2018-04-12

REPTILE History

Collage of four U.S. state reptiles showing a ...
Collage of four U.S. state reptiles showing a turtle (box turtle), snake (garter snake),
lizard (collared lizard), and crocodilians (American alligator)
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Many people overlook that dinosaurs were reptiles, as are tortoises and turtles.  Frogs are often lumped into the same category while they are, in fact, amphibians.

Reptiles evolved from amphibians because of their necessity to learn to adjust to life on land.  This brought about the need for legs and lungs to breathe air.  Yet snakes are legless, able to crawl along with their magnificent bodies.  The scaly reptile skin was necessary to protect the bodies from the rough surface of the ground, much different from the smooth water the amphibians were used to.

Science has described over 7,000 species of reptiles, even going so far as to claim birds as a part of the reptile group because of the inherited characteristics such as their skeletons, internal organs, and DNA.  There is a distinction besides feathers, though.  Birds are endotherms, meaning they must have food for energy to keep warm.  Other reptiles are ectotherms which need an outside heat source to help them retain proper body temperature.

Crocodiles are in the second oldest group of reptiles, perhaps resembling the dinosaur relatives more than any other reptile group.  Although, the turtle is the winner of the oldest proven reptile group, even older than the dinosaurs!

There are two groups of turtles, one group fares best on land and the other in the water.  The one that fares best on land is the terrestrial tortoise.

Success in keeping a reptile for a pet depends much on your climate.  You can forget sticking your pet snake, turtle, or lizard outside in a cage or pen or aquarium if you live in a cold climate.  Keeping the pet at a controlled temperature is essential to its survival.  Digestion depends on the right temperature and so does the animal's ability to move around successfully.

It may seem cute to see that little turtle basking in the sun on a log in a pond.  But the reptile needs the heat to stay alive. Too much heat is also as bad as too little.

Maybe the turtle's ability to live for so many centuries when other animals perished is because of its outstanding lifespan.  A turtle can live to 100 years old if the conditions are right!




Old temples have been discovered in Africa with snakes carved into the walls, giving pythons a sacred quality over the many years of its existence.  But the boas have been known to live over forty years at a time in zoos!  Anacondas have been feared in South America for a long time.  Any snake that can grow to over 35 feet deserves a wide berth!

An interesting reptile that's been around a long time is a native of Madagascar.  The chameleon exists in 120 different known types.  Oustalet's chameleon is about the size of a small cat.  It would give a domestic feline a definite scare to walk upon one of those!  On the other end of the size spectrum, the Dwarf Brookesia, also a native of Madagascar, is small enough to stand on the tip of a finger.



2018-04-11

Lighting your CORAL

English: An open brain coral under actinic lig...
An open brain coral under actinic lighting. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
There are some species of coral that can survive with the normal amount of lighting, so for the beginner, you may want to stick to these species. Specifically, Mushroom Coral and Coral Polyps can survive with normal lighting techniques.

Conversely, species such as SPS (Small Polyp Stony Coral) that include Acropora, Montipora, Porites, Brain Coral, Bubble Coral, Elegance Coral, Cup Coral, Torch Coral, and Trumpet Coral require far greater intensity with lighting, making them a substantially greater challenge for the aquarium hobbyist, especially considering more light usually means more harmful algae will grow in the tank.

The best lighting technique to keep your coral safe is the light emitting diode (LED) technology, which has begun to make the former standards: gas and filament based lighting systems obsolete.  Though initially more expensive than gas and filament systems, over time they save money because they use less power and have a longer lifespan, meaning fewer replacement costs and hassle. 

It is important to note that the zooxanthellae’s photosynthesis process requires light of two different colors: red and blue, which is why aquarium lights often will exude a purple hue, as most of them provide both colors as an industry standard. 

While it is essential to have the minimum amount of light in order to meet the zooxanthellae's minimum requires for photosynthesis to work, it is also important to note that it has an upper limit tolerance as well. Your lights must, therefore, be in the middle or bad things will happen to both the zooxanthellae, and as a byproduct, the coral. 

While not an exact science as for how much or how little light depends on how many zooxanthellae reside in the coral, and that can be anywhere from thousands to millions, but a good place to start would be to ensure that your intensity minimum is 3000-lux and that you don’t go above 120,000-lux. While this may seem to be a quite wide and open range, you will have to make determinations base on the behavior of your coral.



Good quality types of lamps to use would include fluorescent, and you should use six lamps, or if your aquarium is not wide enough for that, then it is recommended that you instead utilize high output lamps, which are more expensive, but necessary. You should replace these bulbs every six months. Power compact fluorescent lamps, which are U-shaped, are an even better option, and you will only need four. 

Coral is an excellent addition to any aquarium, and there is much fish that enjoy coral as a food source. Regardless if you have added coral to your aquarium to survive or as sustenance for your fish, you have to have the right lighting or it won’t survive.



2018-04-10

The Popular KISSING GOURAMI

Pink Kissing Gouramis
Photo  by Clevergrrl 
The Kissing Gourami gets its' name due to the behavior of two males attempting to show their dominance. They appear to be kissing, but actually, they are challenging one another. The male also does the "kissing" act with the female before spawning. Call it what you wish; it's amusing to see.
The green colored Kissing Gouramis have a dark bar bordering the dorsal and anal fins. The pink or flesh-toned fish have silvery scales. Their bodies are oval shaped and they have thick fleshy lips, with rows of fine teeth in their mouths, which is great for chewing down plants to the stem. Because of those teeth, you will need to have plastic plants or sturdy Java fern in their tank.

 They need plenty of room, as they grow to six inches or more in length. An aquarium of at least 45-gallon is advisable. They are not particular about most water conditions but thrive best in temperatures of 75 - 82 degrees. 
Kissing Gouramis can become quite quarrelsome and most of them are masters at bullying. Watch for signs of aggression, especially with other species. They should only be housed with another medium to large sized breeds and even then watch them for signs of showing others who's boss. 
These fish have big appetites and enjoy flaked foods, Tubifex and brine shrimp. For optimum health, offer them fresh Romaine lettuce and cooked peas. Kissing Gouramis are also big algae eaters. Driftwood in the aquarium is a good idea, as this provides them with many algae. They will also suck off algae on the sides of the tank and pebbles.
It is near impossible to differentiate between the two sexes. You will finally know you have a male and female when you see that some "kissing" is going on along with circling and nudging. This means spawning has begun. Next, the male wraps his body around the female. She releases several hundreds of eggs which is then fertilized by the male. If there is a large leaf of Romaine lettuce floating on the surface of the water, the eggs will adhere to them after floating upwards.

Naturally, many of these eggs will be eaten, but some "dads" will become protective and keep a close eye on these eggs, chasing away fish that get too close. The eggs will hatch approximately in one day. And two days later you will have many free swimmers. Now is the time to remove the fry to another tank.
The best way to feed the tiny fry is to press a cooked egg through a cheesecloth. As they become larger and they can fit flaked food into their mouths, you can begin weaning them from the egg. Feed them baby brine shrimp too.

Kissing Gouramis are easy to fish to maintain in the aquarium. As long as they are provided with a good diet and plenty of room to grow and swim, you can expect these hardy fish to live approximately 5 years.




2018-04-09

DISCUS FISH DISEASES - Ammonia Poisoning and Ich

Nitrogen Cycle in aquariums. Legend: (1) Addit...
Nitrogen Cycle in aquariums. Legend: (1) Addition of food and nutrients, (2) Production of Urea and Ammonia by Fish, (3) Ammonia is converted to Nitrites by beneficial Nitrosomonas bacteria, (4) Nitrites are converted to Nitrates by beneficial Nitrospira bacteria. Less toxic Nitrates are removed by plants and periodic water changes. (5) Evaporation. (6) Light, (7) Soil, (8) O 2 produced by plants, (9) CO 2 produced by Fish (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
One of the most common Discus fish diseases is ammonia poisoning. This occurs because of toxic ammonia buildup and improper nitrogen cycle in the aquarium. Ammonia poisoning can sometimes be caused by the malfunction or removal of biological filter in the aquarium. This disease directly affects the fish and along with it are harmful side effects like increased disease vulnerability and organ failure. It's very important for you to know that you cannot put a tropical fish in the water until the ammonia has been completely removed.

You also have to make sure that your filters are working correctly. To prevent this disease from occurring, you have to change the water on a regular basis and if possible, do not overcrowd the tank. If your fish appears to have red and swollen gills or if it keeps on staying at the water surface gasping for air, it is most likely affected by ammonia poisoning. This happens because the more ammonia present in the tank, the less oxygen is available for your fish.

Other signs that your fish is affected by the disease include loss of appetite, hovering at the bottom of the tank, sluggishness and inflamed eyes or anus. If you have a relatively new tank, the ammonia level can rise quite quickly unless it has undergone cycling already. Cycling simply means establishing a bacteria bed in your biological filter to remove the toxins that the fish's metabolism emits. It's actually pretty easy to deal with Discus fish diseases like ammonia poisoning or ammonia stress. Water change always helps in making the fish getting rid of ammonia. You can use an ammonia remover but keep in mind that this will not help in the long run because it can cause long-term negative side effects in the tank. When changing the water, make sure you are not using water that has ammonia content so that the biological filter can begin to process the excess waste while relieving the stress on the Discus fish.

Aside from ammonia poisoning, another disease that can be caused by poor water quality is ich which involves the appearance of white spots on the fish's body and fins. The best way to treat such Discus fish diseases is to increase the water temperature and administer medication available at any pet store. Before administering the medication, make sure to remove the carbon filter because this may absorb all the substances. If possible, use a quarantine aquarium to make sure other healthy fish won't get affected.
   


2018-04-08

The SHEDD AQUARIUM - Just One of the Great Attractions in Chicago

The Shedd Aquarium, as seen from the northwest...
The Shedd Aquarium, as seen from the northwest in the early dawn light.
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)
After a long stretch of stressful months of work, everyone deserves a break. This coming summer gives us all the opportunity to relax, unwind and spend quality time with our family. Have you found the perfect place where you can spend your vacation? If you are tired of the familiar malls and conventional amusement parks and picnics at the beach then here's a place that will definitely provide you with a one-of-a-kind experience that both you and the kids can enjoy: Chicago. There are so many Chicago attractions that will surely prove to be amazing and fun!

There are attractions carefully selected as some of the most popular and the most famous places in the world. Chicago is not just known for its skyscrapers, but also for its museums and aquariums.

The Shedd Aquarium, Museum of Science & OMNIMAX, Field Museum & Underground River, John Hancock Observatory, and Adler Planetarium are five of the many famous attractions in Chicago.

So if you happen to be planning to go to Chicago this year or still figuring out where to take the whole family to enjoy a fun-filled vacation, go and visit the world-famous Shedd Aquarium. As you may not know, aside for other tourist spots in Chicago, the Shedd is one of the windy city's pride. This is because it has a wide collection of animals that are rarely seen in the entire world today.

The aquarium holds a large and impressive collection of 32,500 different species of animals that are rarely seen in the environment. This collection includes different sorts of animals that swim, crawl, slither or fly. It is home to a number of animals including otters, lizards, whales, dolphins, sea jellies, sea turtles and a wide assortment of fish and sharks. The entire family will surely be in for an amazing and educational surprise when visiting the Shedd Aquarium.

However, the animals aren't the only attractions of the Shedd. The aquarium also has other facilities such as the Soundings Restaurant and Bubblenet Food court that will fill the hungry tummies from a day long of marveling and adoration. Other highlights of the Shedd are the Oceanarium and the Wild Reef.

Aside from the awesome entertainment, the Shedd Aquarium gives it also does not fail to inspire. Through its natural form of beauty, it reminds tourists and visitors of the importance of mother nature and emphasizes responsible actions that we humans need to take. The Aquarium is a vital place for education, a conservation leader, neighborhood partner and a collaborator to the global efforts for world and wildlife preservation.



If for example, you keep on wondering and looking for the best gift you can give to your children this year, you don't have to look for it any longer. Visiting Chicago attractions will surely be the best gift you can give to your family. While you are in the windy city of Chicago never fail to list the Shedd as the No. 1 place to go to. It is where fun and love is shared and where memories are made.

    By Andy Seitz
    Heading to Chicago for a vacation could be a great vacation for you and your family. While you're there you'll want to be sure to visit some of the most popular Chicago attractions such as the Shedd Aquarium. It will be an experience you'll never forget!

    Article Source: EzineArticles



2018-04-07

Purchasing The KOI For Your Pond

English: Koi in an outdoor pond. ไทย: ปลาคาร์ป...
Koi in an outdoor pond. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
The first Koi were produced by breeding Carp such as the Asian and German Carp. After years of selective breeding, various color mutations started showing up. The first colors were recorded as early as 1805. Today, there are literally thousands of color variations available. The most popular colors found are white, silver, yellow, orange, red, black, blue and green. Combined with the patterns available, the possibilities are almost endless. Each noticeable pattern and color have their own names, which are typically as unique as the color they are referring too. Favorite types vary by country and location.   

Koi are raised for purchase in countries like Japan, Singapore, Israel, and in the warmer American states such as Nevada and California. Koi can be purchased at most local pet stores. If they do not have stock on hand, typically they can be ordered. Ordering Koi has its advantage and disadvantages. You have more options when ordering Koi since you do not have to pick from the stock on hand, but the disadvantage lies in the fact that you will not be able to pick specific Koi. 

Your pond should be complete before you even look into buying your Koi. The size and amount of Koi you buy should be higher based on your pond. Be careful, overstocking will cause problems right away with your pond, potentially killing many of the Koi you purchase, causing you to lose time and money. Talk with your local dealer about your setup so that they can inform you on the amount of Koi in which you should have in your pond.

Most fish owners understand that most fish will only grow to the size of their enclosure. Koi, unlike other fish, will grow until they are the size of their specific type. You must be able to accommodate the amount of fish you purchase in the future.

Koi are none-aggressive fish. Koi do not have teeth so you will not get bit if you decide to attempt to feed your Koi out of your hand. This even allows you to get smaller children involved. Smaller children will be delighted by the beautiful colors and gentle nature of the Koi. 

Koi, like any other wild animal, will naturally be afraid of you in the beginning. Instincts tell them to be afraid of you, which is what keeps them alive in the wild. You must build up trust with your Koi, and this takes time and patience. 

Koi are omnivorous fish, which means they will eat both meat and plants. This means that their diets are very versatile. Koi will eat pretty much anything that you put in the pond with them, no matter if it is good for them or not. Since Koi do not have a sense of what is bad and good for them, as their owner you must control their diet.



Koi Have Personality

You would not believe that Koi actually have personalities similar to other animals. They are social, and can even be trained to eat directly from their owner's hands. The more time you spend with your Koi, the more you will notice each Koi individual characteristics and traits. 

Koi have been known to live for up to 200 years at a time, but generally, the average lifespan of a healthy Koi is about 30 years. So if you are looking for a long time pet companion, Koi may be a good choice.



2018-04-06

Have Fun Keeping DANIOS in Your Fish Tank

English: Female individuum of Danio margaritat...
Female individuum of Danio margaritatus.garitatus).
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Danios fish are great for beginners because they are easy to maintain. Due to their high energy level and mild temperament, Danios are an excellent choice for aquariums. They are normally found in freshwater rivers and in streams of Southeast Asia, and since they live in fast flowing streams, provide them enough space to move around and with a current from a power filter.

Several varieties of Danios fish are available and the most common among them is the Zebra Danio which can be easily identified by its horizontal stripes. Most of the species are brightly colored. Other varieties are Gold, Leopard, Blue, Giant, and Pearl. Two pairs of long barbels are present in them and they are characterized by horizontal stripes except in Black Barred Danio, Panther Danio and Glowlight Danio in which vertical bars can be seen.

Danios are playful and sociable and they live happily in the aquarium environment. Try to keep them in groups of more than 4. They get along with most aquarium fish. They can be kept along with Barbs, Rainbows, Clown or Yoyo Loaches, some varieties of catfish like Corydoras or Plecostomus Catfish and also with most of the Gouramis, even though they are smaller than Danios. I've found some or my smaller fish get intimidated by the always energetic Danios, and they will hide from them. They will chase each other and other fish continuously, but they don't attack

Danio kerri
Danio kerri (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Occasionally, they nip their fins, most of the time by accident. They will eat eggs and other small fishes that fit into their mouths. Make sure you have a tight fitting lid because Danios are good jumpers. Danios are used in aquariums to distract other aggressive fish from fighting as they are even-tempered.

Danios are omnivorous and will eat a variety of foods. They can be satisfied with regular flake food, but they love to snack on bloodworms or brine shrimp once in a while. They are voracious eaters, so you should not put them with timid feeders.

My Zebra Danios get pregnant all the time, but since I don't intend to breed them, they just eat their eggs. So if you do intend to breed them, you should feed them with plenty of fresh foods, and remove the parents from the tank until the new fish are larger. These fish usually consume small aquatic insects, worms, crustaceans and plankton in the wild.

They can live in temperatures that range from 68-80ºF. But they can learn to thrive in an unheated tank.

Zebra, Gold, Pearl and Leopard Danios will normally grow to a maximum size 1.5 inches. But Giant Danios will grow up to five inches in length.

Whichever kind you choose, you will have a ball just watching them play all over the tank.