CORNELL UNIVERSITY LIBRARY BOUGHT WITH THE INCOME OF THE SAGE ENDOWMENT FUND GIVEN IN 1891 BY HENRY WILLIAMS SAGE RETURN TO ALBERT R. MANN LIBRARY ITHACA, N. Y. ornell University Libra The freshwater aquarium and its inhabita Leopard Frog, Rana virescens, American Mature Deries Group IV. Working with Nature THE FRESHWATER AQUARIUM AND ITS INHABITANTS A GUIDE FOR THE AMATEUR AQUARIST BY OTTO EGGELING AND FREDERICK EHRENBERG WITH MANY ILLUSTRATIONS FROM NATURE NEW YORK HENRY HOLT AND COMPANY 1908 COPYRIGHT, 1908, BY HENRY HOLT AND COMPANY Published November, 1908 PREFACE To create in the aquarium a miniature waterscape with grottoes and_ beautiful aquatic plants, to populate it with the vari- ous multicolored inhabitants of ponds and rivers, to observe their habits, their liv- ing and loving, is indeed a pleasure and an education, not to be surpassed by anything in the same line and at so modest an ex- pense. With the experience of recent years it is possible to keep aquariums and terra- riums without suffering the frequent and continuous losses of their contents, to which amateurs were formerly subjected. Even the most inexperienced beginner may suc- cessfully keep certain species of fish, lizards or other denizens of water and forest, with- out more risk of loss, than he would run in the keeping of the old familiar pets such as dogs, cats or birds. To be successful as an amateur aquarist, all that is necessary is to select the varieties of fishes, lizards and iv Preface plants best adapted to confinement and home cultivation, and to observe some sim- ple rules as to their treatment. The present book is the result of the care- ful collaboration of a professional aquarist and a very enthusiastic amateur. While the professional aquarist gives his experi- ences collected through a quarter of a cen- tury in an extensive business, offering the best opportunity for observing fishes, am- phibians and aquatic plants, both as to their habits and their merits for the aquarium, the amateur adds the result of his observation in forest and glen, and his experience under the often trying home conditions which pre- vail with the average amateur aquarist. We have enlarged and elaborated our own experiences and observations by selecting the best from the material of well known and recognized authorities on the subject. We feel our purpose of stimulating inter- est in the aquarium, with all its wonderful vegetable and animal life, can not be fur- thered better than by reducing to a mini- mum the difficulties of its care. We have simplified therefore as much as possible the Preface Vv rules for the care and treatment of the aqua- rium, refraining from recommending com- plicated implements difficult to handle and needing a good deal of care and attention to do their work well, but substituting in their place the simplest instruments, or, in many cases, dispensing entirely with their service, We beg to express our sincere thanks to Mr. E. F. Keller and to Mr. E. R. Sanborn for their kind and important assistance in the production of this book. With rare skill and inexhaustible patience they have prepared most of our illustrations. Who- ever has tried to photograph live aquatic animals in their natural element, will appre- ciate the difficulties to be overcome in ob- taining such excellent results. Orto EGGELING. FREDERICK EHRENBERG. CONTENTS CHAPTER PAGE It, SCE AOWUARIGIE: 3 ee fe aie ee as AE Goop SHapes For AQUARIUMS . 6 THE PLACING OF THE AQUARIUM . po DE Tue Bottom oF THE AQUARIUM... . 13 THE PLANTING OF THE AQUARIUM. . . . 18 Tite WATERS 2 Go ee, eo a a is BS THe FILLING oF THE AQUARIUM . . . . 26 II. AQUARIUM PLANTS . SUBMERGED PLANTS . . . . . . . . 3€ Rootep PLants With Fioatinc Leaves . . 75 Free Froatinc Prants . .. . . . . 8&1 Boc on Swamp Plants . . . . . . . of Ill. THE INHABITANTS OF THE AQUARIUM FIsHES Swsk why rete San eke BSty Ok oy te eR LO: REBRIBES): 2 fe oz, dog 2 coe oko A GDRs AMPHIBIANS 3M gt om he 248 Frocs or BATRACHIANS . . . . .. . 278 Tue Lower Aguatic Lire . . . . . . 284 IV. THE FEEDING OF THE INMATES OF THE AQUARIUM . NaturaL Fisuroop. . . . . . . . . 310 ARTIFICIAL FISHFOOD: 2 4 #2 2 4 3 «= +33 V. FISH-HATCHING IN THE AQUARIUM GoLpFISHES AND THEIR VARIETIES . . . . 318 Macropopus, ParapisE FISH. . . . . . 322 Contents CHAPTER VI. Vi. FISH MALADIES Nonparasitic MALADIES Parasitic MALADIES IMPLEMENTS FOR THE CARE KEEPING OF THE AQUARIUM INDEX AND THE FRESHWATER AQUARIUM FRESH WATER AQUARIUM CHAPTER I. THE AQUARIUM. =s|/[TE aquarium is a tank, reservoir or vessel, destined to be stocked with aquatic plants, fishes and other in- habitants of the water. The arrangement of the aquarium should resemble, so far as pos- sible, the natural environment of the little prisoners. It is only in such surroundings that they will show to best advantage, and develop the numberless peculiarities and characteristics which make them so interest- ing to every lover of nature. If properly equipped the aquarium is not only an attractive ornament for the home, but it also encourages the observation of nature, and much pleasure may be derived 2 Fresh Water Aquarium from watching the graceful play and ihe queer antics of the fishes and amphibians, as they dart through the miniature forest of aquatic plants, or hide behind the stones or ornaments provided for their shelter. It may also be mentioned that the aqua- rium is not without sanitary merit, as by evaporation it supplies the suspended miois- ture so desirable and even necessary in our roonis GOOD SHAPES FOR AQUARIUMS. The shape of the aquarium is a matter of taste; it may be round, square, oblong or hexagonal, so long as it is large enough to answer its purpose. So-called fish globes used frequent- ly for the keeping of Fic. t. Round fish fishes, hardly deserve to a ab > . rq * 6 ae be mentioned. While in one of these globes, with proper care, fishes may live for a very limited length of time, The Aquarium 3 it is undoubtedly cruel to place them there, as the amount of water contained in the average globe is not sufficient to sustain the fish and to supply the oxygen necessary for their life. In such a vessel a very frequent renewal of the water is indispensable to the life of the fish, and this is, in itself, a great detriment, since it disturbs and _ irritates even the most hardy inmates of this very poor substitute for the aquarium. Another great disadvantage of the globe is the dis- torted picture it gives of its contents, when they are observed sideways through the glass. A further reason why the globe should be avoided is the narrow top, which greatly reduces the water surface exposed to the atmosphere. On the other hand globes of larger size are so fragile, their walls being hardly thicker than paper, that even a slight knock may break them. Large cylindrical glass vessels in one piece may be arranged in a practical and attractive manner, but if compared with 4 Fresh Water Aquarium other forms they have certain disadvantages, which should be considered, if the amateur wishes to provide a suitable home for his pets. In the first place, they break or crack very easily and apparently without any other reason than a sudden change of temperature, or when there is sunshine on one side and aa e ancien shade on. the other, In fish jar. such a case repairing is impossible. Then too, the picture which they give of their contents, while not as dis- torted as that from the globe, is more or less indistinct and unnatural, so that they are not advisable, where careful observation is in- tended. I*ar better are the square or oblong aqua- riums, made in one piece of clear strong glass, as they give a distinct and true pic- ture of their contents, allowing good and unobstructed observation. These, like the previous ones, also break and crack easily The Aquarium 5 and are then a total loss to their owners. To reduce this danger to a minimum, they should be placed on a very heavy piece of felt, or on a thin soft cushion, and in such a position that sudden changes of tem- Fic. 3. Oblong glass aquarium. perature are avoided. This will secure an even support for the often unevenly dis- tributed weight and pressure on the bottom of the glass and will add very considerably to the durability of the vessel. Decidedly the best aquariums, however, are those made of a good strong iron arium 6 Fresh Water Aquariu t 2 = y SS 1S rte and \\ c . fitted c ran y [ iste ned with a waterproof C a clea 2 : S e S S as i re ents c c Ss as | 2] le I EASE pest sha Ie, ie : ss eve y 1 L\ substantial met 1 | fT ne I DO . 71e trot 5 \ ste Ss ne lat or one s eC ecul el tastel ed O-a's — Ta Cox Da rg ‘eh I eu NA NS i ! Lh, NTT TT Me TTY tin mT TT LA ATT ATTA mat mM lim —— TL FIG ete < glass a arble bottom. 1 d glas aquarium with marb 4 Meta g L Vv i IG. ble bottom, with good heavy Cee a l into the frame for the sides w crn rly perfect an aquarium as can ee ee : of the greatest advantage tk 2 . ed oe metal part tamed as ee eo the frame practically indestruc ; The Aquarium 7 whereas, wherever the untinned frame comes in contact with the water, it soon becomes covered with rust. This rusting causes a loosening of the cement and a consequent leaking of the aquarium, so that within a short time it becomes unfit for use. Even the outside enamel lasts longer on a tinned than on an ordinary frame, on which it also is speedily destroyed by the rust, against which it but imperfectly and temporarily protects the metal. It is therefore to the in- terest of the buyer to see that all metal parts of the aquarium are tinned, the more so as the difference in price between those tinned and those untinned is merely nominal. Highly ornamental and durable, but rather expensive, is the aquarium with all metal parts nickel-plated, and with a glass, slate, or marble bottom. It possesses all the good qualities of the aquarium with the tinned frame with the addition of greater beauty. The oblong aquarium with a metal frame is the most popular shape of this construc- 8 Fresh Water Aquarium tion, as it allows an unobstructed observa- tion of its contents and is pleasing in ap- pearance. It can be obtained in any size Fic. 5. Oblong aquarium with glass bottom. and proportion and is frequently made to fit certain places, such as windows, tables, etc. The hexagonal and octagonal aqua- riums are favored for free standing tables or stands, or as center pieces for flower The Aquarium 9 tables. They have no special merit outside of their decorative effects. A cheaper aquarium is made of a tin frame with glass sides and tin bottom. ee a eM Fic. 6. Hexagonal aquarium. While a vessel of this construction is not suitable for large aquariums, it does excel- lent service in sizes up to 16 gallons. To prevent damage and eventual destruction by rust, all the metal parts of such an aquarium IO Fresh Water Aquarium should be treated with a good coating of enamel paint, at least once a year. It is most essential that the bottom be sufficiently strong, not to bend under the weight of gravel, stones and water. A certain propor- Fic. 7. Oblong glass aquarium with tin frame. tion should prevail between the length, height and the width of all, aquariums. If possible the height should not exceed the length and width of the aquarium, as it is important to have as large as possible a sur- The Aquarium II face, where water and atmosphere come into contact. THE PLACING OF THE AQUARIUM. To obtain the best results, the aquarium should be placed where it has an abundance of light. A position close to a window, facing east, west or north is most suitable. If exposed to the sun during the summer months or, between the hours of I0 a. m. and 3 p. m. during the other seasons, the water will become overheated, and this is frequently responsible for the loss of valua- ble specimens. While small vessels may find room on a window-sill, or on a board fastened with two angle irons to the window-sill, larger and consequently heavier tanks should be placed on a strong wooden table or on one of wrought iron. To facilitate moving, the legs of the table should be furnished with castors. The weight of an aquarium of even medium size is considerable, and many Te Fresh Water Aquarium an accident will be avoided by having every facility for easy handling and moving. Different opinions have been expressed about the influence of strong sunlight upon the aquarium. While some aquarists claim that it is not detrimental to the health of the inmates, either vegetable or animal, others claim just the reverse. Our expe- rience is, that strong sunlight and the thereby increased temperature of the water are undoubtedly harmful, and sometimes even fatal to the more delicate fishes. More- over the aquatic plants decay under the in- fluence of too much sunlight and it favors the growth of the alge, which sometimes covers the glass with an unsightly green coating. Where no other window but one of southern exposure is available, it is very easy to protect the aquarium against the sun by placing a piece of pasteboard in front of it or by keeping the shade down. During the summer months the aquarium may be placed outside the window, or in a The Aquarium 13 shady part of a garden, but no perceptible benefit to plants or fishes should be expected from this change. Frequently a very rapid formation of algze will be the only visible, if undesirable, result. THE BOTTOM OF THE AQUARIUM. As long as we intend to have plants in our aquariums, we have to provide some material enabling them to gain a foothold on the bottom. The opinion as to what this material should consist of, varies almost as much as to what plants are “best” for aquarium use. While it is undoubtedly true that most aquatics prefer a certain soil, and in their wild state are mostly found where this soil occurs, it is far from true that this must necessarily be provided in order to grow them successfully in the aquarium. Different mixtures have been recommended, such as loam, peat and sand, leafmold and sand, well-decayed manure, loam and gravel, and others, and it cannot be denied that cer- 14 Fresh Water Aquarium tain plants do require these soils. But as we have a number of excellent plants which suc- ceed very well in pure gravel, without any organic admixture, it is not advisable to use any of the other mentioned mixtures for the bottom covering, as they contain a very high percentage of vegetable substance, which, under the influence of moisture, will rapidly decay, making the water more or less im- pure. The fact that the water seems clear, by no means guarantees its purity. Decay- ing substances settle on the bottom, and the moving of the inmates of the aquarium stirs them up, making the water cloudy and unfit for many of the tender and sensitive fishes. Even a layer of gravel spread over the soil is no protection against the infection of the water. It may be added that the cleaning of an aquarium, the bottom of which has been covered with soil, is a very unpleasant, and not at all easy task. Thus the cleanest and most satisfactory material for the bottom covering is a layer The Aquarium is of coarse gravel, so-called bird gravel, which can be obtained from every bird dealer. All dust and other impurities should be re- moved from it by repeated washing in clean water, before it is placed in the aquarium. It should then be spread in such a manner as to form a slanting surface, sloping, accord- ing to the size of the tank, from two to four inches on the higher, to from an inch to an inch and a half on the lower side. By turning the higher side outward and the lower toward the room, it 1s possible to ob- tain unobstructed observation of such fishes as prefer the lowest and darkest corners of the aquarium for their resting places. The main reason for the sloping bottom is that all impurities, such as excrements, remnants of food and decaying parts of plants, will gather on the lower side, from which they can easily be removed with the mud lever, —a little instrument provided for this pur- pose. On arranging the bottom of the aquarium 16 Fresh Water Aquarium it is necessary to provide shelter and hid- ing places answering the individual require- ments of the different inhabitants. A great number of ornaments and appliances, differ- ing in shape and material, are offered by dealers for this purpose. Ornaments of col- ored china or terra-cotta representing minia- ture ruins of castles, or rocks and grottoes with different openings are popularly used in aquariums of moderate size, but, while they may be tolerated where nothing better is obtainable, they should not be used where better material for the same purpose can be had. The ornaments are too artificial to blend harmoniously with the other and most important contents of the aquarium. Far preferable are ordinary, colored stones, tastefully arranged by simply grouping them together without any binding medium, or fastening them together with cement in such a way, that they form grottoes or passages with openings and dark recesses suitable for hiding places. By far the most attractive The Aquarium 17 material in the line of rocks is tufa or tuffstone, a porous aqueous product. It may be used both in its natural form as it is quar- ried or in the shape of arches and grottoes, constructed from small, well-selected pieces Fic. 8. Ornaments of cemented tufa. and bound together with cement. The rough surface of the tufa favors the root- ing of aquatic plants and some of the natural cavities in the stone may be found large enough for individual aquatics of small size. It is most interesting to observe how the 18 Fresh Water Aquarium fishes and other inmates of the aquarium take advantage of these shelters, how they dart in and out through the passages, chas- ing each other in endless play. Often too, smaller and weaker fishes seek and find pro- tection from the attacks of their stronger and more aggressive companions by hiding in the small openings of the rock. Should the amateur prefer to construct his own lit- tle rockery, he must not forget to let it soak in water for a few days before he places it in position, so that all soluble mineral sub- stances may be thoroughly extracted; sub- stances which might otherwise be harmful to the living inmates of the aquarium. It is not advisable to introduce sea-shells into the aquarium. Being without life they are meaningless and by their slow decomposition the water may receive ingredients detrimen- tal to the health of its animal life. THE PLANTING OF THE AQUARIUM. Having prepared the aquarium according to the directions given in the preceding The Aquarium 19 Fic. 9. Tufa for aquarium use. 20 Fresh Water Aquarium pages, we can now begin the planting. Most of the aquatics are very brittle and easily bruised, and wounds caused by pressure upon leaves and stems never heal, but usually cause the rotting away not only of the in- jured parts, but also of branches and leaves coming in contact with them. It is there- fore advisable to remove everything that is not healthy and intact, as well as loose leaves, adhering soil and other occasional impurities. From three to six stems should then be carefully fastened together with a soft thin band of tinfoil, the weight of which will keep them in the proper position, that is, stems down and points up. To prevent the shifting of the plants by the larger in- mates of the aquarium, the stems can also be planted in the gravel, where they will promptly root. Some of our aquatics have bulbs, and these will have to be planted about an inch below the surface of the gravel. If properly selected the plants will rapidly grow and spread, and for this reason The Aquarium 21 the first planting should not be made too dense. The plants in the aquarium serve a double purpose,—that of beautification on the one hand, and on the other the performance of certain very important physical functions. As ornaments they compare favorably with the most delicate foliage-plants of our con- servatories and flower windows. Exceed- ingly graceful, of the most tender green, frequently shadowed with purplish or pink tints, varied in form, foliage and blossom, they more than repay the little care required for their cultivation. The delicate, almost hairlike growth found on many of the aquatic plants is one of their most desirable as well as their most peculiar characteristics, since it is elsewhere to be observed only on some mosses, ferns and a very limited num- ber of other land plants. Aquatic plants collected from streams, ditches and other localities, should not be transferred to the aquarium without having 52 Fresh Water Aquarium previously been subjected to the most minute inspection and to a thorough washing and cleaning; for they frequently harbor pests of almost microscopic dimensions but which, when introduced in the aquarium, multiply rapidly and bring death or disease to our pets before we are aware of it. The planting process itself is of the sim- plest. After the plants have been assorted as to their varieties, a deep hole is made in the gravel, from three to six stems are inserted and the gravel is then firmly pressed around the plants, so that they cannot be torn up by the fishes. In transplanting aquatics sudden changes of temperature should be avoided, as they often damage the plants. To do this, newly acquired or collected plants should be carried home in some of the water in which they have been growing. If this should be practically the same temperature as the water of the aqua- rium into which they are to be transferred, the change will be inconsiderable and there- The Aquarium Bie fore harmless. If, however, it should be considerably colder or warmer, the plants should be kept for a few hours in the same room and temperature with the aquarium and then planted. In grouping aquatics care should be taken that they have ample room for development, and that they are so arranged as to form the pleasing picture of a little submerged garden. They should be placed at least two inches away from the elass, so that the latter can be cleaned with- out damage to the plants. Now also is the time to place such plants as will grow near, and above the surface of the water, in suit- able positions upon the rock. A few of the best varieties for this purpose will be de- scribed in another part of the book. As mentioned before, plants perform cer- tain functions of the greatest importance in the aquarium. They have to furnish the oxygen without which animal life cannot exist. Fishes, as well as amphibians, and even insects, have respiratory organs with 24 Fresh Water Aquarium which they inhale and absorb oxygen and exhale carbonic acid, a gas as essential to plant life as oxygen is to animal life. At times the exhalation of oxygen by some of the plants becomes visible. Under the in- fluence of sunlight they become covered with myriads of small silvery beads consist- ing of the purest oxygen. A slight moving of the plants will detach these beads and cause their ascent to the surface of the water. Thus it will be seen that an inter- dependence exists between animal and veg- etable life, the plants absorbing carbonic acid and exhaling oxygen, the animals ab- sorbing oxygen and exhaling carbonic acid. It is therefore indispensable for the welfare of the animals of an aquarium, that it be stocked with plants in the right proportion. Often the amateur may suffer the loss of his most valuable fishes simply because veg- etation in the aquarium is absent or insuffi- cient, in which case either additional vegeta- tion or an artificial aération of the water The Aquarium 25 is necessary. If this is not provided for, the fishes will die of suffocation. Of the two ways to improve the conditions in the aqua- rium, new or additional vegetation is by far the cheapest and easiest remedy of the evil. It is worth considering that vegetation is most active and vigorous in spring and the aquatics form no exception to this rule. There is therefore a certain advantage in arranging an aquarium in the spring, when within a few weeks the plants will be firmly established and fairly fill the space allotted to them, but there is no objection to begin- ning the work at any time regardless of the season, as long as the material can be ob- tained. The only difference is that during fall and winter the rooting and spreading of the plants may take a little longer. THE WATER. It is of the greatest importance for the well-being of vegetable and animal life in the aquarium to make use of the right kind of 26 Fresh Water Aquarium water. The latter should be as clear and pure as possible and free from odor. Drink- ing water, as it is furnished in most cities, will usually answer the purpose, provided that it is not too hard. Water containing such mineral substances as iron, lime, sul- phur, etc., is harmful, if not fatal to fishes and should therefore be avoided. But even such water can be considerably improved by be- ing exposed in a flat vessel to the atmos- phere, before being poured into the aqua- rium. Where other suitable water cannot be had, rain or river water can be used without the slightest danger. Even with the greatest of care the water in the aqua- rium after a time may have a slightly musty or swampy odor. This is caused by the vegetation and does not indicate that a re- newal of the water is necessary. THE FILLING AND EMPTYING OF THE AQUARIUM. In filling the aquarium with water it is important that the gravel and the plants on The Aquarium 27 the bottom should not be disturbed. To prevent this, a waterglass, or other similar vessel, may be placed in the aquarium on the side where the gravel is lowest. In this the water is poured slowly and carefully until it reaches about half the height of the aquarium. Now the glass may be removed and the filling can be continued up to the proper height, but even now the water should not be poured in with too much force, as it will often disturb the gravel and wash out the newly set plants. To effect the fill- ing without any disturbance of the contents of the aquarium, a simple implement, the filling tube, can be used. Should the water appear slightly cloudy after the filling, one or two days, or in smaller vessels even a few hours, will be sufficient to effect a set- tling of all floating impurities, so that it is absolutely transparent. If the aquarium is properly stocked with fishes and plants in the right proportion, a partial renewal of the water and a cleaning out of the sedi- 28 Fresh Water Aquarium ment, once a week in a small aquarium, and less frequently in those of large size, will be all that is necessary to keep everything in good condition. It may be mentioned here that in all aqua- riums with metal frames the water should reach up, and slightly above the lower edge of the top border. This will hide from view the unsightly line of impurity, fre- quently caused by evaporation of the water, and will greatly add to the general good appearance of the aquarium. To prevent the jumping out of fishes from a tank filled close to the top, a piece of netting fas- tened to a wire frame the size of the top, or a fine galvanized or painted wire netting cut to fit the shape and size of the aquarium may be placed on top of it. A plate of glass is, however, preferable, as it answers the double purpose of preventing the fishes from jumping out and the dust from falling in. To admit air to the aquarium the glass should be supported by resting on the cor- The Aquarium 29 ners upon a few pieces of rubber or cork. To empty the aquarium of the water, a piece of rubber tubing about two and a half times as long as the depth of the aquarium is necessary. The vessel which is to receive the water should be placed on a considerably lower level than the bottom of the tank to be emptied. One end of the tube is then to be placed fairly close to the bottom of the aquarium, the other end is bent on the out- side slightly below the level of the bottom of the aquarium. Suction with the mouth at this end will start the flow. Anyone who may object to this method can fill the tube with water, closing the outer end tightly by pressure with the fingers, sink the open end into the aquarium and bend the outer part of the tube as low as its length will permit. The water will flow out as soon as the pressure is removed. CHAPTER II. AQUARIUM PLANTS. seq aquarium plants may be sub- lclivided as follows, MEY! §=Rooted submerged plants. eppied plants with floating leaves. Free swimming plants. Bog or swamp plants. ROOTED SUBMERGED PLANTS. These plants root in the bottom of the aquarium and either do not reach the sur- face of the water at all, or after having reached it, continue to grow close to, and beneath it, but without showing any part of their vegetation above the surface. Some of the submerged plants, however, develop their flowers above the surface of the water and in this case change the character of their 30 Aquarium Plants RI Fic. 10. Fanwort, Cabomba caroliniana. Keller, pho- tographer. 32 Fresh Water Aquarium leaves considerably. Submerged plants are especially adapted for use in the aquarium, as they grow easily and freely and as they exhale a large amount of oxygen. They also form good hiding places for the inmates of the aquarium. While the following list may not be complete it is sufficient for every purpose, as we mention all the best known and most valuable species of submerged plants. The varieties named are nearly all found in the United States. Fanwort (Cabomba caroliniana) is too well known to the amateur aquarist to need a long description. It is invaluable for the aquarium, as it roots and grows very freely. With its finely divided fan-like leaves it forms one of the most graceful ornaments of the aquarium and cannot be too highly praised. The Cabomba is found wild in a good many localities and can be bought cheaply wherever aquatics are sold. The plant grows luxuriously both summer and winter and for this reason is especially val- Aquarium Plants Pink Fanwort, Cabomba roscfolia. 33 34 Fresh Water Aquarium uable. Being densely foliated it exhales a considerable amount of oxygen. It bears an ornamental white flower, blossoming above the surface of the water. These plants when taken from their native waters often carry harmful vegetable and animal parasites and in order to prevent contamina- tion, they should be subjected to a thorough washing in salt-water, before being trans- ferred to the aquarium. Pink Fanwort (Cabomba roscfolia) resem- bles Cabomba caroliniana in all essential parts without being quite as valuable. The plant has a dark pinkish color and is very ornamental, especially when new branches form. These are of a much brighter color than the older parts of the plant. Cabomba_ roszfolia roots more slowly than the first variety and is inclined to soften and rot. The Cabomba seldom ripen their seed un- der cultivation, but they propagate very easily through cuttings or branches, which a5 Aquarium Plants ‘SLUSNpDd DIDUIGAISOAT ‘prrA\ PlVUdaT “TI “OI ‘op ‘d 930 UMNsAIutgp wunppXydoyvig7 ‘untienbe ur Suraois JAOMUIO OI ‘DI p LUGO} t f : ‘gS “d o05 ‘sLysijpd DISIMpNT ‘aytaysasoo7T asyey Suraos$-duweac Sz cor, 3 > LG ee Flay ‘I ! > S = 7 wy We 36 Fresh Water Aquarium will root readily and without much care. They will not, however, thrive well in hard water containing lime. Cabomba roszfolia falls an easy victim to vegetable parasites such as alge. Mermaid! Weed (Proserpinaca palustris) is a graceful aquatic with finely divided leaves, arranged around the stem in alternating order. The stems are slender and pliable. It will show to best advantage when planted not in bunches, but in single stems. It is a good oxygenator and grows very well in gravel, and better in winter than in summer. It is found very abundantly around Philadel- phia, but is also wild and more or less com- mon throughout a large part of the United States. Willow Moss (l’outinalis antipyretica) is the best of several varieties which are rather difficult to distinguish. It is well known as a good aquarium plant. As it is one of a limited number of aquatics, which remain Aquarium Plants 27 q Fic. 13. Willow Moss, Fontinalis antipyretica. green and healthy through all seasons, it is of great merit. In nature this plant is found in slow-flowing, shaded streams, growing on stones, roots and old timber, 38 Fresh Water Aquarium where it forms good and welcome hiding places for many of the small inhabitants of the water. It is common all over the United States. Fontinalis is one of the largest aquatic mosses and forms dense masses, ranging in color from a bright, to an almost blackish olive-green. The stems are about one foot long, frequently and irregularly divided. The leaves, which resemble large scales, are placed densely around the stem. Fontinalis antipyretica, as the scientific name indicates, was valued as a preventative and a cure for scalds and burns. Fontinalis delacarlica is of a more delicate growth and has smaller leaves than the pre- vious variety. It is of less value for the aquarium than Fontinalis antipyretica, as it is soft and of little resistance. It should not be used as long as the other variety can be obtained. Common Starwort (Callitriche verna) is a valuable plant for the aquarium, where it Aquarium Plants 39 Fontinalis delacarlica. Fic. 14. 40 Fresh Water Aquarium thrives well and without special care. Its light green leaves are narrow on the lower part of the stem, but reversed ovate on the upper end, where they form little star-shaped rosettes which rest on the surface of the water. The plant will last for years, and is one of the aquatics on which plant-eating fishes prefer to feed. The Callitriche are found in ditches and ponds in stagnant and slowly flowing waters. Fall Starwort (Callitriche autummnalis) has a denser and slightly darker foliage than Callitriche verna, which it otherwise resem- bles. The Callitriche should be planted in single stems. Hornwort (Ceratophylliuimn demersum) can be well recommended for the aquarium. It will continue growing, if simply thrown in the water, as it has very small roots and will not take a firm hold of the gravel. A band of tinfoil wound round the lower end of the stem will hold it down to the bottom. As the young growth of the Hornwort is Aquarium Plants 41 Fic. 15. a—Common Starwort, Callitriche verna. b.— Fall Starwort, Callitriche autumnalis. much more graceful and more brightly col- ored than the old or lower part, it is well to cut the lower part off as soon as the top nears the surface, and then replant the top. 42 Fresh Water Aquarium Fic. 17. Hornwort as growing wild, Ceratophyllum de- mersum, Aquarium Plants 43 During the winter this plant is only partly green. (See Fig. 16, page 35.) The leaves surround the stem in whorls and are very finely divided in almost thread- like filaments. It is one of the most com- mon pond plants, found in most parts of the United States, but varying considerably ac- cording to its habitat. In southern waters it grows very much denser and darker, even with a reddish tint, so that it looks almost like a different species. Canadian Waterweed (Elodea canadensis) is a rank grower, forming a network of long slender branches with three or more small leaves arranged around the stem in circles. The young branches are of a light bright green. It grows most readily, even from the smallest piece of stem with some leaves thrown in the water, but it is prefer- able to fasten the stems in the bottom gravel. As it is inclined to a very rapid growth, it has to be watched and pruned, to prevent its encroaching upon the sites of other and pos- 44. Fresh Water Aquarium sibly better plants. It is common all through the United States. Fic. 18. Canadian Waterweed, Elodea canadensis. The Dense Waterweed (El/odca densa), a species said to be introduced from South America, is of a more robust and, as the Aquarium Plants 45 name indicates, of a denser growth than Elodea canadensis. It possesses all good Fic. 19. Dense Waterweed, Elodea densa. qualities of the former species and even sur- passes it in beauty. This plant is not gen- 46 Fresh Water Aquarium erally known, but deserves the highest rec- ommendation. In this case, too, the growth should be watched, as it may encroach upon its less vigorous neighbors. Narrow-leaved Waterweed (Elodca angusti- folia) is a native variety of great beauty and hardiness. The thin stems are densely covered with narrow, pointed leaves, dark green on the older, but bright light green on the new growth. The plant shows consid- erable variation, which may be caused by habitat or season, or possibly by both. We have found the leaves strongly curled, so that we were tempted to regard the plant as an undescribed species; but careful com- parison with specimens from different lo- calities proved to us that our plant was Elodea angustifolia. It is a very desirable aquarium plant, comparing favorably with other species. Tape-grass (]alisneria spiralis). This isa most valuable aquarium plant, and an easy and free grower. The bright green grass- Aquarium Plants 47 Fic. 20. Narrow-leaved Waterweed, Elodea angustifolia. 48 Fresh Water Aquarium like leaves, supported by the water, grow up- right, without appearing stiff. The roots are fibrous and take a firm hold in the gravel. The plants are of different sexes and can Fic. 21. Tape-grass, Valisneria spiralis. be best distinguished by the flowers which appear late in summer. The female flower is supported by a long slender stem and ap- pears as a green calix. When flowering it stands slightly above the level of the water. Aquarium Plants 49 The male flower has a very short stem and, before opening, resembles a small green cap- sule. To cause the fertilization, the male flower separates itself from the stem and mounts to the surface of the water, where it opens, and floating, carries the pollen to the female flower. After the fructification is accomplished, the stem of the female flower contracts into a spiral, thereby sub- merging it, so that the seed ripens under the water. Outside of the flowering season it is not easy to distinguish the sexes. Usually the leaves of the female are broader and darker than those of the male plant. There is also a difference in the formation of the roots. While the root fibers of the female plant are bunched around a bulblike knot, those of the male plant are placed on a somewhat elon- gated central stem. The Valisneria is easily propagated from runners which extend from the older plants in all directions. If planted in an aquarium 50 Fresh Water Aquarium they should be given ample space so that they can spread without too much crowding. They are equally valuable and ornaniental during all seasons and grow well in warm and cold water. In an aquarium with abundant light, the runners of the Valisneria will grow close to the bottom, whereas in a darker position they will grow more or less upright to reach the light as quickly as pos- sible. Valisneria is found wild in rivers, canals and shallow lakes in the eastern parts of the United States. Waterviolet or Waterfeather (/Tottonia pa- lustris). This is a very graceful plant with light green, deeply laciniated leaves placed in whorls around the stem. The ornamen- tal, white flowers appear in summer grow- ing straight upright out of the water. The plant itself is rather brittle and delicate, and to be at its best, should have sandy loam for a bottom. Hottonia can be propagated from seed, or so-called winter-buds, a form of much condensed branches which grow dur- Aquarium Plants 51 ing the fall and, sinking to the bottom, de- velop into new plants in spring. This plant is found in ponds, pools and bogs in wooded localities and begins to grow as soon as the water is free from ice. Mudplant or Kidney-leaved Heteranthera (Heteranthera renifornus). Although orig- inally found in swamps, this plant should have a place in every aquarium, regardless of size or arrangement, as it grows remark- ably well and is highly ornamental. The leaves are elliptical or faintly kidney-shaped, of a very pleasing yellowish green or light olive color, forming dense masses after be- ing well established. The ribs radiate from the stem in a starlike pattern. This plant grows freely from cuttings and lasts well throughout the winter. This Heteranthera is found in shallow rivers, ditches and ponds, in the warmer parts of North Amer- ica. Seagrass-leaved Heteranthera (Heteran- thera zosterefolia), a variety from Brazil, is Fresh Water Aquarium Aquarium Plants 53 of considerable beauty and merit. It grows well where it has a sufficiently high tem- perature. Pondweed (Potamogeton) is found in many varieties all through the United States. While most of them may be very interest- ing to the botanist, only a limited number are of actual value to the aquarist. It is not easy to distinguish the different pond- weeds, as location, light and quality of water cause remarkable changes in the color and shape of the leaves. One of the best varieties is the,— Wavy-leaved Pondweed (Potamogeton cris- pus). As the name indicates, it has wavy leaves, submerged and varying considerably in length, shape and even in color. The lat- ter, if normal, is a brownish green but through the influence of light and quality of water it may change to a bright clear green, while the usually wavy and curly leaves may become almost flat, so that the original spe- cies can hardly be recognized. The plant 54 Fresh Water Aquarium Fic. 23. Wavy-leaved Pondweed, Potamogeton crispus. branches freely and forms so-called winter- buds, looking like small burrs. After ma- turing, these buds sink to the bottom and Aquarium Plants 55 form new plants. The easiest and quickest way to propagate the plant is to take branches and plant them in sand or in a mixture of sand and soil. The blossoms of the Potamo- geton are not ornamental and may be re- moved before they develop. All Potamoge- tons are good oxygenators. Potamogeton perfoliatus. This pondweed has much shorter leaves than Potamogeton crispus. They are generally ovate and slightly serrated near the point. The stem grows through the base of the leaves, which form a rather dense growth and are all sub- merged. It grows very well even in small aquariums and keeps remarkably free from alge. Dense Pondweed (Potamogeton densus) re- mains bright green in the aquarium all winter. It has two kinds of leaves. Those growing under water are long and slender, almost ribbon-shaped on the base; but as the plant grows, reaching the surface of the water, it forms swimming leaves, which are 56 Fresh Water Aquarium oval, slightly heart-shaped on the base, of a brownish color and a leathery appearance. The submerged leaves disappear as soon as the floating leaves form. Potamogeton amplifolius. This pondweed, of which we give a photographic repro- duction, is one of the best aquarium plants, a splendid grower, a good oxygenator and highly ornamental on account of its graceful form and its exceptionally vivid green color. One who has collected the plant in its native waters will hardly recognize it in our pic- ture. Only the few bottom leaves, grown before it was collected, indicate its normal form. The after growth made in the aqua- rium differs so radically from the wild plant that it would never be taken for what it actually is. While all Potamogetons are subject to variations caused by the habitat and local conditions, we never observed so considerable a change as in this case. It would be interesting to see, if the plant, when transplanted from the aquarium to outside Aquarium Plants Ge Fic. 24. Potamogeton amplifolius. 58 Fresh Water Aquarium waters, would revert to the typical wild form. Swamp-growing False Loosestrife (Ludwigia palustris). Of all the different varieties only those enumerated here are of value to the aquarist. Ludwigia palustris has pointed, oval leaves of a bright green color, shaded with a brownish pink wherever ex- posed to the light. The leaves are placed alternately along the stem. (See Fig. 25, page 35-) Ludwigia mulertii is very much like the above variety. The greatest difference is in the longer leaves and in the more intense color which, 1f exposed to the light, turns to a deep red. The Ludwigias will not grow well ina dark place. If they have not a gen- erous amount of light the leaves will decay, leaving the stems bare, and forming small pale leaves only on the extreme points of the plant. Ludwigia hirtella is found in rivers and ponds all through the United States. Dur- Aquarium Plants 59 Fic. 26. Ludwigia mulerti, 60 Fresh Water Aquarium ing the winter months it is quite an orna- mental plant, but in summer it grows above the water, losing the leaves below and show- ing nothing but bare stems. Narrow-leaved False Loosestrife (Ludwigia linearis) comes from the waters of Florida, and while it is not a true aquatic, it will do very well, if the stolons only are used for the aquarium. These stolons start from the base of the plant and form long, slender, graceful branches, which, if placed in the aquarium continue to grow well. The leaves of this species are long and oval, and placed densely around the stem, which is of a clear green color. The leaves are dark green above and of a more or less intense red be- low. The brighter the light the more con- spicuous the red. To keep this Ludwigia in good foliage, the flowering should be prevented by removy- ing the stem as soon as it appears. If al- lowed to grow above the water it will deprive the stolons of their nourishment, causing Aquarium Plants 61 Fic. 27. Narrow-leaved False Loosestrife, Ludwigia linearis. 62 Fresh Water Aquarium the leaves to drop and the plant to cease to be attractive. White Water Crowfoot (Ranunculus aqua- tilis) is found in slowly flowing streams and stagnant waters. It grows fairly well in the aquarium, where its finely divided leaves, with their kidney-shaped outline, are quite ornamental. The submerged leaves resem- ble those of the Cabomba to some extent, but the Ranunculus is much looser in growth. As soon as the plant reaches the surface of the water, the character of the leaves changes to an irregularly-lobed bright green form with a smooth glossy surface, and the delicate white blossoms appear soon after. Divaricated Crowfoot (Ranunculus divarica- tus) is found in the same localities as the Ranunculus aquatilis, but not quite so com- monly. All the leaves are submerged, of almost circular outline and very short stemmed. The flowers are white and long- stemmed and appear during the early sum- Aquarium Plants 63 mer. Both varieties, if carefully collected and transplanted in spring, will last for quite a while and if put in a light place will flower well. Water-aloe, Water-shears (Stratiotes al- oides). This plant is an introduction from Europe, where it grows in stagnant and slowly flowing waters. The plant is distin- guished from most of our aquatics by its pe- culiar aloelike appearance. It is quite large, the leaves are gathered into a dense rosette, submerged, or with only the points of the leaves above the surface of the water. The flowers, which are white, three-leaved and quite prominent, rarely appear in the aqua- rium. The male and female flowers appear on separate plants. The easiest propaga- tion is through runners which form freely. The plant floats in the water or can be planted in the gravel. It is highly decora- tive during the summer. In fall the leaves die down and the plant forms the so-called winterbuds which rest dormant in the 64. Fresh Water Aquarium Fic. 28. Water-aloe, Stratiotes aloides. muddy bottoms of their natural habitations. In a fairly high temperature the leaves may remain green during the winter, forming a very attractive aquarium plant. Aquarium Plants Fic. 29. Small-fruited Nitella, Nitella carpa. micro- 66 Fresh Water Aquarium Small-fruited Nitella (Nitella microcarpa) is avery graceful, but rather delicate aquatic. The greatest of care should be taken in trans- planting it from its native waters into the aquarium, as the threadlike stems are very brittle, sensitive to bright sunlight and sudden changes of temperature. To insure safe transportation, it should be carried in water. It is especially interesting in being one of the few plants which will show the circulation of the sap under a fairly strong magnifying glass. Swimming Arrow-wort (Sagittaria natans ) is one of our native aquatic plants, and must be counted under those of special merit. As long as the plant is young, the leaves are completely submerged, rather narrow and ribbonlike, and therefore very much like those of the Valisneria. Only a peculiar | curvature distinguishes them from those of the latter plant. The long oval swimming leaves seldom develop in the aquarium, and only after a long growing period, when they ' Aquarium Plants 67 appear simultaneously with the small white flowers. The Swimming Arrow-wort grows =; Fic. 30. Swimming Arrow-wort, Sa- gittaria natans. very well under almost any conditions, and will even keep on growing during the winter, if kept in a moderately warm room. 68 Fresh Water Aquarium The Creeping Rush (Juscus repens) comes to us from the Southern States. The flat stems spring froma fanlike bundle of narrow leaves of a very light, bright green. After a short growth new little fans form on the stems and continue to sprout and to spread until the plant appears more or less as a little bush, of exceedingly graceful appearance. Fine threadlike rootlets form at the base of the bunches of leaves, so that the propa- gation consists simply in cutting off the bunches, with part of the supporting stem, and in planting them wherever they are wanted in the aquarium. We have never observed the plant above the surface of the water, and we have also failed to notice any sign of flowering. In its wild state this Juncus accommodates itself to local condi- tions in that, wherever it happens to become submerged, it will show the same form of erowth which we see in the aquarium. As soon as the water recedes, however, or when growing from seed on moist but not sub- 69 Aquarium Plants Creeping Rush, Juncus repens. Fic. 31. 70 Fresh Water Aquarium merged ground, it forms a dense, short, grass-like plant and flowers like all other members of this large genus. Water Milfoil or Thousand-leaf (M/yriophyl- lum heterophyllum) is a native of the north- ern United States, where it is found in ponds. It is an exceedingly graceful plant with very finely divided, feathery leaves which sur- round the stem in whorls of from three to five. It is a hardy aquarium plant and gen- erates plenty of oxygen. It grows well in gravel and is satisfied with a moderate amount of light. It is easily propagated from the ends of the rapidly growing stems, which, when cut off and placed in the bottom gravel of the aquarium, will soon root and often grow so fast that a thinning out may be necessary. It grows well during the win- ter, but should not be planted in dense bunches. Pinnate-leaved Thousand-leaf (A/yriophyllum pinnatum) is a native of the southern states where it is found in ponds or slow-flowing Aquarium Plants aI Fic. 32. Pinnate-leaved Thousand-leaf, Myriophyllum pinnatum. waters. While it resembles our native spe- cies in all essential points, the whorls of leaves are closer together, making the ap- We Fresh Water Aquarium pearance of the plant slightly more compact. It is also less inclined to grow outside the water; thus keeping the submerged part in better foliage. We have frequently noticed that Myriophyllum pinnatum closes the sea- son’s growth with an especially dense cluster of leaves. Myriophyllum laxuwm, also a_ southern plant, is by far the most attractive and grace- ful species of the genus. The filaments of the leaves are like the finest threads, giving the plant the appearance of the most delicate lace. Our specimens, obtained from differ- ent sections of Florida and the waters of other southern states, show a great varia- tion of color, ranging from the most fiery red extending to the extremest point of the leaves, to a dark brownish red, this color be- ing uniform over the whole plant. Other specimens showed bright red stems, while the leaves were dark green, forming a beautiful contrast, unparalleled among aquatic plants, and only comparable with the color of some Aquarium Plants 7 of our greenhouse foliage plants. This va- riety of color is most likely caused by the amount of sunlight to which the plants have been exposed. In the aquarium they may Fic. 33. Myriophyllum laxum. fade to some extent, but enough color will remain to make them a conspicuous and at- tractive addition to our aquarium flora. Monniera crenulata. This interesting 74 Fresh Water Aquarium plant, from southern waters, is of rather recent introduction as an aquarium plant, and as far as we have observed it is most promising. The broad oval leaves are placed in pairs around a thick fleshy stem, in such a way that each pair stands in right angles to the previous one. The pairs are close together and each leaf half surrounds the stem. Five main ribs start from the base, branching outward and toward the point of the leaf. The color of the leaves varies from a somber olive to a bright green. The whole plant has a pleasant odor some- what resembling that of a ripe lemon. The flowers are inconspicuous. In Monniera a plant of a new form and character is introduced in our aquariums. The stems will grow rapidly and when reach- ing the surface will lie flat on the water. While the short, dense, newly-planted branches seem rather stiff, a few weeks of good growth will transform them into a very graceful, desirable addition to our aquatics. Aquarium Plants a5 ROOTED PLANTS WITH FLOATING LEAVES. Fragrant Dwarf Water-lily (Nymphca odorata minor). Of all the many beautiful varieties of this family only this one may be tried and that necessarily in large aquariums, in which it often produces its fragrant white blossoms. In order to facili- tate its flowering, the aquarium should have a sunny position. This lily is a native of North America, where it grows in shallow, stagnant waters. The leaves are heart- shaped at the base, of an almost round out- line, dark green with a reddish brown bor- der. The Nymphzea needs a rich soil in which it may root firmly. The easiest and safest propagation is through seeds, which are germinated in a glass jar of water, with a bottom covering of mold. Placed in the light in a moderately warm room, the young plants will soon be strong enough for trans- planting. 76 Fresh Water Aquarium The Sea-can or Floating-heart (Limmnanthe- mun nymphe@oides) is a native of Southern Fic. 34. Sea-can or Floating-heart, Limnanthemum nym- phecides. Europe and Asia. The creeping root throws out long runners from which the long-stemmed, floating leaves grow. The Aquarium Plants ay latter are almost circular with a deep nar- row cut near the point of attachment. Their upper surface is dark green mottled with brown. The large flowers are of a beautiful golden-yellow color, with darker center stripes. They are deeply lobed, and hairy towards the center. During the sum- mer months the Limnanthemum will grow well and flower in a large aquarium. It passes the winter in a dormant state. To thrive well it should have good, rich soil and plenty of sunlight. Water-key (Limmnocharis humboldtit) comes from South America. It is a fine and durable plant, growing well even in small aquariums. The floating leaves are broad, almost circular oval, heart-shaped at base, and with a very short point at the end. The middle rib is strongly pronounced. The flowers are large, of a beautiful yellow and have three petals. This plant, like the pre- vious one, needs rich soil and a rather sunny position. 78 Fresh Water Aquarium Fragrant or Double Water-ear (4 ponogeton distachyus) was introduced from South Af- rica, but is quite hardy and well adapted for use in the aquarium. The leaves are long- Fic. 35. Fragrant Water-ear, dponogeton dis- tachyus. stemmed, long oval, bright green on the upper surface and pinkish below. Under proper treatment the plant will grow well in both summer and winter, and develop its pe- culiar white and highly fragrant flowers Aquarium Plants 79 placed on a bifurcated stem. After the flowering they sink below the surface to ripen their hard seeds. The plants need plenty of light, a loamy soil and the tem- perature of a living room. They propagate from both seeds and roots. Water-nut (Trapa natans), formerly of frequent occurrence in the ponds and swamps of Germany, but now quite rare. The black seed, or nut, has four strong thorns and a chestnut-like kernel. The seed will germinate if placed in a glass of water in a cool, but not cold room.