Saltwater/Marine Fish (1-50)
Title: Saltwater
Species #: 1
Common Name: Bicolor Angelfish Scientific Name: Centropyge bicolor Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Fiji, New Caledonia, Papua New Order: Perciformes Guinea Family: Pomacanthidae
Geography / Habitat: The Bicolor Angelfish are common in New Guinea and the Great Barrier Reef. Their range includes most of the Pacific ocean excluding Hawaii.
Life Strategy: 5 - 10 years or longer in the wild Food / Feed Strategy: It is important that you feed angelfish all kinds of live, frozen, and prepared formula foods. Pygmy angelfish are known to eat mostly algae in the wild, so a diet rich in vegetable matter is essential.
Body Form or Style: They are properly acclimated as juveniles, and they are have very different colouring and body shape. Swim / Locomotion Style: The Flame angelfish has Dorsal fins to lend stability in swimming. Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Fish
Species #: 2
Common Name: Spiny Box Puffer Scientific Name: Chilomycterus Schoefi Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Tetraodontitformes
Class: Diodonttidae
Order: Chilomycterus
Family: Chilomycterus Schoepfi
Geography / Habitat: This fish from the Caribbean and prefers to live in a 70 gallon tank with water temperature of 72-78 degrees F with a pH level between 8.1 to 8.4 It is not aggressive with others in its own family/species. Life Strategy: It is known to nip at slow moving fish and long finned fish. This is a semiagressive fish with a difficult care level rate. Food / Feed Strategy: The Spiny Bow Puffer needs a varied diet of meaty foods including; squid, krill, clams and hard shelled shrimp to help wear down their ever growing teeth.
Body Form or Style: Globiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Superaterminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine
Species #:3
Common Name: Red/Orange Angler Scientific Name: Antennarius sp. Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Actinopterygii
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Antennarius
Family: Antennariidae
Geography / Habitat: Originates from Africa, Indonesia and South Asia and prefer to live in a 20 gallon or larger tank with a water temperature of 72-78 degrees F with a pH of 8.1 The colored Anglers can range in color from vivid red to deep orange coloration. Life Strategy: No breeding habits were mentioned because of not being able to exactly determine the sex between female and male colored Anglers. Food / Feed Strategy: It will accept most meaty meal including feeder fish. An angler may eat any small inhabitant of the tank. That looks like a small fish.
Body Form or Style: Deppressiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Caraniform Mouth Position: Subterminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Fish
Species #: 4
Common Name: Convict Tang Scientific Name: Acanthurus triostegus Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Acanthurus
Class: Actinopeterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Acnthuridae
Geography / Habitat: This fish originate from the Indo- Pacific, Solomon Islands and Tahiti and prefer to live in a 70 gallon tank with water temperature of 72-78 degrees with a pH level between 8.1ppm. Life Strategy: Convict Tangs have no distinguishing characteristics which help differentiate males from females, which make these fish very hard to breed in an aquarium setting because the fry remain in plank tonic stage for months, and are in constant danger from filters. Food / Feed Strategy: Although this fish will eat meaty foods along with the other fish in the tank, it is important that they are offered plenty of marine based seaweed and algae. This will strengthen their immune system, reduce aggression and improve their overall health.
Body Form or Style: Fusiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Catangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/ Marine Fish
Species #:5
Common Name: Shark Egg Scientific Name: Chiloscyllium sp. Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Chiloscyllium
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Orectolobidae
Geography / Habitat: Originate from the Indo- Pacific and prefer to live in a 180 gallon tank with water temperature of 72-78 degrees with a pH level between 8.1-8.4 ppm. It is very hardy fish and is the most common shark kept in an aquarium. Life Strategy: The hatching of the egg will be anywhere from 1 to 6 weeks depending on the stage of development and the environmental conditions in the tank.
Food / Feed Strategy: When the egg is hatched offer small pieces of cleaned squid or live saltwater feed shrimp in order to entice this fish to eat. Then it may be fed shrimp, scallops or pieces of fresh marine fish.
Body Form or Style: Globiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Subcarangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Fish
Species #: 6
Common Name: Green Mandarin Scientific Name: Synchiropus splendidus Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Synchiropus
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Callionymidae
Geography / Habitat: These fish originate from Indonesia and prefer to live in a 30 gallon tank. With the water temperature of 72.78 degrees. It is moderately hardy in reef tanks if given the right and special care. They look like a mazelike combination of blue, orange and green colorations. Life Strategy: The Green Mandarin has been known to spawn successfully in an aquarium. It is not overly aggressive towards other fish, except for conspecifcs. Food / Feed Strategy: It feeds on a variety of vitamin enriched live brine shrimp, live black worms, and natural prey on live rock and live sand.
Body Form or Style: Fusiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Fish
Species #: 7
Common Name: Black Seahorse (Tank Bred) Scientific Name: Hippocampus erectus Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Hippocampus
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Syngnathidae Geography / Habitat: This is a tank bred seahorse and prefers to live in a 30 gallon tank with a water temperature of 72-78 degrees. Seahorses are probably the most recognizable fish in the world due to their unusual appearance and habits. Life Strategy: During the descent of Seahorse breeding the pair will line up face to face, and the female will deposit her eggs into the males pouch (filled with sperm). In like 20 days the male seahorse gives birth to an average of 300 demersal fry that are able to swim around birth. Food / Feed Strategy: These tank bred seahorses are used to eating frozen shrimp, making them a smart alternative to their wild caught counterparts. They will also feed upon amphipods and other small crustaceans found in live rock. They will also accept vitamin enriched adult brine shrimp, but it should not make up their diet alone.
Body Form or Style: N/A Swim / Locomotion Style: N/A Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Fish
Species #:8
Common Name: Fuzzy Dwarf Lionfish Scientific Name: Dendrochirus Brachyterus Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Dendrochirus Brachyterus
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Scorpaenidae Geography / Habitat: These fish originate from the Indo- Pacific and prefer to live in a 30 gallon take of water. With a temperature of 72- 78 degrees. This is a personable fish that quickly recognizes and responds to its owners’ presences. Life Strategy: It will hide while acclimating to its new environment. The top spines are venomous, causing reactions similar to a bee sting. You can see how this might affect someone. Food / Feed Strategy: When first introduced into the aquarium, live saltwater feeder shrimp should be used to entice this fish to eat. The Dwarf Lionfish diet consists of meaty foods such as live shrimp, live fish and sometimes crustacean flesh.
Body Form or Style: Depressiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Suberminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Fish
Species #:9
Common Name: Round Stingray Scientific Name: Urobatis halleri Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Urobatis
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Percitformes
Family: Urolophidae
Geography / Habitat: This stingray originated from the Eastern Pacific and prefers to live in a 180 gallon tank with a water temperature of 72-78 degrees. Caution should be taken when netting this fish, or when it is not visible and maintenance is preformed in the tank. Life Strategy: It likes to cover itself on the soft substrate as camouflage. It will eat any crustacean or mollusk in the aquarium. Food / Feed Strategy: Feeding may be difficult in the beginning. When first introduced into the aquarium, small pieces of cleaned squid or live saltwater feeder shrimp should be used to entice this fish to eat. Then it may be fed shrimp, scallops or pieces of fresh marine fish.
Body Form or Style: N/A Swim / Locomotion Style: N/A Mouth Position: Subterminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Fish
Species #:10
Common Name: Snowflake Eel Scientific Name: Echidna nebulosa Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Echidna
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Percitformes
Family: Muaenidae
Geography / Habitat: Originate from the Indo- Pacific and Vanuatu and prefer to live in a 50 gallon tank with the temperature to be around 72- 78 degrees. It is one of the most beautiful morays, and inhabits caves and crevices throughout the Indo- Pacific reeds. In the wild it can grow to 39 inches in captivity it can reach 24 inches. Life Strategy: The Snowflake Eel is safe to house with any fish it cannot easily swallow. It can be housed with some invertebrates, like anemones and corals but not crustaceans. They are semi aggressive and are an easy eel to care for. Food / Feed Strategy: The Snowflake Eel is a nocturnal predator, ambushing fish and crustaceans. In the tank, it will take frozen or freeze dried krill, fish, shrimp and most meaty foods. It can be taught to hand feed, although this should be done with caution, as it can inflict a painful bite.
Body Form or Style: Anguilliform Swim / Locomotion Style: Anguilliform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Fish
Species #: 11
Common Name: Spotted Grouper Scientific Name: Epinephelus summana Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Epinephelus
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Serranidae
Geography / Habitat: This fish originated in the Indo- Pacific and prefers to live in a 70 gallon tank of water, with a temperature of 72-78 degrees. This fish is known and located by its dark brown to black body marked by white polka-dots. Life Strategy: It is an extremely aggressive fish and may eat its tank mates as well as many types of crustaceans. Food / Feed Strategy: The Spotted Grouper prefers a diet of meaty foods such as krill, shrimp and other small fish.
Body Form or Style: Fusiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Fish
Species #: 12
Common Name: Starcki Damsel Scientific Name: Chrysiptera starcki Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Chrysiptera
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Pomacentridae
Geography / Habitat: This fish originated from Australia Java and Vanuatu and prefers to live in a 30 gallon tank with water temperature 72-78 degrees. Comes from the reefs of the Coral Sea. This is a very active fish that will ass movement to any marine tank. Life Strategy: It will ignore invertebrate in the tank and feeds on zooplankton and algae, which makes it a good fish for a reef aquarium. These damsels are aggressive towards their own kind and only one per aquarium should be kept unless the tank is very large. Food / Feed Strategy: A varied diet of meaty items such as Mysis shrimp and vitamin enriched brine shrimp should be offered.
Body Form or Style: Depressiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: : http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Fish
Species #: 13
Common Name: Chalk Bass Scientific Name: Serranus tortugarum Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Serranus
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Serranidae
Geography / Habitat: Originated Caribbean and the Tropical Western Atlantic and prefers to live in a 30 gallon tank, with the water temperature to be around 72-78 degrees. It is one of the smaller bass within this family, and is a great fish for beginners. The body is orange in color with a purple mid-section. Life Strategy: They are not aggressive towards other fish, and multiple specimens can be added to the tank, and long as it is at the same time. They will not pick at corals or sessile. Food / Feed Strategy: An extremely hardy fish the Chalk Bass requires a diet consist of a variety of chopped meaty items brine shrimp and Mysis shrimp
Body Form or Style: Sagittiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation:: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Fish
Species #: 14
Common Name: Tassle Filefish Scientific Name: Chaetodermis pencilligerus Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Chaetodermis
Class: Actinppterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Monacanthidae
Geography / Habitat: This fish originated form the Indo- Pacific and prefers to live in a 70 gallon tank with a water temperature of 72- 78 degrees. This fish is camouflaged by its light body with dark horizontal stripes.
Life Strategy: It is very peaceful fish that does not bother its tank mates, with the exception of members of its own family or related kinds.
Food / Feed Strategy: The Tassel Filefish feeds on a diet of meaty foods including chopped up shrimp, squid and frozen fish. It should be fed no fewer than three times per day.
Body Form or Style: Depressiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation:: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine fish
Species #:15
Common Name: Popeye Catalufa Soldierfish Scientific Name: Pristigenys serrula Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Pristigenys
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciforms
Family: Pristigenys serrula
Geography / Habitat: This Fish originates from Costa Rica and prefers to live in a 70 gallon tank with the temperature to be 72- 78 degrees. It is a burnt orange color with several white highlights. Life Strategy: Gives these fish generous amounts of live rock, hiding places and swimming room it will do well with other of its own species as long as there are adequate hiding locations and plenty of space. Food / Feed Strategy: When first introduced into the rank, live saltwater feeder shrimp should be used to entice this fish to eat. The diet should vary between live feeder shrimps; freeze dried shrimp and chopped marine meats.
Body Form or Style: Deoressiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Supraterminal Citation: : http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Fish
Species #:16
Common Name: Teira Batfish Scientific Name: Platax teria Kingdom: Animilia Class: Actinopterygii Family: Ephippididae
Phylum: Platax Order: Perciformes
Geography / Habitat: These fish originate from Indonesia and prefer to live in a 180 gallon tank with a water temperature of 72- 78 degrees. The body and fins of this fish have wide vertical alternate bands of black and a pale yellow or tan. Life Strategy: The Teira Batfish can grow to an impressive size of 24 inches, measuring from the top of the dorsal to the tip of the anal fin. Not a good reef dweller, it will eat many types of sessile invertebrates including corals and anemones. Food / Feed Strategy: A varies diet of meaty foods such as shrimp, scallops, vitamin enriches brine shrimp and frozen fish. And it is best to feed it three times a day. This species if Batfish can become very tame.
Body Form or Style: N/A Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Fish
Species #: 17
Common Name: Blue/Green Reef Chromis Scientific Name: Chromis viridis Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Chromis
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Pomacentridae
Geography / Habitat: Originates from Indonesia and prefers to live in a 30 gallon tank with a a water temperature of 72-78 degrees.
Life Strategy: Native to reefs ranging from mid depth to shallow lagoons of the Indo- Pacific and South Pacific wild specimens to prefer to school in large shoals amongst branching corals like Acropora.
Food / Feed Strategy: For best care, feed several times throughout the day with a varied diet of meaty foods.
Body Form or Style: Fusiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Fish
Species #: 18
Common Name: Bicolor Blenny Scientific Name: Ecsenius biocolor Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Ecsenius
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Blenniidae
Geography / Habitat: Originates from Fiji Indonesia and Sri Lank and prefers to live in a 30 gallon tanks with a temperature of 72-78 degrees. Generally found amid crevices and rocks on the bottom of its environment, the Bicolor Blenny needs a tank of at least 30 gallons with scattered rocks for perching and hiding. Life Strategy: These fish are normally peaceful tank members, but have been known to pick at other blennies smaller gobies and dartfish. Food / Feed Strategy: The diet of the Bicolor Blenny should include vegetable matter including frozen and dried foods containing marine and blue green algae.
Body Form or Style: Fusiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Fish
Species #: 19
Common Name: Foxface Lo Scientific Name: Siganidae vulpinus Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Siganidae
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Percitformes
Family: Siganidae vulpinus
Geography / Habitat: These fish originate from Indonesia and Vanuatu and prefers to live in a 70 gallon tank with a water temperature of 72- 78 degrees. This fish has a very unique body color. They are a very hardy fish. Life Strategy: Rabbitfish are generally reef safe if they are well fed. If not, It is possible for them to nip and consume some species of LPS and soft corals.
Food / Feed Strategy: The Foxface Lo diet consists of a variety of fresh vegetables and undesirable species of algae. It does nip and possibly eat some soft and hard coral polyps.
Body Form or Style: Depressiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Supraterminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Fish
Species #: 20
Common Name: Flame Cardinal Scientific Name: Apogon spp. Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Apogon
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Apogonidae
Geography / Habitat: These fish originate in the Caribbean and Costa Rica and prefer to live in a 30 gallon tank. It is fiery red color with light accents of blue and green. Life Strategy: It should be kept in large groups because of its aggressive behavior toward other Cardinal fish, although it does well in mated pairs. It is nocturnal fish and may be watched using a red light. Food / Feed Strategy: The Flame Cardinal requires a well balanced and vitamin enriched diet. Shrimp, bloodworms and marine flesh.
Body Form or Style: Fusiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Fish
Species #: 21
Common Name: Kaudern’s Cardinal Scientific Name: Pterapogon Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Pterapogon
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Apongonidae
Geography / Habitat: These fish originate from Indonesia and prefer to live in a 30 gallon tank with a water temperature of 72-78 degrees. This fish is metallic silver highlighted Cardinal with black and white stripes Life Strategy: Thus fish is relatively easy to breed in an aquarium setting. Once spawning has occurred, the male carries the eggs in his mouth to protect them. Food / Feed Strategy: The Kaudern’s Cardinal should be fed a well balanced diet of meaty foods such as a feeder shrimp, marine flesh, bloodworms and depending on its size a live feeder fish.
Body Form or Style: N/A Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Fish
Species #: 22
Common Name: PurpleTilefish Scientific Name: Hoploltilus purpureus Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Hoplolatilus
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Persiformes
Family: Malacanthidae
Geography / Habitat: This fish originates from Indonesia and Vanuatu and prefers to live in a 50 gallon tank, with the temperature to be around 72-78 degrees. This fish also has an attractive sold lilac- purple body color with darker crimson red markings highlighting a v- shaped. Life Strategy: The Purple Tilefish is known to spawn successfully in a tank. It may be aggressive towards members of its own species but is peaceful with other fish. Food / Feed Strategy: The diet should include a variety of marine fish, crustacean flesh and Mysis shrimp, and it should be fed at least twice a day.
Body Form or Style: Sagittiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation:http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Fish
Species #:23
Common Name: Coral Hogfish Scientific Name: Bodianus mesothorax Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Bodianus
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Labridae
Geography / Habitat: This fish originated from the Indo-Pacific Sumatra and Vanuatu and prefers to live in a tank between 50- 70 gallon tank. It has a burgundy face with a rosy yellow posterior, separated by a black stripe.
Life Strategy: The reef becomes this fish’s buffet. This fish is aggressive toward small, docile fish that are easily bullied.
Food / Feed Strategy: The mature adult Coral Hogfish will eat snails, worms, mussels, small fish, shrimp and squid.
Body Form or Style: Fusiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Fish
Species #: 24
Common Name: Black Cap Jawfish Scientific Name: Opistognathus randalli Kingdom:Animilia
Phylum: Opistognathidae
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciforms
Family: Opistognathidae
Geography / Habitat: This fish originates from the Indo- Pacific and prefers to live in a 30 gallon tank with a water temperature of 72-78 degrees. They are green with faint orange stripes. Life Strategy: The Black Cap Jawfish is hardy and will spawn successfully in an aquarium. It poses a possible threat to small shrimp. Food / Feed Strategy: The Diet should consist of a variety of marine fish, crustacean flesh and Mysis shrimp. It prefers to be fed at least three times per day.
Body Form or Style: Taeniform Swim / Locomotion Style: Subcarangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Fish
Species #:25
Common Name: Spotted Sweetlips Scientific Name: Plectorhinchus chaetodonoides Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Plectorhinchus
Class: Acinopreygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Haemulidae
Geography / Habitat: This fish originates from Indonesia and Vanuatu and prefers to live in a 150 gallon tank with a water temperature of 72- 78 degrees. It grown at a rapid pace to almost 3 feet in length.
Life Strategy: No breeding habitats were mentioned
Food / Feed Strategy: When first introduced into a tank, live saltwater feeder shrimp should be used to entice this fish to eat. Once it had acclimated, most marine carnivore preparations will be acceptable. They will also eat smaller shrimp, smaller fire worms and small snails.
Body Form or Style: Compresiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Fish
Species #: 26
Common Name: Porkfish Scientific Name: Anisotremus virginicus Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum:Anisotremus
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Haemilidae
Geography / Habitat: This fish originated from the Caribbean and prefers to live in a 70 gallon tank with a water temperature of 72- 78 degrees. They have a yellow head and fins accenting a silver gray vertical stripes.
Life Strategy: It prefers to hover around reefs and need a cave or ledge for refuge. They are very peaceful fish that make a wonderful addition to any peaceful saltwater fish only tank.
Food / Feed Strategy: These fish will consume any crabs, snails, shrimp and starfish
Body Form or Style: Depressiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Fish
Species #: 27
Common Name: Catalina Coby Scientific Name: Lythrypnus dalli Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Lythrypnus
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Gobiidae
Geography / Habitat: This fish originates from the USA. Off the Eastern Pacific to be more precise and prefers to live in a 10 gallon tank with a water temperature. It has a bright red body, and the tail has a yellowish tint.
Life Strategy: When ready to breed, a behavioral male chooses a cave in which to care from his brood. He lured the female inside when she will attach her eggs to the wall of the cave. He will care for the eggs until they are hatched.
Food / Feed Strategy: This fish is very hardy and easy to feed in captivity. It will accept almost any size meat.
Body Form or Style: Fusiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Fish
Species #: 28
Common Name: Red Hawkfish Scientific Name: Cyprinocirrhites polyactus Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Cyprinocirrhites
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Periformes
Family: Cirrhitidae
Geography / Habitat: This fish originates from the Indo- Pacific and prefers to live in a 30 gallon tank. This fish has a mottled orange to red body. Its lyre shaped tails sets it apart from most of the other hawkfish in appearance.
Life Strategy: It may be grouped with other Red Hawkfish If all are introduced to the tank AT THE SAME TIME. Although it eats small fish and shrimp.
Food / Feed Strategy: This fishes’ diet consists of a variety of marine meats, frozen shrimp.
Body Form or Style: Fusiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Fish
Species #: 29
Common Name: Maroon Clownfish Scientific Name: Premnas biaculeatus Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Premnas
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Pomacentridae
Geography / Habitat: This Fish originates from Australia and Papus. This dish has a bold, red body with abroad white stripe on it or head and stripes down its midsection in front of the anal fin.
Life Strategy: It is difficult to maintain more than one maroon clown in the tank unless they are a pair. So you can see how breeding could become an issue. If they are already in a pair then breeding is recommended. This fish is aggressive towards other clown fish and they are difficult to maintain together. Food / Feed Strategy: This fish’s diet consists of meaty items such as frozen shrimp.
Body Form or Style: Compressiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Fish
Species #: 30
Common Name: Yellow Longnose Butterflyfish Scientific Name: Forcipiger flavissimus Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Forcipiger
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Chaetodontidae
Geography / Habitat: This fish originates from Hawaii. This fish has a long snout that resembles a pair of needle nose pliers for picking food out of creviced and between coral heads. They also have a beautiful body color f black, and yellow and white.
Life Strategy: This is a vey peaceful fish and when acclimated properly, they are a wonderful hardy addition to and fish only saltwater tank.
Food / Feed Strategy: This fish should be fed a varied diet of meaty foods like mysis shrimp meat and frozen preparations.
Body Form or Style: Sagittiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: N/A Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Fish
Species #: 31
Common Name: Leaf Fish Scientific Name: Taenianotus triacanthus Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Taenianotus
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Scropaenidae
Geography / Habitat: This fish originates from Hawii and Indonesia and prefers to live in a 30 gallon tank with a water temperature of 72- 78 degrees. Their body color varies between red, yellow, brown or blue.
Life Strategy: It uses the live rock for hiding as well as for perching while looking for food. It has poison glands attached to the dorsal anal and pelvis spines.
Food / Feed Strategy: When first introduced into the tank,, live saltwater feeder shrimp should be used to entice this fish to eat. The leaf diet consists of live foods such as feeder fish or small shrimp.
Body Form or Style: Depressiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Superterminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Fish
Species #: 32
Common Name: Clown Triggerfish Scientific Name: Balistoides conspicillum Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Balistoides
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Balistidae
Geography / Habitat: This fish originates from Indonesia and Sumatra and prefers to live in a 125 gallon tank. This fish has a dramatic coloration making this species a most sought after addition to the home tank. Life Strategy: These are very aggressive fish and are semi easy to take care of. Food / Feed Strategy: The Clown Triggerfish needs a varied diet of meaty foods including; squid, krill, clams, small fish and hard shelled shrimp to help wear down their ever growing teethe.
Body Form or Style: Depressiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Fish
Species #: 33
Common Name: Two spot Goby Scientific Name: Signigobius biocellatus Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Signigobius
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Gobiidae
Geography / Habitat: These fish originate from Indonesia and Vanuatu and prefer to live in a 10 gallon tank. It will rarely act aggressively towards other fish, but it is territorial, and will fight with its own kind unless they are a mated pair. Life Strategy: Under correct conditions, the Two Spot Goby will spawn successfully in an aquarium. Food / Feed Strategy: Usually the Two Spot Goby feeds off the bottom sifting through the sand for food, It should be fed a variety of either live or vitamin enriched frozen brine shrimp.
Body Form or Style: N/A Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Fish
Species #:34
Common Name: Kole Yellow Eye Tang Scientific Name: Ctenichaetus strigosus Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Ctenocjaetus
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Periformes
Family: Acanthuridae
Geography / Habitat: These fish originate from Hawaii and prefer to live in a 70 gallon tank. This fish can either have a majority of spots or stripes highlighting the body. Body color ranges from blue to burgundy. Life Strategy: It is aggressive towards other Tangs; therefore, it is best to only keep one per tank, It will not harm sessile invertebrate in the reed tank environment. Food / Feed Strategy: These fish will eat meaty foods along with dried seaweed and algae. They need to be fed 3 times per day.
Body Form or Style: Depressiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.eu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Fish
Species #: 35
Common Name: Flame Hawkfish Scientific Name: Neocirrhitus armatus Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Neocirrhitus
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Cirrhitidae
Geography / Habitat: These fish originate from Fiji and prefer to live in a 30 gallon tank. They are a very personable fish, and are great for reef tanks as long as there is no small shrimp maintained in the aquarium. Life Strategy: They are bottom dwellers and tend to hangout on rock perches waiting and readying themselves for food or come by. They are mostly a peaceful fish that spends most of its time perching and swimming within the branches of hard corals. Food / Feed Strategy: The Flame Hawkfish diet should consist of a verity of marine meats, frozen preparations and live feeder fish.
Body Form or Style: Depressiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Supraterminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Fish
Species #: 36
Common Name: Purple Firefish Scientific Name: Nemateleotris decora Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Nemateleotris
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Gobiidae
Geography / Habitat: This fish originates from Indonesia and the Maldives and prefers to live in a 10 gallon tank. It was first discovered in the Indo- west Pacific Ocean in 1973 by Randall and Allen. Life Strategy: It will rarely become aggressive towards other fish, but is territorial, and will fight with its own kind unless they are a mated pair Food / Feed Strategy: This fish diet should consist of chopped or shaved seafood. The vibrant coloring will fade if not fed a vitamin enriched diet.
Body Form or Style: Taeniform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Fish
Species #: 37
Common Name: Neon Dottyback Scientific Name: Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Pseudochromidae
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Pseudochromidae
Geography / Habitat: This fish originates from the USA and prefers to live in a 30 gallon tank. It has yellow and reds on the body with blue stripes that run along the top and In the fins. Life Strategy: It may eat ornamental shrimp, but makes an excellent predator of bristle worms in a reef aquarium. Food / Feed Strategy: The diet should consist of meaty foods including brine shrimp and prepared frozen foods.
Body Form or Style: Taeiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Fish Species #: 38 Common Name: Banana Wrasse Scientific Name: Thalassoma lutescens Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Thalassoma
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Labridae
Geography / Habitat: This fish originates from Fiji and Vanuatu and prefers to live in a 125 gallon tank. Both sexes of this fish have facial markings in green and fine vertical striping along the body. Life Strategy: They are active fish and require plenty of rocks for hiding and a tight fitting lid. It will become territorial and harass any new additions to the community. Food / Feed Strategy: The banana Wrasse diet should consist of vitamin enriched frozen mysis shrimp, frozen brine shrimp and other meaty foods along with a high quality marine flake and marine pellet food.
Body Form or Style: Fusiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Fish
Species #: 39
Common Name: Yellow Goatfish Scientific Name: Parupeneus cyclostoma Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Parupeneus
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Mullidae
Geography / Habitat: These fish come from Fiji and Malanesia and prefer to live in a 125 gallon tank. Life Strategy: The young Yellow Goatfish may be sifting the sandy bottom of the tank in search of invertebrates to eat. They are prone to eat small crustacean’s fish and worms. Food / Feed Strategy: The diet should consist of a variety of meaty items fed at least four times a day.
Body Form or Style: Fusiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Fish
Species #:40
Common Name: Emperor Anglefish Scientific Name: Pomacanthus imperator Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Pomacanthus
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Pomacanthidae
Geography / Habitat: This fish originates from Fiji Indonesia the Maldives and prefers to live in a 100 gallon tank with a water temperature of 72- 78 degrees. This is a striking blue black mask covers the eyes ans a similar colored vertical band extends from the pectoral fin two thirds of the way up the body. Life Strategy: It will nip at stony and soft corals and clam mantles, but may be kept with small polyped stony corals and somewhat noxious soft corals. Food / Feed Strategy: It should be fed a diet of Spirulina, Marine Algae or frozen shrimp and other meaty items.
Body Form or Style: Depressiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Supraterminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Fish
Species #: 41
Common Name: Orbiculate Batfish Scientific Name: Platax orbicularis Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Platax
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Ephippididae
Geography / Habitat: This fish originates form Indonesia, South Asia and Tihiti and prefers to live in a 180 gallon tank with a water temperature of 72- 78 degrees. Life Strategy: Not a good reef dweller, it will eat many types of sessile invertebrates including coral and anemones. This fish is susceptible to ich just like many Batfish. Food / Feed Strategy: When first introduced into a tank, live saltwater feeder shrimp should be used to entice this fish to eat. A varied diet of meaty foods such as brine shrimp and frozen herbivore preparations will help the Orbiculate to thrive, especially when fed three times a day.
Body Form or Style: N/A Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Fish
Species #:42
Common Name: Bicolor Foxface Scientific Name: Lo uspi Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Lo
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Siganidae
Geography / Habitat: This fish originates from Fiji and prefers to live in a 70 gallon tank. This fish has a very unique body and coloration of the body. Life Strategy: Rabbitfish are generally reef safe if they are well fed, if not It is possible for them to nip at and consume some species of LPS and soft corals. Food / Feed Strategy: Its diet consists of a variety of fresh vegetables and algae. It doe nip and possibly eat some soft and hard coral polyps.
Body Form or Style: Fusiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Supraterminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Fish
Species #: 43
Common Name: Longhorn Cowfish Scientific Name: Lactoria cornuta Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Lactoria
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Ostraciidae
Geography / Habitat: These fish originate form the Indo- Pacific and prefer to live in a 125 gallon tank. With a water temperature of 72- 78 degrees. Life Strategy: These fish are turn poisonous when under stress and they could possibly die. Use caution when placing these fish in a reef tank as it may nibble of tubeworms. When housed correctly, the Cowfish Longhorn is long lived. Food / Feed Strategy: Since they are omnivores the Longhorn Cowfish should be offered a variety of meaty foods and vegetables. They are slow eaters, and should not be housed with aggressive eaters.
Body Form or Style: N/A Swim / Locomotion Style: Carnagiform Mouth Position: Supraterminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Fish
Species #: 45
Common Name: Coral Beauty Angelfish Scientific Name: Centropyge bispinosa Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Centropyge
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Pomacanthidae
Geography / Habitat: This fish originates form Fiji, Indonesia and Vanuatu and prefer to live in a 20 gallon tank. This is one of the best angelfish to care for. Life Strategy: Not a good reef dweller, the Coral Beauty Angelfish is prone to nip at stony and soft corals. Food / Feed Strategy: The diet if the Coral Beauty Angelfish should consist of Spirulina, Marine algae high quality angelfish preparations of mysis or frozen shrimp, and other quality meaty food.
Body Form or Style: Depressiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Fish
Species #:46
Common Name: Longnose Hawkfish Scientific Name: Oxycirrhites Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Oxycirrhites
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Cirrhites typus
Geography / Habitat: This fish originate from Central America and Fiji. This fish prefers to live in a 30 gallon tank. Life Strategy: This fish is hardy and semi aggressive fish but other larger hawkfish will overpower it. Food / Feed Strategy: The Longnose, Hawkfish diet should include a variety of marine meats, frozen preparations and live feeder shrimp.
Body Form or Style: Fusiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Supraterminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Fish
Species #: 47
Common Name: Highfin Perchlet Scientific Name: Plectranthias sp. Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Plectranthias
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Serranidae
Geography / Habitat: This fish originates from Cebu and prefers to live in a 30 gallon tank with a water temperature of 72 – 78 degrees. They are a wonderful addition to a reef tank. Life Strategy: They become aggressive towards other bottom dwelling fish like gobies and blennies. Food / Feed Strategy: This fish’s natural diet includes zooplankton and they should be offered a variety of meaty foods including vitamin enriched brine shrimp Mysis shrimp and small pieces of shrimp and fish.
Body Form or Style: Fusiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Fish
Species #:48
Common Name: Horseface Blenny Scientific Name: Ophioblennius atlanticus Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Ophioblennius
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Blenniidae
Geography / Habitat: This fish originates from the Caribbean and prefers to live in a 30 gallon tank with a water temperature of 72- 78 degrees. The head of this fish carries 4 small branching horns and the nose is very blunt, which gives this species a unique horse like appearance. Life Strategy: It tends to perch and hop from rock to rock, looking from microalgae to graze on. It is known to nip at small polyped stony coral and clam mates and it is semi aggressive unless the tank mates appear to have it same shape. Feed Strategy: This fish does well in established tanks with large amounts of natural algae to feed on. The diet can be supplemented with vegetable matter.
Body Form or Style: N/A Swim / Locomotion Style: Subcarangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Fish
Species #: 49
Common Name: Matted Filefish Scientific Name: Acreichthys tomentosus Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Acreichthys
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Monacanthidae
Geography / Habitat: This fish originates from Indonesia and prefers to live in a 30 gallon tank, with a water temperature of 72-78 degrees. Life Strategy: These fish have been known to only spawn in captivity and males are normally larger than the males, having fine bristle like hairs on each side of their body down the caudal peduncle or base of the tail. Food / Feed Strategy: Their diet should include shave shrimp, squid, scallops, Mysis shrimp, freeze, dries krill soaked in a vitamin supplement, and frozen marine algae. They should be fed small quantities of food several times a day.
Body Form or Style: Depressiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Supraterminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Fish
Species #: 50
Common Name: Tessalata Eel Scientific Name: Gymnothorax favagineus Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Gymnothorax
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Muraenidae
Geography / Habitat: This fish originates from Sri Lanka and prefers to live in a 180 gallon tank with a water temperature of 72-78 degrees. It has a light colored body and especially attractive, dark honeycomb markings. Life Strategy: It likes to hide in rock crevices to feel secure and you need to make sure the tank has a tight fitting lid to discourage escape. Food / Feed Strategy: The Tessalata Eel’s diet should include sizeable portions of live feeder fish, octopus and squid.
Body Form or Style: Anguilliform Swim / Locomotion Style: Anguilliform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Freshwater/Fish (51-100)
Title: Freshwater Fishes
Species #: 51
Common Name: Goldfish Scientific Name: Carassius auratus Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Carassius
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Cypriniformes
Family: Cyprinidae
Geography / Habitat: Originated in China, and spread worldwide in aquariums pools and into the wild. These fish can be found in slow moving, freshwater bodies of water. Goldfish can survive temperatures ranging from freezing to thirty degrees centigrade.
Life Strategy: There are over a hundred varieties of goldfish, coloration and physical characteristics greatly vary. The common goldfish has 2 sets of paired fins and three single fins. They lack barbells on the upper jaw and lack scales on their head. They have large eyes and acute senses of smell and hearing. They can grow to be 3 kg and 45 cm long but usually much smaller than this.
Food / Feed Strategy: In the wild, these fish are omnivores. They eat plants, insects such as mosquito larvae, small crustaceans, zooplankton and detritus.
Body Form or Style: Compressiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Freshwater Fish
Species #: 52
Common Name: Cardinal Tetra Scientific Name: Paracheirodon axelrodi Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Paracheirodon
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Characiformes
Family: Characidae
Geography / Habitat: These fish prefer slow moving, middle layer water in shoals. They prefer slightly acidic pH of 5.8 and a temperature of 24 degrees Celsius. Cardinal tetras do not migrate and are generally found in open water. Cardinal tetras are small fish; males grow to about 2.5 cm in length in the wild but can attain lengths of 5 cm in an aquarium. This species is characterized by a horizontal neon blue strip ane deep red marking and have a row of dentary teeth. Life Strategy: Eggs hatch within 24 to 30 hours of fertilization. Females can release their eggs during the rainy season. The eggs become fertilized by the sperm of males in close proximity. Mating takes place at twilight during the rainy season, The males embrace the females while swimming. Fertilization is external in their case. As the female scatters 500 eggs into the water, the males fertilize them. Food / Feed Strategy: This fish’s diet consists of very small crustaceans, mesocauna, eggs, algae, detritus and some other types of prey.
Body Form or Style: Fusiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Freshwater Fish
Species #: 53
Common Name: Crown Tail Betta Scientific Name: Betta splendens Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Betta
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Belontiidae
Geography / Habitat: The Crown Tail Betta is a type of “Siamese� Fighting Fish. These fish have been bred over the years to enhance the fins and remarkable variety of colors of the males, as well as making them increasingly combative. Only one male should be kept in a tank, but you can combine as many females together as you want. Life Strategy: An ideal environment for a Betta is a well filters aquarium with slow movement in water and a steady temperature between 75-86 degrees. They also prefer a variety of hiding places among freshwater plants. Food / Feed Strategy: Provide these Bettas with a carnivore diet consisting of quality flake or pellet food, frozen or freeze dried bloodworms and brine shrimp.
Body Form or Style: Sagittiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Subcarangiform Mouth Position: Supraterminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Freshwater Fish
Species #:54
Common Name: Cichlids Scientific Name: Cichlidae Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Cichlidae
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Cichlidae
Geography / Habitat: Most cichlids inhabit lakes or the sluggish areas of rivers, but there are few species adapted to swift flowing stream. Most cichlids are distinguished from all other freshwater fish by the existence of two unique features; a single opening of the nostrils and an interrupted lateral line. Life Strategy: As family, cichlids display complex behaviors in feeding, reproduction and orientate care. The exploratory behavior of cichlids is also very important because this is what initially encouraged and later refined speciation. Food / Feed Strategy: They eat algae, zooplankton, phytoplankton, whole fish, larvae or eggs of mouth brooding species.
Body Form or Style: Fusiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Freshwater Fish
Species #: 55
Common Name: Channel Catfish Scientific Name: Ictalurus punctuates Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Ictalurus
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Siluriformes
Family: Ictalurus punctatus
Geography / Habitat: Channel Catfish have been introuduced in the Paleractic in Cyprus, Czech Republic. This fish can live in both fresh and saltwater and brackish eater yet they are generally found in freshwater environments. They are found in moving waters such as streams, creeks and rivers and well as lakes, reservoirs and ponds. Life Strategy: The male and female in the summer but the relationship is established earlier in the year. Mating takes place when the male swims along the female in the opposite direction. Their tails wrap around the others head to being mating. When the male’s body shivers the female is stimulated and the eggs and sperm are released. The mass of eggs is deposited in a nest built by the female of by both. After mating has occurred the male chases away the female and guards the eggs until they hatch. Food / Feed Strategy: This fish consumes yellow perch, sunfish, snails, algae, snakes, frogs, insects, aquatic plants and even birds on some occasion. Younger channel catfish are more consistently omnivorous, eating large amounts and varieties of plant and animals.
Body Form or Style: Fusiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Subcarangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Freshwater Fish
Species #: 56
Common Name: Red Fire Guppy Scientific Name: Poecilia reticulata Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Poecilia
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Poecilidae
Geography / Habitat: The Red Fire Guppy is a very peaceful fish and should be houses with freshwater tank mates of similar temperament Life Strategy: The male guppy is smaller in size than the female. Males have brighter coloration and females have a duller coloration and females ten to be more aggressive than the males. Food / Feed Strategy: The Red Fire Guppy is omnivores and requires both algae based foods as well as meaty foods. An algae based flake food, along with freeze dries bloodworms and brine shrimp will provide guppies with the proper nutrition.
Body Form or Style: Compressiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Freshwater Fish
Species #: 57
Common Name: Madagascan Rainbow Scientific Name: Bedotia gaegi Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Bedotia
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Atheriniformes
Family: Bedotiidae
Geography / Habitat: This fish was identified in 1907 and is a member of the Silverside group. Rainbow fish are known for their characteristic large eyes, black or silver band, which runs through the middle scales row, deeply forked mouth, and two dorsal fins. Life Strategy: The peaceful fish is a schooling fish that should be housed in a planted aquarium with plenty of room to swim as they are very active. Madagascan Rainbows do best with a gravel substrate and its colors may intensify with dark colored gravel; When maintaining a school of these fish, an aquarium that is at least 4 ft in length should be used. Food / Feed Strategy: These fish have a large mouth, but their throat tends to be narrow. With this in mind, foods should not be too large for your fish. A good diet for these fish should consist of flake foods.
Body Form or Style: Sagittiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Freshwater Fish
Species #: 58
Common Name: Mickey Mouse Platy Scientific Name: Xiphophorus maculatus Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Xiphophorus
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Poecilidae
Geography / Habitat: This fish is named because of the black mark at the base of its body, reaching into the tail that is shaped like Mickey Mouse’s Silhouette. Color forms of orange, red, yellow and blue are the most common for this fish. Playts add brilliant beginners and accomplished aquarist’s alike. Life Strategy: The fish is a livebearer and is capable if reproducing at three to four months of age. The male is smaller and more brightly colored than the female, and can be distinguished by his gonopodium. The fry will most often reach maturity in a community tank. Food / Feed Strategy: The Mickey Mouse Platy is an omnivore that will eat commercially prepared flaked foods and algae, as well as freeze dried bloodworms, tubifex and brine shrimp.
Body Form or Style: Fusiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carabgiform Mouth Position: Supraterminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Freshwater Fish
Species #: 59
Common Name: Cherry Barb Scientific Name: Puntius titteya Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Puntius
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Cyniformes
Family: Cyprinidae
Geography / Habitat: This fish is a more slender fish when compared to other Barbs. The main body is silver/black with a golden, horizontal stripe following the lateral line. During spawning, the male will turn bright cherry red which explains the name. Life Strategy: These fish prefer a well planted tank of least 30 gallons with soft, slightly acidic water. Rocks and driftwood can be added to the aquarium, but leave plenty of space for swimming. The cherry barb is a very timid fish that should be houses with fish of the same temperament. Food / Feed Strategy: Cherry Barbs needs to be fed a variety of foods including vegetables as well as meaty foods. Feed quality flake food as well as live frozen shrimp.
Body Form or Style: Fusiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Freshwater Fish
Species #: 60
Common Name: Black Oranda Goldfish Scientific Name: Crassium auratus Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Garassius
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: N/A
Family: Cryprinidae
Geography / Habitat: This fish is a metallic scaled fish, closely resembling the Veil Tail goldfish. This fish is one of many varieties of what is collectively known as ornamental of fancy goldfish. These fish originally from parts of Asia, Japan and China. Life Strategy: Breeding often results in up to 1,000 eggs with fry hatching in five to six days. They should be fed small pieces of live or prepared foods designed for egg laying fish. Food / Feed Strategy: Goldfish are omnivores and will what all types of dried and live foods. However limit protein intake. Goldfish flake of pellet food will provide these fish with the proper nutrition.
Body Form or Style: Globiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Anguilliform Mouth Position: Subterminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Freshwater Fish
Species #: 61
Common Name: Black Veil Angel Scientific Name: Pterophyllum sp. Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Pterophyllum
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Cichliformes
Family: Cichlidae
Geography / Habitat: This fish is a strain of angelfish that is black in color with log flowing fins that are accentuated with a beautiful black lace. Life Strategy: It prefers a well planted tank of at least 30 gallons with soft acidic water. Rock and driftwood can be added to the aquarium but leave plenty of space for swimming. The newly hatched fry should be fed brine shrimp until large enough to accept crushed flake food. Food / Feed Strategy: The Black Lace Angel needs to be fed a variety of foods including vegetables as well as meaty foods. Feed a quality flake food as well as live frozen foods such as brine shrimp and bloodworms.
Body Form or Style: Depressiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Supraterminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Freshwater Fish
Species #: 62
Common Name: Neon Swordtail Scientific Name: Xiphophorus helleri Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Xiphoporus
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Peocilformes
Family: Poeciliidae
Geography / Habitat: This fish is aptly names for its exciting electric coloration. It is a beautiful color variety of the swordtails that boasts its brilliant color. Neon colored bands across the length of its body and is a very active fish. Life Strategy: A spawning box is recommended to protect swordtail fry from potential predation from adults. Unless it is your intention to breed these fish, the male should be separated once the sex of the fry is determined. Theses fish can begin breeding at a young age and can quickly overpopulation an aquarium. These fish breading fish related to freshwater aquarium favorites. Food / Feed Strategy: The Neon Swordtail is an omnivore that will eat commercially prepared flakes foods and algae, as well as freeze dried bloodworms and brine shrimp and tubifex.
Body Form or Style: Fusiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Freshwater Fish
Species #: 63
Common Name: Dalmatiam Molly Scientific Name: Poecilia latopinna Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Poeciliformes
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Poeciliformes
Family: Poecilia latopinna
Geography / Habitat: This fish has black and white body, and is sometimes referred to as the Marbled molly of Marbled Sailfin Molly. Mollie has the ability to adapt to a variety of salt levels in the aquarium. With gradual acclimation, these fish may be maintained in either fresh or salt water. Life Strategy: The Dalmatian Molly is a livebearer that required a spawning box in a large 25 gallon tank, or a larger breeding tank. Every 60 to 70 days the female will give birth to 10 – 60 young that are already approx. one half inch long. Food / Feed Strategy: These fish are omnivores and require algae. Provide these fish with algae based flake foods, as well as freeze dried bloodworms, tubifex and brine shrimp.
Body Form or Style: Depressiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Supraterminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Freshwater Fish
Species #: 64
Common Name: Sparkling Gourami Scientific Name: Trichopsis pumilus Kingdom:Animilia
Phylum: Trichopsis pumilus
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Trichopsis
Family: Belontiidae
Geography / Habitat: Native to the shallow rice patties of Thailand and Cambodia, these fish can survive in the low water level conditions with diminished oxygen levels. Because it is adapted to close quarters, this fish only reaches a total length of about 1- 1/2 inches. However for the best care this member of the Belontiidae family should be house in a tank at least 10 gallons. Life Strategy: After spawning the female should be removed to a separate tank as the male may become aggressive towards the female. The male will tend the eggs until the hatch. After the eggs have hatched perform frequent water changes especially during the 3 rd week as this when the labyrinth organ is developed. Food / Feed Strategy: They require algae- based flake food, along with freeze dried bloodworms. Tubifex and brine shrimp should provide these fish with the proper nutrition.
Body Form or Style: Fusiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Freshwater Fish
Species #:65
Common Name: Clown Loach Scientific Name: Botia macrantha Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Botia
Class: Actinpterygii
Order: Cobitiformes
Family: Cobitidae
Geography / Habitat: Native to the waters of Indonesia, this member of the Cobitidae family appreciates caves, holes, and other hiding places amongst heavy aquarium plantings especially when it sleeps. Because the Clown Loach is native to fast moving streams, it prefers good water movement and currents. Life Strategy: These fish are native to fast moving streams, which means it prefers good water movement and currents in the tank. They grown to an impressive size of nearly one foot in length and should be housed in larger freshwater systems. Food / Feed Strategy: These fish should eat foods such as vegetable flakes or tablets along with meaty supplements such as live frozen or freeze worms.
Body Form or Style: Fusiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Subterminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Freshwater Fish
Species #: 66
Common Name: Tilapia Scientific Name: Oreochromis niloticus Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Oreochromis
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Cichlidae
Geography / Habitat: Also known as mudfish and kurper in South Africa, the Tilapia is one of the hardiest fish. Is Tilapia primarily cultured because of its high adaptability. Tilapia can be raised in fresh or brackish water. Also favoring cultivation is tilapia’s high growth rate and frequent spawning tendencies.
Life Strategy: True tilapias are nest brooders, but species of the other general incubate their eggs orally, one or both parents carry them in their mouths until the young hatch. They have literally compressed bodies like the type of called sunfish; they are fast growing and tolerate brackish water. Food / Feed Strategy: Tilapia eats plants, love protein rich duckweed and also filter algae from the water using tiny combs in their gills. Combining duck weed and commercial fish feed is good, but tilapia will grow ok on duckweed alone.
Body Form or Style: Compressiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Freshwater Fish
Species #: 67
Common Name: Ornate Bichir Scientific Name: Polyperus ornatipinnis Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Polypetus
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Polypteriformes
Family: Polypteridae
Geography / Habitat: These fish are foun in Africa, as well with other members of the primitive Polypteridae family. The Ornate Bichir has a unique abilty to surive out of wa ter. With a lung like paired swim bladder amd gills to help breathing, this fish can spend short periods of time on land. But must soon return to its water enviroment for respiration purpeses. Life Strategy: Be careful choosing passive tank mates for the Bichir, as they are very passive towards other large fish. However, they are aggressive towards their own ind, and only on should be incororated into an aquarium. Food / Feed Strategy: Theses fish comsume freeze dries bloodworms, tubifex, brine shrimp and flake/ pellet foods.
Body Form or Style: Taeniform Swim / Locomotion Style: Subcarangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Freshwater Fish
Species #: 68
Common Name: Acei Cichid Scientific Name: Pseudotropheus sp. Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Pseudotropheus
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Cichlidae
Geography / Habitat: Originates from the Northwestern coast of Lake Malawi from Bandawe Point to Nagara in Zambia, Africa. They have a long slender blue body with striking yellow fins. There is little to differentiate males form females, other than males bear egg spots on the back edge of the anal fin. Life Strategy: For the best results in spawning, the males should be kept with at least three females. The female will spawn on a flat rock, and will take the unfertilized eggs into her mouth and will follow closely behind the male until he releases the sperm to the fertilized eggs. The female will then incubate the eggs for approx. Three weeks before releasing the fry. Food / Feed Strategy: These fish feed upon the sediment covered rocks and wood in nature. Provide a balanced diet of dries seaweed and other plants based flake and pellet foods.
Body Form or Style: Fusiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Freshwater Fish
Species #: 69
Common Name: Marble Hatchet Scientific Name: Carnegiella strigata Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Carnegiella
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Gasteropeliformes
Family: Gasteropelecidae
Geography / Habitat: Native to the rivers of South America, the Marble Hatchet prefers a heavily planted aquarium. It also requires a few floating plants. Beneath which the Marble Hatchet can hide. Active schoolers, this member of the Gasteropelecidae family does best when kept in groups of 6 or more. But since the Marble Hatchet will jump out of water. Life Strategy: These fish breed in soft water about 5 degrees and a low pH of about 6.0. A diet of fresh mosquito larvae and fruit flies may trigger spawning about the depositing of eggs on floating plants. Food / Feed Strategy: A carnivore, the Marble Hatchet will eat floating foods such as freeze- dries bloodworms and tubifex high quality flake food. And some other meaty live or frozen food, such as brine shrimp.
Body Form or Style: Fusiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Freshwater Fish
Species #: 70
Common Name: Koi Angel Scientific Name: Pterophyllum sp. Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Pterophyllum
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Cichlidae
Geography / Habitat: The Koi Angel is a strain of angelfish that has been bred for its mottled black and white coloration. Some may have old markings on the head. The young specimens may have a red hue beneath the eyes that fades with age. These are beautiful angelfish, and like Koi, the coloration of each fish will be different. Life Strategy: After a pair of these fish has developed, a flat surface needs to be provided where the eggs can be laid. A piece of slate, a large plant leaf, or even a flowerpot should be positioned at an angel of about 30 degrees in an area of moderate water flow. The female will lay the eggs and the male will follow behind to fertilize. After approx three days. Food / Feed Strategy: These fish need to be fed a variety of foods including vegetables as well as meaty foods. Feed a quality flake food as live and frozen foods such as brine shrimp and bloodworms.
Body Form or Style: Depressiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Supraterminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Freshwater Fish
Species #: 71
Common Name: Golden Harlequin Rasbora Scientific Name: Rabora heteromorpha Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Rasbora
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Cyripiniformes
Family: Cyrpindae
Geography / Habitat: These fish require an established planted aquarium of 10 gallons or more. They should be kept on schools of 8-10 and in an aquarium with other small, peaceful fish. Life Strategy: A breeding tank with shallow, warm, acidic, soft water with broad- leaved plants should be set up. Keeping a pair of young females with a 2 year old male along with feeding them live foods will greatly improve the chances of spawning. After spawning, remove the parents and keep the aquarium dark until he eggs hatch, feed the fry infusorians. Food / Feed Strategy: An omnivore, Harlequin Rasboars do well on a diet of prepared flake food, as well as freeze dries bloodworms and tubfex.
Body Form or Style: Fusiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Freshwater Fish
Species #: 72
Common Name: Turquoise Danio Scientific Name: Brachydanio kerri Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Brachydanio
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Periformes
Family: Cyprinidae
Geography / Habitat: Native to streams and pools. These fish do well with other Danio species and other peaceful fish of familiar size. Kept with others in a school, this fish will be very active. This fish prefer a planted aquarium with plenty of swimming space available. Life Strategy: These fish scatter their eggs in shallow water over a substrate of coarse gravel. After hatching, usually within 36 hours after spawning, the fry should be fed fine pieces of live foods. Sunlight may trigger spawning. Food / Feed Strategy: These fish are omnivores and should be fed a diet of flake foods with plenty of vegetable matter, as well as freeze- dries bloodworms and tubifex.
Body Form or Style: Compressiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
1.
Title: Freshwater Fish
Species #: 73
Common Name: Trinidad Pleco Scientific Name: Hypostomus punctatus Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Hypostomus
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Loricariformes
Family: Loricariidae
Geography / Habitat: This nocturnal Trinidad Plecostomus is a great candidate for the community aquarium. Usually greenish yellow in color, its patterned fins camouflage it well in planted tank. It comes from the Amazon region of South America from fast flowing rivers to flood plains. Life Strategy: In the wind this fish is an egg layer, but breeding in an aquarium setting had not been as successful. Food / Feed Strategy: A useful herbivore in an aquarium with algae, this fish will keep algae under control under normal tank conditions. Of not algae are present, supplement with algae wafers and other herbivore preparations.
Body Form or Style: Sagittiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Subcarangiform Mouth Position: Subterminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Freshwater Fish
Species #: 74
Common Name: Checkerboard Discus Scientific Name: Symphysodon spp. Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Symphysodon
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Cichlidae
Geography / Habitat: This fish is a relatively new color of the wild South American Discus, being a brilliant green coloration with red patterning. The overall coloration of Discus will vary depending on mood and overall health of the fish. Discus they are among the most popular aquarium fish. Life Strategy: These fish slightly territorial when breeding. It is best to breed an established pair, or maintain a group of young Discus and allow them to pair themselves. Warm, soft lightly acidic water is required for spawning. The pair will clean a flat surface usually a broad leaf or the side of the aquarium, prior to spawning. The parents must not be removed from the fry; try to feed on their parents’ mucus. Food / Feed Strategy: Largely carnivorous, these fish prefer freeze dries bloodworms and tubifex, pellet food designed for discus, high quality flake food and meaty frozen foods.
Body Form or Style: Depressiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Freshwater Fish
Species #: 75
Common Name: Loricaria Cat Scientific Name: Loricaria sp. Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Loricaria
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Loricaria
Family: Loricariidae
Geography / Habitat: The Loricaria Cat has a slender body with a camouflage color pattern that covers the entire fish. Because this species come from the tropic waters of South America, a neutral pH is recommended. Life Strategy: They should be in at least a 30 gallon tank with a high filtration system and plenty of aeration. These fish breed by laying their eggs on plants or rocks, and breeding in the aquarium stetting is not usual. Food / Feed Strategy: A planted tank with high vegetation and some algae will sustain this fish. However, if algae are not present, a supplement with a vegetable based flake food or algae wafers will provide the fish with a balanced diet.
Body Form or Style: Sagittiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Subcarangiform Mouth Position: Superminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Freshwater Fish
Species #: 76
Common Name: Bala Shark Scientific Name: Balantiocheilus melanopterus Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Balantiocheilus
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Cyrinidae
Geography / Habitat: This fish is also known as the Silver Shark and is great for the semi aggressive community aquarium. This is one of the more passive freshwater sharks, and they are an active fish that will be visible during the day. The Bala Shark is a beautiful fish with a metallic body with a yellow and black dorsal and caudal fin. Life Strategy: It requires a large tank with driftwood, rocks and spots of dense vegetation. This shark does best in small groups of 3 or more as they prefer to school in an aquarium. Unfortunately, the breeding habits of the Bala Shark have not been documented. Food / Feed Strategy: An omnivore, the Bala Shark is not particularly finicky eater. Flake food; freeze dried bloodworms and tubifex, as well as vegetable based foods should be fed to these fish daily.
Body Form or Style: Fusiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Freshwater Fish
Species #:77
Common Name: Silver Arowana Scientific Name: Osteoglossum bicirrhosum Kingdom:Animilia
Phylum: Osteoglossium
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Osteoglossiformes
Family: Osteoglossidae
Geography / Habitat: Indigenous to the flood plains of the Amazon River Basin in South America, the Arowana can reach an intimidating 47 inches in the wild, and is often too much for all but the advanced freshwater aquarist to manage. It can survive short times out of the water breathing air by utilizing its swim bladder. Life Strategy: This fish prefers a 250 gallon tank to reside in with fine gravel along the bottom and lost of space for swimming. After breeding, the male is responsible for carrying the large eggs in his mouth where they mature in 50-60 days. When these fish are young they are easily harassed more by aggressive species such as Cichlids, Knife fish large. Food / Feed Strategy: A carnivore, the Silver Arowana will eat other smaller fish, water fleas, mosquito larvae, as well as freeze dried ocean plankton, krill and pellet foods.
Body Form or Style: Anguilliform Swim / Locomotion Style: Angulliform Mouth Position: Supraterminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Freshwater Fish
Species #:78
Common Name: Columbia Shark Scientific Name: Arius jordani Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Arius
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Ariidae
Geography / Habitat: Also known as the Black Fin Shark, The Columbia Shark is a catfish which will grow quite large in an aquarium. It may be referred to as Jordan’s Catfish or the West American Cat Shark. The Columbian shark has a high fin and long, whisker� that gives it a classify catfish appearance. Life Strategy: Setting up a tank to match its natural environment will require plenty of plants and rocks, starting with a minimum tank size of 70 gallons are recommended. These fish can live in both freshwater and saltwater during different times of their lives. Food / Feed Strategy: Feed this fish sinking catfish pellets, bloodworms, or a high quality algae food.
Body Form or Style: Fusiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Freshwater Fish
Species #: 79
Common Name: Badis Scientific Name: Badis badis Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Badis
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Badidae
Geography / Habitat: Originated from India, and is one fish in which color changes are considerable. Predominantly brown with patterned black or red bars, males will change to a bluish black pattern. These fish do well in a planted tank with caves, rocks and driftwood. Life Strategy: This fish will do well in an established aquarium with caves, rocks and driftwood. The Badis is a very territorial fish in a species tank, but is more peaceful in a community tank. Family groups are forms and are headed by the male. Theses fish will breed in caves scattering the eggs which become attached to cave walls and the substrate. The male guards and defends the eggs, and after about 3 days the fry hatch and are fed infusoria. Food / Feed Strategy: Carnivores, the Badis will consume live and frozen foods, as well as freeze dries, bloodworms and tubifex, and small pieces of meat.
Body Form or Style: Compressiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Freshwater Fish
Species #: 80
Common Name: Korthausaw Killfish Scientific Name: Nothobranchius korthausae Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Nothobranchius
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Aplocheifromes
Family: Aplochilidae
Geography / Habitat: The Korthausae Killifish is a beautiful and easy-to-care-for killifish. The distinct banding on the Korthausae Killifish gives it an interesting, tiger-striped appearance that accentuates its bold and vibrant color pattern. The name "Killifish" is derived from the Dutch word meaning ditch or channel, where these brilliantly colored fish are found in the wild. Life Strategy: This species of Killifish is an annual species. A breeding tank is ideal with a 2-3 inch layer of peat at the bottom. The Korthausae Killifish will bury the eggs in the peat. After spawning, remove the peat that contain the eggs and press out any excess water. Place the moist peat with the eggs in a plastic bag or sealed jar for 3 to 4 months at room temperature. After that time period, add aquarium water back to the peat to hatch the fry. Food / Feed Strategy: The Korthausae Killifish will accept most live foods such as brine shrimp, white worms, tubifex, and some commercially prepared flake and frozen foods.
Body Form or Style: Sagittiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Caramgiform Mouth Position: N/A Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Freshwater Fish
Species #: 81
Common Name: Twin Tail Betta Scientific Name: Betta spelndens Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum:Betta
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family:Beloniidae
Geography / Habitat: This variety of Betta has a striking, elaborate tail that differentiates it from other Bettas. The Twin Tail has a split tail, almost giving the suggestion of having two tails. A similar fish, the Crown Tail, has a teardrop shape to its tail. The Twin Tail Betta is a type of "Siamese" Fighting Fish. These fish have been bred over the years to enhance the fins and remarkable variety of colors of the males, as well as making them increasingly combative. Therefore, only one male should be kept in a tank; however, smaller, shorter-finned females may be housed together with caution. Farm Raised - Thailand Life Strategy: The Betta can be bred in the home aquarium. For breeding purposes, males and females can be temporarily housed together. Once laid by the female, the eggs are placed inside a bubblenest and tended by the male Betta Food / Feed Strategy: Fry appear in about 24 hours and must be fed very small food initially, such as crushed or powdered flakes and newly hatched brine shrimp. Fry will also take finely chopped hard-boiled egg yolk.
Body Form or Style: Compressiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position:Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Freshwater Fish
Species #: 82
Common Name: Splashing Tetra Scientific Name: Copella arnoldia Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Copella
Class: Actinopyerygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Lebiasinidae
Geography / Habitat: The Splashing Tetra is a peaceful fish that can be housed in any community aquarium. The body is long and slender and is gold/silver in color. The males of this species have longer fins and are slightly larger than their female counterpart. The fins of the male also exhibit more color with red and black outlines. This fish gets its name from their breeding behavior. Life Strategy: The Splashing Tetra can be housed in a community aquarium with soft or brackish water. Plants, rocks, and driftwood help to enhance its natural habitat and provide hiding places. This is a peaceful fish that the beginner to the expert aquarist would benefit from having. A tight sealed top is a must with these fish, as they do jump. Food / Feed Strategy: The Splashing Tetra will accept many small foods such as brine shrimp or daphnia, freeze-dried bloodworms and tubifex, micro pellet food, and a high quality flake food.
Body Form or Style: Fusiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Freshwater Fish
Species #: 83
Common Name: Royal Pleco Scientific Name: Panaque nigrolineatus Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Panaque
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Loricariformes
Family: Loricariidae
Geography / Habitat: The Royal Plecostomus is a handsome suckermouth catfish belonging to the Genus Panaque. A classic representative of this genus, the Royal Plecostomus is a stout, muscular fish with a distinct "tadpole" shape. Hailing from the rivers and tributaries of South America, the Royal Plecostomus has evolved to exploit fast-moving riparian environments with sunken bogwood (driftwood). Planted aquariums with hardy, fast-growing plants and high aeration and water movement provide a healthy environment. Life Strategy: This bold and eye-pleasing graphic pattern elevates this very attractive fish to royalty status among Loricariid enthusiasts. The distinct body shape, striking pattern and prominent eyes make the Royal Plecostomus a welcomed change from the usual and a peaceful addition to large freshwater aquariums. Food / Feed Strategy: Feeding the Royal Plecostomus is not difficult since it is not a picky eater. However, plenty of driftwood should be used in the aquarium housing this fish. As previously mentioned, biological matter such as detritus and algae that forms on and inside of the wood itself makes up a major portion of its diet.
Body Form or Style: Depressiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Supraterminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Freshwater Fish
Species #: 84
Common Name: Tiger Barb Scientific Name: Puntius tetrazona Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Puntius
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Cyprinidae
Geography / Habitat: The Tiger Barb is silver/gold with black stripes and orange accented fins. They are a very lively, playful fish that prefers to be in schools. Life Strategy: They prefer a well-planted tank of at least 30 gallons with soft, slightly acidic water. Rocks and driftwood can be added to the aquarium, but leave plenty of space for swimming. The Tiger Barb is a very active fish that may pester or even nip the fins of larger, slower moving fish. It is best, when trying to breed the Tiger Barb, to house a number of Barbs in the same aquarium until they pair off. After a pair has developed, the female will lay the eggs and the male will follow behind to fertilize. The fry will be free-swimming after about 5 days. Food / Feed Strategy: The Tiger Barb needs to be fed a variety of foods including vegetables as well as meaty foods. Feed a quality flake food as well as live and frozen foods such as brine shrimp and bloodworms.
Body Form or Style: Depressiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Supraterminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Freshwater Fish
Species #: 85
Common Name: Black Shark Scientific Name: Labeo chrysophekadion Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Labeo
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Cyprinidae
Geography / Habitat: The Black Shark, also called the Black Labeo, is uniformly black or dark brown in color. In some countries it is an important food source. The Black Shark is a very active, somewhat aggressive fish that is not suitable for the community aquarium. A large aquarium is necessary for this shark as it may reach two feet in length. The Black Shark is one of the only sharks that should not be kept in a planted aquarium because plants are a large part of its diet. A hood on the aquarium is also recommended, as the Black Shark is an accomplished jumper. Life Strategy: Unfortunately, the breeding habits of Labeo chrysophekadion have not been documented. Food / Feed Strategy: An omnivore, the Black Shark is not a particularly finicky eater. Flake food, freeze-dried bloodworms and tubifex, as well as vegetable-based foods should be fed.
Body Form or Style: Fusiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Freshwater Fish
Species #: 86
Common Name: Hi Fin Platy Scientific Name: Xiphorphorus maculatus Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Xiphorphorus
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Poeciliidae
Geography / Habitat: The Hi Fin Platy, also known as the Moonfish or the Southern Platy fish, is a hybrid fin variation of Xiphophorus maculatus platy. Hi Fin Platies were named because of the very tall dorsal fin that extends over their back. There are many different colors and color combinations of this fish. The most common colors are red, yellow, orange, blue, and wag varieties with black tails. They add brilliant colors to the aquarium as well as being very easy to keep, making them a great fish for beginners and accomplished aquarists alike. Life Strategy: The Hi Fin Platy requires a tank of at least 10 gallons that is densely planted with hardy plants like Java Fern and Java Moss. They are very peaceful fish and make an excellent addition to the community tank. Any other peaceful fish can be housed with them. The Hi Fin Platy is a livebearer and is capable of reproducing at three to four months of age. The male is smaller and more brightly colored than the female, and can be distinguished by his gonopodium. The fry will most often reach maturity in a community tank. Food / Feed Strategy: The Hi Fin Platy is an omnivore that will eat commercially prepared flaked foods and algae, as well as freeze-dried bloodworms, tubifex, and brine shrimp.
Body Form or Style: Fusiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Supraterminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Freshwater Fish
Species #: 87
Common Name: Redtail Cat Scientific Name: Phractocephalus hemioliopterus Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Phractocephalus
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Pimelodiformes
Family: Phractocephalus
Geography / Habitat: The Redtail Cat has a broad head and body that tapers towards the tail. It has a dark black body, white underbelly, and a bright red tail. The Redtail Cat can grow impressively large in an aquarium setting and should be given plenty of room to swim. Due to its size and high energy, this fish should be kept with larger tank mates. Besides the minimum tank size of 300 gallons, rocks, plants, and large driftwood should be used to enhance and simulate a natural environment. Since the Redtail Catfish is a highly active fish, a tightly covered aquarium should be used to prevent it from jumping out of the tank. They mature into a very heavy fish and should be maintained in a reinforced aquarium. Life Strategy: Redtail Cats breed using external fertilization after laying their eggs. Breeding in an aquarium setting is rare. Food / Feed Strategy: Feeding the Redtail Cat is not difficult due to the fact that it is not a picky eater. In the wild, this fish will eat fish and crustaceans. In the aquarium setting, assorted worms, frozen foods, sinking catfish pellets, and dry foods will provide the proper nutrition.
Body Form or Style: Sagittiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Subcarangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Freshwater Fish
Species #: 88
Common Name: Balloon Molly Scientific Name: Poecilia latipinna Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Poecilia
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Poeciformes
Family: Poeciliisae Geography / Habitat: The Balloon Molly is a hybrid variation of Poecilia latipinna,the Sailfin Molly. The Balloon Molly has an arched back and a rounded, large belly. Color varieties include a combination of black, yellow, and white. These fish also have a large, lyre-shaped caudal fin and an impressive dorsal fin. Mollies have the ability to adapt to a variety of salt levels in the aquarium. With a gradual acclimation, these fish may be maintained in either a freshwater aquarium or a saltwater aquarium. In the freshwater aquarium, a teaspoon of aquarium salt per gallon is recommended for optimum health. Life Strategy: The Balloon Molly prefers a tank of at least 30 gallons with lots of strong plants such as Java fern, Sagittaria, Vallisneria and Anubias. The Balloon Molly is well suited for the community tank because of its peaceful nature, and is compatible with other peaceful, large fish that can withstand similar water conditions. The pointed anal fin and much larger dorsal fin on the male, and the rounded anal fin and pregnancy spot on the female differentiate the two. The Balloon Molly is a livebearer that requires a spawning box in a 25 gallon, or larger breeding tank. The aquarium should be planted as densely as possible or have a thick algae mat. Having a group of floating plants in the corner of the aquarium will promote rearing outside of the breeding tank. Every 60-70 days the female give birth to 10-60 young that are already approximately one-half inch long. Food / Feed Strategy: The Balloon Molly is omnivorous and requires both meaty foods as well as algae. Provide these fish with an algae-based flake food, as well as freeze-dried bloodworms, tubifex, and brine shrimp.
Body Form or Style: Depressiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Supraterminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Freshwater Fish
Species #: 89
Common Name: Green Discus Scientific Name: Symphysodon aequifasciata Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Symphysodon
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Cichlidae Geography / Habitat: The Green Discus is a wild South American beauty with brilliant green coloration. The body is mostly green in color, and may have some red in the fins, as well as faint black stripes. The Anal and dorsal fins have electric blue stripes that add to the appeal of this fish. The overall coloration of Discus will vary depending on its mood and overall health. The Discus has surpassed the Angelfish as the most popular freshwater aquarium fish. The natural range of the Discus extends from the Amazon to the Rio Negro Regions of South America. Life Strategy: The Green Discus requires an advanced level of care due to its feeding habits and water filtration requirements. Territorial during spawning, this otherwise peaceful fish is among the schooling group, forming well-defined nuclear family.Becoming slightly territorial when breeding, it is best to breed an established pair, or maintain a group of young Discus and allow them to pair themselves. Warm, soft, slightly acidic water is required for spawning. The pair will clean a flat surface (usually a broad leaf or the side of the aquarium) prior to spawning. The parents must not be removed from the fry; the fry feed on their parents' mucus Food / Feed Strategy: Largely carnivorous, the Green Discus prefer freeze-dried bloodworms and tubifex, pellet food designed for Discus, high-quality flake food, and meaty frozen foods.
Body Form or Style: Depressiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.
Title: Freshwater Fish
Species #: 90
Common Name: Australian Rainbow Scientific Name: Melanotaenia splendida Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Melanotaenia
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Melanotaenia splendida Geography / Habitat: The Australian Rainbow, also known as the Western Splendid Rainbow, is one of more than five subspecies of Melanotaenia splendida. Rainbow fish are known for their characteristic large eyes, black or silver band that runs through the middle scale rows, deeply forked mouth, and two dorsal fins. This peaceful Rainbow is a schooling fish that thrives in a planted aquarium, but not too densely planted that there is insufficient free-swimming places available. The aquarium should have a gravel substrate; the colors of the fish may intensify with a dark colored gravel. Life Strategy: An egg layer, the Australian Rainbow reproduces more easily in a separate breeding tank with a moss substrate. Courtship begins with the male displaying his brightest colors. At a temperature of 75째F, the fry will hatch after six or seven days. After the fry hatch, the adults should be removed from the breeding tank. The fry should be fed an omnivorous diet starting 24 hours after they hatch, as they are still being fed by their yolk sac. Food / Feed Strategy: Although Australian Rainbows have large mouths, their throats tend to be narrow. With this in mind, foods should not be too large. The Australian Rainbow is an omnivore and should eat a mixed diet of flake foods, live foods, and plant matter.
Body Form or Style: Fusiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Freshwater Fish
Species #: 91
Common Name: Redtail Shark Scientific Name: Epalzeorhynchos bicolor Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Epalzeorhynchos
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Cypriniformes
Family: Cyprinidae
Geography / Habitat: The Redtail Shark, also known as the Redtail Black Shark is great for the semi-aggressive community aquarium, as long as they are the sole sharks and the other tankmates are of similar size. The Redtail Shark is a beautiful fish with a jet black body and a bright red tail. The dorsal fin is marked with a white tip. It requires a large aquarium with driftwood, rocks, and spots of dense vegetation. This shark may set up territories around the aquarium. The Redtail Shark will become very aggressive towards its own species when mature. Life Strategy: Unfortunately, the breeding habits of the Redtail Shark have not been documented. Food / Feed Strategy: An omnivore, the Redtail Shark is not a particularly finicky eater. Flake food, freeze-dried bloodworms and tubifex, as well as vegetable-based foods should be fed.
Body Form or Style: Fusiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Freshwater Fish
Species #: 92
Common Name: Dojo Loach Scientific Name: Misgurnus anguillicaudatus Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Misgurnus
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Cobitidae
Geography / Habitat: The Dojo Loach originates within the Rivers, Lakes, and Ponds of Asia and is farm raised for the aquarium industry. Loaches are bottom dwelling scavengers with reduced or absent scales and a mouth surrounded by barbels in which they use to find food. They have an elongated, smooth body that is gold to pink in coloration. They are peaceful and very efficient scavengers that will make a welcome addition to any community aquarium. Life Strategy: The Dojo Loach requires a 30 gallon or larger aquarium with plenty of hiding places and water temperatures that range between 68 and 76 degrees. They do well in a planted aquarium, but larger specimens may uproot plants in their search for food. Gold Dojo Loaches are peaceful, and will not typically bother other fish in the aquarium. They make excellent tank mates for fancy goldfish. Use caution when housing them with small invertebrates such as Ghost or Japonica Amano Shrimp. Food / Feed Strategy: The Dojo Loach is largely carnivorous, preferring freeze-dried bloodworms and tubifex, as well as frozen and live meaty foods of all types.
Body Form or Style: Sagittiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Subcarangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Freshwater Fish
Species #: 93
Common Name: Chocolate Oranda Goldfish Scientific Name: Carassium auratus Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Carassius
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Peciformes
Family: Cyprinidae Geography / Habitat: The Chocolate Oranda boasts an elegant beauty that is both stunning and subtle. A rich depth of color including carmine, mahogany, and burgundy culminates to a chocolate color that is highly desirable. The Chocolate Oranda is a metallic-scaled fish, closely resembling Veil Tail goldfish varieties in the shape and length of the tail. The Chocolate Oranda is one of many varieties of what is collectively known as ornamental or fancy goldfish. Life Strategy: There appears to be a definite courtship ritual when goldfish breed. Breeding often results in up to 1,000 eggs, with fry hatching in five to six days. They should be fed small pieces of live or prepared foods designed for egg-laying fish. As a member of the carp family, the Chocolate Oranda is generally quite hardy. They will do well in 30 gallon aquariums or larger, as well as backyard garden ponds of 180 gallons or more. In addition to a fine gravel bottom or wellrounded river rocks, the Chocolate Oranda will appreciate hardy, cold water plants. Keep in mind that goldfish are diggers and will scatter the fine sand onto leaves, injuring thin and less hardy plants. Food / Feed Strategy: Goldfish are omnivores and will eat all types of dried and live foods. However, limit protein intake to 30% of the diet. Goldfish flake or pellet food will provide these fish with the proper nutrition.
Body Form or Style: Globform Swim / Locomotion Style: Anguilliform Mouth Position: Subterminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Freshwater Fish
Species #: 94
Common Name: Silver Hatchet Scientific Name: Gasteropelecus sternicla Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Gasteropelecus
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Gasteropelecus
Family: Gasteropelecus sternicla
Geography / Habitat: Silver Hatchets, also known as the Common Hatchetfish, are among the more uniquely shaped species of fish. Hatchetfish have a slender body with a deep "belly" and pectoral fins that are set high on the body. Hatchetfish have upturned mouths characteristic of true surface dwellers. Gasteropelecus sternicla prefers a planted aquarium with a few floating plants. A schooling fish, the Silver Hatchet is best kept in a group of six or more. A hood on the aquarium is necessary, as this fish likes to jump. Excellent water quality must be maintained to keep this fish at its best. Life Strategy: Unfortunately, the Silver Hatchet's breeding habits have not been documented. It is thought that this fish may breed in soft water and a low pH. A good diet of fresh mosquito larvae and fruit flies may trigger spawning and the depositing of eggs on floating plants. Food / Feed Strategy: A carnivore, the Silver Hatchet will eat floating foods such as freeze dried bloodworms and tubifex, high quality flake food, mosquito larvae, small flies, and some other meaty live or frozen foods.
Body Form or Style: Fusiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Freshwater Fish
Species #: 95
Common Name: Topsail Platy Scientific Name: Xiphophorus maculatus Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Xiphophorus
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Poeciliformes
Family: Poeciliidae
Geography / Habitat: The Topsail Platy is also known as the Rainbow Platy, the Moonfish, or the Southern Platyfish and is a fin variation of Xiphophorus maculatus platy. These platys have a very high dorsal fin that extends halfway to the tail. Color forms vary from red, orange, and yellow. They add brilliant colors to the aquarium as well as being very easy to keep, making them a great fish for beginners and accomplished aquarists alike. The Topsail Platy requires a tank of at least 10 gallons that is densely planted with hardy plants like Java Fern and Java Moss. They are very peaceful fish and make an excellent addition to the community tank. Any other peaceful fish can be housed with them. Life Strategy: The Topsail Platy is a livebearer and is capable of reproducing at three to four months of age. The male is smaller and more brightly colored than the female, and can be distinguished by his gonopodium. The fry will most often reach maturity in a community tank. Food / Feed Strategy: The Topsail Platy is an omnivore that will eat commercially prepared flaked foods and algae, as well as freeze-dried bloodworms, tubifex, and brine shrimp.
Body Form or Style: Fusiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Freshwater Fish
Species #: 96
Common Name: Blue Delta Guppy Scientific Name: Poecilia reticulata Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Poecilia reticulata
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Poeciliidae Geography / Habitat: The Blue Delta Guppy is also called the Millions Fish and sometimes, simply the Guppy. It is one of many color variations of Poecilia reticulata guppy. The hardiness of the Blue Delta Guppy, as well as the fact that it matures quickly makes it an excellent fish for beginning hobbyists. The Blue Delta male has a blue body from the anal fin back and a silvery mix of colors at the front. The male's tail fin is a dark blue that fades near the edge. The Blue Delta Guppy requires a tank with at least 20 gallons of water, and is very tolerant of changing tank conditions. Plants should be hardy varieties such as Java Fern and Java Moss that can handle the increased hardness in the tank. Other peaceful fish would make good tank mates. Life Strategy:The females in this pair are of an assorted variety; however, you can differentiate the males and females easily. The males are smaller in size, have brighter coloration, along with a bigger tail fin, and pointed anal fin. The females are larger in size with a duller coloration, have a rounded anal fin, as well as a pregnancy patch on the lower portion of the body. Ideally, the environment should have a covering of floating ferns and a breeding box to protect the fry. Adults may eat the fry if left to fend for themselves without the breeding box. The fry should be fed brine shrimp, micro food and pulverized flakes. Food / Feed Strategy: The Blue Delta Guppy is an omnivore and requires both algae-based foods as well as meaty foods. An algae-based flake food, along with freeze-dried bloodworms, tubifex, and brine shrimp will provide guppies with the proper nutrition.
Body Form or Style: Compressiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Freshwater Fish
Species #: 97
Common Name: Elephant Nose Scientific Name: Gnathonemus petersii Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Mormyriformes
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Gathonemus
Family: Mormyridae
Geography / Habitat: The Elephant Nose is an interesting fish that originates from the Niger River and its tributaries in Western Africa. Its body is mostly black and is irregularly shaped with a long narrow tail and nose in which it uses to forage for food. It possesses a weak electrical organ at the caudal peduncles which is used to locate food. Life Strategy: It requires a minimum of a 50 gallon aquarium with good water conditions. It is generally timid and reclusive, preferring a fine-gravel-bottom aquarium with plenty of plants and rocks for hiding places where it can find refuge from the light. To better appreciate this fish, many hobbyists will purchase a "ghost tube," a clear plastic tube that facilitates viewing during the day. Once accustomed to its surroundings, the Elephant Nose can become incredibly tame and trusting to the point of being hand-held. It does well with other, larger species of a peaceful nature, but may be aggressive towards those of similar or smaller size. Food / Feed Strategy: The Elephant Nose is carnivorous and will eat many types of meaty foods including; blood worms, chopped earthworms, brine shrimp, flake and pellet foods as well as an array of frozen meaty foods.
Body Form or Style: Fusiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Supraterminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Freshwater Fish
Species #: 98
Common Name: Peppered Cory Cat Scientific Name: Corydoras paleatus Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Corydoras
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Callichthyidae
Geography / Habitat: The Peppered Cory Cat comes from the tributaries of larger river systems in South America, and is a peaceful bottom dwelling scavenger. The Peppered Cory Cat has black and dark green spots, with a white underside. The Peppered Cory Cat requires a well-planted aquarium with plenty of hiding places that provide relief from the light. A smooth sand or gravel substrate is needed because of the easily damaged barbels. They enjoy being in numbers, so a small school of six or more is ideal for these cats. Life Strategy: Breeding the Peppered Cory Cat is achieved by keeping a number of these cats together and allowing them to pair off. After spawning, the breeding pair should be separated from the eggs, or the eggs transferred to another system. The fry become waterborne in approximately 5 days, at which time; they should be fed baby brine shrimp and crushed flake food. Food / Feed Strategy: The Peppered Cory Cat is omnivorous and will require a well-balanced diet including freezedried bloodworms and tubifex, sinking catfish pellets, flake food, frozen, and live foods. Feed a quality flake and pellet food as well as frozen brine and live worms.
Body Form or Style: Fusiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Subcarangiform Mouth Position: Subterminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Freshwater Fish
Species #: 99
Common Name: Panda Garra Scientific Name: Garaa flavatra Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Garra
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Cyprinidae
Geography / Habitat: The Panda Garra is an ornate sucker-mouth loach. Like its namesake the panda, the Panda Garra features broad, alternating bands of light and dark coloration. Its unique markings are highlighted with diamond-shaped scale patterns and hints of red coloration in its fins. Due to its unusual markings and peaceful nature, the Panda Garra makes a great addition to well-filtered aquariums 30 gallons and larger. Life Strategy: In the wild, the Panda Garra inhabits well-oxygenated, fast-flowing streams. The addition of a powerhead or the use of a slightly oversized filter will increase filtration and water movement to help recreate natural conditions. While its sucker-like mouth may suggest the Panda Garra is a scavenger or algae-eater Food / Feed Strategy: It is crucial not to restrict its diet solely on available algae or food debris. Panda Garras are omnivorous and their diet should consist of prepared algae flake food or algae tablets as well as frozen or freeze-dried foods. The occasional addition of bloodworms or tubifex worms provides a nutritionally balanced and varied diet.
Body Form or Style: Fusiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Terminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Freshwater Fish
Species #: 100
Common Name: Koi Swordtail Scientific Name: Xiphophoris helleri Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Xiphophoris
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Perciformes
Family: Poeciliidae Geography / Habitat: The Koi Swordtail is a much sought after color morph of the popular swordtails. Contrasting deep reddish orange marks wrap around a brilliant white, semi-transparent body to create a showcase fish that is both stunning and fairly easy to breed. The male Koi Swordtail has flowing, feathered fins with a distinct extension on the lower part of the tail, resembling a sword. Even though the female does not have the distinguishing, sword-like tail, her koi coloration makes her a showstopper. The Koi Swordtail makes a beautiful and graceful addition to any aquarium. Life Strategy: Koi Swordtails require an aquarium of at least 30 gallons that is well planted with plenty of room for swimming. Like other Swordtails, the Koi Swordtail is a jumper, so be sure to provide an adequate cover over the aquarium. Peaceful in nature, the Koi Swordtail is well suited for the community aquarium. Males can be aggressive toward one another so care should be taken when housing more than one. Koi Swordtails are livebearers and can give birth to as many as 80 fry at one time. A spawning box is recommended, or if one is not available, dense floating cover should be provided to protect the fry from the adults. Food / Feed Strategy: The Koi Swordtail is an omnivore that will eat commercially prepared flaked foods, freeze dried bloodworms, tubifex, and brine shrimp as well as algae.
Body Form or Style: Fusiform Swim / Locomotion Style: Carangiform Mouth Position: Supterminal Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Saltwater / Marine Invertebrates (101-120)
Title: Saltwater/Marine Inverts
Species #:101
Common Name: Sea Cucumber Scientific Name: Holothuria sp. Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Holothuria
Class: Holothuroidea
Order: Aspidochirotida
Family: Holothuroidea
Geography / Habitat: The Sea Cucumber, also known as the Edible Sea Cucumber, was first described by scientists in 1830. It has a long, pink to reddish-brown body, which is usually darker dorsally, often green or black. It does well in a large aquarium if provided with ample room to roam. Generally, for every 3 inches of sea cucumber there should be 20 gallons of water. It prefers a thick sandy substrate so it can scour through the sand for organic foods. The Sea Cucumber will spend most of its time in the open, though it may carry a thin film of sand over its body. It needs to be kept with peaceful tank mates. It is sensitive to high levels of copper-based medications and will not tolerate high nitrate levels. Life Strategy: While it does not have the toxic tubules of Culvier that many cucumbers have, if frightened, it might disgorge its interal organs into the tank, which may be toxic to fish. In the wild, these organs often regenerate, but rarely in an aquarium setting. It is extremely difficult to breed in an aquarium, and has no distinguishing characteristics to help differentiate it from its mate. Food / Feed Strategy: If not overstocked, the Sea Cucumber does not need supplemental feeding
Body Form or Style: Swim / Locomotion Style: Mouth Position: Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Inverts
Species #: 102
Common Name: Tree Sponge Scientific Name: Ptilocaulis sp. Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Ptilocaulis
Class: Demospongiae
Order: Poecilosclelida
Family: Axinellidae
Geography / Habitat: The Tree Sponge of the genus Ptilocaulis is normally red or orange. Its shape is very similar to that of a tree which includes a main trunk with several branches. The Tree Sponge requires a strong current and excellent water quality. Life Strategy: All sponges, including the Tree Sponge, require some very special care in order to survive in the home aquarium. The most critical concern is that it never be exposed to the air. If it is, the air would become trapped in the matrix of channels that line the inside of its body, blocking the path for planktonic food to reach its cells. This will result in death of the sponge. Food / Feed Strategy: Supplemental feedings of dissolved organic food are required.
Body Form or Style: N/A Swim / Locomotion Style: N/A Mouth Position: N/A Citation: : http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Inverts
Species #: 103
Common Name: Spiny Star Astraea Scientific Name: Astraea phoebia Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Astraea
Class: Holothuroidea
Order: Aspidochirotida
Family: Astraeinae
Geography / Habitat: The Spiny Star Astraea Snail has a unique shell and a ravenous appetite for algae. Unlike many bottom dwellers that are dressed in drab colors to better camouflage themselves against the sand bottoms, Astraea phoebia boasts a pyramid-shape shell with beautiful, green, yellow, and tan coloration. The Spiny Star Astraea boasts pronounced projections on their shells creating a sculptured spiral star shape that is sure to dazzle the eye. Though interesting to observe in your home aquarium, the Spiny Star Astraea Snail serves a greater function of cleaning algaecovered live rock. It is very adept at keeping your aquarium clean. In fact, this small herbivore prefers to feed on nuisance hair algae, as well as cyanobacteria and diatoms. Some aquarists also report that the Spiny Star Astraea Snail actually consumes the entire hair algae structure, which helps prevent immediate further algae growth. Life Strategy: The Spiny Star Astraea prefers established aquariums with ample hiding places and sufficient room to roam. In addition to eating algae off of your live rock, this member of the Astraeinae family will also clean your aquarium glass. However, the Spiny Star Astraea Snail is not known to be a climber like other smaller-shelled snail species. Care needs to be taken to observe the daily activities of this hungry snail since it is unable to right itself if it falls or is knocked upside down. Food / Feed Strategy: Like other invertebrates, the Spiny Star Astraea Snail is sensitive to high nitrate levels and will not tolerate copper-based medications. The Spiny Star Astraea Snail requires a gradual acclimation period.
Body Form or Style: Swim / Locomotion Style: Mouth Position: Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Inverts
Species #: 104
Common Name: Hard Tube Coco Worm Scientific Name: Protula bispiralis Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Protula
Class: Demospongiae
Order: Poecilisclelida
Family: Serpulidae
Geography / Habitat: The Hard Tube Coco Worm, also known as the Hard Tube Feather Duster, Protula Tubeworm, or Hard Tubeworm, has a crown that can be white, yellow, orange, pink, or red. The radioles may be banded or patterned. Younger Hard Tube Coco Worms have bi-lobed crowns, while the crowns of older individuals are spiraled. The Hard Tube Coco Worm secretes a calcareous tube, approximately 1/2 inch in diameter and 5-8 inches long, to house its vulnerable worm body. When disturbed, it can quickly retract its crown and close its operculum to shut the top of its tube. It usually anchors its tube in a crevice of the rocky reef or in the gravel along currentswept reef slopes. It uses the radioles to filter out floating plankton. Life Strategy: The aquarium for the Hard Tube Coco Worm should be well-established and contain a rock and gravel substrate. The Hard Tube Coco Worm requires calcium and the proper alkalinity to grow. It is extremely intolerant of poor water quality and copper-based medications. Food / Feed Strategy: In the aquarium it is difficult to maintain, and will need supplements of phytoplankton and liquid organic foods.
Body Form or Style: Swim / Locomotion Style: Mouth Position: Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Inverts
Species #: 105
Common Name: Maxima Clam Scientific Name: Tridacna maxima Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Tridacna
Class: Holothuroidea
Order: Aspidochirotida
Family: Tridacna maxima Geography / Habitat: The Maxima Clam is also known as the Small Giant Clam and is one of the most widely recognized species of the giant clams. The beauty of its mantle with its rich variety of patterns and vivid colorations makes for a spectacular display in reef aquariums that are illuminated properly. Maxima Clams are known to live together in great congregations, and they can attain a maximum size of 12" in the wild. Life Strategy: Maxima Clams can be identified by having a more elongated shell that lacks symmetry, with narrowly spaced scutes or scallops on the upper portions of each side of their hinged shells. Like some other members of its genus, T. maxima attach to hard substrate or rockwork with thread like appendages called byssal filaments, and can eventually burrow or bore into porous substrate over time. Maxima clams will arrive either unattached or attached to a small piece of rock or substrate. They will normally attach to a solid surface within a day or so of being introduced into the aquarium. Food / Feed Strategy: Tridacna clams are also filter feeders and constantly filter the water for small particulates. Maxima Clams larger than 2" do not require supplemental feedings, but smaller T. maxima that are less than 2" should be fed a phytoplankton or green water supplement several times per week if maintained in a nutrient poor reef aquarium.
Body Form or Style: N/A Swim / Locomotion Style: N/A Mouth Position: N/A Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Inverts
Species #: 106
Common Name: Pencil Urchin Scientific Name: Eucidaris tribuloides Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Eucidaris
Class: Echinoidea
Order: Cidaroida
Family: Cidaeidae
Geography / Habitat: The Pencil Urchin of the Eucidaris genera is also known as the Mine or Club Urchin. It has a brown, sometimes mottled body with stubby, thick spines radiating out in all directions. The spines are surrounded by basal plates. Never try to pry it out of a hole, as you will break its spines before it lets go. As it ages, its spines may become covered with coralline and other types of algae. Life Strategy: During the day it will seek shelter in the rocks; at night it will come out and forage for food, looking particularly for algae lawns and smaller invertebrates like sea squirts or sponges. It can be destructive to corals. It requires an aquarium with multiple hiding places and live rock on which it can graze. The rock formations should be sturdy, since the Urchin could dislodge rocks as it moves around the tank. The Pencil Urchin is very sensitive to high levels of copper-based medications and will not tolerate high levels of nitrates. If water conditions are poor, it will shed its spines Food / Feed Strategy: It should be offered dried seaweed and some animal-based supplemental foods
Body Form or Style: N/A Swim / Locomotion Style: N/A Mouth Position: N/A Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Fish
Species #: 107
Common Name: Sea Hare Scientific Name: Aplysia sp. Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Aplysia
Class: Gastropoda
Order: Anapsidea
Family: Aplysidae
Geography / Habitat: The body of the Dwarf Sea Hare is a combination of speckles and patterns. The location of its rhinophores organ used to smell and its oral tentacles make it look a bit like a rabbit, hence its common name. If it becomes startled, it may release a purple dye to repel attacking fish. In the home aquarium, the Sea Hare will need a good chemical filter system to quickly remove this toxic dye before it causes problems. Life Strategy: In the wild, it is usually found in shallow areas of seagrasses and coral rubble, preferring the shaded areas. Cover from the lights in the aquarium should be provided. It requires a large area in which to move. It prefers an aquarium with live rock and opens sandy areas so that it can graze on algae, eating any Caulerpa in the tank. It is sensitive to high levels of copper-based medications and will not tolerate bad water conditions Food / Feed Strategy: If regular feedings of Caulerpa are not possible, it will need a supplemented diet of parboiled lettuce and dried kelp.
Body Form or Style: N/A Swim / Locomotion Style: N/A Mouth Position: N/A Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Fish
Species #: 108
Common Name: Arrow Crab Scientific Name: Stenorhynchus seticornis Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Stenorhynchus
Class: Crustacea
Order: Decapoda
Family: Majidae
Geography / Habitat: The Arrow Crab, also known as the Spider Crab, has extremely long legs. It is called the Arrow Crab because of the shape of the body and head. The size is variable, many reaching six inches, and some up to 10 inches. Females may be dramatically smaller. Different species inhabit different parts of the world. The most common Arrow Crab (Stenorhynchus seticornis) comes from the Caribbean, but other species are imported from the Indo-Pacific region, eastern Africa, and California. They normally inhabit portions of the reef usually associated with a small cave or crevice. Life Strategy: It is a hardy, long-lived invertebrate, which can be housed in the reef aquarium. This crab has been known to attack crustaceans such as Banded Coral Shrimp, and may even attack small slow moving fish. All crabs are opportunistic feeders and if insufficient food is present they may pick at mushrooms or polyps searching for food. Breeding Arrow Crabs in the aquarium is not generally successful. Larvae are free-swimming and hatch in about two weeks. Food / Feed Strategy: It will accept almost all meaty, flake and tablet foods.
Body Form or Style: N/A Swim / Locomotion Style: N/A Mouth Position: N/A Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Fish
Species #: 109
Common Name: Ritteri Anemone Scientific Name: Heteractis magnifica Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Heteractis
Class: Anthozoa
Order: Actiniaria
Family: Sitchodactylidae
Geography / Habitat: The Ritteri Anemone is also referred to as the Magnificent Anemone or Heteractis Magnificent Sea Anemone. Some aquarists still refer to it as Radianthus ritteri, but this name was recently changed to the current H. magnifica. It can grow to over three feet in diameter in the wild, although it generally does not grow larger than 1½ feet in the aquarium. Its tentacles have a long, non-tapering shape that may, on occasion, appear swollen at the tips. They can almost completely retract into the base. Life Strategy: This Anemone requires strong lighting combined with strong, but intermittent, water movement within the tank. It generally prefers a high point in the tank to ensure it obtains all the light it needs, but it may change locations, seeking the ideal conditions. Its strong sting can harm corals. The presence of a Clownfish, such as Amphiprion perideraion, will help it acclimate. Ritteri Anemones from different locations may serve as hosts to other clownfish, and even shrimp. Feed Strategy: The diet should include mussel, fish, crustaceans, and frozen foods.
Body Form or Style: N/A Swim / Locomotion Style: N/A Mouth Position: N/A Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Fish
Species #: 110
Common Name: Scarlet Skunk Cleaner Shrimp Scientific Name: Lysmata amboinensis Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Lysmata
Class: Crustacea
Order: Decapoda
Family: Hippolytidae
Geography / Habitat: The Scarlet Skunk Cleaner Shrimp acts like the medic of any saltwater aquarium. In fact, this active cleaner will set up shop on live rock or coral outcroppings and wait for fish to come and be cleaned of ectoparasites or dead tissue. Many fish value its services so highly that they even allow the Scarlet Skunk Cleaner Shrimp to clean inside of their mouths without harming the shrimp. No matter how your fish use the Scarlet Skunk Cleaner Shrimp's services, it is easy to see why this peaceful creature is so popular amongst home aquarists. Life Strategy: The Scarlet Skunk Cleaner Shrimp is also known as the Red Skunk Cleaner Shrimp because of the distinct pair of bright red stripes that outline the single white stripe running down its back. The Scarlet Skunk Cleaner Shrimp is often found in groups amongst live rock or coral. In the home aquarium, the Scarlet Skunk Cleaner Shrimp requires similar habitats and peaceful tankmates. Some fish, such as Hawkfish and Lionfish or predatory shrimp or crabs may see this member of the Hippolytidae family as food. Food / Feed Strategy: To supplement their diet, feed Scarlet Skunk Cleaner Shrimp freeze dried, frozen, and flake foods.
Body Form or Style: N/A Swim / Locomotion Style: N/A Mouth Position: N/A Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Inverts
Species #:111
Common Name: Blue & Pink Sea Star Scientific Name: Astropecten sp. Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Astropecten
Class: Asteroidea
Order: Forcipulatida
Family: Astropectinidae
Geography / Habitat: Though beautifully colored, the Blue and Pink Sea Star is also a useful addition to any established home aquarium. Obviously, this Astropecten species' most noticeable trait is the bright pink and blues of each arm. But in addition to its exotic colors, this sand sifting starfish is also highly active and mobile. It can sift and aerate large amounts of sand as it burrows into and searches through the substrate for food. Life Strategy: Like other invertebrates, the Blue and Pink Sea Star is very intolerant of sudden changes in oxygen levels, salinity, and pH and cannot tolerate copper-based medications. To successfully acclimate new specimens to your aquarium, use the drip acclimation method over an extended period of time. Additionally, they should never be exposed to air while handling. Breeding in the home aquarium is extremely difficult with no distinguishing characteristics to help differentiate between males and females. Food / Feed Strategy: These peaceful omnivores are a great addition to reed aquariums. They will consume detritus and left over food.
Body Form or Style: N/A Swim / Locomotion Style: N/A Mouth Position: N/A Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Inverts
Species #:112
Common Name: Bulb Anemone Scientific Name: Entacmaea quadricolor Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Etacmaea
Class: Anthozoa
Order: Actiniaria
Family: Actiniidae Geography / Habitat: The Bulb Anemone is one of the most beautiful ornamental anemones for the home reef. When housed beneath intense aquarium lighting, Entacmaea quadricolor develops a unique bulb tip at the end of its tentacles. When hungry, this member of the Actiniidae family will stretch its sweeper tentacles to grab food from the water column. After feeding, the tentacles then shorten again and take on their bulbous appearance. Though often referred to as the Four-Colored Anemone, coloration can vary greatly from one individual to the next. Red variations may be referred to as Rose Anemones. Generally, Bulb Anemones from Fiji and Tonga are shaded in soft browns, tans, or maroon, though an occasional green specimen is found. By contrast, the Bulb Anemones from Singapore are typically green in color with a deep maroon base. Life Strategy: For best care, the Bulb Anemone requires strong lighting in aquariums of at least 30 gallons. Under ideal conditions, it can grow up to 1-ft in diameter. However, most typically remain compact in size when kept under bright lighting. If the lighting is insufficient, the Bulb Anemone will expand its body to make the most of the available light. It should be kept with a Clownfish for best care. At times, the tentacles of the Bulb Anemone may appear stringy; this may be due to insufficient light or the need for food. Its diet should include chopped fish, shrimp, or worms if a clownfish is not present. Food / Feed Strategy: Its diet should include chopped fish, shrimp, or worms if a clownfish is not present.
Body Form or Style: N/A Swim / Locomotion Style: N/A Mouth Position: N/A Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Inverts
Species #:113
Common Name: Tiger Cowrie Scientific Name: Cypraea tigris Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Cypraea
Class: Gastropoda
Order: Neotaenioglossa
Family: Cypraeidae
Geography / Habitat: The Tiger Cowrie has an egg-shaped, spotted, glossy shell and is in high demand for the rock aquarium. It differs in color depending upon geographical location. While it does not have an operculum to shut when it retracts its mantle into its shell, the opening is lined with "threatening" tooth-like structures. Normally, the mantle will completely cover its shell unless it feels threatened. This helps it keep its lustrous white and brown mottled coloration, while its mantle will appear like a fingerprint of black and gray, with many short papillae over the surface. Life Strategy: In the wild, it can be found under rocks or resting on soft corals during the day, foraging for food mostly at night. The Tiger Cowrie prefers a rock aquarium with hiding places. While small, it will eat some algae and scavenge for scraps, but as an adult, it will eat some anemones, sponges, and soft corals, and is best housed with starfish, sea urchins, and tubeworms in the reef aquarium. Do not house it with Condylactis sp. It needs low nitrate levels and will not tolerate copper-based medications. Food / Feed Strategy: The diet of a large Tiger Cowrie should be supplemented with pieces of fish and mussel, and a product such as TetraTips.
Body Form or Style: N/A Swim / Locomotion Style: N/A Mouth Position: N/A Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Inverts
Species #:114
Common Name: Halloween Hermit Crab Scientific Name: Ciliopagurus strigatus Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Ciliopagurus
Class: Malacostraca
Order: Decapoda
Family: Diogenidae
Geography / Habitat: The Halloween Hermit Crab, with its vibrant orange and red banding, stands out as a member of your aquarium cleanup crew. Originating from the Hawaiian Islands, the Halloween Hermit Crab boasts attractive color variegation and is a beautiful accent to the marine aquarium. The Halloween Hermit Crab is a very useful aquarium cleaner that helps maintain a healthy aquarium environment by eating any left over food that may settle on the substrate Life Strategy: Adding further value, the Halloween Hermit Crab is known to efficiently eat algae including green hair algae and cyanobacteria. It also provides a valuable service of aerating aquarium substrate by sifting through the sand. Be aware that as the Halloween Hermit Crab attains a large size, this lumbering scavenger may disrupt rockwork or corals in reef aquariums. The Halloween Hermit Crab lives in abandoned snail or triton shells and may resort to attacking and eating a snail so it can use the shell for its home. To prevent this from happening, provide the Halloween Hermit Crab empty shells of assorted shapes and size Food / Feed Strategy: If there is an insufficient amount of algae present, the Halloween Hermit Crab will need to be fed dried seaweed, as well as meaty items such as mysis shrimp.
Body Form or Style: N/A Swim / Locomotion Style: N/A Mouth Position: N/A Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Inverts
Species #:115
Common Name: Harlequin Shrimp Scientific Name: Hymenocera elegans Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Hymenocera
Class: Malacostraca
Order: Decapoda
Family: Gnathophyllidae
Geography / Habitat: The Harlequin Shrimp was first scientifically described in 1852. The Harlequin Shrimp have a white body with large light blue spots, and the males are slightly smaller than the female. It differs from its close cousin, the Hawaiian. Picta which has purple and red spots. It has large claws (chelipeds) which are for show only; it does not use them for hunting. The Harlequin Shrimp is best kept as mated pairs in an aquarium with moderate light. The Harlequin Shrimp can not tolerate copper or high nitrates, and iodine levels must be correct and maintained to ensure proper molting Life Strategy: It is very particular about what it will eat, dining only on echinoderms, primarily starfish, and a few urchin species. It will eat starfish (Linckia, Fromia sp.) by starting at the tip of the arm and working its way to the central disc. The starfish may shed the arm, but is often mortally wounded. Food / Feed Strategy: As its primary source of food, you will need to supply the Harlequin Shrimp with starfish. The adults may also eat sea urchins.
Body Form or Style: N/A Swim / Locomotion Style: N/A Mouth Position: N/A Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Inverts
Species #:116
Common Name: Emerald Crab Scientific Name: Mithraculus sculptus Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Mithraculus
Class: Crustacea
Order: Decapoda
Family: Mafjidae
Geography / Habitat: The hardy Emerald Crab, also known as Emerald Mithrax Crab or Emerald Mythrax Crab, has a shiny green, flat, compact body and hairy legs. Life Strategy: It requires a mature aquarium with plenty of rock work and hiding places. The Emerald Crab eats algae and various types of meaty items it can scavenge. It can be harmful to small fish, but unlike many other animals, it will eat bubble algae and is useful for cleaning tanks of this potential problem. They are an opportunistic feeder, and if food is not available to them, they may turn to supplementing their diet with corals or invertebrates. Food / Feed Strategy: If there is it insufficient algae, their diet should be supplemented with dried seaweed, chopped meaty items or a quality pellet food.
Body Form or Style: N/A Swim / Locomotion Style: N/A Mouth Position: N/A Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Inverts
Species #:117
Common Name: Red Ball Sponge Scientific Name: Psuedaxinella lunaecharata Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Psuedaxinella
Class: Demopongiae
Order: Halichondrida
Family: Axinelidae
Geography / Habitat: The Red Ball Sponge, is often referred to as Red Boring Sponge, and members of this genus are found in a wide variety of colors such as red, yellow, and orange. The Red Ball Sponge requires a strong current and excellent water conditions. Life Strategy: All sponges, including the Red Ball Sponge will require some very special care to survive in the home aquarium. The most critical concern is that it never be exposed to the air. If it is, air becomes trapped in the matrix of channels that line the inside of its body. With air blocking the path for planktonic food to reach its cells, it will basically starve. Food / Feed Strategy: The Red Ball Sponge will require supplemental feeding with liquid plankton and other dissolved organic foods.
Body Form or Style: N/A Swim / Locomotion Style: N/A Mouth Position: N/A Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Inverts
Species #:118
Common Name: Zebra Turbo Snail Scientific Name: Turbo sp. Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Turbo
Class: Gastropoda
Order: Stylommatophora
Family: Turbinidae Geography / Habitat: The Zebra Striped Turbo Snail is a beautiful algae removing powerhouse. Like other members of the Turbinidae family, the Zebra Striped Turbo Snail has a voracious appetite for algae. While other Turbo species have simple top- or turban-shaped shells, the Zebra Striped boasts a stunning dark black shell striped in elegant waves of tan. Off the coast of Asia, Zebra Striped Turbo Snails are often found in crevices and holes within the reefs. In the home aquarium, the Zebra Striped Turbo Snail prefers ample hiding places and large amounts of room to graze, preferably amongst live rock. They will also feed on the algae covering aquarium glass. Life Strategy: The Zebra Striped Turbo Snail is extremely difficult to breed in the home aquarium, especially considering the Zebra Striped Turbo Snail has no distinguishing characteristics to help differentiate it from its mate. Food / Feed Strategy: When algae levels are insufficient, supplement their diet with dried seaweed. Keep in mind, that proper calcium levels must be maintained as members of the Turbinidae family use calcium to build their shells. Like many other invertebrates, the Zebra Striped Turbo Snail is also very sensitive to copper-based medications and high nitrate levels.
Body Form or Style: N/A Swim / Locomotion Style: N/A Mouth Position: N/A Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Inverts
Species #:119
Common Name: Feather Duster Scientific Name: Sabellastarte sp. Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Sabellastarte
Class: Demospongiae
Order: Poecilosclelida
Family: Sabellidae Geography / Habitat: The Feather Duster, also known as Giant Feather Duster, has a fan-shaped crown Radiole that is tan or orange with brown band colorations. The radiole of some species from certain locales may be up to 7 inches in diameter, or of brighter colors. The Feather Duster uses the radiole to filter out small floating organisms, which it directs toward its mouth, located at the center of the crown. It protects its segmented body by secreting a parchment-like tube to cover itself. When it is disturbed, it can quickly pull in its radiole into the tube. If it is severely stressed, it will discard its crown, growing it back later. Life Strategy: The Feather Duster is usually found in the coral rubble at the base of the reef aquarium, with some of the rubble being incorporated into its parchment-like tube. It needs to be housed in a well-established reef system as it is dependent upon plankton for its diet. It is very intolerant of copper-based medications. Food / Feed Strategy: Supplemental feeding of phytoplankton and liquid organic foods should be provided.
Body Form or Style: N/A Swim / Locomotion Style: N/A Mouth Position: N/A Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Saltwater/Marine Inverts
Species #:120
Common Name: Black Longspine Urchin Scientific Name: Diadema setosum Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Diadema
Class: Echinoidae
Order: Diadematoida
Family: Diadema setosum
Geography / Habitat: The Black Longspine Urchin, also known as Long-spined Sea Urchin, has a body which is predominately black with a red eyespot in the center. The spines on these urchins are long, thin and completely black. They are a very delicate looking urchin, which are actually very capable of protecting itself. These urchins are excellent algae controllers for an aquarium housing aggressive fish. Life Strategy: Provide an aquarium with ample hiding places and room to roam. Being a nocturnal creature, the Black Longspine Urchin will hide during the day and only come out at night to forage for food such as algae and seaweed. These urchins are an excellent algae controller for an aggressive aquarium where other invertebrates would be eaten. When approached by a fish, these urchins will sense their presence, and will defend it by directing its spines towards its offender. Food / Feed Strategy: The diet may be supplemented with dried seaweed.
Body Form or Style: N/A Swim / Locomotion Style: N/A Mouth Position: N/A Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Freshwater Inverts (121-125)
Title: Freshwater Inverts
Species #:121
Common Name: Blue Knight Lobster Scientific Name: Cherax sp. Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Cherax
Class: Malacostraca
Order: Decapoda
Family: Parastacidae Geography / Habitat: The Blue Knight Lobster is from the rivers and streams of New Guinea, and is one of the larger species of crayfish attaining a total length of up to 12". Their colors can vary from a brilliant blue to a bluish brown coloration, and they have relatively small claws for their size. They will rarely hunt for fish as they are generally too slow to catch the latter. Life Strategy: Provide a freshwater aquarium of at least 50 gallons with plenty of rocks, and a substrate with a moderate grain size or finer for the Blue Knight Lobster to burrow in. They can be aggressive towards their own kind, and require plenty of room for territories, and a larger aquarium will be needed if housing more than one. When housing more than one, provide at least 40 gallons per Lobster and include plenty of cover including both rocks and plants. It is very difficult to differentiate between the sexes of these crayfish, and we will not be able to pair them for sale. They are relatively easy to breed in captivity, and the eggs hatch in about 21 days. After hatching, the fry can be fed flake or pellet foods, and should be separated in order to keep them from eating each other. Food / Feed Strategy: These Lobsters are omnivorous, and will act as a scavenger in the aquarium, eating any food that comes to rest on the bottom. Supplement their diet with a quality sinking pellet, flake food and dried algae.
Body Form or Style: N/A Swim / Locomotion Style: N/A Mouth Position: N/A Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Freshwater Inverts
Species #:122
Common Name: Red Cherry Shrimp Scientific Name: Neocaridina denticulate sinensis Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Neocaridina
Class: Malacostraca
Order: Decapoda tenth
Family: Atyidae Geography / Habitat: Red Cherry Shrimp make gorgeous and functional additions to any peaceful freshwater aquarium. Its brilliant red coloration adds a beautiful ornamental quality while its purposeful pursuit for algae and organic debris makes the Red Cherry Shrimp an invaluable aquarium cleanup crew Life Strategy: If there is a male and female in your aquarium Red Cherry Shrimp will most likely breed. The female will carry a clutch of yellowish eggs under her tail until they hatch in about 30 days. The newly born shrimp will look like miniature adult shrimp and will eat the same thing as the adults. If breeding these shrimp, it is important to keep them in a breeder aquarium with a sponge filter. This added precaution helps maximize survival of young shrimp. Food / Feed Strategy: Red Cherry Shrimp are omnivores that will consume algae, detritus and left over food. If insufficient food is present, supplement with algae tablets or quality flake food or pellets.
Body Form or Style: N/A Swim / Locomotion Style: N/A Mouth Position: N/A Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Freshwater Inverts
Species #:123
Common Name: Mini Crab Scientific Name: Uca sp. Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Uca
Class: Malacostraca
Order: Decapoda
Family: Ocypodidae Geography / Habitat: The Mini Crab is a fascinating crustacean known widely as a wonderful "alternative" pet. Also called the Fiddler Crab, Uca sp. is extremely popular thanks to its energetic antics and relative ease of care. The Mini Crab is a hardy species that does well under proper living conditions. The Mini Crab originates from the brackish, inter-tidal mud flats, lagoons, and swamps of Florida. As such, the Mini Crab requires some salt in the water in order for it to thrive. In addition, contrary to popular belief, the Mini Crab is not a fully aquatic species Life Strategy: The Mini Crab is a semi-aquatic species that requires access to an area above the waterline. A "beach" or "shoreline" made with sandy substrate is ideal. The use of aragonite substrate will help maintain higher pH levels and provide a source of calcium and important trace minerals. The Mini Crab aquarium habitat should be aquascaped liberally with rocks, driftwood, and other decorations to offer hiding places and climbing areas. However, be sure to leave an open area for burrowing and digging. Good water quality is important for the health of the Mini Crab. An internal filter is a great way to provide both proper filtration and water movement for the Mini Crab habitat. The Mini Crab is a capable escape artist so a tight-fitting cover is essential. Food / Feed Strategy: The Mini Crab is an omnivore that will eat commercially prepared flaked foods and algae as well as freeze-dried bloodworms and brine shrimp.
Body Form or Style: N/A Swim / Locomotion Style: N/A Mouth Position: N/A Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Freshwater Inverts
Species #:124
Common Name: Viper Shrimp Scientific Name: Atya gabonensi Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Atya
Class: Malacostraca
Order: Decapoda
Family: Atyoidea
Geography / Habitat: Viper Shrimp have a deeply furrowed, wrinkly carapace. Coloration varies from blue, gray, white after molting, and increasingly blacker as they age. Despite their somewhat "demonic" appearance, they are absolutely peaceful and harmless fan shrimp. Their front "claws" are actually long soft bristles which they fan open to filter feed, perched head-on into the current with fans outstretched. Life Strategy: In the wild, Atya gabonensi typically live in small, fast-flowing to rapid mountainous streams, gripping stony bedrock directly in the current with their powerful back claws and legs. They use their fan-like front appendages to filter very fine floating food items (such as mosquito larvae, daphnia and Cyclops, as well as small algae particles) from the current. During daylight they typically seek shelter under rocks and logs. They come out of hiding at twilight or in darkness in order to feed. Food / Feed Strategy: House in a community aquarium with small peaceful fish and sufficient water flow. Since they prefer oxygen rich water and strong current, use a submersible pump to keep water in constant circulation. Feed sparingly using very fine floating food like algae powder or dried small crustaceans shortly before turning the lights off.
Body Form or Style: N/A Swim / Locomotion Style: N/A Mouth Position: N/A Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
Title: Freshwater Inverts
Species #:125
Common Name: Freshwater Clam Scientific Name: Corbicual sp. Kingdom: Animilia
Phylum: Corbicual
Class: Malacostraca
Order: Decapoda
Family: Corbicual sp.
Geography / Habitat: The Freshwater Clam is a living filter that helps keep aquarium water clear and clean. By removing uneaten food and detritus from the water column, the Freshwater Clam helps maintain water quality and lower nitrate levels. Like many freshwater bivalves, Corbicual sp. typically buries itself in the substrate. However, spotting its siphon protrude from the substrate is truly captivating to observe. This variety of the Corbiculidae family only reaches a length of about 2", which makes it a suitable addition to well-established aquariums of almost any size. Life Strategy: Though found in temperate freshwater rivers and lakes around the world, this species originates in Asia and has a brown shell, banded in black. For best care, house the Freshwater Clam in an aquarium of at least 10 gallons with medium to very fine substrate. The Freshwater Clam should not be housed with invertebrate-eating fish, such as freshwater puffers. Food / Feed Strategy: The Freshwater Clam obtains its nutrition from filtering food and detritus from the water column. If necessary, its diet can be supplemented with a quality invertebrate food.
Body Form or Style: N/A Swim / Locomotion Style: N/A Mouth Position: N/A Citation: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html