Due to the fact that in some localities the natural water supply is alkaline, in others neutral, and in others acid much has been written about controlling aquarium water.
Many aquarists believe that a slightly acid condition in the aquarium is desirable.
There are a number of reliable water testing sets available at very nominal prices.
Most of the fish described in this book seem to thrive and breed better in slightly acid water (about pH6.8).
HELPFUL HINTS
Get your experience from the more common varieties first.
Half grown fish are best to buy—you are sure of obtaining young fish, and it is interesting to watch them mature.
Fish ready to spawn: Females become heavier. Also on live bearers the dark spot near vent becomes larger and darker. Males chase females continually at spawning time. Labyrinth male builds bubble nest.
Live bearers are easiest to breed. Eggs are hatched within the female’s body and the young are born alive.
Female live bearers seek secluded places to give birth to their young. If one corner of the community tank (toward light) is heavily planted, and ample floating plants provided, quite a few young will survive. These can be removed until old enough to return to community tank—in about 4 or 5 weeks, dependent on growth.