Dying plants cause much trouble—be sure plants are healthy and growing.
It is much easier to keep fish healthy in a large tank (above 5 gallons). A large tank maintains a more uniform temperature, allows more air surface, plants thrive better, and water is not fouled so easily by excess food.
An aquarium can be maintained in healthy condition, both plants and fish thriving, under artificial lighting furnished by an ordinary light bulb.
Vary the diet for the fish. Feed only as much as they will eat in ten minutes. Feed sparingly and several times a day if necessary. Use glass feeding ring. ([Fig. 4]). All uneaten food drops to one spot where it can be easily removed with a dip tube.
Health and growth of fry depend upon oxygen supply. Use tank with large air surface. BE SURE AND DO NOT CROWD YOUNG FRY. Crowding stunts growth and frequently causes disease, and loss of whole brood. Fry demand approximately same amount of water as adults—see [page 31].
FIG·4
Tropicals in poor condition, (usually indicated by folded fins).
Fish constantly at top indicate foul water and lack of oxygen.
