ReCreation
ReCreation Magazine ™
It’s A Whole New World!
Aquariums
The Aquatics
Underwater Adventures At Large! Animal
∆ Conse
rvation
∆ Exhib
its ∆ Mu
sic ∆ Hi
story ∆
Sea ∆ N
ational
Under The Sea
∆ DIY ∆
Inside: Check out the ReCreated Aqarium you have to see to believe.
Aquatic ecosystems are challenging for humans to explore. Most of our observations of aquatic life are superficial, being made from the water’s edge or surface. Aquariums reveal the underwater world, a world that covers 80% of the Earth’s surface and is usually hidden from our view. By discovering and understanding something about aquatic life, aquarium visitors become aware of the value of aquatic life and the need to protect and preserve it. Aquariums perform a vital role educating people about aquatic conservation.
Table of Contents 03 Aquariums 16 History of Aquarium 17 National Aquarium 18 Exhibits: Car Aquarium 19 Two Oceans Aquarium 20 Music & Poems 21 Society 23 People: Scuba Diver 25 Aquarium Fish 27 DIY 28 Aqua Culture ONE HEART
Founder, Jahmerikah Marley
Aquariums
The Grand Aquarium
Ocean Park, Hong Kong
Your journey at the Grand Aquarium may start at the sunny sea shore but will quickly bring you to the darkest depths of the ocean floor! Before you enter, you’ll already be able to hear the power of the ocean as water roars through a blow hole! Vibrant corals undulate as you pass the spectacular coral tank and stroll through a beach adorned with sand sculptures. At the touch pool, children get handson experience with sea cucumbers and sea stars as they develop an appreciation for sea life with all 5 senses at an early age! Marvel at the beauty of a solar eclipse before you ‘dive’ deeper underwater, where bioluminescent creatures glow in the dark and the mysterious shadows of fish flicker by your shoulder! Enter the Reef Tunnel, where you will get a taste of the profoundly beautiful ecosystem surrounding coral reefs. As you descend further around a gigantic swirl tank, look up and admire the schooling milkfish as they glitter like a kaleidoscope of stars! As you walk through the bubble tunnel, remember to peer through the world’s largest aquarium dome, which stands at an astounding 5.5m in diameter! Then, take a final dive down into the abyss, where some of the ocean’s most bizarre creatures live, before reaching the climax of your journey – an awe-inspiring 13m wide acrylic viewing panel behind which 5,000 fish from over 400 species meet you eye-to-eye! ∆
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∆ Coral reefs have existed for over 200 million years. A coral reef grows less than three centimeters a year. At that rate, it takes a very long time for a large reef to form! ∆ Around 84 species of corals can be found in Hong Kong waters. They grow mainly along the northeast and eastern shores, forming communities in shallow coastal waters.
Aquariums
Eilat aquarium Eilat, Israel
100 meters from the beach, on a slope leading down to the sea’s depths, a unique structure was built in 1974: a tower reaching down to the seabed. From the windows at the base of the tower, below sea level, the mysteries of the deep pass before the eyes of observers. A bridge spanning from the Marine Park leads to the white tower, which stands like a lighthouse in the Gulf of Eilat. At the entrance there’s a pleasant, air-conditioned café and a fine jewelry shop. From the entry hall on the ground floor, visitors can climb 90 steps to the “Peace Terrace” at the top of the Underwater Observatory tower. From there one can enjoy an unobstructed view of the Red Sea coastlines. To the east, Jordan, the Edom mountains, Aqaba city and port. Southeast lies the coast of Saudi Arabia and to the southwest, the coast of the Gulf of Eilat, Taba and Egypt. To the north stretches the city of Eilat, the port, beaches, hotels and Arava desert. http://www.coralworld.com/
Entrance to the Underwater Observatory is also through the Entry Hall. A staircase leads visitors about 6 meters (about 20’) below sea level. At first one observation hall was built. When it became too small to accommodate all the visitors, a second hall was added and connected to the first via hallway. The walls of the observatory and hallway are windows looking into the sea. The coral reef which developed around the tower provides visitors with endless surprises and experiences. Colorful schools of fishes approach and disappear into the coral maze. Sometimes a large fish comes by and dives down, disappearing into the deep. From time to time one sees a diver at work, providing care and maintenance. The different hours of the day, passing seasons, all is seen and felt through the observatory windows. Every moment things are happening. No moment is like another. One doesn’t know which direction to look in: an unforgettable experience. ∆
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Aquariums
Melbourne Aquarium Melbourne, Victoria
Dive into the awe-inspiring Sharks Alive for an experience that will not be forgotten.
Melbourne Aquarium offers four amazing world’s filled with beautiful and unique aquatic animals. Start your journey in the stunning Antarctic exhibit home to cheeky Gentoo and King penguins and now Australia’s first Gentoo penguin chicks.
Melbourne Aquarium’s 2.2 million liter Oceanarium features a panoramic Fish Bowl viewing area that puts you right in the action as you are surrounded by an underwater world filled with intimidating sharks, massive stingrays, turtles and thousands of amazing marine animals.
The daily dive feeds are a must-see, as expert divers take the Prepare to be surprised by the truly Weird and Wonderful then journey from River to Reef and plunge into the tank to feed the hungry marine explore the newly refurbished and amazingly vibrant Coral Atoll. Finish in the awe-inspiring predators, or you can take a seat and relax in the Sharks Alive, see the 2.2 million liter Oceanarium’s Ocean Theatre while you watch a presentation residents such as Grey Nurse sharks and Sandbar about the amazing animals as they float right Whalers, they are nothing like you have ever seen by. before. Prepare to be surprised and amazed by the most Those feeling brave can dive in at the Weird & Wonderful animals at Melbourne Aquarium. deep end and experience the huge Melbourne Aquarium uncovers the secrets of survival under the sea in the colourful and vibrant Weird & Wonderful journey - one of the four amazing world’s at Melbourne Aquarium. This amazing world allows you to experience some of the strangest marine animals in the sea. Discover how these vivid creatures defy expectations in beautiful colourful displays and witness the amazing demonstrations of camouflage. Observe the extraordinary habits of colourchanging cuttlefish, spiky lionfish, camouflaged sea dragons, armour-carrying crabs and everyone’s favorite marine movie star, the clownfish or “Nemo”. From the natural fascinating beauty of the live coral garden waving in the ocean current, to the enchantment of the seahorse exhibit, Weird & Wonderful is a mesmerizing world full of colourful and amazing animals for the whole family to enjoy.
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adrenaline rush of swimming face-to-face with the sharks in the Oceanarium, with the new Shark Walker and Shark Dive experiences. ∆
http://www.melbourneaquarium.com.au/home
Aquariums JEWEL TANK EXHIBIT
Atlanteans placed written wishes in CLOWNFISH EXHIBIT the holes within the wall behind this Made famous by the blockbuster movie ancient icon. Today, these same holes Finding Nemo, the clownfish Amphiprion are home to Cuban hogfish Bodianus ocellaris and anemones Condylactis pulchellus, queen angelfish Holacan- gigantea are housed in what is said to be thus ciliaris, and rock beauty Hola- a storage room that led to the back alleycanthus tricolor. ways of the City of Atlantis.
THE DIG’S There’s only one place in the world where you can embark STUNNING on a journey through the streets and tunnels of the fabulous lost of Atlantis while touting MARINE LIFE city stunning marine life exhibits. Reflecting the tunnels and thorEXHIBITS oughfares of the lost continent;
Paradise Island’s The Dig features habitats for 100 venomous Indo-Pacific Ocean Lionfish, 500 piranhas, iridescent jellyfish and six-foot Moray Eels. There are special environments nine species of enormous groupers. And in separate, smaller “Jewel Habitats,” multitudes of brilliantly colored tropical fish dwell. Resort guests should plan ahead and remember not to PIRANHA EXHIBIT miss the interactive touch tank This storage room for Atlantean pots and aquarium—filled with conch, urns has become the perfect home for green starfish, sea urchins, sea cumoray eels Gymnothorax funebris. Eels are cumbers, crabs and horseshoe actually fish. The green color of these ani- crabs—and designed to encourmals is produced by a yellow mucous layer, age vacationer interaction. It’s a which overlays the darker blue skin. They once in a lifetime experience.∆ grow to an impressive length of 6 ft. http://www.atlantis.com
Atlantis, Paradise Island, Bahamas
LIONFISH EXHIBIT
Once the end of a main street, lionfish Pterois volitans, spotted scorpion fish Scorpaena plumieri, and long-spine urchin Diadema antillarum now call this enclosed area home. Native to the Indian and Pacific Oceans, lionfish have become an invasive species in The Bahamas, outcompeting native species of fish.
MORAY EEL EXHIBIT
This vault-like chamber is where the Atlanteans would have stored their treasures and scientific records. Contrary to movie story lines, piranhas Pygocentrus nattereri do not mindlessly attack people and other animals as they enter the water. When hungry, these fish tend to attack weak and injured animals. These two rooms are believed to be storage chambers used to store lightsensitive navigational documents. It is the perfect setting to view the purple-striped jelly Chrysaora melanaster and the moon jellyfish Aurelia aurita. These animals are 98% water and do not have a brain, central nervous system or eyes.
JELLYFISH EX-
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Aquariums
Vancouver Aquarium The Vancouver Public Aquarium opened its doors on June 15, 1956. Since then more than 27 million guests have visited the Aquarium. In 1967, the Aquarium was expanded to three times its original size. The natural colours and limited height of the present structure allows it to remain inconspicuous within the wooded surroundings of Stanley Park. The mission of the Vancouver Aquarium is to effect the conservation of aquatic life through display and interpretation, education, research and direct action.
Vancouver Aquarium Marine Science Centre
The Vancouver Aquarium also takes direct action in conservation. Aquarium staff and volunteers have been involved in the creation of Canada’s first no-take Marine Protected Area, beach clean-ups, wetlands restorations and rehabilitations, aquatic bird and intertidal population surveys and much more. The Aquarium’s mission also includes the research of aquatic life. One current research project involves learning why Steller sea lions are disappearing from many of their natural habitats. Aquarium researchers and scientists are also actively studying other marine mammals at the Aquarium and in the field, including killer whales, belugas, sea otters and harbour seals. Other researchers are revealing the unknown early life stages of the wolf-eel as well as sculpins, lingcod, blennies, shrimp, snailfish and other local fish species. ∆
An aquarium is similar to an ecosystem as numerous components must mesh together to keep the whole system running. A skilled and varied staff is needed, which includes educators, biologists, naturalists, aquarists, divers, scientists, curators, carpenters, computer specialists, horticulturists, cashiers, grounds keepers, trainers, veterinarians, accountants, artists, writers, web site developers, photographers, administrative assistants, and engineers.Most people who work at the Aquarium must have a technical diploma or certificate, a university degree, or some form of professional training. Many of the staff began their careers by volunteering at the Aquarium. It’s a great place to gain experience and have fun—and every part of the Aquarium relies on the valuable help of volunteers.
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∑ The Aquarium was the first facility in the world to study a killer whale, Moby Doll (actually a young male) in July of 1964. ∑ In 1967, the Aquarium established the first on-site killer whale habitat, the B.C. Tel Pool. ∑ In September of 1975, the Aquarium became the first aquarium to be accredited by the American Association of Zoological Parks and Aquariums (AZA). ∑ January 1981 saw the first birth of a sea otter in an aquarium in Canada. ∑ In 1984, Chief of the Undersea World, sculpted by artist Bill Reid, was unveiled at the Aquarium’s entrance. ∑ Late in 1996, the Aquarium became the first facility in the world to undertake to never again capture, or cause to be captured, a wild whale or dolphin. ∑ In 1997, an Aquarium aquarist discovered a new species of shrimp in the Gulf Islands: this species has since been raised in our research lab. http://www.vanaqua.org/learn/aquafacts
Aquariums
toad scarlet ibis
Whales In Aquariums Seeing whales in aquariums has helped change public perception and increased support for conserving wild populations. There is no real substitute for seeing animals first-hand to generate a feeling of interest and connection. For most people, the Vancouver Aquarium and other aquariums are the only place they can see live whales. Education about conservation is vital to the survival of whales in the wild. If all the people that view whales in aquariums went whale watching, this would have a huge impact on various wild whale populations around the world. http://www.vanaqua.org/learn/aquafacts
Many animals arrive at the Aquarium as part of an exchange program with other large aquariums, zoos and universities. Most of the tropical fish are flown to the Aquarium from dealers around the world. The Aquarium tries to buy fish from sustainable fisheries and conservation-based associations, and only purchases from dealers who collect fish with nets, and not chemicals or explosives.
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The Aquarium has more than 50,000 different animals belonging to 661 different species from all around the globe including whales, sea otters, sloths, frogs, fish, sea stars and much more. We have 37 different species of amphibians, 9 different species of birds, 172 different species of marine fish, 125 different species of freshwater fish, 277 different species of aquatic invertebrates, 10 different species of terrestrial invertebrates, 4 different species of non-marine mammals, 7 different species of marine mammals, and 20 different species of reptiles.
frog macaws fur seal sea star
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Aquariums
Denmarks Aquarium Denmark Aquarium, Denmark
The aquarium exhibits more than 300 species from all over the world. The exhibition consists of more than 70 aquariums, the largest containing more than 85.000 litres of water.
At Café Danmarks Akvarium visitors can relax and enjoy a good meal, a cake, or a cup of coffee. There is a nice view of the forrest and beach. ∆
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Feeding Times ∆ Monday – Friday: 1:30pm Saturdays & Sundays: 11:30am & 2:00pm Daily during holidays: 11:30am & 2:00pm
Touch Pool open every day at 10:30am. Minor breaks during the day in connection with feeding and other activities.
http://www.danmarksakvarium.dk
Aquariums
The Florida Aqarium
The Florida Aquarium showcases the aquatic animals and ecosystems of Florida and around the world. Far more than just an attraction, The Florida Aquarium is actively working around the state in research and conservation programs including coral propagation, underwater archaeology and animal rescue and rehabilitation. ∆
Wetlands
s t i b i Exh
Downtown Tampa, FL
The Florida Aquarium tells Florida’s unique water story as it follows a “drop” of water from its underground source to the open sea. Begin your journey in Wetlands with freeflighted birds, alligators and river otters!
Goliath Grouper
River Otter
Bays and Beaches
Discover more than 20,000 aquatic plants and animals both native to Florida and from around the world! In Bays and Beaches discover the wonderful world of aquatic animals that live as our neighbors in Tampa Bay and along our shores. At the Beaches exhibit explore the near shore brackish and salty waters in the Bays and Beaches Gallery. From lush sea grass beds to sandy beaches, these waters are home to some unusual creatures. Perhaps the Aquarium’s largest fish! This Goliath grouper is more than 300-pounds but can still be missed as he often blends in with his environment like a great motionless statue! http://www.flaquarium.org/
Coral Reef The Coral Reef Gallery is a one-of-a-kind view into one of the most beautiful and diverse ecosystems in the world - a habitat normally explored only by experienced divers. The gallery simulates a 60-foot dive starting in shallow-water reefs and descending to deeper waters. Each viewing window presents a micro habitat which changes as the depth increases. The exhibit is modeled after the coral formations of the Dry Tortugas off the Florida Keys. Housed in a 500,000 gallon tank, the reef provides the base for this vibrant community of more than 2,000 coral reef residents, representing 100 species, Moray Eel many native to Florida.
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Aquariums
aquarium
The Columbia Encyclopedia, Sixth Edition | 2008 | Copyright
Aquarium name for any supervised exhibit of aquatic animals and plants. Aquariums are known to have been constructed in ancient Rome, Egypt, and Asia. Goldfish have been bred in China for several hundred years and are still the most commonly kept fish in home aquariums, although small tropical fish, such as guppies, have become increasingly popular. Large public aquariums have been made possible by the development of exhibit tanks capable of holding over 100,000 gal (378,500 liters) of water. The first aquarium known to have been constructed with glass is in Regent’s Park, London (1853). The maintenance of an aquarium of any size requires the careful regulation of water flow, temperature, light, food, and oxygen, removal of injurious debris, and attention to the special requirements of the individual species kept. Green aquatic plants are often used in aquariums since, through the process of photosynthesis, they utilize waste carbon dioxide from the animals’ respiration and in turn provide oxygen. An aquarium in which the dissolved gases are kept at the proper concentrations by the physiological activities of the plants and animals is called a balanced aquarium. Certain mollusks, such as snails and mussels, are useful as scavengers, as are some species of fish. Large freshwater and saltwater aquariums are often maintained for research and breeding purposes by universities, marine stations, and wildlife commissions, e.g., those in Naples, Italy; Monaco; Plymouth, England; La Jolla, Calif.; and Woods Hole, Mass. There are also many aquariums throughout the world for public exhibition. Among those in the United States are the Aquarium for Wildlife Conservation (formerly the New York Aquarium) at Brooklyn, N.Y.; the Georgia Aquarium at Atlanta; the John G. Shedd Aquarium at Chicago; Marineland of Florida at Marineland, Fla.; the Monterey Bay Aquarium at Monterey, Calif.; the National Aquarium at Baltimore, Md.; the New England Aquarium at Boston, Mass.; the New Jersey State Aquarium at Camden; the Scripps Institute of Oceanography at La Jolla, Calif.; the South Carolina Aquarium at Charleston, S.C.; the Steinhart Aquarium at San Francisco; the Tennessee Aquarium at Nashville; and the Waikiki Aquarium at Honolulu. ∆
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“aquarium.” The Columbia Encyclopedia, Sixth Edition. 2008. Retrieved January 09, 2012 from Encyclopedia.com: http://www.encyclopedia.com/ doc/1E1-aquarium.html
Aquariums
Aquarium of the Bay San Francisco, California
Aquarium of the Bay is San Francisco Bay’s Aquarium. They are passionate about providing fun and unforgettable encounters with their natural world in ways that ignite both wonder and conservation. Aquarium of the Bay manage from their 50,000 square foot building at the heart of San Francisco’s history and culture. Aquarium of the Bay is nestled in the shadow of Coit Tower and Telegraph Hill on Fisherman’s Wharf at PIER 39, along the City’s “Walkable Waterfront.” Aquarium of the Bay also own a research vessel and partner with several boat fleets to take their conservation, education and research out on the Bay. Focusing on water, beginning at the heart -- the very depths—of San Francisco Bay. Aquarium of the Bay facility boasts 300 feet of crystal clear acrylic tunnels holding 700,000 gallons of carefully maintained bay water that sustains approximately 20,000 animals, from octopuses to eight-foot native, sevengill sharks. Visitors are also treated to mesmerizing walls of jellies and a chance to touch bat rays, skates and “splash zone” animals. In the fifteen year history of Aquarium of the Bay, over seven million guests, including more than 100,000 school children, have visited the Aquarium. ∆
http://www.aquariumofthebay.org
Explore the magic, beauty and wonder of San Francisco Bay at Aquarium of the Bay. Schooling Fish
In the Aquarium’s first of two crystal clear tunnel tanks, you will encounter a dynamic near-shore habitat. Did you know that the majority of San Francisco Bay is between 10-15 feet deep? What it lacks in depth, it makes up for in breadth and diversity of species. Many animals, including various shark species, use the shallow mudflats of San Francisco Bay as a breeding and nursery ground for their pups. Moon Jellies
Leopard Shark Your Aquarium of the Bay exploration begins in Discover the Bay, featuring the distinctive ecosystems that support an incredibly wide variety of marine life. In eight exhibits featuring over a thousand aquatic animals, you will learn about the creatures that make their homes in the Bay.
Jellies await your arrival upon entering the Aquarium’s main “Under the Bay” exhibit areas. Ambient lighting sets the mood to enjoy these beautifully mesmerizing invertebrates. Front and center is a 725-gallon cylinder tank displaying Moon Jellies, while a wall-mounted, 740-gallon gallon kriesel tank showcases the Pacific Sea Nettles.
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Aquariums
Maui Ocean Center Wailuku, HI
Hawaiian Monk Seal
Crown of Throns
Hawaiian monk seals are one of the most endangered marine mammals in the world. In the early nineteenth century, monk seals were heavily hunted for their oil, meat and pelts, and their population has been in peril ever since. In 1976, they were added to the Endangered Species List. Scientists estimate that there are now fewer than 1400 monk seals left in Hawaii, most of which are found in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands.
Hawaii Green Sea Turtle Frog Fish Just off the coast of Maui, small schooling fish are swimming along the reef when quicker than the blink of an eye, one fish disappears. It happens so fast that the other fish in the school don’t even realize it. Upon closer investigation, it appears that the missing fish has fallen victim to a frogfish, a species with incredible camouflage and an even more amazing ability to engulf prey in less than 10 milliseconds. Frogfish have the fastest ‘gape and suck’ of any fish, and possibly the fastest prey capture in the animal kingdom.
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Sea stars - often called starfish - are among the most widely recognized and beloved of the ocean’s inhabitants. The most familiar have five arms and a benign nature, making them good candidates for an aquarium touch pool. Their images are popular in jewelry, photography, and artwork. Then there’s the sinister-looking Crown of Thorns Sea Star that possesses anywhere from 9 to 23 arms and is a voracious predator that - in large numbers - is capable of destroying an entire reef.
Green sea turtles, known as honu in Hawaiian, are the largest hard-shelled sea turtle in the world, and the most common sea turtle in Hawaii. As adults, honu mainly eat algae and sea grasses, which turn their fat layer green, giving them their common name. Green sea turtles are listed as ‘threatened’ under the Endangered Species Act.
Since Coral World International opened its $20-million Maui Ocean Center in March 1998, this state-ofthe-art facility has lured visitors from around the globe fascinated with experiencing a glimpse of Hawaii’s undersea world. Aptly named “The Hawaiian Aquarium,” this state-of-the-art marine park on the island of Maui is the only facility in the world dedicated to fostering understanding, wonder and respect for Hawaii’s marine life. Here, visitors can see spectacular live coral displays (the largest collection in the nation), enjoy playful swimming displays by Hawaii’s beloved green sea turtles, awe at close encounters with sharks, rays and more – while learning about Hawaii’s natural history and cultural heritage. Through years of research and meticulous care, Maui Ocean Center has gathered the best and most unique collection of Hawaii’s marine life. As a result, what would take weeks, if not a lifetime to explore in the wild, can easily be seen in a leisurely stroll through the facility in one day. For visitors, this aquatic experience is both educational and breathtaking as they encounter hundreds of endemic animal species. ∆ http://www.mauioceancenter.com
Aquariums
Coex Aquarium Samsung-dong, Kangnam-gu, Seoul, Korea
Coex Aquarium has 500 species and 40,000 underwater life forms, all in about 2,500 tons of water. The display is divided into six different groups, DEEP BLUE SEA for the creatures from the sea deep; SEVEN SEAS for creatures from the Caribbean, the Mediterranean and the Red Sea and Pacific Ocean; MARINE TOUCH allows you to touch sea creatures, OCEAN KINGDOM comprises of sharks, stingrays, groupers, napoleons, etc, THE INCA EMPIRE features architectural models and AMAZONIAN WORLD show cases a model of the Amazon jungle. ∆
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Aquariums Louisiana Swamp Tour the marsh and bayous of the Gulf Coast in our Louisiana Swamp. Enjoy wild encounters with gators, alligator snapping turtles and spotted gar. And what would a swamp be without crayfish, catfish and bullfrogs? You’re sure to find all these favorites in our little piece of Cajun country.
Downtown Aquarium
Downtown Aquarium is the product of redeveloping two downtown Houston landmarks – Fire Station No. 1 and the Central Waterworks Building. This magnificent six-acre entertainment and dining complex is a 500,000-gallon aquatic wonderland, home to over 200 species of aquatic life from around the globe. With a full-service restaurant, an upscale bar, a fully equipped ballroom, aquatic & geographic exhibits, shopping and a variety of amusements, Downtown Aquarium has it all!∆
Houston, TX Shipwreck Step inside the sunken Rainforest hull of a Explore the lush environment of 17th centhe world’s tropical rainforests and tury Spanlife inside their rivers. Red-bellied ish galleon piranhas and venomous freshwater in our Shipwreck and look out at Sunken Temple stingrays add a little danger to these Ancient legends the beautiful diversity of species the waters. You might think twice before ocean world has to offer. Be amazed of ?El Dorado? swimming with these fish! To add a little color out of the are revealed at the living coral reefs created by water, an emerald tree boa, colorful rainforest frogs and our when arriving our own biologists. A giant pacific beautiful birds for your viewing pleasure. octopus and a moray eel await you! in the Sunken Temple. Lionfish Clownfish, tangs and groupers are White Tigers of the Maharaja’s and tarantulas and pufferfish, oh my! The among the many fish you will enTemple ruins of this lost Mayan civilization show- counter. In the late 1940s, in the jungles case some spectacular species, including an Gulf of Mexico of Rewa in central India, electric eel and a Tiger Reticulated Python Sink to the bottom rumors spread of an unusual that is over 20 feet long! of the neighboranimal. These were the first ing sea and catch documented sightings of a white tiger. Come see our Discovery Rig glimpses of offincredible white tigers lounge and play in the ruins of Get up close and personal with animals of shore rig divers in the ancient Maharaja’s Temple, and learn about our the Discovery Rig. This hands-on encoun- our own Gulf of conservation efforts to help their cousins in the wild. ter hosts stingrays, horseshoe crabs and Mexico. Nurse sharks make for a thrilling sight other invertebrates. And our spectacular alongside snappers, redfish and much more. shark nursery houses baby bamboo sharks and shark eggs!
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http://www.aquariumrestaurants.com/
Aquariums
The History of The Aquarium
Unfortunately, many of these early aquariums did not survive From Sumeria to P.T. because their fish didn’t. But by the early 1870s, aquarists had learned Barnum to The X Files more about aeration, filtering and water temperature, and new aquariums opened and thrived. For more than 4,000 years, men and women have kept fish, Interest in fish came of age in the U.S. at the same time. In 1856, the first in ponds and later in tanks. The earliest known fish keepers were government established what is today the Division of Fishes of the the Sumerians, who as long ago as 2500 B.C. kept fish in ponds and Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of Natural History. The used them as food. very first entry in the government’s catalog was a “sucker” (Catostomus Many other ancient cultures, awed by the beauty, speed and agility hudsonius), recorded on December 15, 1856. Perhaps this is why P.T. of animals such as fish and birds, considered them to be sacred. For Barnum is famous for allegedly saying “There’s a sucker born every instance, the ancient Egyptians bred certain species of fish specifically minute,” as it was Barnum who opened America’s first public aquarium for their beauty and decorative characteristics. Pictures of fish are that very year. found in frescoes in Egyptian tombs, showing them as a sacred object. Roman merchants were known to keep freshwater fish to sell as food in public aquariums.
The first known formal study of fish was conducted by the Greek philosopher Aristotle (384-322 B.C.). Studying their structure and other characteristics, he carefully recorded accurate information on 115 species of fish then living in the Aegean Sea. Today, scientists have classified more than 20,000 species of fish around the world. While goldfish, or carp, are often associated with Japan, they were actually first bred for their beauty and color in China more than 1,000 years ago. Goldfish were first exported to Japan around 1500, becoming an instant sensation. By the late 1600s, goldfish were brought to England, and over the next century became very popular in ornamental lakes and ponds throughout the country. Goldfish were commonplace in America by the mid-1800s. It was around that time, in fact in 1853, when the world’s first public aquarium opened in Regents Park in London. Over the next 15 years, similar public aquariums opened throughout England, as well as France and Germany.
The next 50 years saw a virtual explosion of interest in fish and their environments. Such famous institutions as the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute (1885) and the Scripps Institution of Oceanography (1903) were established during this period, many of them offering large aquariums for public viewing. Today, fish are America’s second most popular pet, trailing only cats but outnumbering dogs. More than 7.4 million U.S. households (including, if you look closely, that of Agent Mulder on the TV series The X Files) have aquarium fish, and that figure doesn’t even include goldfish in bowls! Scientific advances throughout the 20th century have made aquarium keeping easier and more convenient than ever. Better tanks, improved filters and oxygen pumps, and a balanced diet of nutritious food enable fish to thrive in aquariums - just as they did in the ponds of Sumeria more than 4,000 years ago.
©Copyright 1999 Warner-Lambert Company
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Aquariums
National Aquarium Washington, DC
The National Aquarium Institute inspires people to enjoy, respect, and protect the aquatic world. the National Aquarium Institute will inspire our visitors and partners to celebrate and nurture the world’s aquatic habitats from tropical rain forests to coral reefs; from our Chesapeake Bay to the world’s oceans. Through pioneering science, conservation, and educational programming, The National Aquarium will confront the pressing issues facing global aquatic habitats.Their legacy to future generations is a world in which aquatic habitats are preserved and restored.
Amphibians Gallery
Due to their unique biology and the habitats they live in, amphibians are very prone to depletion and mutation from pollution, habitat destruction, urbanization, and environmental change. Many of the amphibians in the United States are listed as endangered, threatened, or in need of protection. These animals, such as the eastern tiger salamander, are beautiful and rarely seen in the wild due to their elusive nature, but are now even harder to find due to dwindling populations. This gallery highlights salamanders, newts, frogs, and toads to display their amazing adaptations and biology.
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American Freshwater Ecosystems Gallery
Encounter animals from freshwater habitats in every region of the United States. Although many of the native freshwater fish lack the splendid colors of their marine counterparts, they have very important stories to tell. Many of the animals displayed in this gallery, such as the hellbender salamander and the black-banded sunfish, are on the brink of extinction due to habitat destruction and pollution. The tanks are divided into small focus areas and highlight major rivers. North: See the bog environment with carnivorous plants and frogs. South: Visit the Rio Grande and see the beautiful Texas cichlids. East: Explore local environments, including the Potomac River, which include the invasive and interesting snake head. West: Discover the animals of the Colorado River, such as the bonytail chub. Central: View the gar of the Mississippi River and the only freshwater National Marine Sanctuary of Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuaries.
Amphibians Gallery
Due to their unique biology and the habitats they live in, amphibians are very prone to depletion and mutation from pollution, habitat destruction, urbanization, and environmental change. Many of the amphibians in the United States are listed as endangered, threatened, or in need of protection. These animals, such as the eastern tiger salamander, are beautiful and rarely seen in the wild due to their elusive nature, but are now even harder to find due to dwindling populations. This gallery highlights salamanders, newts, frogs, and toads to display their amazing adaptations and biology.
Exhibits// America’s Aquatic Treasures™
The National Aquarium in Washington, DC, proudly introduces America’s Aquatic Treasures™, which highlights the animals and habitats preserved and protected by our National Marine Sanctuaries Program.
National Marine Sanctuaries and National Parks Gallery
In 1972, exactly 100 years after the first national park was created, the nation made a similar commitment to preserving its marine treasures by establishing the National Marine Sanctuary Program. These sanctuaries protect more than 18,000 square miles of ocean waters and habitats, an area nearly the size of Vermont and New Hampshire combined. The Program is part of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), which works cooperatively with the public to balance enjoyment and use with long-term conservation. Increasing public awareness of our marine heritage, scientific research, monitoring, exploration, educational programs, and outreach are just a few of the ways the National Marine Sanctuary Program fulfills its mission to the American people.
http://www.nationalaquarium.com/
Exhibts
The world’s first car aquarium An aquarium in the car! Have you ever heard of something like that? Is it something so possible? If you just want to stay without a car call is a specialized workshop for restatement and modification of tank cars. Of course, after such a venture is no longer a car to drive. In fact do not need much modification, but a lot of sealant and a pair of electrodes for welding steel or aluminum. Depending on what you want in the aquarium it can insert all standard aquarium fact, the heater up to the pumps for air and neon lighting. In these pictures we see and processed caravans with a greater capacity of water. In such slucajava really knows that more confused. Viewers or very fish in the aquarium. ∆
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Aquariums Rainbow nation on the reef
The Two Oceans Aquarium
Cape Town, South Africa
Oceans of Contrast: Indian Ocean Gallery
The Oceans of Contrast: Indian Ocean Gallery features vibrant tropical beauties from the warm Indian Ocean. Exhibits include the very popular interactive Western clownfish (alias Nemo) exhibit, honeycomb eels and a coral exhibit. This gallery also features a 3m-wide cylindrical exhibit showcasing the dazzling colours of Indian Ocean fish. ∆
Colour also helps to identify “friend” or “foe” on the reef. Many fish are territorial and will chase fish of the same species. Females and juveniles are different in colour and markings so that the male will allow them to feed in his territory.
Ancient associations Coral reefs are formed over millions of years and are found in the warm oceans of the world. Corals are not plants or even rocks. They are colonies of small animals, known as polyps, living closely together with minute single-celled plants called zooxanthellae. This is known as mutual symbiosis as both the corals and the zooxanthellae benefit from the association. The corals receive “food” from the zooxanthellae when they photosynthesis and in return the corals supply the zooxanthellae with ammonia and phosphate from their waste metabolism. The transfer of these waste products to the zooxanthellae is crucial for their survival as inorganic nutrients are almost absent in the surrounding water.
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Most tropical fish are brightly coloured and use colour as flags or advertisements. Some colours warn of danger and others advertise useful cleaning services. Patterns and colours also help to camouflage the fish, making it difficult for predators to see its true shape amongst the corals and sponges. Some fish species mimic others. The mimic blenny imitates the colours and behaviour of the harmless blue cleaner wrasse, but instead of cleaning, it tears flesh from unsuspecting fish waiting for a clean.
Honeycomb Eel
Corals under threat
Many of the world’s reefs are under threat. Coral bleaching is caused by increased sea surface temperature, high levels of ultra-violet light, high turbidity, sedimentation and abnormal salinity. The zooxanthellae living in the polyps die and the corals turn white, becoming more vulnerable to algal overgrowth, disease and reef organisms, which bore into the coral skeleton and weaken the structure of the reef.
Madagascar butterflyfishes.
Surgeon Fish
Human activities are the major threat to coral reefs. Pollution, overfishing, destructive fishing practices using dynamite or cyanide, collecting live corals for the aquarium and jewelry markets and mining coral for building materials damage reefs. You can help! Please do not buy coral jewelry or ornaments. If you are a scuba diver or go snorkeling on a coral reef, please be careful not to touch the corals – and please do not take souvenirs. http://www.aquarium.co.za/
Music & Poems
Under The Sea Disney, The Little Mermaid
The seaweed is always greener In somebody else’s lake You dream about going up there But that is a big mistake Just look at the world around you Right here on the ocean floor Such wonderful things surround you What more is you lookin’ for? Under the sea Under the sea Darling it’s better Down where it’s wetter Take it from me Up on the shore they work all day Out in the sun they slave away While we devotin’ Full time to floatin’ Under the sea
Down here all the fish is happy As off through the waves they roll The fish on the land ain’t happy They sad ‘cause they in their bowl But fish in the bowl is lucky They in for a worser fate One day when the boss get hungry Guess who’s gon’ be on the plate
Under the sea Under the sea Nobody beat us Fry us and eat us In fricassee We what the land folks loves to cook Under the sea we off the hook We got no troubles Life is the bubbles Under the sea Under the sea Since life is sweet here We got the beat here Naturally Even the sturgeon an’ the ray They get the urge ‘n’ start to play We got the spirit You got to hear it Under the sea
The newt play the flute The carp play the harp The plaice play the bass And they soundin’ sharp The bass play the brass The chub play the tub The fluke is the duke of soul (Yeah) The ray he can play The lings on the strings The trout rockin’ out The blackfish she sings The smelt and the sprat They know where it’s at An’ oh that blowfish blow Under the sea Under the sea When the sardine Begin the beguine It’s music to me What do they got? A lot of sand We got a hot crustacean band Each little clam here know how to jam here Under the sea Each little slug here Cuttin’ a rug here Under the sea Each little snail here Know how to wail here That’s why it’s hotter Under the water Ya we in luck here Down in the muck here Under the sea
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Society
Who knew how strange the game of aquariums would become? From exhibits at the National Park onto the fish tanks in our kitchens and even mechanically engineered into the living room walls of our homes, these aquatics continue to evolve in many extraordinary ways. Advanced Placement. ∆
The Wash Basin Aquarium by Rossari:
And speaking of fancy shaped aquariums, how about a toilet aquarium?
Gross or Cool?
Designed by Oliver Beckert, producer assures us that the fishes won’t get flushed down as they are on a separate chamber!
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Society
Clock Aquarium
Lamp Aquarium
scratch resistant spehere, 360 degree viewing, white led lunar light, what more do you need!
and there are people out there who are clever enough to put those old tv sets to better use…
What Will They Think of Next?
even computers aren’t safe…
We are not sure of the origins of this, and we are not even fully aware of what the following aquarium does, but going by the image, it seems like the fishes are free to travel between two interconnected aquariums placed at different ends of a room through pipes! Now, top that!∆
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People
Scuba Diver
Person who practices scuba diving; the diver wears diving gear and carries equipment that makes it possible to stay underwater for as long as the air supply lasts.
fin Rubber or plastic flipper that is attached to the foot and improves the diver’s propulsion in the water. regulator second stage Apparatus that changes the pressure of the air coming from the regulator first stage to the pressure of the ambient air; the diver breathes this air in through a mouthpiece.
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mouthpiece Part for inflating the buoyancy compensator by blowing. purge valve Device for releasing air from the buoyancy compensator. information console Ergonomic box that houses various measuring devices, which are useful to the diver. thermometer Instrument for measuring the water’s temperature. pressure gauge Apparatus for measuring the cylinder’s air pressure; this indicates to the diver how much air is available. depth gauge Apparatus indicating the diver’s depth.
inflator Apparatus that inflates the buoyancy compensator; it often includes a mechanical system attached to the regulator as well as a mouthpiece for inflating it manually. inflator valve Unit that controls the amount of air entering the buoyancy compensator.
People blade Thrusting part of the fin that is an extension of the foot pocket; its length and stiffness determine its thrusting power. rail Side reinforcement of the fin; it makes the blade stiffer and improves the fin’s efficiency. foot pocket Part of the fin that covers the foot; it can be open at the heel and have an adjustable strap or be entirely closed. boot Synthetic rubber boot that protects the foot and ankle from the cold and from being rubbed by the fin. wet suit Insulating outfit made out of synthetic rubber; a small amount of water is usually allowed to seep in and assume the diver’s body temperature. diving glove Piece of synthetic rubber that covers the hand and wrist to protect them from the cold and from being hurt by underwater objects, plants and animals.
emergency regulator Regulator second stage that is connected by a hose to the regulator first stage; it is used to supply air to a diver in difficulty. compressed-air cylinder Device containing air of diminished volume due to pressure; it stores air that can be used by the diver to move underwater. buoyancy compensator Float device whose volume of air can be increased or decreased at will to stabilize the diver underwater; it can be used to return to the surface and to keep afloat without effort. weight belt Fabric sash worn around the waist; it contains a variable number of weights to compensate for the diver’s natural flotation. air hose Flexible tube that connects the regulator first stage to the emergency regulator. regulator first stage Apparatus attached to the cylinder valve that lowers the air pressure coming from the cylinder to an intermediate value (medium pressure). harness Piece of equipment with straps and suspenders; the diver uses it to carry one or more cylinders of compressed air on the back. mask Watertight part that is made up of glass surrounded by a rubber skirt; it covers the nose and eyes and provides good visibility underwater. hood Synthetic rubber cap that covers the head and neck to protect them against the cold. snorkel Rigid or flexible tube that enables the diver to breathe from just under the surface without lifting the head out of the water; it provides a comfortable and efficient position for swimming.
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Pets & Fish
Aquarium Fish
Beginners 101: Adopting New Family Pets
“Fish keeping is not just a hobby; it can change our lives, teaches us a lot of things related to science, understanding fish behavior and its requirements, care and responsibility and last but not least, how to accept and appreciate living beings”
Whether your newly adopted fish is a gift from a friend or one which you have just bought from a pet store, there are a few things you will need to know and get ready in order to make it a fun and enjoyable experience adding them as family pets. Fish unlike cats or dogs running around the house and yard, they are aquatic organisms which you will need to house them in an aquarium. Your first step towards successfully setting up a thriving fish tank begins with the basic fish education and it’s a long journey that forms the whole learning process that you will need to put effort into it before you can become an expert. Along the way, there are many questions you should ask yourself so that you can learn, plus, there are different aspects about caring for your pet fish that you should also be aware of. However, in generally there are just a few basic things you should know before you get started. ∆
Water Quality
Before we move on further, first thing you should be aware of is that there are basically 3 different aquarium setup, one which is saltwater, another the freshwater aquariums and the last one is the brackish aquarium. What this means basically is that not all fish that you saw sold in pet shops are grouped under the same category. One of the most famous family pets is a clownfish, a cute and adorable small little fellow that eventually becomes a popular icon after it appeared in the movie “Finding Nemo” and that type of fish survives only in saltwater tanks. There are some popular ones which you will often hear like betta, goldfish, platy, catfish and these are freshwater species meaning that they will not mix with your clownfish. Among the freshwater types, it can be further divided into cold water species and also those that originate from tropical regions known as tropical fish. All these can be represented by the table shown below. Managing a saltwater tank is a more complicated process and thus, if you are a beginner to aquarium fish keeping, then I would suggest you stick to freshwater tanks. Ensuring top notch water quality is very important as it will determine the outcome and health of your pets and your main priority is always to strive towards maintaining crystal clear water. Cloudy aquarium is often a problem that happened usually during the initial stage of the aquarium setup which is caused by a condition whereby the water has not yet fully cycled. To put it in lay man’s term what it means is that the natural equilibrium process between the breakdown of waste and new generation coming from the fish has not yet reached a balanced state and thus whatever poop that your pet fish produce will keep on building up in the water. I won’t go into details about this but in order to understand more about this subject, I would suggest you read up on how to maintain nitrite & nitrate levels.
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http://www.allabout-aquariumfish.com/
Pets & Fish
Selection of Aquarium (Size, Shape)
One of the commonly heard questions is that which aquarium is the best to get yourself starting on the hobby? There is generally no right answer to this because depending on which type of fish that you intend to keep and your home space availability, with other constraints like money, these will determine what kind of tank you should be getting. But always, a simple rule of thumb is that the aquarium that you’ve selected must be durable and should be the largest fish tank which you can afford and with the right shape. There are people who insist on keeping fish in fancy attractions like unique bowls or tower aquariums for show display but for me, I prefer to keep it simple with a square shaped tank. This is important because it will help towards your routine chores like aquarium cleaning and the main thing is also whether your fish will feel happy living in the new home that you provide for them. Aquariums which are too small or too deep may not be suitable after all, so consult experts on what’s best for your precious pets. You might also want to check out how to select the perfect location to place your fish tank.
Lighting, Plants and Decorations
An empty aquarium with only just the fish swimming in it creates that kind of boring impression and thus it would be a good idea to decorate things up and make the environment look natural. Plants, rocks and bogwood are the best addition to create a natural living underwater world but avoid using plastic toys, seashells and clams because these items are notorious for leaching unwanted chemicals and cause contamination to the water harmful for your pets. Choice of tank lighting is also another factor that determines how lively your aquarium can be as the right selection will provide sufficient illumination and bring out the best color of your fish. You might want to read up on subject related to aquarium lighting.
Aquarium Filter
Filter is the heart and soul that ensures the aquarium system is running well. What it does is that the filter will play the role to remove unwanted waste and helps to clean out the water so that harmful microorganisms including parasites will have less chance of proliferating which can cause your fish to be sick. The moving water flow from a filter will also help to increase oxygen content and all these are vital to ensure that your fish survive and stays healthy. There are different types of aquarium filters and depending on your tank capacity, size of your pet fish and amount of waste it generates, this will determine the choice of filter to use. Each category of equipment has different working principles and ways of separating the waste from water. You can read more about this in another section on the selection of best filtration system. Also if you are looking for other new supplies and foods, look for something related to Seachem, Fluval, Hikari, Marineland, Biocube, JBJ or Tetra. (Note: these are not recommendations but they are the well-known established brands in the market)
Care, Maintenance and Feeding
Finally, comes to the most interesting aspect, which is how to ensure that everything runs smoothly. Fish like all other living organisms need to eat. As you drop foods into the water, this will be eaten up by your aquarium pets, ingested and then discharged as poop. The waste produced by your fish can be in liquid form that is soluble in water but there is also solid form that will eventually disintegrate as well. Although your aquarium filter can play an efficient task to remove the waste from the water, there is always a maximum limit whereby at one point, only a certain fixed amount can be taken out within a specific time frame. Therefore as the water continues to accumulate the unwanted materials, the quality will deteriorate and therefore, it needs to be routinely changed and added with fresh water. Apart from that, growth of unsightly green algae and sticky waste that builds up onto the surface of the tank will also become another problem that you will need to tackle. If these are not attended to, eventually it will form a layer of coating appearing on the glass surfaces and not only will it create an ugly appearance but your pets will not like it either. That is why aquarium maintenance on cleaning and changing new water are very important tasks that you should never miss out and neglect. As a beginner, it will also help if you select those type of fish generally considered as “low maintenance species”. Remember as I’ve said, keeping fish as family pets is all about responsibility, commitment, time management, with a little touch of love and care.
http://www.allabout-aquariumfish.com/
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Do It Yourself!
1.
Things You Will Need Ever wanted to have an aquarium that’s Get a plastic bottle. Plastic bottles have many different shapes and cheap yet good to relax on a hard day? Now ˚Plastic bottle sizes,so you can use a tall or a short one. Either way, if it was a drink you can create your own small aquarium ˚Scissors bottle, wash it thoroughly to remove any traces of the drink the bottle has. with just a plastic bottle. ∆ ˚Knife ˚Gravel or sand ˚Plants ˚Spring water or aquarium water ˚Small fish Cut the top part of the bottle with a small knife. Then use a pair of scissors to remove any rough edges.
2. 3.
Add some sand or gravel. Before adding the substrate to your aquarium, wash the gravel or sand carefully to remove any dust in a another *TIPS* container 5 to 7 times and put the substrate in your bottle just enough to ˚There are some fish you can add to your aquarium. These may include cover the bottom. This will make a fine bed for your aquarium. small snails, clams, water fleas,small shrimp,or gambusia (mosquitofish). ˚All animals need oxygen. There are 2 methods for doing this:Shake the Add some plants. They can be aquatic plants like elodea or grown water that’s going in your aquarium in a bottle for 1 to 5 minutes. This from some bird seed or beans. In which plant you choose, tuck the roots will make oxygen dissolve in the water, or use an air pump for aquarium use. into the substrate. You can also use plastic aquarium plants. ˚You can use many types of bottles like Gatorade bottles, water bottles and etc. ˚You can also use a leaf(not near a road nor a farmfield) as both a subFill up your bottle with spring water or water from an another aquar- strate and a hiding place for your inhabitants although you may have to ium. Make sure you fill it up to provide air for the fish in the aquarium yet do partial water changes every other day to prevent the leaf from foulkeeps the inhabitants from escaping. ing the water. You can also use Indian almond leaves.
4. 5. 6.
*WARNING*
˚The animals will poop in the bottle so do partial water changes every other day to prevent an ammonia strike. Wait at least 2 weeks for the plants to establish their roots and make beneficial bacteria to grow in the substrate. Don’t forget to cycle the ˚Feed your fish! Depending on what type of fish you have, feed them proper foods.Snails will eat algae growing in water, clams and water aquarium. fleas filter microbes from the water and gambusia will need to be fed mosquito larvae, plankton or fish flakes. ˚Never overcrowd your bottle. Instead, try limiting 2 animals per bottle After a few weeks,add a few small fish and enjoy! (except water fleas, which are only a few milimeters) like 2 mosquito fish per bottle or a snail and a clam in a bottle.
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Culture
AQUA
Aqua is also the name of the Danish-Norwegian dance-pop group and band that
Aqua is a tone of the color cyan (from Greek: κύανoς (transliterated: kýanos), meaning “blue”) which is identical to the color electric cyan, one of the three secondary colors (subtractive primary colors) of the HSV color wheel, along with magenta and yellow. It is precisely halfway between green and blue on the color wheel. It should not be confused with the color process cyan used in printing, which is a deeper tone of cyan; this color is also known as deep aqua.
80’s Vintage Hawaiin Shirt (Aqua)
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created the popular 1997, breakthrough song “Barbie Girl”.
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