FREE ISSN 1045-3520

Volume 18 Winter 2001

The Conscientious Reef Aquarist: Photo by Tom Frakes Blue-Green Algae (Cyanobacteria) in Marine Aquaria by Robert Fenner Problems associated with blue-green algae account for a large number of requests for help that I receive over the Internet. I suspect that blue-green algae problems account for more loss of captive life than any other cause, excepting deaths resulting from problems. Blue- green algae are simple life forms, and easily defeated in aquaria. A discussion follows that describes what they are, why they are undesirable in an , and how to get rid of them. Classification Blue-green algae are more properly known as Cyanobacteria. Cyanobacteria and true are classified in the kingdom Monera. True algae are actually in the kingdom Protista, along with similar life forms. Although Cyanobacteria are not really algae, the distinction is a technical one, and many people continue to call them blue-green algae. Many species of blue-green algae that are encountered by aquarists are microscopic, but some forms resemble green filamentous algae. Colonies generally appear to be blue-black or reddish slimes, smears, or filamentous threads. in Bali Barat National Park largely escaped bleaching in 1998. Environment Blue-green algae can be introduced into an aquarium in newly-added , in water with livestock additions, in food, and even as 9th International Reef Degradation spores entering by means of the air supply. In Reef Symposium Numerous papers concerned with reef general, they are more tolerant of fluctuations degradation discussed localized reef destruction in pH, temperature, and specific gravity than Report and the effects of temperature and pollution. One session, led by Dr. E. A. Shinn, considered the desired aquarium species. The best defense by Tom Frakes and Rand Kollman against too much blue-green algae is the effects of African dust on Caribbean reefs. Storms promotion of the stable conditions that favor This past fall we had the opportunity to in African deserts result in dust carried by the growth of true algae. Maintain good water attend the 9th International wind across the Atlantic to the Caribbean, quality by cleaning filters and making regular Symposium held on the island of Bali, Indonesia. northern South America, and the United States. water changes, thus eliminating as much as Every four years this conference brings together These clouds of dust contain iron, nitrogen, and possible organic and inorganic nutrients. This reef scientists, environmentalists, and phosphate which rain down on the reefs, should help to keep the nitrate level below 10 governmental representatives from around the fertilizing algae and stimulating algal blooms. In parts per million and the phosphate level below world to discuss the state of the world’s coral recent years the African deserts have increased in 0.5 parts per million. Of course, overfeeding is a reefs. For five days, each morning and afternoon size, resulting in an increase in the amount of prime source of the organic compounds that session was opened with a one hour plenary talk, dust, now estimated to be as much as a billion fuel blue-green algae. Be particularly careful to followed by several hours of scientific presenta- tons a year. In a recent study that compared air use only a minimum of liquid and tions spread among fourteen separate rooms. quality in 79 U.S. national parks, the St. Johns gelatine-based frozen foods. These twenty minute presentations covered Island National Park in the U.S. Virgin Islands had topics ranging from coral physiology to reef one of the highest counts of particulates in the air. Lighting ecology to the social and political effects of reef Another presentation concerned the risk to The second most important consideration management practices. There were almost 2000 Caribbean reefs from increased African use of for algae in an aquarium, after water quality, is participants. Choosing and finding presentations fertilizers and pesticides. A common terrestrial lighting. Providing light that is adequate for each day was quite a job. We would like to fungus that causes aspergillosis in two sea fans growth of beneficial algae is the best way to highlight a few of the sessions we attended that was isolated from the African dust by J. Weir and discourage the growth of blue-green algae. A may be of interest to marine aquarists. his associates. It was also suggested that the Continued on page 4 Continued on page 3 ©2001 Aquarium Systems, Inc., Mentor, OH - Printed in U.S.A. sheet of 1200, 1500, 2000, and 2500 grade for only in a horizontal, back-and-forth direction. Refinishing a Working fifty cents each. I used Nova Light #2 and Make one stroke the length of the aquarium and Plexiglass Reef Heavy #3 Acrylic Scratch Polishes on the then reverse. The first few strokes will allow you outside surface to polish the plexiglass and to judge the best speed to use. If the inner Aquarium lubricate the magnet. They are available from magnet falls to the bottom of the aquarium be by LeRoy Headlee Novus Company, 800 548-6872, or from a sure to remove any sand or gravel before plastics wholesaler. continuing. Remove the inner magnet every few At Geothermal Aquaculture Research minutes and wash the sandpaper with fresh water Foundation we maintain about forty separate Procedure and clean paper towels. This will remove any systems for the study of ornamental coral The materials you will need include one gummy build up on the sandpaper. production. Each October we hold an pair of Twister® aquarium magnets, one tube of Add new sheets of 400 grade sand paper until international Reef Farming Seminar, and in thick gel super glue, a roll of soft paper towels, the entire inner surface is sanded and the September last year we knew we had to do a lot one bottle each of Nova Acrylic Heavy Scratch majority of the scratches removed. To add a new of cleaning before the seminar. I have a four year Polish and Light Scratch Polish, and one piece sheet on top of the old one, place four drops of old 150 gallon plexiglass in my each of 3M Imperial Wet or Dry sandpaper super glue on the old sheet and press the new office. Several days before the seminar a house grade 400, 600, 1200, 1500, 2000, and 2500. one in place. When it becomes clogged, pull it off painter decided to pitch in and help by cleaning Use the following procedure on a small, the old sheet and replace it. The 400 grade paper the tank. The internal glass cleaning magnet fell inconspicuous test section of your aquarium to will do most of the work and is the least into the gravel and trapped a sharp piece of sand. gain confidence and technique before polishing expensive grade. Move on to the 600 grade When he had finished helping, there was scarcely the entire front panel. paper, still using the heavy polish. After the 600 a section of the plexiglass that was not scratched. If you can dedicate the pair of magnets to this grade paper, wash the outside magnet in tap At this point, it was hard to remember that project, attach the sandpaper to the inside water and change to the fine scratch removing the painter was just trying to help. That reef magnet using four large drops of super glue. If polish. When you have finished with the 2000 contains over a hundred types of coral, and there you’re going to use the magnets later for cleaning grade paper you will see that the inner glass is was no way to tear down the system and remake , attach the first sheet of sandpaper polished. The final polish, with 2500 grade it before the seminar. I needed to find a way to with two strong rubber bands. Begin removing paper, is necessary if you plan to photograph polish the front inside surface of the aquarium the scratch by using 400 grade paper attached to the reef. Sand lightly in a random circular while the were in the aquarium, only the inside magnet and squeezing a two inch long pattern. Other-wise, the light will refract from inches from the front surface. line of heavy scratch polish on the felt pad of the the parallel grooves in the polished surface. I spent over a decade working as an antique outside magnet for lubrication. It is very Such refraction is not noticeable to the eye, refinisher to pay my way through college, and I important to remember to move the magnets but is obvious in a photo. understand how to polish surfaces. I had experience polishing the outside of the coral farming units with wet and dry sandpaper and a liquid plastic polish, but I couldn’t use the polish inside the aquarium because it would be toxic to the animals. I decided to use a pair of Twister ® magnetic aquarium cleaners with wet and dry sandpaper. The magnets were perfect for this job because they are thin and very strong. Sandpaper is graded by a number system. The larger the number the finer the grit. I started with 400 grade paper and ended with 2500 grade. Although a standard paint store will carry 400 and 600 grades, finding the higher grades may be a problem. My sister referred me to a hot rod body shop, where I was able to purchase a half T Meticulously blended to simulate natural ocean PUBLICATION INFORMATION water, Instant Ocean SeaScope® was created to present short, informative dissolves to a clear solution articles of interest to marine aquarists. Topics may in minutes...quickly include water chemistry, nutrition, mariculture, system achieving and maintaining design, ecology, behavior, and health. Article contributions are welcomed. They should deal with the proper pH for your pertinent topics and are subject to editorial reviews that aquarium. in our opinion are necessary. Payments will be made at existing rates and will cover all author's rights to the Make it easy on yourself material submitted. (and your fish). Get the SeaScope® is published quarterly for free distribution aquarium salt that’s the first through local aquarium dealers. Dealers not receiving choice of hobbyists and copies of SeaScope® for distribution to their professionals the world over. customers should call Aquarium Systems, Inc. to be 1-800-822-1100 added to the mailing list. Telephone: 1-800-822-1100. Instant Ocean...just add Aquarists interested in receiving copies directly should water. send their name and address, along with $2.00 ($4.00 foreign countries) for postage and handling (four issues) to SeaScope®, Aquarium Systems, Inc., 8141 Tyler Blvd., Mentor, OH 44060. Address comments, questions, and suggestions to Thomas A. Frakes, Editor. Internet: www.aquariumsystems.com or E-Mail: [email protected] © 2000 The Aquaria Group supplying theaquariumtrade.WaltSmith designed forrestockingdamagedareasor subject ofsomesessions.Cultureprogramsare Culture meaningful information. will bereportedseparatelytoprovidemore from importpermits.Inthefutureeachcategory sand, andoccasionallyliverock.Thedatacame often includedlivecoral,coralskeletons, were reportedbyweightorpiececount,and management decisions.Inthepast,coralimports provide betterdataforuseinmaking trade andtostandardizereportingmethods papers describedeffortstomonitorthecoral program inSeaScopeatalaterdate.Several ornamentals. Hehasagreedtodiscussthis the collectionandhandlingofmarine relating todevelopingcertificationstandardsfor Aquarium Council,participatedindiscussions Holthus, theexecutivedirectorofMarine ornamental tradeandthelivefoodfishtrade.Paul uniform collectionstandardsforboththe Collection Standards grazers areremovedfromreefs. management ofornamentalfisheries,where aquariums, whereweallbattlealgae,andforthe model canbeconsideredbothforcoralreef grazing, resultinginturfalgaedominance.This dominance, andlownutrientswithreduced high grazing,resultingincorallinealgae extremes wouldincludeelevatednutrientswith fleshy algae.Possibilitiesbetweenthesetwo grazing thatwouldresultinanovergrowthof other extremeishighnutrientsandreduced grazing wouldresultincoraldominance.The grazing. Oneextremeoflownutrientsandhigh reefs basedonthebalanceofnutrientsand coral, corallinealgae,turforfleshyalgaeon Littler andLittler.Itpredictsthedominanceof Dominance Modeloriginallyproposedin1984by Smith, andHuntersupporttheRelative a sessiononalgae.TheirpaperandonebySmith, recently releasedbookCaribbeanReefPlants,led Algae borne factor. urchin massive die-offin1983ofthelongspinedsea Symposium Report 9th InternationalCoralReef Permuteran, Bali. Dead tablecoralfrom the1998bleachingevent, Culture ofcoralandreeforganismswasthe Several sessionsweredevotedtothetopicof Diane LittlerandMarkLittler,authorsofthe Diadema might havebeenduetoadust Continued frompage1

Photo by Tom Frakes Destructive FishingPractices for coralcultureintanks. whether thispatentedprocesshasanapplication electrical current.Ithasnotyetbeenestablished grow fasterthannearbycoralswithoutthe thick ormore.Coralsattachedtothisstructure calcium carbonateontothesteelframeaninch the surfaceandacceleratingprecipitationof hydroxide ionsonthecathode,raisingpH current isconnectedtothetwoparts,producing cathode framemadeofsteelbars.Alowvoltage consisting ofatitaniumwiremeshanodeand A demonstrationsitewassetuponBali growth andmorefishthannaturalcontrolreefs. structures intheMaldiveshavebettercoral Mineral Accretion,andreportthatsuchartificial Hibertz, andotherstermtheprocesselectrolytic artificial reefstructures.TomGoreau,Wolf the useofelectricitytoaccelerateformation changed topermitexportofculturedcoral. supply thepettradeinfutureiflawswere could expandtootherareas,andpossibly reefs inthatarea.Thiscommunitybasedproject is aprojectinCebu,Philippinesthatrestores damaged ordecliningreefs.Ofparticularinterest designed toculturecoralforrestorationof corals andclams.Severalotherprojectsare coral, hassetupacultureprojectonBalitorear trade. C.V.Dinar,anexporterofmarinefishand live rocktosupplementwildharvestsforthepet described hiseffortsinFijitocultivatecoraland cathode withlimestonecoatingandcorals(right). Electrolytic MineralAccretionreefnearPemuteran,Bali.Titaniumwireanode(left)andsteelre-barframework Coral andclamfarm onthenorthcoastofBali,setupby the exportcompanyC.V.Dinar. of thelivefishfoodtradedestinedforHong effects werediscussed,butmostlyinthecontext declining .Theuseofcyanideandits trapped betweenanexpandingpopulationand fisherfolk tryingtofeedtheirfamilieswhile Marinelife Alliancedescribedtheplightofpoor practices. FerdinandCruzoftheInternational An interestingapproachtoreefrestorationis Several papersdealtwithdestructivefishing and maintainedthereef,allowingcoralstoreturn. to ashortturf,the Tripneustes esculentus where abloomoftheshortspinedurchin dense fleshyalgalgrowths.However,onareef again butwithlowercalciumlevels? happen aswemovebacktowardtheseconditions in seawatermorethandoubled.Whatwill flourished andtheratioofmagnesiumtocalcium dioxide levelsdropped,afterwhichtimecorals builders. Gradually,temperatureandcarbon Corals existed,butwerenotthemainreef pH becauseofhighercarbondioxidelevels. in thisperiodseawaterwaswarmerwithalower development overthelast70millionyears.Early temperature, carbondioxidelevels,andcoralreef Opdyke andBobBuddemeierreviewed Thus coralsaredoublyatrisk.ApaperbyB. levels, reducingthecalcificationrateforcorals. elevated temperatures,butalsoinlowerpH dioxide levelresultsnotonlyingreenhouseeffect conclusion wasthatahigheratmosphericcarbon dioxide levelsoncoralsinthenextcentury.One of globalclimatechangeandincreasedcarbon that Caribbean reefs.J.Woodleyandothersreported recovery hasbeenacauseofcorallossonthese African dust.Ithasbeenproposedthattheirslow event wasduetoahigherthannormalinfluxof 1983. Asmentionedbefore,somebelievethis Climate Change nearly thepointoflocalextinction. occurs,iflargerfoodfishareover-fishedto in areaswherenon-destructivehookandline Kong. Damagedoesstillthreatenthereefs,even spined Caribbeanseaurchin Urchin Recovery Whole sessionsweredevotedtotheeffects Of majorinterestwasthedie-offoflong Diadema are slowtomoveintoreefswith Diadema grazed thefleshyalgaedown population recovered Diadema antillarium Continued onpage4 in

Photo by Rand Kollman Photos by Tom Frakes 9th International Coral Reef The Conscientious Reef Aquarist: Blue-Green Algae (Cyanobacteria) in Marine Symposium Report Aquaria Continued from page 3 Continued from page 1 Plenary Talks good rule of thumb is to provide 2 to 5 watts per 3. Limiting Food - It is important to limit nitrates Two plenary talks were particularly gallon of white daylight, avoiding yellowish, old and phosphates. Do not overstock or over- interesting. Dr. J. Veron spoke about reticulate bulbs. Standard, high output, very high output, feed fish and . Also be wary of evolution; that is, over time, corals divide into compact fluorescent, and metal halide bulbs have too many chemical supplements, and of separate species and then recombine under all been employed with good success. nitrates or phosphates that may be present in different conditions as time passes. Dr. Veron Filtration tap water or synthetic sea salt. also introduced his new three volume Corals of 4. Increasing Filtration - Improving the the World, which is now available. Dr. David Any type of filtration, whether chemical, efficiency of protein skimmers and Bellwood explained his use of ecomorphology physical, or biological, that removes excess preserving and increasing redox potential to compare reefs around the world. Reef nutrients such as nitrates and phosphates, is will benefit desirable algae. Chemical inhabitants are characterized by function of desirable. Limiting excess nutrients will benefit filtration can remove chemical nutrients organisms, rather than species. In other words, true algae, which is generally in competition with that may be present. species may differ from reef to reef, but some blue-green algae. 5. Controlling Biologically - Except for a few organisms must still perform various functions Aeration and Water Circulation hermit species, there are no animals that for the system to be successful. Blue-green algae thrive in areas that are graze on blue-green algae. Instead, the It is impossible to summarize all the topics poorly aerated and have low water circulation. proliferation of blue-green algae can be discussed during the five day symposium. These Using power heads, small submersible pumps, and controlled by competing life forms, such as highlights of the nearly 1500 papers presented are mechanical aerators, as well as directing the macro algae, live rock, and some corals, meant to pique the interest of the aquarist and discharge from outside filters and pumps, are all gorgonians, and anemones, which utilize future reef biologist. We will continue to look for good ways to increase circulation and aeration. available light and nutrients. These organisms articles from this symposium list that may be of produce certain chemicals that also combat interest to marine aquarists. the spread of blue-green algae. Antibiotics Numerous products have been promoted as chemical controls for blue-green algae. These include various forms of erythromycin, copper,

Photos by Robert Fenner sugar, and even pepper sauce. They all should be avoided, although some of them may actually Book Review: work. Once the blue-green algae die, the remnants frequently poison the aquarium. Also, The Marine unless conditions in the aquarium are changed, the algae will quickly rebound, and may even Aquarists’ develop into resistant strains. Quiz Book by Martin and Barbara Moe Suggested Reading Reviewed by Rand Kollman Please contact Aquarium Systems, Inc. at 800 822-1100 for a list of references related to this article.

The hobbyist who reads The Marine Aquarists’ Quiz Book by Martin and Barbara Moe will be both educated and entertained. Through the format of multiple choice questions, the Upcoming Events authors present detailed information of great Western Marine Conference - 2001 practical value on a wide range of aquarium- Marine Aquaria: Challenges for Today and related topics. The book is organized into five Tomorrow sections of eighty questions, with the April 22 - 24, 2001, Monterey, California accompanying answers on the back of each page Hosted by SEABay For information visit: www.seabay.org of questions. or contact Rod Leong, (510) 538-9495 The first section, titled Marine Fish, deals with e-mail: [email protected] fish identification and biology. The second section Conference of North America deals with Marine Invertebrates in a similar Top: Scytonema blue-green algae. Bottom: Zygnema MACNA XIII: “The Living Seas” manner. The third section, Marine Aquaristics, green algae. NOTE: Date change from previous issure of delivers practical information on basic and SeaScope: August 17 - 19, 2001, advanced aquarium theory, with a new look at Control of Blue-Green Algae Baltimore, Maryland Hosted by MASNA and The Chesapeake Marine terminology, equipment, and techniques. The Even when proper precautions are employed, Aquaria Society. Visit: www.cmas-md.org or fourth section, Reef and Sea, discusses marine aquarists sometimes still encounter blue-green www.masna.org/M13 aquariums in the broader context of the captive algae in their aquariums. Following are several and natural environment, the oceans and seas, 2nd International Conference on Marine methods to control this problem. Ornamentals and their inhabitants. The final section, Marine 1. Manual Removal - Gently wiping the sides of November 27 - December 1, 2001, Walt Disney Miscellany, covers a wide assortment of marine the aquarium and regularly removing algae World Resort, Lake Buena Vista, Florida topics, including history, people, public aquariums, from gravel and other surfaces can do a lot to For more information visit: hobbyist associations, and additional information www.ifas.ufl.edu/~conferweb/MO lessen the problem. or call: (352) 392-5930 about reef and sea creatures. 2. Siphoning - Siphoning works directly to The Marine Aquarists’ Quiz Book is well remove the algae, and also seems to trigger a written and easy to read. It is an excellent kind of chemical self-destruction. A small reference book for the beginning, intermediate, diameter rigid tube attached to a siphon hose and advanced hobbyist. is normally sufficient. FREE ISSN 1045-3520

Volume 18 Spring 2001

Caulerpa Ban in California by Thomas Frakes The possession of all species of algae may soon be illegal in California, if the recently Photo by Janine Cairns-Michael introduced Assembly Bill #1334 is passed into law. This bill comes after years of headlines about “Killer Algae” from the Mediterranean region. Last year two patches of Caulerpa taxifolia, which the press likes to call “Killer Algae,” were found in southern California. Before continuing, I must emphasize that the release of any non-native organism into the environment is illegal in California and most other states. Hobbyists should never discharge aquarium wastes, water, decorations, or organisms into the environment. Proper disposal requires treatment of water by a wastewater treatment facility, and all other wastes should go to a solid waste facility. This is true for both freshwater and marine organisms. Also, the sale and importation of the Mediterranean strain of Caulerpa taxifolia has been illegal in the United States and in many European countries for several years since it has been listed as a nuisance species. The Caulerpa strain that was found in California seems to be the same one that was didactylus once popular in European public aquariums in the early 1980’s. It has spread to many areas of the Mediterranean since it was first reported off Speak of the Devil: its dorsal spines and throw its pectoral fins Monaco in 1984. In the last decade many forward, exposing the bright or contrasting newspapers, magazines, and even a book have Fish in the Inimicus colors on the inner surfaces of the fins, as well as predicted dire consequences if this “invasive” fanning out the colorful caudal fin. If these colors by Scott Michael species spreads. The predictions included claims were visible when the fish is in repose the fish that the Caulerpa would overgrow everything in The members of the genus Inimicus are would be conspicuous, and perhaps this would its path, destroying fisheries, seagrass beds, and commonly referred to by the colorful common interfere with obtaining food. Sudden exposure of natural ecosystems throughout the region. names walkmen, sea goblins, bearded ghouls, these colorful markings may serve to warn larger Recent scientific studies now show that, although Chinese ghouls, demon stingers, and devilfish. fish that it is not good to eat, and to startle Caulerpa has spread to numerous areas, the Scientists tell us that the eight species in this would-be predators. fisheries have not been destroyed, and the claim genus belong to the family Scorpaenidae and the Devilfish are limited in distribution to the that it blanketed more than 10,000 acres subfamily Choridactylinae, although some place central and western Pacific and the Indian exaggerates the truth by a factor of 100. Of the this subfamily in its own family with Oceans. One species is sometimes seen in coastal areas Caulerpa has covered, 80% were putrid mud the stonefish. All Inimicus members have two free habitats in the Red Sea. Several species are bottoms that would not sustain native seagrass or pectoral rays which they use to pull themselves commonly encountered by divers in the western many other organisms. In the next few years we across the sea floor. They also have a crocodile- Pacific. Inimicus species are found on sand and will see more data that show this has not been like flattened snout with eyes situated high on the mud bottoms, adjacent to reefs, in sea grass the ecological disaster that was predicted. head. Of course, these fish are most famous, or meadows, and in estuaries. Although it is true that this species is not infamous, for their highly venomous spines, native to California, Caulerpa taxifolia is found especially the long, needle-like dorsal spines. Each Painful Encounter nearly world wide in the tropics. It exists one of the fifteen to eighteen spines, depending Devilfish lead pretty lazy lives. During the day naturally on both sides of the Atlantic and into on species, is supplied with toxin by an associated they are often partially buried in the the Gulf of Mexico, as well as from the Red Sea venom gland. with only the and top of the head across the Indian Ocean and over most of the In addition to its venomous spines, the exposed. They are almost impossible to detect. Pacific from Japan and Hawaii to Australia. It is devilfish’s next defense against predators is its Divers often become aware of a buried individual not native to California waters because they are cryptic coloration. Most of the time the colors only after placing an appendage, usually a hand, too cold. In fact, many botanists were surprised help it blend into its surroundings, especially near one, causing the fish to erupt from the when it is partially buried in the sand or mud. bottom. On my last trip to Inimicus infested seas, I Continued on page 4 However, when disturbed the devilfish will erect Continued on page 3 ©2001 Aquarium Systems, Inc., Mentor, OH - Printed in U.S.A. A System for At Hofstra University Marine Laboratory in Hempstead, New York we have constructed Laboratory or systems and initiated a protocol for captive cultivation of gobiids and other small marine fish Commercial Culture of species. Presently we have two broodstock

Gobiid systems in place capable of holding a total of 36 Photo by Todd Gardner spawning pairs of fish. A 300 gallon larval rearing by Todd Gardner and James L. Van Tassel Biology Department, Hofstra University, Hempstead, New York system of cylindrical polyethylene tanks is under construction, but larvae are currently raised in 10 The Gobiidae, comprised of approximately gallon aquaria. The rotifer Brachionus plicatilis is 2000 species, is the largest family of marine fishes used as a first food, followed by Artemia nauplii, (Robins et al., 1987), and is probably one of the and eventually commercially prepared dry foods. largest vertebrate families. Gobiids are an The marine alga Isochrysis galbana is used as a Tigrigobius macrodon (eggs) important component of the aquarium fish water conditioner and food for the zooplankton. industry throughout the world (Burgess et al., means of a ceramic . Then we add one 1988) and are used as food in some cultures Broodstock liter of Isochrysis and approximately 40,000 (Fishbase, 2000). Despite numerous Two systems, A and B, hold pairs of mature rotifers, represented by 10 rotifers per milliliter investigations, information regarding egg and fish. System A consists of seven 10 gallon aquaria (ml) of water. After the hatching we monitor the larval development remains relatively scarce and six 29 gallon aquaria. System B has five 10 rotifer concentration daily by removing 1 ml of (Moser, 1983). One problem with many early life gallon aquaria and twelve 5 gallon aquaria. The water to a depression slide and counting the history studies on gobies and other marine fishes number of aquaria in each system was individuals by means of the 40X lens of a is that larval specimens have historically been determined by available space on the support dissecting microscope. We maintain the rotifer obtained from the wild in plankton samples structures that were scavenged for the project. concentration at approximately ten per milliliter, (Moser, 1983; Van Tassel, 1998). Larval fish The filtration for each system consists of an open and add one liter of Isochrysis daily. collected in this manner are often physically cell foam prefilter, a 2100 cubic centimeter trickle About fifteen days after the hatching we damaged and the exact age can be impossible to filter with plastic Bio-balls, and a 150 centimeter introduce Artemia salina nauplii to the diet. After determine. The use of aquaculture techniques to (cm) by 10 cm cylindrical acrylic . five to ten days of overlapping foods, the larvae and raise marine fish species in the All components in each system are powered by receive Artemia exclusively. All rotifers and laboratory allows us to look at eggs and larvae an 1800 gallon per hour Mag-drive™ submersible Artemia are soaked in a commercially-prepared every day of their development, and at the pump. All return lines and drain lines are suspension of highly unsaturated fatty acids courtship and spawning behavior of mature constructed of standard PVC pipe and fittings. (HUFA) for twelve to sixteen hours prior to adults. Furthermore, information gathered from Water flow to each tank is controlled by a 1/2 feeding. Once the rotifer diet has been laboratory culture investigations can be a valuable inch PVC ball valve. A Lustar breeder box is in completely replaced by Artemia, alga is no longer resource for people interested in developing each 10 gallon tank, allowing us to keep two added, and an air driven foam filter is placed in aquaculture as an environmentally sound spawning pairs in those tanks without the danger the tank to help maintain good water quality. alternative to the exploitation of . of territorial aggression. The salinity of both Also, a 50% water exchange is performed every systems is maintained at 30 parts per thousand three to four days. Water is siphoned out (ppt) using Instant Ocean® synthetic sea salt. through a section of flexible air tubing that has a Broodstock specimens were collected by the 500 micron Nitex® sleeve over the end to keep authors in Puerto Rico, Florida, and New York, larvae from being siphoned out. Replacement or obtained from retail aquarium shops. water is siphoned into the tank from a The broodstock is fed three times a day, suspended bucket. Photo by Todd Gardner each time with a different food. The first food is a Most of the gobiids we work with reach frozen gelatine based diet prepared with a blend metamorphosis about thirty days after hatching, of fresh seafood, vegetables, marine algae, although some species, such as Tigrigobius Ziegler’s starter, and a multi-vitamin puncticulatum and Coryphopterus personatus can supplement. The second is a finely chopped take fifty to sixty days. We define metamorphosis as a significant increase in pigmentation, usually Tigrigobius multifasciatum mixture of clams, , squid, and capelin . The third is frozen, enriched Artemia. coupled with settlement from a pelagic to a A short length of 1/2 inch PVC pipe is placed benthic mode of existence. Around the time of on the bottom of each enclosure to serve as a metamorphosis we introduce dry food to the diet spawning substratum. Eggs are deposited on the and use it exclusively within three weeks. At this PUBLICATION INFORMATION inside of the pipe by the female and fertilized by point juveniles from various rearing tanks are SeaScope® was created to present short, informative the male. The male then guards the eggs until consolidated into twenty-nine gallon tanks in articles of interest to marine aquarists. Topics may hatching, which occurs in three to seven days, system A. During the larval period two larvae are include water chemistry, nutrition, mariculture, system depending on species and temperature. We removed per day from each rearing tank for design, ecology, behavior, and fish health. Article contributions are welcomed. They should deal with remove two to five eggs each day to study their photography and observations of osteological pertinent topics and are subject to editorial reviews that development by microscopic examination and development. in our opinion are necessary. Payments will be made at photography. For larval rearing investigations we existing rates and will cover all author's rights to the visually inspect the eggs each day, but do not Plankton Culture material submitted. physically disturb them until they are ready to The microalga Isochrysis galbana is cultured in SeaScope® is published quarterly for free distribution hatch. Goby eggs are ready to hatch when the an isolated room with fluorescent light banks through local aquarium dealers. Dealers not receiving eyes become fully pigmented and the yolk sacs according to the protocol outlined by Hoff and copies of SeaScope® for distribution to their are no longer visible. Then we remove the Snell (1987). Rotifers are cultured in ten gallon customers should call Aquarium Systems, Inc. to be entire pipe section from the aquarium and aquaria at a salinity of 25 ppt on a combination of added to the mailing list. Telephone: 1-800-822-1100. hold it under water in the larval rearing tank Culture HUFA from Salt Creek, Inc. and Aquarists interested in receiving copies directly should concentrated Isochrysis paste from Reed send their name and address, along with $2.00 ($4.00 while gently pipetting water over the egg mass foreign countries) for postage and handling (four issues) to induce hatching. Aquaculture, Inc. Culture densities range from to SeaScope®, Aquarium Systems, Inc., 8141 Tyler 100 to 250 per milliliter. Artemia cysts are Blvd., Mentor, OH 44060. Address comments, Larval Rearing decapsulated with household chlorine bleach, questions, and suggestions to Thomas A. Frakes, Editor. In preparation for hatching, a ten gallon larval refrigerated in a saturated salt solution, and Internet: www.aquariumsystems.com rearing tank is filled with synthetic sea water with hatched as needed. or E-Mail: [email protected] a salinity of 30 ppt. The water is gently aerated by Continued on page 4 Speak of the Devil: goldfish flesh contains thiaminase, an enzyme that Fish in the genus Inimicus causes the breakdown of thiamine. A devilfish that eats only goldfish may become thiamine Continued from page 1 deficient, resulting in loss of appetite, clamped actually rested my hand on one and was fortunate fins, and coordination problems. The best way to insure good health is to feed a varied diet of fresh

not to have been jabbed by the spines. I was Photos by Scott Michael lucky, but some divers aren’t. There are a and frozen seafoods. number of reports of divers being stung by these Hepatic lipidosis, or fatty degeneration of the fish after touching them with a hand or knee. liver, has been reported in a closely related reef Photographers seem to be especially prone to stonefish that was fed only fresh hake. This this, as they are very likely to rest on the bottom. condition can cause liver failure, leading to The sting is very painful and can hurt for hours. suppression of the immune system, Some victims have been known to feel pain for hemorrhaging, and anemia. This condition can be days. Swelling of the injured limb is also common. avoided by feeding as varied a diet as possible and If the sting is severe the victim could go into Inimicus didactylus by not overfeeding. I recommend feeding only shock and have difficulty breathing. If you are twice a week. stung, seek medical attention immediately. While Many aquarists believe that because devilfish snout and a greatly distended abdomen, and other scorpionfish are venomous other fish Inimicus stings are rarely fatal, they could be. suggesting it might be a female ripe with eggs. The I have noticed that in the wild these fish often will not bother them. This is far from the truth. pair moved slowly over the bottom, the smaller Wobbegongs, morays, frogfish, and even other bury themselves near small patches of debris or moving alongside and cutting in front of coral heads scattered on sand slopes. They are scorpionfish will swallow these fish whole. Also, the larger one. Occasionally the smaller fish because these fish blend into the reef background attracted to these places for the same reason displayed. The larger fish did not respond, but photographers are – such places are focal points so well, they may be nipped and damaged by slowly lumbered forward in an apparent attempt angelfish, , and puffers as they feed on for fish and invertebrate activity. Because of this, to escape the possible suitor or aggressor. make sure you are very careful when resting on encrusting invertebrates. the sand near these oases of animal activity. (On a Aquarium Care Possible Devilfish Problems recent trip to Indonesia, underwater Devilfish are not for everyone, because most The Inimicus species can contract common photographer Alan Ayling wore hockey knee of their time is spent in repose or under the saltwater parasites, but tend to be less susceptible pads over his wet suit to prevent accidental aquarium substrate. Like a peculiar work of art, than many other fish. Cryptocaryon or stings.) It has been reported that at least one they are oddities that are appreciated most by Amyloodinium infestations can be controlled by a species of devilfish will attack photographers, the collector of the unusual. Also, the fact that standard formalin bath or hyposaline although I find this hard to believe. I have they are highly venomous means there is the risk environment. Scorpionfish occasionally suffer encountered hundreds of these fish, but have yet of being stung. For this reason they should never from intestinal cestode or nematode worms, to be harried by one. be kept in a home where small children have losing weight even though they eat frequently. access to the tank. One beneficial aspect of their Stealthy Predator Suggested treatment is oral administration of sluggishness is that they can be kept in smaller fendbendazole at a dosage of 100 mg per The more highly-adapted forms of Inimicus aquaria without any ill-effects. You could easily have eyes that are set higher on the head and the kilogram of fish. The fish should be weighed to keep a devilfish in a 30 gallon aquarium. You establish the correct dosage. Do this by catching mouth is more turned up. These two features should probably keep only one per tank to enable them to bury themselves deeper in the the fish in a small, fine mesh net and cover with prevent aggression, unless the aquarium is over another net so the fish does not flip out when sand and still catch fish that swim past. When 100 gallons with plenty of open bottom area. buried, the sea goblin will place its free pectoral placed on the scale. Be careful, as devilfish are Two males of the same species could be spiny and get tangled, especially in coarse mesh rays in front of its body so that it can pull itself especially aggressive. forward quickly to capture passing prey. These nets. After weighing the fish subtract the weight As far as is concerned, you will of the nets, figure the necessary amount of drug, fish feed mainly on crustaceans and small fish, and need at least two inches of fine substrate such as I have also seen them snap up swimming and place the dose in a piece of fish, if the fish will aragonite or fine coral sand on the aquarium accept non-living food. If not, and you have access polychaete worms at night. They will either use bottom. If you have larger specimens the depth an ambush strategy to capture their prey or will to a fish tranquilizer such as MS222, anesthitize should be increased so the fish can bury itself the fish and deliver the drug down the gullet and stalk their quarry by slowly moving towards it on completely. It is also a good idea to be sure the their leg-like pectoral rays. Even as a devilfish into the alimentary tract by means of a syringe. aquarium has a cover. These heavy-bodied fish Remember, you must be very careful when moves over the bottom, it may strike at any fish don’t look as though they would be proficient that swims too close. Bruce Robinson, a friend of handling scorpionfish because of their jumpers, but a friend of mine recently had one venomous spines. mine, has footage in which a devilfish snaps up a jump out of an open aquarium. cardinalfish swimming past as the devilfish walks It is common for devilfish to swim frantically You can keep an Inimicus in a reef aquarium if against the side of the bag during shipping, thus over the bottom. you are not interested in housing shrimp or small I assume that, like stonefish and many other injuring the tip of the lower jaw. Some collectors fish in the same tank. You will need to provide and wholesalers discourage this by putting a layer scorpionfish, devilfish can shed their cuticle, the plenty of open bottom space to bury in and crawl outer layer of skin. Some sedentary fish do this in of fine coral sand in the bag. I would not purchase over. This is a feature often in short supply in a a specimen with such a wound until it has healed order to shed algae and encrusting organisms tank full of live rock. Remember that these fish growing on the surface of their bodies. and the fish is eating. Often a nodule develops live on open sand slopes or sand flats adjacent to where the wound was. Although unsightly, such a Courtship or Aggression? coral reefs, not on the reef itself. Also remember, nodule will not interfere with maintaining the fish. On several occasions I have seen spiny whether the tank is a reef tank or not, to be A devilfish may also swim with its snout devilfish (Inimicus didactyla) engaging in what I have vigilant when working in the tank so you do not pressed against the side of the aquarium. This tentatively identified as courtship behavior. On touch the venomous spines accidentally. happens if the tank is undersized, or lacks enough two occasions a smaller fish chased a larger Feeding and Tankmates suitable substrate so the fish can bury itself. A conspecific across the sand. As the smaller fish Live food, such as ghost shrimp or small devilfish may swim incessantly if it is being moved closer it displayed, flaring the pectoral fins feeder cardinalfish, is usually necessary to elicit harassed by tankmates or the water movement is and tail and parading around the larger fish. the feeding response from a devilfish. too strong. This behavior can also cause damage On another occasion I was photographing a Occasionally a specimen will refuse even live to the lower jaw. It may be possible to curb this spiny devil when I accidentally disturbed another food, while another may be enticed into taking behavior by taping a 10 inch (25 cm) wide sheet one, which emerged from the sand and rubble. strips of fresh fish from a feeding stick. You of black plastic along the outside bottom edges The second individual was larger, with a broader should avoid feeding a diet of only goldfish. Raw of the aquarium. Continued on page 4 Speak of the Devil: Caulerpa Ban in California Fish in the genus Inimicus Continued from page 1 Continued from page 3 The Spiny Devilfish The most commonly encountered member Photo by Jean Jaubert of this genus is the spiny devilfish, Inimicus didactylus. Coloration can vary greatly from individual to individual in this species, ranging Photo by Jean Jaubert from dark brown through light brown, pink, and red, to bright orange. The inner surface of the pectoral fins can be yellow or white, with a black Caulerpa mexicana has often been mistaken for area streaked with white beginning at the axil and Caulerpa taxifolia. extending to the middle of the fin. There is also a dark border at the margin of the fin broken up by light spots. Juveniles may have one or two The proposal to ban the entire Caulerpa filamentous rays extending from the upper margin genus rests partially on the concern that aquarists of the pectoral fins. Adults attain a maximum and enforcement staff will not be able to length of just over 7 inches (18 cm). In the wild differentiate C. taxifolia from other Caulerpa this species ranges from Thailand to Vanuatu, species. Although C. mexicana can sometimes be north to southeast China and Micronesia. confused with C. taxifolia, the rest of the Caulerpa The spiny devilfish is most often found on species are different enough that simple line sand, mud, and mixed sand and rubble bottoms at drawings would be sufficient to identify them with depths from 10 to over 260 feet (3 to over 80 certainty. Another concern is that other Caulerpa meters). In some areas it has been observed species could mutate to be more tolerant of among macroalgae and sponge. During the day it cooler conditions. This possibility is less likely rests on or buries itself in the soft bottom. In this Caulerpa taxifolia obtained from hydroponics (in a now that it appears that this did not happen in position it can capture small fish that swim near nutritive medium) exhibits its strong roots the Mediterranean, as discussed above. Global enough. At night it emerges to hunt for food. warming may make southern California more that it survived in the Mediterranean Sea. It was suitable to many species of sub-tropical organisms When it displays at a rival or potential predator, it suggested that this Caulerpa had been genetically spreads its pectoral fins down and forward and that could invade this region, and this can’t be manipulated or had mutated while in European cured by legislation. There are already four expands its tail. In some cases it also curls the aquariums before it escaped into the caudal peduncle to one side. species of Caulerpa native to the Gulf of Mediterranean. This strain of Caulerpa taxifolia is California that could migrate up the coast if This ends our brief look at the genus Inimicus. more tolerant of cool water than most Caulerpa For those of you looking for something out of the climate moderates. species, and it reproduces only asexually by I must express my concern about the the ordinary that is not only unusual in fragmentation. New DNA and allozyme marker appearance but also interesting in behavior, motives of some of the players in this drama. A studies, along with temperature studies, have note in the August 2000 issue of Nature by Rex consider one of these odd scorpionfish. Good confirmed a natural population of C. taxifolia luck and happy fish-watching. Dalton mentions the continuing debate over who near Brisbane, Australia having similar traits should control the multi-million dollar eradication that could have been the source. effort. In an area that usually has little funding, the “Killer Algae” publicity may be generating a windfall of grant and research money. Agencies involved include the California Water Quality A System for Laboratory or us to look at early development as a source of Board, the U. S. Department of Agriculture, the Commercial Culture of Gobiid Fishes character data that has not previously been University of Tennessee Institute for Biological used in the structuring of gobiid systematics. Invasions, the University of California-Davis Continued from page 2 Detailed information on characters being Bodega Marine Laboratory, the Invasive Species Results and Discussion investigated and their possible implications in Advisory Committee, and the Aquatic Nuisance As of this writing, we have spawned and gobiid systematics can be found on the website Species Task Force, to name a few. Politicians reared eighteen marine fish species in our of the Gobioid Research Institute: may also use this bill to appear ecologically systems, including nine species of goby. Our http://home.att.net/~gobiidae sensitive while not offending major campaign ability to adapt commercial aquaculture Please contact Aquarium Systems, Inc. at 800 822-1100 for a list of contributors such as shipping, lumber, energy, references related to this article. techniques to a laboratory setting has enabled or other industries. Historically, most of the introductions of non-native marine organisms have been due to encrusted ship hulls and ballast water. To stop all such introductions the agencies should curtail shipping. Of course this is not going to happen. MULTI-CYCLE PUMP TIMER Aquarists should be concerned that this issue could be the first of a series of generic bans of ¥ Alternating water currents created by the pumps and organisms considered to be potentially invasive. powerheads plugged into Natural Waveª mimic actual wave patterns in the ocean, stimulating live corals and providing a Such bans could devastate the aquarium hobby. more realistic aquatic environment. I understand the motive behind banning Caulerpa ¥ Varying water circulation can help reduce dead spots and taxifolia, but I disagree with the extension of the help keep in suspension, allowing it to be more easily captured by filters. ban to cover all Caulerpa species. The loss of ¥ Natural Waveª has 3 outlets with adjustable frequency— Caulerpa would not cripple the pet trade, but it change the duration of cycles from 20 seconds to 3 minutes. would be a dangerous step toward banning all ¥ Natural Waveª has 3 standard power outlets—more outlets than other brands—so that accessories like lights, exotic organisms. I encourage all concerned filters, or heaters may be plugged into the same outlet strip. aquarists in California to contact their local ¥ Natural Waveª Multi-Cycle Pump Timer is affordable and economical. representatives to let them know aquarists are concerned about the passage of Bill #1334. 1-800-822-1100 FREE ISSN 1045-3520

Volume 18 Summer 2001

Reflections on the 9th Photo by Thomas Frakes International Coral Reef Symposium by Rand Kollman

I recently had the opportunity to attend the 9th International Coral Reef Symposium in Bali, Indonesia, a conference presented and attended by scientists from around the world. I was drawn there by my passion for the oceans and coral reefs. After one short week I was more informed, and more disheartened, about the state of coral reefs everywhere. Threats to coral Threats to the world’s coral reefs are numerous and serious. Instances of coral bleaching events have increased dramatically. The zooxanthellae algae within corals produce food and oxygen, but these algae are expelled from the coral when water temperature rises, resulting in bleaching and often in death of the coral. such as the Foxface rabbitfish (Siganus vulpinus) are useful in algae control. Global warming is thought to be the main cause of such events. Destructive fishing practices and overfishing is ultimately bad for local fishermen and recreational uses such as sport fishing and diving. Draining of Reef Tank Nuisances These reproduce rapidly and can wetlands, coastal farming, and destruction of and Controls overrun a tank unless they are controlled. They feed at night, and can be plucked off natural vegetation result in loss of filtration by Michael Paletta of the fresh water flowing from the land. corals when feeding, but this must be done Runoff from towns, farms, and industry, With the long-term success of the repeatedly or they will come back in force. It along with deforestation, send pollutants reefkeeping hobby has come increasing may be necessary to use a natural predator and sediments out toward the coral reefs. knowledge of coral parasites, predators, and such as the harlequin shrimp (Hymenocera Corals have lived for millions of years. competitors that didn’t exist in old saltwater picta) to eradicate them completely. Indeed, Many experts believe that reefs go through systems. One recently discovered parasite is a the starfish might be a problem now because a continuous cycle of thriving and dying, and tiny starfish (Asterina anomala) that is capable of decreased numbers of harlequin shrimp in that these disturbances and renewals are of inflicting as much damage in a closed the wild. The starfish appears on live rock common and can even add to the diversity system as a crown-of-thorns starfish can do coming from many areas, but the majority of life found on and around reefs. However, to a reef. It never grows larger than three seem to originate in Fiji. It may be a good if steps are not taken soon to alleviate the quarters of an inch in diameter, and so can idea to quarantine live rock and corals threats to the world’s coral reefs they will hide inside a coral colony, coming out only at before introduction to the display tank. A cease to exist as vital communities. A time night to feed on the polyps. It is beige to gray single Asterina starfish can completely could come when coral reefs are composed or even mottled red, and very hard to see consume a medium sized Acropora or of dead coral skeletons, not living animals. inside a coral. Unlike other starfish it has Euphyllia in a few days. This would be a sad ending, particularly seven legs, unequal in size. It feeds on small Flatworms also frequently arrive with live when this Coral Reef Symposium has polyp stony corals, soft corals, and large polyp rocks or coral colonies. Some will consume proven that we now have the knowledge stony corals like Euphyllia and Lobophyllia. It both coral tissue and zooxanthellae, and can and technology to alleviate at least some of seems to prefer small polyp stony corals be detected only by following the thin thread these threats. Stylophora and Seriatopora, but if they are not of dead tissue in a coral colony. Such damage present will consume Acropora and even may not kill a coral colony, but may provide a Blastomussa corals. Continued on page 3 ©2001 Aquarium Systems, Inc., Mentor, OH - Printed in U.S.A. Chapter Three Book Review: Zooxanthellae, contains the best discussion Aquarium Corals - of this topic in print today. We who keep corals depend on zooxanthellae much more Selection, Husbandry than we realize, and this chapter provides the and Natural History best description to date of our ally in coral growing. This chapter is easily worth the price by Eric Borneman Reviewed by Dick Perrin of Tropicorium, Romulus, MI of the entire book. www.tropicorium.com Chapter Four Books with fresh insights and new Food and Feeding, is my favorite chapter. It information are the lifeblood of the reef hobby, explains why corals need more than proper but it is rare indeed when a book comes along light, water quality, and movement: they need that challenges some of our most time- food! Reef explorer C. M. Yonge discussed the honored concepts. “Aquarium Corals” is such apparent feeding ability of corals in 1931. a book, with 464 pages and 765 beautifully “When an animal possesses an organ or set of reproduced photos by such distinguished nourished, and what they do to survive in a organs, which perform certain functions with photographers as Scott Michael, Janine Cairns- very competitive environment. perfect efficiency, it can be taken as axiomatic Michael, Paul Humann, and Alf Jacob Nilson. that such organs are used.” This chapter gives a This is not a book for the novice reefkeeper, Chapter One formula for making coral food and directions but an experienced aquarist will find a wealth In Chapter One, Reef Worlds, the beauty, for using it. The benefits provided by refugiums of information in every chapter. diversity, and wonder of coral reefs is are also discussed. The forward by Dr. J. E. N. Veron is as illustrated. Fossil records, reef types, coral interesting as it is surprising. Dr. Veron is Chief distribution, reef zones, and nearby Chapter Five Scientist at the Australian Institute of Marine communities are discussed. Secret Lives, Competition, and Reproduction, is a journey into coral strategies Science and the author of “Corals of the Chapter Two World.” Scientists have traditionally held for aggression and defense. This information is Anatomy Lessons describes polyp types, hobby aquarists in poor regard and placed little particularly valuable to those aquarists who structures, and anatomy, including colony value on their efforts. Dr. Veron, however, formations and growth forms. Continued on page 4 believes that reef aquarists may make real contributions to the body of knowledge about corals and their successful husbandry through As a saltwater aquarist, observations of their own aquaria. He also you take your hobby very believes that reefkeepers can raise public seriously. And when it comes awareness of the threats to natural reefs and to your prized marine the efforts that are being made to preserve SERIOUSSERIOUS SALTS SALTS animals, you demand only them. This forward will make serious the best... the very best reefkeepers feel good about their hobby. lights, filters, skimmers, and FORFOR foods. Your salt selection The introduction gives some history of the should be the very best too. hobby, along with the author’s philosophy that Instant Ocean® contains successful coral husbandry involves more than SERIOUSSERIOUS every major, minor, and species identification, flow rates, and lighting trace element necessary for requirements. It should include understanding the health of your marine what corals are, where they live, how they are AQUARISTSAQUARISTS animals. It dissolves to a clear solution in minutes and quickly achieves and maintains proper pH. Reef Crystals® is vitally enriched with extra measures of PUBLICATION INFORMATION calcium, selected trace SeaScope® was created to present short, informative elements and vitamins to articles of interest to marine aquarists. Topics may optimize long-term health include water chemistry, nutrition, mariculture, system and growth of corals, design, ecology, behavior, and fish health. Article anemones, and other contributions are welcomed. They should deal with invertebrates. pertinent topics and are subject to editorial reviews that So, the next time you in our opinion are necessary. Payments will be made at reach for a package of existing rates and will cover all author's rights to the marine salt, make the best material submitted. choice – the first choice of SeaScope® is published quarterly for free distribution serious hobbyists and through local aquarium dealers. Dealers not receiving professionals the world over. copies of SeaScope® for distribution to their customers should call Aquarium Systems, Inc. to be Instant Ocean and added to the mailing list. Telephone: 1-800-822-1100. Reef Crystals... Aquarists interested in receiving copies directly should Serious salts for send their name and address, along with $2.00 ($4.00 foreign countries) for postage and handling (four issues) serious aquarists. to SeaScope®, Aquarium Systems, Inc., 8141 Tyler Blvd., Mentor, OH 44060. Address comments, Toll Free: 1-800-822-1100 www.aquariumsystems.com questions, and suggestions to Thomas A. Frakes, Editor. © 2001 The Aquaria Group Internet: www.aquariumsystems.com or E-Mail: [email protected] of invertebrates.Themostdangerouspossess aggressive carnivoresthatattackallvarieties introduced tocontrolalgae,theyareactually they mayresembletypicalherbivoroussnails members oftheVolutidaefamily.Although cowries, whelks,coneshells,somesnails,and troublesome inreeftanks.Thisincludes will takecareofsmallerworms. itself. Greenbirdwrasses( the largestbristlewormwithoutdamageto tuskfish ( is bymeansofnaturalpredation.Harlequin to catchoneoutofitshole.Thebestcontrol withdraw intotherocksoquicklyitisdifficult sensitive toevenveryslightvibrations,and full sizedspecimen.Thesewormsare worms remainingintheholeswillgrowintoa hooked tweezers,butthepartofanybroken possible topullthemfromtheirholesusing is thebesttimetotryremovethem.It inches. Theycomeoutatnighttofeed,sothis species canattainlengthsofsixtosixteen rapidly inareeftank. Carnivorous starfish (Asterinaanomala)canreproduce live rock.Individualsofthe bottom ofthetank. been damaged,especiallyifitisonthe consume aspecimencoralthathasalready removed. However,theycanrapidly aerating thesubstrate,andshouldnotbe population. Theyperformtheusefultaskof a threattothegeneralinvertebrate to threeinches,andsodon’tposemuchof rapidly. worms liveinthesubstrateandmultiply Euphyllia invertebrate, butareparticularlyfondof or corals,andeatvirtuallyanysedentary They arefrequentlystowawaysonliverock known enemiesoftheinvertebrateaquarium. introduced intothetank. for trematodeswithFlagyl flatworms theyoftenmustbede-wormed ( tank. Althoughleopardwrasses also willconsumeothermicro-faunainthe mandarin fish( to ridatankofflatwormsisintroduce site forsecondaryinfection.Thebestway Reef TankNuisancesandControl Macropharyngodon meleagris Predatory molluskscanalsobe Larger, moredangerouswormsliveinthe Bristle wormsandfirearewell They generallyreachalengthoftwo and alltypesofsoftcorals.Smaller Choerdon fasciatus Synchiropus splendidus Continued frompage1 ) willconsumeeven Gomphosus varius ® Nereis ) willeat before theyare and ), which Eunice )

Photo by Thomas Frakes Photosynthetic flatwormsinareeftank. Lobophyton banded butterfly, predator. Themost efficientistheblack them. Again,thebestremedyis anatural burn anythingthatcomesincontact with anemones. Theyreproducerapidly andalso present invirtuallyeverytank: from timetotime,butonepest willbe springeri ( this snailistointroduceasixlinewrasse enough tokillit.Thebestwayeradicate byssus opening,andcanweakentheclam rice. Itentersa pyramidellae snail,aboutthesizeofagrain just tobesafe. remove themwithalargepairoftweezers, Be carefultoavoidthepoisonousradula.I moving andcaneasilybepickedoffthecorals. Although theyemergeatnight,areslow mollusks areeasytospotandremove. coral regainedhealthinafewweeks. the snailinside.Iremovedand pushed onthestalkitbrokeopen,revealing small healedincisiononthestalk.WhenI not expand.OncloserexaminationIfounda coral stalkturnedyellowandthepolypsdid knew theywerepresentonlywhenaleather arrived alreadyinsidethecoralatpurchase.I only twice,andineachinstanceIassumethey of thecoral.Ihavebeentroubledbythem while itissmallandthenslowlyeatstheinside leather corals.Itboresintothecoralstalk rapa most interestingoftheseanimalsisthe very specificinthechoiceofprey.One through ashell.Ingeneralthesemollusksare has developedintoadrillthatcanbore poison intoprey.Insomespeciestheradula a venomousradulathatinjectsrapidacting Pseudocheilinus hexataenia The previouslymentionedpests occur Another parasiticmolluskisthe Unlike the snail. Iteatsonly , bothnaturalpredators. leather coralsand Rapa Tridacna Chaetodon striatus snail, mostother Sarcophyton clam throughthe ) ora Sinularia Aiptasia Pseudochromis and . Thesefish finger Rapa at pluckingthesealgaefromeventhemost puellus dislodge them.Rabbitfish( overgrow coralsorgrowundersoftto bubble algaereproducerapidlyandcan eliminate ( animals, butalgae. watched carefully. also fondofmanycorals,sotheymustbe angelfish allconsumethisanemone,butare Centropyge and burnsotherlifeformsas tipped anemone,butreproducesquickly closely resemblesaminiaturebubble is alsoapest.Thislittlegreenanemone Aiptasia recommended bysomepeopletocontrol shrimp ( to threemonthsdoit.Peppermint will alsoremove the corals.Nudibranchsofgenus remnant oftheanemoneswithoutbothering are veryhardy,andwillremoveevery Mandarin fish(Synchiropus splendidus) Zebrasoma desjardinii Other bignuisancesinareeftankarenot The majanoanemone( , and , butIhavehadnosuccesswiththem. Lysmata wurdemanni Valonia , Lo uspi Apolemichthys algae. Thetangisaggressive Aiptasia ) orRedSeasailfintangs Valonia macrophysa ) canbeusedto , butwillrequiretwo Siganus punctatus , and Continued onpage4 Anemonia sp. ) havebeen Aiptasia Pomacanthus or Berghia does. ) , S.

Photo by Thomas Frakes Photos by Thomas Frakes Reef Tank Nuisances and Control Continued from page 3

inaccessible spots. Emerald (Mithrax Photos by Thomas Frakes sculptus) will also eat these algae, but may move on to the corals when the algae are gone. Hair algae of the genus Derbesia are also common pests, growing best when there is a high level of phosphate in the aquarium. Reducing the phosphate level and adding emerald crabs will help control Derbesia. The crabs will pluck the algae from the rocks if it is cropped, so you must cut off the tops of it first. For general control of algae I prefer a mix of different species of tangs and rabbitfish. Examples of tangs are Yellow tang (Zebrasoma flavescens), Sailfin tang (Z. veliferum), Purple tang (Z. xanthurum), and Atlantic Blue tang The Black-banded butterflyfish (Chaetodon striatus) is a good choice for Aiptasia anemone control (Acanthurus coeruleus). Rabbitfish are of the genus Siganus. A good variety allows every This has been just the start of what may eradication have yet to be developed. This become a long list of reef tank nuisances. article is just the beginning. New pests are being classified now, some of Editor’s Note: Michael Paletta is the author of “The New Marine which are microscopic, and methods of Aquarium.”

Photos by Thomas Frakes Aquarium Corals - Selection, Husbandry and Natural History Continued from page 2 reproduce corals by dividing them, as some about water chemistry, additives, and species will emit toxic chemicals that could testing. Accurate, up to date information endanger other animals in the tank. Charts about water chemistry is long overdue, and show relative toxicity of corals to fish and proves in some cases to be the opposite of long held beliefs and anecdotal experience. Juvenile Atlantic blue tang (Acanthurus coeruleus) in other coral species. There is also a description Bonaire. of sexual and asexual reproduction here. Chapter Ten individual to find something to eat. Although Chapter Six Care and Handling offers tips for selecting some people will recommend what are describes the way species are viable specimens, for quarantine protocols, and loosely termed lawnmower blennies, I prefer identified, classified, and named to minimize for methods of low stress introduction into not to use them as they are unpredictable. confusion. Serious reefkeepers should learn the aquarium. Also covered here is the use of Some will consume algae, but some will graze about scientific names to be as precise as super glue and epoxy for coral placement. The on zooxanthellae. A single individual may eat possible when discussing aquarium inhabitants. author recommends selecting captive grown coral when it is possible. both if food is scarce. Examples of these Chapter Seven blennies are Salarias fasciatus, Parablennius The Corals discusses the families, genera, Chapter Eleven marmoreus, Escenius bicolor, E. gravieri, and and species of interest to aquarists. This is Coral Health is an ambitious summary of Ophioblennius atlanticus. Turbo, Astrea, and the largest chapter, with excellent photos, coral health problems, with suggested Trocheus snails will also eat algae, but you describing each species and its special needs. solutions. The use of antibiotics and similar need a lot of them. The snail I prefer to use is It provides detailed information about the treatments is discussed, and solutions to called a zebra or red-banded snail, recently care and maintenance of each species problems caused by algae are offered. brought in from Indonesia. It is the same size described. This information will be of value Chapter Twelve as the Astrea snail, but it moves five times to many aquarists. faster, and eats all the time. I wholeheartedly Chapter Twelve discusses Conservation. recommend this snail. Chapter Eight Many natural reefs are at risk due to human Husbandry deals with several different disturbance or other causes, but there are methods for maintaining reef aquariums, various campaigns for public awareness and Upcoming Events including the , the Jaubert conservation in place, including a growing method, and algal turf scrubbers. There is an interest in captive reproduction of corals. 2nd International Conference on Marine extensive, in-depth discussion of lighting, as A list of conservation groups and a list of Ornamentals coral propagators is presented here, as November 27 - December 1, 2001, Walt well as water movement and the benefits of Disney World Resort, Lake Buena Vista, surges. Plans for constructing a Borneman flush well as a glossary of terms and an Florida device are included. extensive bibliography. For more information visit: Finally, I must state that I have no personal www.ifas.ufl.edu/~conferweb/MO Chapter Nine or call: (352) 392-5930 financial stake in this book, but I want others In Water Chemistry the author puts who have reef tanks to know about this golden forward his view that the best test for water opportunity to improve their skills and quality is the practiced eye of the knowledge. I applaud the author’s skill, effort, experienced reefkeeper. However, the and determination in producing a book of such successful aquarist should know something outstanding quality. FREE ISSN 1045-3520

Volume 18 Fall 2001

Solving Problems in Culture by Todd Gardner, Hofstra University Biology Department More than twenty million are traded worldwide each year, and there is every indication that this number is increasing. Although the largest portion is destined for use in Chinese traditional medicine, substantial amounts also go to shell shops and the aquarium trade. Their low fecundity, monogamous mating behavior, and limited species ranges all place seahorses in a precarious ecological position. The sustainability of this has not been fully determined, but for many species it is very likely being exceeded. Seahorses have been spawned and reared in captivity for many years, but a simple, effective, and reliable culture protocol is still needed. Those that have been published are either overly complex or lack essential details to protect the author’s proprietary methods. Large scale high-tech aquaculture operations might relieve some of the stress on wild populations. However, many of the species at greatest risk of over- harvesting are collected by subsistence fishermen in island nations like Indonesia and the Philippines. Project Seahorse has organized an initiative to teach these fishermen aquaculture techniques that utilize simple and inexpensive equipment. This would benefit the local Closeup of an educational reef aquarium. fishermen and the wild seahorse stocks, as well as the home hobbyists who would love to raise the young seahorses inevitably produced as a result of good seahorse husbandry. My purpose here is to report on preliminary rearing trials and some solutions to miniature ocean. Dead, bleached coral skeletons as problems I have encountered in my investigations. A Miniature Coral Reef aquarium decorations are a thing of the past. They have Two of the biggest problems encountered in for the Classroom been replaced with living rocks encrusted with purple rearing seahorses are finding a nutritious first food and coralline algae, sponges, tunicates, and other benthic preventing the gas bladder dysfunction that can affect by Thomas Frakes, Technical Consultant organisms, along with hard and soft corals that can more than half a brood within the first few days of life, Aquarium Systems, Inc. grow at an amazing rate. trapping them at the surface where they eventually die. In recent years there has been a blossoming of How is this possible? In this relatively short fifteen A program is underway at Hofstra University year period methods and equipment for keeping Aquaculture Laboratory in Hempstead, New York to interest in the mysteries of the ocean, and particularly in the ecology of coral reefs. Coral reefs are often delicate reef animals and plants have evolved through find solutions to these problems. the contributions of thousands of marine aquarists. Newborn seahorses will eat only live food. Artemia compared to the rainforests in the scope of their biological diversity, as well as their precarious position Also, knowledge of the environmental requirements of has been the most popular choice for live food because individual species has grown. All this has made possible of its availability and convenience, but it is separated because of increasing human encroachment into their fragile world. Reports of reef degradation, bleaching, the design of complete life support systems such as the from ocean food webs by several million years of Mirabello Reef Kit Aquarium. evolution. It is not surprising that marine organisms are and destruction continue to make headlines. The not well adapted to digesting and utilizing Artemia ecology of reef organisms can be studied through field The Educational Reef Aquarium nutrients. Copepods, however, are probably the most research, of course, but this is not practical for beginning students. A marine reef aquarium is the logical We have put together a complete package for the abundant multicellular organisms in the oceans, and are educational market that is based on the Mirabello 30 heavily exploited by innumerable marine species. They choice for classroom lessons about coral reef ecology. As recently as fifteen years ago, it was considered aquarium, incorporating all the equipment necessary to have been shown to be nutritionally superior to Artemia start a successful reef ecosystem. It is based on a 30 as a food for larval and juvenile marine fish. It is to be impossible to keep corals in captivity. Marine fish aquariums were considered to be difficult to maintain, liter glass aquarium with a built-in filter and a hinged generally accepted that this is because of the relatively light hood. A multi-stage filter system built into the back higher level of highly unsaturated fatty acids (HUFAs) in and invertebrate reef aquariums even harder. Prior to this time, some avid hobbyists and scientists kept reef of the tank performs mechanical, biological, and copepods compared with Artemia. Eicosapentaenoic chemical filtration. The internal pump provides the acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are invertebrates, but few people understood many of the conditions that were necessary to maintain and turbulent water movement that is essential for particularly important. Although a number of enriching stationary reef organisms. A Visi-Therm heater is products are available to enhance the nutritional value reproduce corals. This has all changed. Now aquarists keep beautiful coral gardens that often require regular included in the filter section. The high output compact pruning to keep the corals from outgrowing their Continued on page 2 Continued on page 3 ©2001 Aquarium Systems, Inc., Mentor, OH - Printed in U.S.A. Solving Problems in Seahorse tank walls. Although their stinging tentacles can injure or Culture kill small seahorses, the bigger danger is from competition for food. By the time a hydroid colony Continued from page 1 reaches a few inches in diameter it can become a serious drain on the plankton supply. We observed three of Artemia, resulting in a fatty acid profile similar to genera of hydroid, Bouganvillia, Tubularia, and an copepods, use of these products still has not achieved Photos by Todd Gardner unidentified species. Scraping colonies from the walls is the success gained by using copepods in terms of only a temporary solution, as numerous new colonies growth, survival, and overall health of cultured fish. appear as a result of fragmentation. Unfortunately, in spite of the abundance of copepods, We cultured these hydroids in separate tanks to we have not yet developed a technique to culture them learn more about them. A tiny nudibranch appeared in on a scale large enough to be economically feasible. some hydroid tanks after a few weeks of culturing. Collecting copepods from the wild for use as food in White egg clusters also appeared among the hydroid aquaculture is labor intensive and cost-prohibitive, and tentacles. The 6 mm long nudibranchs were observed wild copepods may also be accompanied by undesirable feeding on the tentacles of all three hydroid species. parasites and fouling organisms. Moe and Young were After a month, hundreds of nudibranchs could be seen the first and only ones to rear the larvae of French in the tanks, and virtually all of the hydroids had been angelfish, Pomacanthus paru, in the 1970’s using wild consumed. Hydroid-eating nudibranchs such as Tenellia plankton composed mostly of copepods. Although they have appendages called cerata on their backs. As they raised thousands of fish they made no profit, partially feed on the hydroids, or other animals like corals or because of the high cost of obtaining sufficient numbers anemones or jellyfish, they transfer the stinging cells of copepods. from the hydroid to their own cerata for protection A detailed experiment to examine the benefits of from any would-be predator. We hope that with the copepods and Artemia in seahorse culture has been help of T. fuscata we will no longer have problems with designed at the Hofstra University aquaculture lab and hydroids in our rearing tanks. will be conducted in the next few months. Three Lined seahorse (Hippocampus erectus) in courtship. Amphipods appeared in the tanks as small but fast preliminary rearing trials have already been conducted growing juveniles. They are an important component of to investigate feeding regimes and filtration designs that a seahorse’s diet in the wild, but grow too quickly to use might be used in the experiment. and 2. In trial 3, one end of the tank was sectioned off for food in a culture tank, and they soon become Four pairs of Hippocampus erectus were collected with a tank divider having 500 micron mesh screening strongly competitive for the plankton. They are best off Long Island, New York, and housed in a 55 gallon instead of the plastic insert. The resulting compartment removed by siphoning and then can be used as a aquarium. Filtration was by means of an undergravel was filled with small plastic beads that were slightly nutritious treat for adult seahorses. filter under 2 inches of crushed coral, driven by a power negatively buoyant. The beads were kept in motion by Gastrotrichs are an obscure phylum of free living head, and an Eheim canister filter with activated carbon means of aeration, forming a simple fluidized bed filter. worm-like organisms that normally live in sediment. I and nitrate sponge from Kent Marine. The broodstock An 8 inch air diffuser was placed on the floor of the have often seen large populations of an unidentified was fed frozen mysid (Mysis relicta) and chopped shore tank near the filter compartment to keep the seahorses gastrotrich crawling on the skin of young seahorses shrimp (Palaemonetes pugio) four times a day. A light from being drawn into the netting. This method of that have been exposed to wild plankton. They may timer provided a 15 hour day. Courtship behavior, aeration created a vertical circulation pattern that kept not be parasites, but do seem to stimulate incessant which will not be discussed in this article, was observed most of the newborn seahorses from becoming caught scratching by the seahorse. They can be removed by virtually every morning. Receptive males indicate their at the water surface, as had happened in trials 1 and 2. freshwater baths. readiness to spawn by a swollen pouch. Actual In each trial, live Isochrysis galbana was maintained at a If you are interested in keeping or breeding copulation was rarely observed, but if the same male density sufficient to keep a 2 cm secchi disk out of sight seahorses, I encourage you to take some time to was seen with a swollen pouch for more than 3 days, he at a distance of 50 cm. All tank bottoms were research their requirements before making a purchase. was considered to be pregnant and was placed in the siphoned daily. In many respects they are , but they have a rearing tank. Occasionally the pouch would deflate a In the first trial, Artemia salina nauplii enriched with number of unique needs that must be met if they are to few hours later, but most of the time this criterion Super HUFA from Salt Creek, Inc. were offered as the thrive in a home aquarium. They must be in a non- indicated an actual pregnancy. exclusive food. There was 100% mortality in this tank competitive environment. Most fish are not suitable Rearing trials were conducted in standard 10 gallon after 2 weeks. In the second trial, copepod-dominated tankmates for seahorses. Seahorses will do even better tanks, each containing an entire brood of Hippocampus wild plankton (CDWP) was fed for the first 2 weeks, if they have been captive-bred. They will not have been erectus. Small air driven foam filters were used in trials 1 after which time the diet was abruptly switched to subjected to many of the diseases that contribute to the enriched Artemia salina. After 60 days 190 seahorses high mortality rate of wild-caught animals. were counted. In the third trial, CDWP was offered for For more information, you can log on to 3 days, followed by enriched nauplii of Artemia www.seahorse.org where you will find a community of franciscanis. After 60 days, 214 seahorses were counted hobbyists and professionals dedicated to responsible and moved to a 40 gallon grow-out tank. Food densities seahorse breeding, husbandry, and conservation. PUBLICATION INFORMATION were maintained between 0.5 and 2 per milliliter. SeaScope® was created to present short, informative Synthetic sea water in all experiment tanks was made articles of interest to marine aquarists. Topics may from Instant Ocean synthetic sea salt, maintained at 25 include water chemistry, nutrition, mariculture, system parts per thousand. Artemia cysts were decapsulated design, ecology, behavior, and fish health. Article with household bleach (5.25% sodium hypochlorite). contributions are welcomed. They should deal with Isochrysis was cultured according to the method outlined pertinent topics and are subject to editorial reviews that by Hoff and Snell in the Plankton Culture Manual. in our opinion are necessary. Payments will be made at

Obviously, these preliminary trials do not Photos by Todd Gardner existing rates and will cover all author's rights to the represent controlled experiments. Survival percentages material submitted. for trials 2 and 3 could not be calculated because initial SeaScope® is published quarterly for free distribution brood size was not counted. All that can be said is that through local aquarium dealers. Dealers not receiving copepods appear to play a crucial role in the early diet copies of SeaScope® for distribution to their of H. erectus. The planned controlled experiments are customers should call Aquarium Systems, Inc. to be designed to determine the effects of variations of the added to the mailing list. Telephone: 1-800-822-1100. copepod/Artemia feeding regime during the first week, Aquarists interested in receiving copies directly should and on the growth and survival of H. erectus after one send their name and address, along with $2.00 ($4.00 month. These results will be discussed in a future foreign countries) for postage and handling (four issues) SeaScope article. to SeaScope®, Aquarium Systems, Inc., 8141 Tyler I did not have a problem with parasites associated Blvd., Mentor, OH 44060. Address comments, with wild plankton, but a number of other pests were questions, and suggestions to Thomas A. Frakes, Editor. introduced into the tanks. The worst of these were Internet: www.aquariumsystems.com hydroids, gammarid amphipods, and gastrotrichs. The or E-Mail: [email protected] hydroids probably came in as larvae or medusae, and within a few days fuzzy colonies could be seen on the Longsnout seahorse (Hippocampus reidi) after giving Aquarium Systems is a Marineland Company birth. A Miniature Coral Reef for the Classroom Continued from page 1 fluorescent bulb in the built-in light provides a special white spectrum that simulates the natural reef lighting necessary for growth of the specially selected corals. The package also includes Instant Ocean synthetic sea salt, which makes superior synthetic saltwater when mixed with pure water, and a SeaTesT hydrometer to maintain proper salinity. Finally, the tank bottom is covered with a layer of CaribSea aragonite sand that provides a natural habitat for a host of microorganisms that help to process wastes. Livestock It takes more than hardware to make a successful coral reef. A key ingredient of the Mirabello Reef Aquarium is the specially selected package of live organisms. It includes a mix of six or more corals that are compatible with the conditions in the system. This includes mostly soft corals, but there are a few hard corals that are also suitable. Several pieces of live rock, encrusted with live organisms, are also included to form the reef structure, as is a bag of . The live sand and rock are populated by a mix of small to microscopic organisms that help to process wastes and balance the system. These include heterotrophic and nitrifying bacteria, protozoans, worms, copepods, and more. Finally, because green algae can compete with corals for The Mirabello Reef aquarium. nutrients and space, a group of algae grazing organisms is included. The package of live animals is delivered to the school by overnight express service after the encrust over rocks and tank walls and prevent the rates for reef aquariums are five to ten times the tank aquarium has been set up with saltwater and is running attachment of green algae. Generally purple in color, volume per hour. properly. Organisms are packed in plastic bags with these algae are essential to reefs, because it has been Pollution water and oxygen and shipped in an insulated carton to discovered that the larvae of many hard corals can guarantee live delivery. settle only on surfaces that have a coating of Pollution is a major cause of reef damage around The corals for this kit are raised in Instant Ocean coralline algae. the world. Wastes from sewage discharge and fertilizer saltwater by coral farmers. These expert aquarists have run-off are major contributors to reef degradation. selected compatible and representative types of corals Temperature, Light, and Water Nutrients in these wastes are rapidly consumed by fast for stocking the tanks from the hundreds that are now Movement growing algae that can then grow over corals and kill being cultured in captivity. The corals are matched to The importance of physical factors such as them. Healthy reefs, again similar to rainforests, are the levels of light and water movement available in the temperature, lighting, and water movement can be actually poor in nutrients. A slow, steady influx of Mirabello Reef Aquarium. Not all corals are suited to taught using this model. Sustained temperatures above nutrients is recycled through various organisms before these conditions. Reefs have many zones, from crashing 90 degrees Fahrenheit have been recorded in it becomes sediment or is dispersed in the current. In waves of the reef crest to the gentle currents of the catastrophic coral bleaching events of reefs around the an aquarium nutrients have nowhere to go; any added back-reef or lagoon. This package simulates the back- world. Bleaching occurs when corals are under stress, food will accumulate. The Mirabello Reef package deals reef environment, and the animals are selected to suit it. and expel their zooxanthellae algae. The corals will die with wastes in several ways. First, the mechanical filter Once established, the Mirabello Reef Aquarium quickly if the algae are not replaced. Also, most tropical traps larger wastes that are removed by washing or becomes a unique tool for teaching students about the corals will not survive at temperatures much below 65 replacing the cartridge. The cartridge contains activated biological, chemical, and physical processes that affect degrees F. The Mirabello Reef is normally maintained at carbon that adsorbs some of the dissolved organic reefs. These lessons can be on many levels, from the temperatures between 74 and 82 degrees. The Visi- compounds that can turn the water yellow, and also basics of salinity to the more complex nutrient balance Therm heater prevents low temperatures that could inhibit coral growth. These compounds are also between nitrogen, phosphorus, and calcium. Simple occur in some classrooms at night and over weekends removed when the cartridge is changed. The beginning lessons can be taught on photosynthesis, as well as when the heat in many school buildings is turned down. Mirabello Reef does not include fish, which require demonstrations of the more complicated issues of Natural visible sunlight is a mix of colors from red regular feeding, one of the major sources of aquarium aggression and competition. to blue. Water absorbs red light first. Thus, photos of pollution. It requires little or no food. This makes the reefs tend to appear bluish unless the photographer Mirabello Reef Aquarium ideal for the classroom. It can Photosynthesis uses supplemental artificial light. The photochemical run for days without attention, as long as the light is on The driving force for life on the reef is process of photosynthesis by various chlorophylls a timer to give a twelve hour photoperiod. The primary photosynthesis. The growth and survival of tropical occurs at more than one part of the spectrum. Many maintenance requirement is replacement of evaporated reef-building corals are dependent on the symbiosis green plants and algae use the red end of the spectrum water with distilled water every few days. between the coral animals and the single-celled algae most efficiently. However, the chlorophyll in the Other Concerns called zooxanthellae that live within the corals. With symbiotic algae in corals uses primarily the blue end of light, these algae cells provide most of the nutrients the spectrum. Lighting for modern reef aquariums has Another issue to consider is the replacement of corals need for growth. This successful relationship been designed to be bluish-white to simulate the color depleted elements. As corals and coralline algae grow, permits the corals to prosper and build the massive of light at a depth of fifteen to thirty feet. This seems to they deposit calcium and other elements to build structures we call coral reefs. Micro- and macro-algae help corals grow, while it inhibits growth of undesirable skeletons. This often leads to a decrease in the level of also use light for photosynthesis and compete directly nuisance algae. calcium and trace elements in the water. The easiest with corals. In general, algae grow faster than corals, and The need for water movement in reef aquariums is way to counteract this condition is to make a one gallon would overrun reefs if not controlled. A broad mix of often overlooked, but adequate circulation is essential water exchange every two weeks using newly mixed herbivorous fish and invertebrates maintains the balance for healthy corals. Water is seldom still on the reefs. Instant Ocean sea water. In a small way this simulates between corals and algae in the wild. Within the The surge from waves and the flow of tidal currents the flushing action of the waves and tides that constantly confines of our small aquarium we use lowly snails to constantly bring nutrients past the corals, and also flush provides new water to the animals. The water exchange perform this vital function. This equation is further away wastes. Without these currents many corals complicated by the growth of coralline algae, which would suffocate in their own slime. Common pumping Continued on page 4 A Miniature Coral Reef for the never too hot. Classroom never too cold. Continued from page 3 Just ideal water temperature all the removes wastes not removed by other means, and also time. With a touch of the Dual-Temp dial, replaces depleted elements. you choose the ideal temperature setting Biological interaction between corals can also be for your aquarium . Set it and forget it… demonstrated. Corals have a number of defense no guesswork, no constant adjustment, strategies. One such strategy is the nematocysts, or no problem. stinging cells. These microscopic harpoon-like Dual-Temp Precision Aquarium structures are used to capture food and to sting Heaters are, quite simply, the best predators and nearby competitors. Some hard corals aquarium heaters available today. And have long sweeper tentacles loaded with nematocysts there’s a Dual-Temp for every aquarium – that kill neighboring corals to make room for growth. freshwater or marine, five-gallon mini to Many soft corals release toxic slimes that can harm 75-gallon show. other corals. Upgrade your old technology today… Coral reproduction is another interesting topic. with Dual-Temp. Most corals raised for aquariums are created by means of fragmentation or cutting of parent corals. These cuttings are then attached to new surfaces and continue to grow. This natural form of asexual reproduction can be observed on the reef after a storm when broken coral tips and branches begin to grow. Although some corals are being reproduced sexually, this is still on the experimental level. Another benefit of this micro-reef is that it can be moved. During long school breaks or extended holidays, the water can be drained down to two inches, as in a low tide. The aquarium can be carefully moved to a new location, set in position, and the water gently poured back in, with little effect on the organisms. Although this package was designed for use in school classrooms, it would also be suitable for the ™ novice aquarist. The primary goal was to put together Dual-Temp all of the critical components with a simple set of Precision aquarium heaters procedures that would result in nearly 100% success. © 2001 Marineland We are currently testing alternative reef packages that utilize the Eclipse I and Eclipse II twin light hoods with standard Perfecto glass aquariums that are available through local retail pet stores. With this system, new aquarists can experience success at a modest cost and have the time to read animals. How do they live? What do the latest theories on reef keeping while enjoying Book Review: they feed on? What special needs their aquariums, and before making the jump to do they have? Are they ? a large reef tank. Invertebrates, A Julian has done a wonderful job of Note: Mirabello Reef Kits for schools are currently Quick Reference bringing together a broad mix of available through Carolina Biological Supply Company, common and not so common reef whose web site is www.carolina.com. Guide tank animals. He includes many ornamental specimens that may be by Reviewed by Thomas Frakes occasionally available through the aquarium trade, but are not well When hobbyists set up reef tanks, they known, and he hopes to popularize Mirabello Reef stock them with corals, live rock, live sand, them. At the same time, commonly Livestock Package fish, and grazing animals, but then they sold pests are revealed to be not encounter countless animals that arrive as appropriate for reefs. A. Six corals from the following: hitchhikers. The obvious questions are what Each animal is brilliantly shown in a color photo are these, and are they safe for the reef. Some reef matched with a description. The format includes 1. Leather coral (Sarcophyton sp.) manuals and coral guides list a few nuisance species, but scientific name, common names, description, and notes 2. Tree coral (Capnella sp.) descriptions are brief and the scope limited. Field guides on similar organisms. This is followed by 3. Mushroom anemones (Corallimorphs) only list animals in a limited area, and give little recommendations on suitability for reef tanks, hints for 4. Star polyps (Clavularia sp.) husbandry information. feeding, special care requirements, and hardiness and 5. Finger coral (Sinularia sp.) Because these creatures come from many places longevity in captivity. With over 650 photos, it is a 6. Pulsing Xenia (Xenia sp.) and represent many phyla, it often takes a library of beautiful book to browse through and to marvel at all 7. Seamat or Button polyps (Zoanthus sp.) guidebooks to identify a new specimen. The forms are the strange beasts that could be found in your reef quite diverse, and it is often difficult to know where to 8. Small Polyp Stony hard branching coral tank. (Pocillapora damicornis) start looking for identification. Tunicates can look like This book is highly recommended for all reef B. Assortment of grazer snails (~8) and hermit sponges, a comb jelly can mimic a flat worm, and some aquarists, beginner to advanced. It brings together the flat worms can be confused with mollusks. vast range of creatures encountered in reef tanks into a crabs (~2) We finally have an easy source of useful single volume. C. Three to four pounds of cured live rock information on many of these lesser animals that can be D. Half pound of live sand found in reef tanks. Invertebrates, A Quick Invertebrates, A Quick Reference Guide Reference Guide concentrates on organisms from Published by Ricordea Publishing, Miami, FL around the world that have turned up in reef tanks. Distributed by Two Little Fishies, Inc. What I find most useful is the way this book answers Web site www.twolittlefishies.com the questions hobbyists have about these hitchhiker 240 pages, Suggested Retail Price $34.95