New Arrivals

Rose CoralWe have a new shipment of corals in at Fishy Business. To see some of what's available, check out our Livestock page (and remember, if you see one you like, don't daudle. They always move fast). When you contact us, also be sure to ask about coral frags.

Herpetiles

In the past few years a reptile cage has finally become a terrarium. The trend towards more realistic and naturalistic landscapes in terrariums has made reptile and amphibian keeping more exciting and satisfying than ever. This new dimension has created not only an opportunity for us as hobbyists to educate ourselves about the natural conditions wherein our animals live, but has provided a whole new perspective. Simulating the natural habitats wherein reptiles and amphibians live enables us to enjoy that little piece of amazing wilderness in our homes.

Most reptiles require appropriate and high quality lighting in order to meet certain different metabolic needs. In order to promote the synthesis of vitamin D3 and calcium, ultraviolet B (UVB - a component of sunlight) is required. Ultraviolet A (UVA) stimulates appetite, activity and reproductive behavior. In captivity you would want to provide both for your pet.

Zoo Med Lighting

The most important feature of a fluorescent lamp is the ability to emit sufficient UVB light, along with a little UVA light. Keep in mind it is impossible to accommodate a high visible light emission with a high ultraviolet output. The higher the UV output, the less visual light is emitted. The light also gets a bluer appearance. Therefore it is recommended to combine a tube with a high UV output with one with a very high visual light output for optimal results.

Some incandescent bulbs are manufactured with an internal Neodymium sleeve. Neodymium is a rare earth metal that changes the color balance of the illumination, giving terrarium animals, decoration and plants a more natural appearance.

Also remember, because fluorescent tubes do not provide sufficient heat, a separate heat source is required, like an incandescent basking lamp or heat rock.

Did you know...

  • Female guppies can have up to five litters of babies from one mating.
  • In some mouthbrooders, it is the male that carries the eggs in his mouth until they hatch.
  • The South American poison arrow frogs' (P. terribilis) skin toxins are so abundant and potent that Indians of Columbia merely rubbed the point of their blow gun dart for deadly hunting.

F.B.I.s' Recycle Program

All-Glass corner aquarium

Have you been thinking about a new, bigger aquarium, but not sure where to put your old one? We are now accepting older, used aquariums for trade in on a new, bigger aquarium. If you think it is time to upgrade your aquarium system, this program may be just the thing for you. Come in and talk to us about moving on up.

Aquariums and Alzheimer's

A two year study found that placing aquariums in dining areas whetted Alzheimer patients appetites. "One of the major problems facing these patients is their lack of appetite, thus leading to extreme weight loss," said Dr. Nancy Edwards of Purdue University. Her study found that placing an aquarium in the dining room increased patient food intake by 33.8 percent. The aquariums calming effect also had a bonus feature with patients exhibiting less physical aggression and other disruptive behaviors.

Marine Minutes

  • F.B.I. would like to congratulate the nine families that "dove in" to a saltwater aquarium in just the last month. Many have found it to be a great enjoyment, and have even seen creatures they were not expecting. Hey, when you are in Livingston, stop by Z Bar on L Street and check out their Eight foot marine aquarium.
  • For we humans it is always a surprise what sex our babies will end up being. It is different in the fish world. In the ANTHIAS family all new babies are female. One male Anthias will have his harem of females. If the male is lost, the dominant female will turn male and take over the harem.
  • On the other hand the ever popular clown fish (Amphiprion) all start out as males, with a female having her faithful men followers. If the female is lost, the dominant male will change to the female.
  • The key elements necessary for successfully maintaining a reef aquarium include live rock, proper lighting, rigorous mechanical filtration, good live stock, trace element replenishment, and effective protein skimming.
Pak-Pak 2 from CPR Aquatics

Many versions of protein skimmers are out on the market. Things that make a skimmer to consider are 1) the capability of it creating a very good stable mixture of fine bubbles and water. 2) It must keep the water/air mixture together for as long as possible. Increased contact time between the protein removing bubbles and the water insures a more complete waste removal.