Axolotl (Ambystoma mexicanum)

Fairy shrimps (spring gillfoot) Fairy shrimps (spring gillfoot) are very common. Fairy shrimps are gilled crustaceans that have been found on our planet since prehistoric times in salt lakes, drying waters or polar waters.Only animals from Asia or America that live in a water temperature of 20-30°C are suitable for keeping in an aquarium. These species (Branchinella thailandensis and Dendrocephalus brasiliensis) live in waters that regularly dry out and are only filled with rainwater. The water is therefore very soft. Appearance The animals have 11 pairs of leaf feet. These leaf-shaped limbs serve not only for locomotion but also for breathing – which has led to the term "gilled-foot crustacean". There are sometimes minor differences in colour. They are found in colours ranging from orange to reddish-brown and may have greenish to bluish hues at the joints and at the boundaries of the segments.Both sexes have two short thread-like antennae. However, another pair of antennae differ in both shape and according to sex. Males have lobe-shaped appendages that can be curled up. Adult females are mainly distinguished by the ventrally located brood sacs, which are filled with eggs, and the ends of the female's tail are translucently light. Systematics Phylum: Arthropoda / ArthropodsSubphylum: Crustacea / CrustaceansClass: Anostraca – Gill-feetFamily: BranchipodidaeGenus: Branchipus / Eubranchipus /Tanymastix etc. Care Depending on the species, fairy shrimps live for 6-12 weeks and the size of adult animals varies from 1-3cm.Can Triops and fairy shrimps be kept together?yes, they can Aquarium size: Initially, a Faunarium box size 230 x 155 x 170 mm is quite sufficient From a body length of 1.5cm, they can be gradually accustomed to larger tanks Basic lighting: Sunlight or aquarium lighting is sufficientAeration: An air pump with a stone and very little air flow is sufficient for keepingSetup:Only water and breeding substrate in the breeding/starting container. A little fine aquarium sand can be used as substrate (but this is not absolutely necessary)Decorations can be used, but are only for our eyes and not of importance to the fairy shrimps.Fairy shrimps are free-swimmers – so they need enough free swimming space in the breeding container.If the animals swim around freely, you can also add a little aquarium moss to the water. To ensure the water is soft, it is best to use 2/3 distilled water and 1/3 mineral water (non-carbonated).Water temperature: Fluctuations in temperature of +/- 5° C are not dramatic.The ideal breeding temperature is 26°.Start:The larvae only hatch when they are completely surrounded by water. Therefore, place the eggs on adhesive tape and then put this in the water – so the eggs are not washed to the edge and always remain in contact with water.After 1-3 days the larvae hatch. The larvae grow quickly and can reach sexual maturity after up to 40 moults in one to two weeks. The males hold the females with their jaw pincers shortly before and also during mating. After mating, the eggs develop in the egg sacs on the females’ abdomens. They fall to the bottom of the water and can survive for several years of prolonged drought in the substrate.When the fairy shrimps have died, the water can be drained off and the substrate with the eggs left completely dry. The larvae can only hatch again if the eggs were completely dry.Once this is dried out, a new batch can be started.If no substrate is used, you can also siphon off the eggs with a thin hose. Let the water containing the eggs run through a fine net or a coffee filter – this way you can collect the eggs.Important: The animals do not tolerate large water changes. If fairy shrimps are to be moved to a larger home, it is best to place the animals together with the breeding water into the new home or tank and slowly fill up the container with conditioned tap water. Feeding The larvae are fed from the 3rd day after hatching.The larvae can be fed with algae powder or JBL Artemio fluid. For all animal husbandry: Children must be guided, supervised and monitored by their parents. Children must learn that an animal has its own needs and habits and they must respect this. Parents should be aware that they are responsible for the animal. For questions and problems our trained team at Zoo Roco is at your disposal. They can advise you professionally on all matters.

Profile of the Julii armoured catfishArea of originThe Julii armoured catfish lives in slow-flowing, shallow waters in South America with sandy bottoms and dense vegetation. Often found in flooded forest areas.SpeciesCorydoras comprises over 170 species. The Julii armoured catfish is one of the smaller, finely marked Corydoras species. The species frequently offered in the pet trade includeCorydoras julii (true Julii armoured catfish - rare)Corydoras trilineatus (three-line armoured catfish - often sold as "Julii")Corydoras pandaCorydoras sterbaiCorydoras aeneus (incl. albino)Social behaviourVery peaceful and sociable. Prefers bottom region. Likes to dig in the sand for food. Ideal for community tanks. No aggressive behaviour.Keeping conditionsFine sandy soil is a must! → Gravel can injure the barbels. Well-planted aquarium with lots of hiding places (roots, stones). Calm current. Very clean water required. Oxygen-rich environment. Regular water changesBreedingPossible, but somewhat more demanding Typical "T-position" spawning behaviour: Females stick eggs to glass or plants. Eggs often have to be protected from the parents. Fry require very fine food (infusoria, Artemia nauplii)Special featuresVery active and peaceful bottom dwellers. True Corydoras julii is rare - Corydoras trilineatus is often sold as Julii. Tolerates higher temperatures than some other Corydoras species. A larger group ensures well-being and beautiful observationsConclusionThe Julii armoured catfish is a pretty, sociable and extremely peaceful bottom fish that fits perfectly into a community aquarium. With fine sand, good water quality and a larger group, it displays its lively, charming behaviour and remains healthy for a long time. If you have any questions or problems, our trained team at Zoo Roco is here to help. They can provide expert advice on all matters.

Profile red neon / cardinalfishArea of originThe cardinal tetra inhabits the dark, blackwater rivers of theAmazonas region. There, the water is very soft, acidic, rich in humic substances and heavily overgrown with plants and roots.SpeciesParacheirodon axelrodi is one of three Paracheirodon species: Species commonly offered in the pet trade include:Paracheirodon axelrodi - Cardinalfish (solid red lower body)Paracheirodon innesi - neon fish (red stripe only at the back)Paracheirodon simulans - Blue neon / Green neon (smaller, more delicate)Social behaviourVery peaceful. Shows harmonious, synchronised swimming behaviour in a shoal. Ideal for community tanks with calm species. Intense colours in larger groups. Shy in groups that are too small or with hectic tankmates.Keeping conditionsSoft, slightly acidic water. Dark substrate and subdued light. Lots of plants, roots, leaf litter. Good filtration, but no strong current. Regular water changes important. Very sensitive to nitrite BreedingSophisticated Requires soft, very acidic water. Twilight promotes readiness to spawn. Free spawners, eggs are scattered. Parents must be removed immediately after laying eggs. Eggs are sensitive to light → darken! Breeding the tiny fry requires infusoria Special featuresOne of the most colourful freshwater fish species Blackwater requirements → ideal for biotope aquariums. Requires stable water conditions. Stress-free in large groupsConclusionParacheirodon axelrodi is a particularly colourful, peaceful schooling fish that unfolds its full beauty in a soft, acidic and densely planted aquarium. It is ideal for quiet community tanks and blackwater aquariums. It displays fascinating, harmonious shoaling behaviour in groups.If you have any questions or problems, our trained team at Zoo Roco is here to help. They can provide expert advice on all matters.

Profile of the Siamese trunk barbArea of originRunning waters and weedy river sections in Southeast Asia. Clear, oxygen-rich water with a moderate current.SpeciesThere are several similar species within the genus Crossocheilus, which are often confused: The species frequently offered in the pet trade includeCrossocheilus siamensis / oblongus (true Siamese trunk barb)Crossocheilus langei (often confused, but less effective against algae)Gyrinocheilus aymonieri (Chinese algae eater - NOT to be confused!)The real SAE can be recognised by: a continuous black stripe up to the caudal fin Transparent fins without dark areas small barbelsSocial behaviourPeaceful, active and social. Less shy in groups. More territorial towards conspecifics when older. Ideal for community tanks with other robust fish. Eager to jump → cover requiredKeeping conditionsPlenty of swimming space. Light to medium current. Lots of plants and roots. Very good oxygen supply. Cover important. Stable water conditions. Excellent for controlling algae, especially filamentous and brush algaeBreedingExtremely rare in the aquarium. Presumably free spawners. Spawning behaviour hardly documented in captivity. Mostly bred commercially by hormone stimulation. Natural breeding in the hobby is considered almost impossible.Special featuresOne of the few species that eat brush algae. Very industrious algae eaters. Frequent mix-ups in the trade → look out for characteristics. Slightly less algae-eating with age, but still beautiful behaviour. Does not tolerate high nitrate and dirt levelsConclusionThe Siamese barb is an extremely useful, peaceful and lively aquarium inhabitant. As an excellent algae eater - especially of stubborn brush algae - it is ideal for larger community aquariums. With good care, plenty of space and group keeping, it remains active, robust and a valuable helper in the tank.If you have any questions or problems, our trained team at Zoo Roco is here to help. They can provide expert advice on all matters.

Violet matano crab The violet matano crab is a species of snail-eating crab that lives purely in the water and does not require a land part. Home: Sulawesi Keeping: The violet matano crab can be kept in aquariums from 100 litres and grows up to 10 cm in size (carapace)The matano crab does not eat plants and can therefore be kept in a planted aquarium without any problems.The water values should be in the hard range, the pH value around 7.0 – 8.5The water temperature between 20-28°C Food: Snails, or as an alternative also crab and shrimp food Description and appearance: The basic colouring is purple / violet and a characteristic of this crab species is a rather square body as well as spikes on the edges of the body. Socialisation: The violet matano crab can easily be socialised with shrimps as well as fish.If there are snails in the aquarium, they will not survive living together.

Butterfly cichlidArea of origin:The butterfly cichlid (Mikrogeophagus ramirezi) originates from the warm, slow-flowing waters of Venezuela and Colombia. There it lives in densely overgrown bank zones with soft, slightly acidic water.Species:The species frequently offered in pet shops includeMicrogeophagus ramirezi - the classic butterfly cichlidMicrogeophagus ramirezi "Gold" - gold-coloured breeding formMicrogeophagus ramirezi "Electric Blue" - intense blue colour variantMicrogeophagus ramirezi "German Blue" - brightly coloured standard breeding forSocial behaviour:Butterfly cichlids are peaceful dwarf cichlids and can be kept well in the company of calm species. They show pronounced social behaviour within the pair, while males can rival each other in aquaria that are too small.Keeping conditions:The butterfly cichlid prefers warm temperatures of 26-30 °C, soft to medium-hard water and a slightly acidic pH value. Fine sandy soil, lots of plants and quiet hiding places create ideal conditions. Good water quality is particularly important for this species.Breeding:The animals form pair bonds and usually spawn on flat stones or leaves. Both parents take care of the brood, fan the eggs and later lead the fry. Successful breeding is best achieved in a separate breeding tank with very good water quality.Special features:Butterfly cichlids are among the most colourful dwarf cichlids around. Although their requirements are moderate, they are sensitive to poor water values. High-bred forms can be more sensitive than the wild form.Conclusion:The butterfly cichlid is an attractive, peaceful dwarf cichlid that is a joy to keep under the right conditions. It is an enrichment for aquaria with calm tankmates and good care.If you have any questions or problems, our trained team at Zoo Roco is always available to help. We’re happy to provide expert advice!

Herkunftsgebiet: Endemisch im Essequibo-Fluss, Guyana. Soziales Verhalten: Friedlicher Schwarmfisch für jedes gut gepflegte Gesellschaftsbecken Hälterungsbedingungen: Dieser Fisch kommt erst im Schwarm und bei gedämpftem Licht (Torffilterung, Schwimmpflanzendecke) richtig zur Geltung. Zucht: Bei 28° C zwischen feinfiedrigen Pflanzen im Schwarm oder als Einzelpaar im Zuchtbecken bei weichem, torfgefiltertem Wasser Besonderheiten: Einer der schönsten kleinbleibenden Salmler, der dem Neonfisch nicht nachsteht. Quellennachweis: Mergus Atlas Band 1Für Fragen und Probleme steht Ihnen unser ausgebildetes Team im Zoo Roco zur Verfügung. Es kann Sie in allen Fragen fachgerecht beraten.

Herkunftsgebiet: Südostasien: Thailand, Westmalaysia, Singapur, Sumatra, Java, Borneo. Soziales Verhalten: Einzelgängerisch lebende, dämmerungs- bzw. nachtaktive Fische, die tagsüber ein verstecktes Leben führen. Hälterungsbedingungen: Weicher Bodengrund, dieser kann auch mit dünner Mulm- oder Torfschicht bedeckt sein. Dichte Bepflanzung mit feinfliedrigen Pflanzen. feinfiedrige Pflanzen aber nur , wenn keine Mulmschicht vorhanden ist . Verstecke aus Wurzeln und Steinen. Schwimmpflanzen zur Dämpfung des Lichtes. Wasser kalkarm (weich) und torfsauer . Pangio-Arten sind wärmebedürftig. Zucht: Im Aquarium nur in Ausnahmefällen gelungen. Diese Erfolge sind aber meist dem Zufall zu verdanken. Die Eier werden unter der Wasseroberfläche abgegeben. Sie kleben an den Wurzeln der Schwimmpflanzen oder bleiben dort hängen. Die Eier haben eine hellgrüne Färbung und sind sehr klein. Besonderheiten: Diese Art spaltet sich in zwei Unterarten, Pangio kuhlii kuhlii (VAL., 1846) und P. kuhlii sumatranus, FRASER-BRUNNER ,1940 ( Sumatra Dornauge) . Diese Unterart wurde zuerst eingeführt.(1909), aber erst 1940 als Unterart beschrieben. Beide Unterarten unterscheiden sich nur durch Färbung und Zeichenmuster. Nach KLAUSEWITZ gehört P. myersi ebenfalls in diese Gruppe und hieße dann P. kuhlii myersi. Quellennachweis: Mergus Atlas Band 1Für Fragen und Probleme steht Ihnen unser ausgebildetes Team im Zoo Roco zur Verfügung. Es kann Sie in allen Fragen fachgerecht beraten.

Profile purple splendour perchArea of originThe purple perch originates from soft, slightly acidic rivers and streams in West Africa. It prefers densely overgrown bank zones and areas with roots, stones and caves.SpeciesThe purple splendour perch belongs to the genus Pelvicachromis, which also includes other well-known species: The species frequently offered in the pet trade include Pelvicachromis pulcher (purple splendour perch)Pelvicachromis taeniatusPelvicachromis subocellatus Various location and colour variants ("Nigeria Red", "Moliwe" etc.)Social behaviourVery peaceful towards most tankmates. Becomes territorial during the breeding season, but not overly aggressive. Exhibits wonderful pair and brood care behaviour. Easy to socialise in a well-structured aquarium.Keeping conditionsWell-planted aquarium with caves (flower pots, coconut caves, roots). Fine sandy bottom for burrowing. Low to moderate light. Regular water changes. Choose calm tankmates (no fin biters)BreedingVery easy - ideal for beginners in cichlid breeding. Cave breeder Female usually takes care of the brood. After hatching, the pair will care for the offspring together. Fry accept Artemia nauplii and fine food without any problems. High survival rateSpecial featuresOne of the most peaceful dwarf cichlids around. Shows extremely beautiful colours during mating. Ideal for smaller community tanks. Robust and easy to care for. Very good parents - exemplary breeding behaviour.ConclusionThe purple splendour perch is a beautiful, peaceful and extremely robust cichlid that is ideal for beginners and advanced keepers. Its fascinating mating and breeding behaviour as well as its intense colouring make it a highlight in any community aquarium.If you have any questions or problems, our trained team at Zoo Roco is here to help. They can provide expert advice on all matters.

Herkunftsgebiet: Asien Soziales Verhalten: Es sind sehr  friedliche, nachtaktive Fische. Sie mögen die dunklen Ecken und besonders den Strom, in dem sie übergehen, meistens geklebt gegen eine Scheibe oder einer glatten Oberfläche. Hälterungsbedingungen: Flossensauger sind Fische, die sehr empfindlich auf die Qualität des Wassers und besonders auf seine Temperatur  reagieren. Eine Temperatur über 25°C beginnt bereits, sie zu stressen, und eine 27°C Temperatur kann sogar tödlich sein.Der Sauerstoffsatz ist auch sehr wichtig. Man hält sie am besten in einem gut gefilterten und bepflanzten Aquarium. Dépigmentation der Haut kann ein Zeichen von zu hoher Temperatur sein. Zucht: Keine Informationen Bemerkungen: Andere FlossensaugerGastromyzon borneensis = hellbraun  mit schwarzen PunktenGastromyzon punctulatus = dunkelbraun  mit hellen Punkten.Pseudogastromyzon myersi = hellbraun  mit Bändern Besonderheiten: Saugen sich auf glatten Flächen mit ihren Bauch- und Afterflossen fest (sie bilden zusammen einen grossen Saugnapf).Für Fragen und Probleme steht Ihnen unser ausgebildetes Team im Zoo Roco zur Verfügung. Es kann Sie in allen Fragen fachgerecht beraten.

ProfileArea of origin:Platies originally come from small rivers, streams and lagoons in Central America, often in densely overgrown bank areas.Species:The platies available in pet shops are usually breeding forms of two species:Xiphophorus maculatus (Southern Platy)Xiphophorus variatus (Variatus platy)Often hybridised. The species frequently offered in pet shops include (cultivated forms and colour variants)Red PlatySun platyTuxedo PlatyWagtail PlatyBlue platyVariatus PlatyKoi-PlatyHighfin PlatySocial behaviour:Platies are very peaceful and extremely sociable. They are ideal for community tanks with other calm species. Males can occasionally harass females, which is why a preponderance of females is recommended.Keeping conditions:A well-planted aquarium with free swimming space is ideal. Platies like hard to medium-hard water and a moderate current. Regular water changes and a balanced diet ensure vitality and colourfulness.Breeding:Platies are viviparous. Females give birth every 4-6 weeks. Dense planting increases the survival rate of the young, as adult platies can sometimes stalk. Breeding is also easy in a community tank.Special features:Very robust and beginner-friendly. Wide variety of colours and shapes. Fits perfectly in community tanks. Breeds easily and regularlyConclusion:The Platy is a colourful, active and uncomplicated aquarium fish that is ideal for beginners and community aquariums. With stable water values, varied food and a small group, it shows its full potential and ensures lively activity in the aquarium.If you have any questions or encounter any problems, our trained team at Zoo Roco is here to help. They can provide expert advice on all matters.

Sterbas armoured catfishArea of origin:Corydoras sterbai originates from the border region between Brazil and Bolivia and lives there in softer, clear to slightly murky waters with a sandy bottom.Species:Sterbas armoured catfish is one of over 170 Corydoras species. The species frequently offered in the pet trade includeCorydoras sterbaiCorydoras paleatusCorydoras aeneus (golden form, albino)Corydoras pandaCorydoras julii / trilineatus Sterbai is one of the most popular species due to its attractive dot and line pattern.Social behaviour:Very peaceful, sociable and active on the bottom. Forms small groups that dig together. Very compatible with other peaceful fish. Non-aggressive and ideal for community aquariums.Keeping conditions:Fine sandy soil is mandatory, as hard gravel edges injure the barbelsWell-structured tank with roots, plants and shaded areasClean, well-filtered water Gentle currentRegular water changesNever insert by hand - sensitive fin spinesBreeding:Rather easy compared to other armoured catfish. Spawn after water changes with slightly cooler water. Females stick eggs to discs and plants. Parents often have to be removed as eggs are eaten. Juveniles require fine powdered food and Artemia nauplii.Special features:Very robust and ideal for beginners Must be kept in groupsBarbels require soft substrate for protection Beautiful pattern with white spots on a dark bodyTolerates higher temperatures - ideal for discus tanksConclusion:Sterbas armoured catfish is a peaceful, attractive and easy to care for bottom dweller that provides lively, social behaviour in groups. With fine sand, clean water conditions and a varied diet, it remains healthy and active for a long time. An ideal companion fish for almost any peaceful community aquarium - and particularly popular in warm tanks.If you have any questions or problems, our trained team at Zoo Roco is here to help. They can provide expert advice on all matters.