. something about the light diffusing through the have contributed your salt water gave it an experiences and ethereal look that i opinions. I’m going to Suggested Questions enjoyed. it had one quote a few brief 3 Please introduce yourself. blue damsel, some excerpts from that first 3 Tell us about your favorite aquarium. décor, and that was article. “Wouldn’t it 3 What was your very first fish? it! Minimalism at its be great if we had an 3 Tell us about your education as a fishkeeper. best! interview column; 3 Is there someone you think of as a mentor? questions and answers Tell us about him or her.

What was your to and from our 3 Describe your “Fantasy Fish Tank.” very first fish? members.” “I would 3 If you were a fish, which one would you be? like to generate 3 Who is your “Hobby Hero?” i t w a s a biographies of the best 3 What fish which you have never kept would Pterophyllum fishkeepers in the you like to acquire? scalare, marbled world, US!” “You can 3 Describe your biggest fishkeeping “blooper!” variety. answer as many or as 3 Describe your most memorable fishkeeping few questions as you experience.

Tell us about your want to, or you can 3 What changes have you seen in the hobby education as a just ramble.

Talk during your tenure as a fishkeeper? fishkeeper. about those aspects of 3 What advice would you give to a your “Fishkeeper beginning fishkeeper? i have a Phd in Within” which you 3 What are your fishkeeping goals? marine biology, a feel will be of interest - OR write a narrative story masters in or assistance to your ichthyology, and a fellow GCAS bachelors in members.” chemistry…you believed me? the truth is my During its tenure the questions have been amended, and the list you see here is the latest education in fishkeeping is very recent, with incarnation. The best explanation is an example, so the advent of the internet. i learn a lot from reprinted here is the autobiography of the most the experts on various fish forums and using recent person to write for Fiskeepers Anonymous. the google search engine.

10

Modern Aquarium - Greater City A.S (NY)

June 2011 June 2011

Modern Aquarium - Greater City A.S. (NY)

19

Is there someone you think of as a mentor?

Tell us about him or her.

Describe your most fishkeeping experience.

Not so much as a mentor but as a role model. his name is Marc elieson (vatoelvis.com). he has written numerous online articles on the internet and has bred numerous varieties of Malawi, tanganyikan, and Victorian Cichlids. i’d say that i learned about 75% of all i know about cichlid keeping from his online articles.

Well, i can tell you which one i would like to forget! Cycling a new tank with fish is not a good idea. i must have gone through 200 gallons in water changes in less than 3 weeks! i’ve got to find some clear ammonia next time!

memorable

What changes have you seen in the hobby during your tenure as a fishkeeper?

Describe your “Fantasy Fish Tank.”

Well, it’s not a salt water reef tank! it’s not even one tank. it’s a whole system of tanks.

Let me explain. i need an 8 foot tank (like 200 gallons) for an all male Aulonocara/ haplochromine show tank. i would need several species-only supporting tanks to put Aulonocara juveniles to grow out and choose the best male(s) from. the haps could go in the show tank because the females are easily identified. this is not true for Aulonocara females (they all look alike), so i would need several 55 gallon tanks to house them and keep the identification integral. From time to time i would take the male peacocks out and breed them, after getting rid of the excess males in the 55's. this is nothing short of having a fishroom! Way Fantastical!

If you were a fish, which one would you be? the salmon. it fights against the current to spawn and then dies, giving nutrients to the river, giving its body to the young to grow.

Who is your “Hobby Hero?” anyone with a fishroom!

What fish which you have never kept would you like to acquire?

Pseudotropheus polit Describe your “blooper!”

biggest

fishkeeping

too many! No seriously, i recently took a heater out of the tank without unplugging it while i was trying to catch a fish which had bloat. i realized it was overheating so i put it back into the tank and it exploded! (the glass cracked, spilling silicon carbide all over one section of the tank.)

Modern Aquarium - Greater City A.S. (NY)

20

Undergravel filters were so in about 20 years ago. Now they are so out!

What advice would you give to a beginning fishkeeper?

Find some clear ammonia and cycle with that!

Patience is a virtue. always be prepared with the stuff you need before you buy fish!

What are your fishkeeping goals? i don’t want to be a master breeder per se, but i want to breed african cichlids in general. i’d like to cultivate a Neolamprologus brichardi colony, and especially breed Aulonocara. sometimes i would just like to relax and let the fish work the magic of lowering my blood pressure. ill you agree with me that there is some pretty interesting stuff here? Perhaps you think that the stuff you have to talk about is interesting, too. We would all like to hear your story. Please send your bios, or any questions you may have, to: snpriest@yahoo.com. If e-mail is not convenient for you, you can find me at most every meeting.

2010 was the fifth season for this column. So far there have been 25 anonymous fishkeepers.

Even though 2006 had 100% participation (one bio in each of the ten issues), I consider 2008 to have been its best year. That year there were eight contributors, and it took third place in the Best Column category of the FAAS publication awards.

Won’t you help raise it to number one?

In the issue following each entry, the author’s name and photo will appear, along with a few more tidbits about them. I hope this bio, which was contributed by Tommy Chang, has demonstrated to all of you that it is fun and easy to be an Anonymous Fishkeeper!

W

June 2011

June 2011

11 Modern Aquarium - Greater City A.S (NY)

Fish Friends:

The Amazing Joe Ferdenzi and his Awesome Fishroom

I

by Tommy Chang

have lived in New York for most of my life. There have had the proverbial “memory of an elephant.” I was a time when I was so disillusioned with New remember the negative things about past years in the York that my individual motto was “I hate New city. People on the subway wouldn’t give up their York.” I used to dream of winning the lottery and seats to a pregnant woman or an elderly person. moving to Chicago or Seattle. Now that I have joined People would board the subway cars by pushing their the GCAS and become friends with many of the warm, way through before you could get off, and in general generous, and kind members people were grumpy and here, I feel very differently. suspicious of one another.

Now I dream of winning My frozen heart has the lottery and starting a begun to melt since joining fishroom, very much like the GCAS. As an African the one Joe Ferdenzi has cichlid nut, I have cultivated in his basement, which I, a friendship with fellow Mario Bengcion, and Dan African cichlid owner and Puleo got to visit this past 2009 bowl show champion, January. Let me start at the Mario Bengcion. During beginning, and explain why one of the club raffles, I had such a dismal outlook Sharon Barnett won her about what people describe usual holiday filter, and also as the greatest city in the a bottle of Seachem Prime. world.

I told her that I would have There is a social taken that as my raffle phenomenon called the witch win if I had seen it. This hunt, like the Salem witch dechlorinator is worth $18, trials or the McCarthyism and she just gave it to me of the 1950s, where people for free! I offered her some become frustrated and money for it but she refused begin defaming others, and and said, “That’s the way blaming them for their own we roll around here.” I had misfortunes.

Generally, only been a member for two psychologists believe that months when I attended A Victorian-era fish bowl held aloft by a bronze mermaid. during these periods in our the 2009 GCAS Awards social history the defamers, as well as the general Banquet, and I got to spend the night with Al and Sue public, actually come to believe the mostly false Priest, two of the warmest people you will ever meet. rumors that they spread about the so called “witches.”

This is just a short list of how members of the GCAS I remember such a time here, when there was a lot have made me feel warm and welcome. of racism and hateful attitudes, when people were To our newest members I would say, take heart. up in arms against one other. Somehow this seemed Just show up to the meetings regularly and you too will especially magnified in New York. The prevailing be treated this warmly. Joe Ferdenzi will eventually culture here in New York is very different from the take time from his busy and hectic life to warmly culture let’s say in Washington D.C., where everyone greet you, and you will get to shake Artie Friedman’s says hello to even strangers on the street. (By the way, hand the next time you see him, as that is his favorite The ACA 2011 convention is in DC!) thing to do at the meetings, although he has been very Most times, periods such as these are not busy with work lately. We have so many members recorded, and people come down from this mountain that I haven’t even met everyone yet. And you too and forget about being angry and hateful. I, however, will eventually get to know many wonderful people!

Modern Aquarium - Greater City A.S (NY)

June 2011

21

Along with the antique tanks, Joe has memorabilia Don’t be afraid to introduce yourself. For example, and literature going back to the beginnings of Mario was mentioning someone named Dan whom I fishkeeping in the English language. It was obvious had at the time not yet met. By description, I spotted that Joe takes tremendous pride in his collection as he Dan Puleo, and went up to him and introduced myself. showed us how some of the antique gadgets worked.

We are now friends and got to know each other at the Moving further into the basement, there was last Awards Banquet. Remember, it takes a little effort a sitting area with a few couches, and a 125 gallon on your part as well! display tank of rift lake mbunas that separated his racks But now back to Joe Ferdenzi. Not only is Joe of tanks from the rest of the basement. This was very a funny and warm member of our club, he is one well thought out, as the fish had to remain in the tank extraordinary aquarist. I invite you to read about him with all the rock work. They probably will sustain a at this url: http://www.carespreservation.com/bio_ population without the need to move them from tank to joe_ferdenzi.html. tank. There were one or two Labidochromis caeruleus Joe is a C.A.R.E.S Program specialist, a females holding eggs, and you could tell that some of nationally and internationally known aquarist who is the younger one of the top fish had been breeders in born in that our club, and tank and had was President survived of the GCAS into young for close to adulthood. a decade, as Behind well as for an the 125 gallon earlier stint separator were that lasted a hidden two full decade. aisles of tanks.

Just before I Have you came to this visited other club, he was The 125 gallon mbuna tank used as a room divider. fishrooms? honored by Most are certainly not as thoughtfully set up as Joe’s. the GCAS after stepping down as President. We all Some of you may remember Joe’s presentations, “My know Joe, as he still makes use of his clear and often Fishroom” and “Adventures in Fishkeeping.” I saw stentorian voice to make announcements, and educates the logic of the design features he had mentioned. us about the history of the hobby and the GCAS. He is Whereas most fishrooms would have stacks and stacks an expert and avid collector of vintage aquarist books and rows and rows of tanks from the bottom to top and fish tanks, which I was lucky enough to see. and end to end, Joe’s is conducive to sitting down and What I like about his fishroom is that it is a shooting the breeze. living space―not just a room full of tanks full of After Joe gave us the tour, we went up to the fish. Once you get down to the basement, there is an dining room and had pizza and a good Cabernet antique 100 gallon tank full of barbs and rasboras. It Sauvignon, which Mario had brought along. (There’s is a planted tank, as are all of his tanks, (and the size a hint here―if you are lucky enough to visit anyone’s of these fish are tremendous, as he has had them for fishroom, be gracious enough to bring something many years). Joe also has a number of antique fish for the host!) We talked about fish and, fish food tanks placed throughout his basement, some of which (worms―yum!!), and how we had discovered and he has restored.

Bookcases displaying trophies and aquarium memorabilia.

22

A closeup of some of the fish and plants in the 100 gallon stainless steel tank.

June 2011

Modern Aquarium - Greater City A.S (NY)

thawed out, having made new friends at the GCAS, joined the club.

I wonder too whether my earlier perception of reality It was a nice afternoon in January to spend with may have been off. I know that my attitude toward my new friends. New York may still be New York, but the city has changed. I finding a subset of New see more people on Yorkers with whom the buses and subways you have something giving up their seats for in common is truly a the elderly. Some still delight and a saving push their way onto grace of city life. the subway cars before One of the people had had ample reasons I had not been time to disembark, but particularly thrilled I notice such things less about New York was and less. I don’t know that it had no cichlid club how many other people like the one in Chicago, have felt as negatively the Greater Chicago as I have from time to Cichlid Association. I time about living in the was flabbergasted to big city, but there is one find out from Joe that he truth―that we all need had founded, with his One of the home-made racks holding mostly 20s and10s. friendship on some busy schedule, the Rift level.

Philosophers Lake Cichlid Group of New York back in the ‘80s, and will continue to debate the nature of reality and I had missed the opportunity to join it! But I must say sociologists will measure the heartbeat of society, but that I wouldn’t switch from the GCAS for the world!

I do now know that it is possible to have friendships in New York will always be New York, if you a big place like New York City, especially when clubs know what I mean, but the secret to dealing with the like the GCAS exist. city need not necessarily be to leave. The secret to city life could be finding a group of people with whom Photos by Joseph Ferdenzi. you have common interests. Now that my heart has

Modern Aquarium - Greater City A.S (NY)

June 2011

23

GCAS Happenings

June

Last Month’s Bowl Show Winners: 1 Richard Waizman 2 Mario Bengcion 3 Joe Magnoli

White Moon Betta Venustus Cichlid Half-black Blue Guppy

Unofficial 2011 Bowl Show totals to date: Mario Bengcion 11

Richard Waizman 7 Harry Faustmann 5

Joe Magnoli 4

A warm welcome back to renewing GCAS members Roger Brewster, Tommy Chang, Claudia Dickinson, Ron Kasman, Jerry O'Farrell, Elliot Oshins, and Leonard Ramroop!

A special welcome to new member Sean Cunningham!

Here are meeting times and locations of some aquarium societies in the Metropolitan New York area: Greater City Aquarium Society

East Coast Guppy Association

Next Meeting: July 6, 2011 Speaker: TBA Topic: TBD Meets: Meets the first Wednesday of the month (except January & February) at 7:30pm: Queens Botanical Garden 43-50 Main Street - Flushing, NY Contact: Dan Radebaugh (718) 458-8437 Email: gcas@earthlink.net Website: http://www.greatercity.org

Meets: 2nd Tuesday of each month at at 8:00 pm.

Alley Pond Environmental Ctr.: 228-06 Northern Blvd.

Contact: Gene Baudier (631) 345-6399

Big Apple Guppy Club Meets: Last Tuesday each month (except Jan, Feb, July, and August) at 7:30-10:00pm.

Alley Pond Environmental Ctr.: 228-06 Northern Blvd.

Contact: Donald Curtin (718) 631-0538

Brooklyn Aquarium Society Next Meeting: June 10, 2011 Speaker: Carol Ross Event: Collecting in Peru Meets: 2nd Friday of the month (except July and August) at 7:30pm: NY Aquarium - Education Hall, Brooklyn, NY Call: BAS Events Hotline: (718) 837-4455 Website: http://www.brooklynaquariumsociety.org

Nassau County Aquarium Society Next Meeting: June 14, 2011 Speaker: Joe Ferdenzi Topic: History of the Hobby Meets: 2nd Tuesday of the month (except July and August) at 7:30 PM Molloy College - Kellenberg Hall ~1000 Hempstead Ave Rockville Centre, NY Contact: Mike Foran (516) 798-6766 Website: http://www.ncasweb.org

NORTH JERSEY AQUARIUM SOCIETY Next Meeting: June 16, 2011 Speaker: Kevin Carr Event: Cichlids of the Line Meets: Lyndhurst Elks Club, 251 Park Avenue Lyndhurst, NJ 07071 Contact: NJAS Hotline at (732) 332-1392 Email: tcoletti@obius.jnj.com Website: http://www.njas.net/

Long Island Aquarium Society Next Meeting: June 17, 2011 Speaker: Scott Dowd (Senior Aquarist/Researcher at New England Aquarium) Topic: How the aquarium fish hobby can be one of the most powerful tools of wildlife conservation Meets: 3rd Fridays (except July and August) 8:00pm.

Room 120 in Endeavor Hall on theState University at Stony Brook Campus, Stony Brook, NY Email: Margaret Peterson - president@liasonline.org Website: http://liasonline.org/

24

Norwalk Aquarium Society Next Meeting: June 16, 2011 Speaker: TBA Topic: TBD Meets: 8:00 P.M. - 3rd Thursday of each month at: Earthplace - the Nature Discovery Center - Westport, CT Contact: John Chapkovich (203) 734-7833 Call our toll free number (866) 219-4NAS Email: jchapkovich@snet.net Website: http://norwalkas.org/ June 2011

Modern Aquarium - Greater City A.S (NY)

Caveat emptor: Let the Buyer Beware!

A series by The Undergravel Reporter In spite of popular demand to the contrary, this humor and information column continues. As usual, it does NOT necessarily represent the opinions of the Editor, or of the Greater City Aquarium Society.

Affected Marineland heater models

Fish tanks last a long time and rarely need replacing, so you should know about a 2006 recall of AquaPod 12 gallon aquariums. At the time of ugust is Greater City’s annual Silent Auction the recall, there were nine reports of electrical meeting, something I look forward to every problems, with seven consumers getting shocked year. I’ve gotten some really great bargains, by touching unplugged, energized lamp cords.

This recall applied only to model number and I encourage everyone to attend. But, I don’t 7050, but the model number is not on the want to see anyone get burned figuratively or in aquarium.

It’s in the owner’s manual and the actuality. So, here are some items to be wary of packaging (not something you usually get with (and you might want to check your own supplies auction items). But and equipment for there is another way them). t o identify t h e In April of this recalled aquariums. year, the U.S. O n l y a q u a r i u ms Consumer Product without a white label Safety Commission having the date of announced a manufacturer and a voluntary recall of bar code attached to about 1.2 million the light reflector Marineland Stealth inside the aquarium and Stealth Pro lid were recalled.

Aquarium Heaters So, open the lid because a wiring and look on the problem can cause the bottom left corner of aquarium heaters to the light reflector. If overheat or break see a white label with during normal use, a date in black letters damaging the aquarium and posing Check the model of any Marineland Stealth you have! and a bar code, it is not the model that fire and laceration was recalled (neither hazards to consumers. Overheating can cause the were models 7051 or 7052).

Visit the website of heater to shatter or the aquarium glass to break. At the US Consumer Product Safety Commission for the time of the recall, there were 38 reports of fires 2 more information. resulting in property damage and 45 reports of And if, in August, you see someone with a broken aquarium glass. There was one report of an magnifying lens checking the bottom and sides of eye injury when the aquarium heater forcefully every Silent Auction item, say “Hi” to me! broke while the consumer held it.

A

Check to see if you are have one of these heaters (note the affected models). If you do, stop using it! Contact United Pet Group for a free replacement, or a full refund. United Pet Group can be reached at (800) 338-4896 between 7:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s website at www.marineland.com1

Modern Aquarium - Greater City A.S Modern Aquarium - Greater City(NY) A.S. (NY)

http://www.cpsc.gov/CPSCPUB/PREREL/ prhtml11/11202.html

1

http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml06/ 06111.html

2

June June 2011 2011

17 25

Fin Fun Everyone likes tetras. Everyone has a favorite tetra. For a few among us, our most favorite fish of all is a tetra (see Stephen Sica’s article in this issue). Maybe some of your favorites are on the list below. If not, you might need to refer to an “atlas” or search the Internet, in order to sort them out. Happy fishing!

(Common names will be included with the answers in next month’s issue.)

Scientific name

Tetra

Other

Hyphessobrycon serpae Moenkhausia colletti Nemacheilus pardalis Chapalichthys pardalis Inpaichthys kerri Paracheirodon axelrodi Brachyrhaphis episcopi Helostoma temminckii Nematobrycon lacortei Hemigrammus boesemani

Answer to the previous puzzle

Common Name

Scientific Name

Harlequin Rasbora -------------------- Trigonostigma heteromorpha Red Scissortail Rasbora -------------------- Rasbora caudimaculata Tinfoil Barb --------------------- Barbonymus schwanenfeldii Celestial Pearl Danio -------------------- Celestichthys margaritatus Siamese Algae Eater -------------------- Crossocheilus siamensis Zebra Danio -------------------- Danio rerio Flying Fox -------------------- Epalzeorhynchos kalopterus Chinese Algae Eater -------------------- Gyrinocheilus aymonieri Tiger Barb -------------------- Puntius tetrazona

June 2011

26 24

June 2011

Modern Aquarium - Greater City A.S (NY) Modern Aquarium - Greater City A.S. (NY)

Attention: Educators and Ocean Enthusiasts!

Save the Date for the

33rd Annual Conference of the New York State Marine Education Association (NYSMEA) Our Local Waters: Resources, Restoration, and Citizen Action Saturday June 4, 2011 Kingsborough Community College Brooklyn, NY

For more information and to register: www.nysmea.org

Activities include:

• Keynote Speakers – listen to inspiring talks from Dr. Merry Camhi from the Wildlife Conservation Society and Paula Zevin from the Environmental Protection Agency!

• Workshops – learn how to get involved in local stewardship activities in the field, lab, or classroom!

• Field Trips – sample aboard a research vessel, seine at the beach, learn about invertebrate ecology, and more!

• Networking – meet other marine educators and enthusiasts from across the state!

• New York Aquarium – enjoy special “after hours” access, dinner, and a presentation on the New York Seascape program!

• Auction – win great prizes including gift certificates to restaurants, fossils, laboratory supplies, and more!

Professional Development credit is available!