Fish Laboratory

Fish Laboratory Aquarium Fish, Aquarium Plants, & Fish Tank Setups 🐠

06/21/2025

Discus fish are social, schooling creatures that thrive in groups, and it's recommended to keep at least five to six together in a tank. Keeping them in smaller numbers can lead to stress, aggression, and health issues, as they naturally form hierarchies and need social interaction. A larger group helps distribute aggression evenly and promotes natural behavior. Ideally, the aquarium should be spacious—at least 55 gallons—to comfortably accommodate a group of discus. Maintaining pristine water quality is crucial, as these fish are sensitive to fluctuations in parameters.

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06/17/2025

Freshwater angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare) are striking cichlids native to the Amazon Basin in South America. Known for their elegant, triangular fins and laterally compressed bodies, they can grow up to 6 inches long and 8 inches tall. Angelfish are intelligent and can recognize their owners, sometimes even begging for food. They are monogamous and form strong pair bonds during breeding, with both parents guarding the eggs and fry. Though peaceful, they can be territorial, especially during spawning. Their color patterns and fin shapes vary widely due to selective breeding.

06/11/2025

Goldfish are often recommended for beginners due to their hardy nature and appealing appearance, but they come with unique needs. While they can tolerate a range of water conditions, they require large tanks—at least 20 gallons per fish—as they grow significantly larger than most expect. Goldfish also produce a lot of waste, demanding strong filtration and regular water changes. Unlike tropical fish, they thrive in cooler water, eliminating the need for a heater. With proper care, goldfish can live for over a decade, making them a long-term commitment.

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06/09/2025

Breeding discus fish is a fascinating but delicate process that requires pristine water conditions, a stress-free environment, and a bonded pair. Discus prefer soft, acidic water with a pH of 6.0–6.5 and temperatures between 82–86°F (28–30°C). Pairs often form naturally in groups, and once a bond is established, they should be moved to a separate breeding tank. These fish lay their eggs on vertical surfaces like slate or tank walls, and both parents participate in guarding and fanning the eggs. Remarkably, fry feed off the parents’ mucus coating for nutrition during their early days.

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06/06/2025

Discus fish may stop eating due to stress, often caused by sudden changes in water temperature, pH imbalance, or aggressive tank mates. Inadequate acclimation to a new environment can also lead to appetite loss. Additionally, internal parasites or bacterial infections are common culprits and may present with white f***s or lethargy. Overfeeding or offering low-quality or unfamiliar food can cause disinterest as well. Sometimes, they simply refuse food during breeding periods or after recent relocation. Observing their behavior and ensuring optimal tank conditions is key to resolving the issue.

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06/03/2025

Discus fish are renowned for their vibrant colors, but these can change due to a variety of factors. One fascinating reason is mood—stress, aggression, or courtship can trigger dramatic color shifts. Environmental conditions like water quality, lighting, and diet also play a major role in pigmentation intensity. Additionally, discus fish can darken their bodies as a form of camouflage or to communicate social status within a group. Color changes may also signal illness, making them important indicators for aquarists. These shifts are not just beautiful—they’re a window into the fish’s health and emotions.

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05/30/2025

"Discus fish are known for their vivid colors and graceful swimming, and their diet plays a vital role in maintaining both their health and appearance. These fish thrive on a protein-rich diet, commonly including beef heart, bloodworms, brine shrimp, and specially formulated discus pellets. Interestingly, discus fish are somewhat finicky eaters and often prefer live or frozen food over dry options. A varied diet not only enhances their coloration but also supports their immune system. Regular feeding with high-quality, vitamin-enriched food can also improve their breeding behavior and fry survival rates.

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05/27/2025

The Silver Arowana, native to South America’s Amazon Basin, is a striking freshwater fish known for its sleek, metallic body and powerful leap, sometimes snatching prey like insects and birds from overhanging branches. Often called the “monkey fish,” it can jump up to 6 feet out of the water. This species is a surface dweller with a carnivorous diet and a mouth uniquely adapted for upward feeding. Silver Arowanas are also popular in the aquarium trade, valued for their beauty and considered symbols of good luck in some Asian cultures.

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05/25/2025

Koi fish are voracious eaters, but their diet should be carefully controlled to maintain health and water quality. On average, koi consume about 1-2% of their body weight daily during warmer months when their metabolism is high. However, overfeeding can lead to obesity and poor water conditions due to excess waste. In cooler water (below 50°F or 10°C), their metabolism slows drastically, and feeding should be reduced or stopped entirely. Feeding koi 1–2 times per day with only as much food as they can consume in 5 minutes is ideal. Balanced feeding ensures vibrant color and longevity.

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02/01/2025

In feng shui, koi fish are considered symbols of abundance, prosperity, and good fortune. Traditionally, it is recommended to keep nine koi fish in a pond or aquarium for optimal feng shui energy. Out of these nine, eight koi should be red or gold, representing prosperity and wealth, while one koi should be black, symbolizing protection and absorbing negative energy. The number nine is considered auspicious in feng shui, representing completion and fulfillment. This combination of koi fish is believed to attract positive chi (energy) and bring harmony to the home or space where the fish are kept. However, it's also essential to consider the size of your pond or aquarium to ensure a healthy environment for the koi to thrive.

01/28/2025

Oscar fish (Astronotus ocellatus) can grow to be quite large. In captivity, they typically reach about 10 to 12 inches (25 to 30 cm) in length, though with optimal care, they can grow up to 14 to 16 inches (35 to 40 cm). In the wild, they can sometimes grow slightly larger.

Their growth rate is impressive, with juveniles capable of growing about 1 inch per month during their first year. Fully grown oscars can weigh around 3 to 5 pounds (1.4 to 2.3 kg). Proper tank size, diet, and water quality play a significant role in their growth potential.

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