2025 - March - 12

From the Desk of the Tropical Fish Aquarist

Diving into the World of Bottom-Dwelling Fish!

Hello Fish Lovers!

This issue, we're exploring the fascinating world of bottom-dwelling fish, with a special focus on the adorable Corydoras Julii, a popular little catfish that's caught many a novice's eye!

Meet the Corydoras: Nature's Aquarium Cleaners

Corydoras, often called "armored catfish," are charming bottom-dwelling fish that many new aquarium owners find appealing. But here's an important tip: they're not the best choice for brand-new aquariums! These little guys need a well-established environment with plenty of natural food sources.

What's Brewing at the Bottom of Your Tank?

New aquariums are like a blank slate - or in this case, a sterile environment. We'll be breaking down some crucial information about tank setup, including:

• The dangers of ammonia
• Understanding pH levels
• How to create a healthy environment for bottom-dwelling fish

Coming Up: Plant Power!

Our upcoming article on planted aquariums is perfect for beginners and experienced fish keepers alike. We'll share simple tips to help you create a thriving underwater garden that keeps your fish happy and healthy.

Need More Support?

Connect with us! We're bringing our Facebook page back to life and can't wait to chat with fellow fish enthusiasts. Whether you're a newbie or a seasoned aquarist, we're here to help you create the perfect underwater world.

Stay Fishy, Friends!

Steve Pond

Tropical Fish Aquarist

Freshwater Tropical Fish of the Week

Beginner bottomfish - Corydoras Catfish

Corydoras julii are one of the most popular small catfish added to smaller community aquariums.  

Corydoras julii, also known as the Peppered Cory or the Julii Cory, is a species of freshwater fish in the family Callichthyidae, commonly known as the corydoras or armored catfish. Here are some of the most common characteristics of this species:

Physical appearance: Corydoras julii has a distinctive appearance with a black or dark brown body with light spots or stripes. They have a typical catfish appearance with a flat, armored body, small eyes, and sensory barbels near their mouth.

Size: Corydoras julii is a small species, growing up to 4 cm (1.5 inches) in length.

Habitat: Corydoras julii is native to the South American rivers and streams, and is adaptable to a wide range of water conditions. They prefer a well-planted aquarium with plenty of hiding places, as well as a substrate of fine sand or small pebbles.

Diet: Corydoras julii is omnivorous and will feed on a variety of foods, including commercial pellets, fresh vegetables, and live or frozen foods. They are best fed small portions several times a day.

Behavior: Corydoras julii are active and playful fish that enjoy swimming and exploring their surroundings. They are best kept in groups of at least six individuals, as they are social fish that enjoy the company of their own kind.

Breeding: Corydoras julii are relatively easy to breed in the aquarium. They lay their eggs on smooth surfaces, such as leaves or the sides of the aquarium, and the male will guard the eggs until they hatch.

Water requirements: Corydoras julii prefer water with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0, with a temperature range of 22-26°C (72-78°F). They are adaptable to a wide range of water conditions, but it is important to maintain stable water conditions to ensure their health.

Compatibility: Corydoras julii are generally compatible with other peaceful freshwater fish, but they should not be housed with aggressive species that may harm them. They are best kept in a community aquarium with other peaceful fish of similar size.

Note: The information regarding the breeding habits of Corydoras julii is based on general observations of the species in captivity. The conditions required for successful breeding can vary between individuals and may depend on water chemistry, diet, and other factors.

The Community

Bottom Dwellers: When and How to Add Them to Your Aquarium

Adding Bottom Fish: Timing is Everything

Creating a thriving aquarium ecosystem requires careful planning, especially when it comes to bottom-dwelling fish. These fascinating creatures play a crucial role in maintaining tank health, but they're not as simple to introduce as other fish species. Unlike swimming fish that eagerly consume flakes and pellets, bottom dwellers like catfish, Plecostomus, and loaches have unique dietary needs that make their introduction more complex.

A brand-new aquarium is essentially a sterile environment with little to no organic material for bottom fish to consume. While your swimming fish can survive on store-bought food, bottom dwellers rely on decaying materials and tiny organisms that simply don't exist in a freshly set up tank. This means adding them too early could lead to starvation, even if the water conditions seem perfect.

Experienced aquarists recommend waiting approximately one month after initial tank setup before introducing bottom-dwelling fish. This waiting period allows the tank's ecosystem to develop naturally. During this time, beneficial bacteria establish themselves, organic debris begins to accumulate, and the biological filtration system matures. This creates the perfect environment for bottom fish to thrive, ensuring they have sufficient food sources and a stable ecosystem to support their unique lifestyle.

Bottom fish are nature's ultimate clean-up crew, performing critical maintenance tasks in your aquarium. They help aerate the substrate, collect debris, and control algae growth. Plecostomus, for example, are exceptional algae eaters with the ability to clean surfaces throughout the tank. However, it's crucial to research specific species carefully, as many bottom dwellers can grow much larger than anticipated and may eventually outgrow smaller aquarium setups.

When selecting bottom fish, consider their social behaviors and specific needs. Many species are schooling fish that prefer to live in groups, which contributes to their psychological well-being. Consulting with a local fish store expert can help you understand the ideal number and types of bottom dwellers for your specific tank configuration. They can provide insights into species compatibility, group dynamics, and the unique requirements of different bottom-dwelling fish.

The key to successful bottom fish integration is patience and preparation. By waiting until your tank has matured, providing appropriate habitat conditions, and carefully selecting compatible species, you'll create a thriving underwater ecosystem that showcases the incredible diversity and functionality of these remarkable creatures.

Q: What are the most common types of bottom fish found in home aquariums?

A: Catfish, Algae eaters and Loaches

Q: What are the basic jobs performed by bottomfish in the standard home aquarium set-ups?

A: Waste removal, algae removal on all surfaces, rearrangement of substrate to increase biological filtration and aeration of the bottom

Q: What is the largest catfish?

A: The largest catfish I have ever seen in captivity was a redtail catfish

Filtration Options - Part 3

Part 1 - Ammonia: Understanding the First Stage of Biological Fitration

Aquarium enthusiasts, get ready to dive deep into the world of biological filtration! This critical process is the cornerstone of a healthy aquarium ecosystem, and it all begins with understanding ammonia - the first and most dangerous compound in your tank's life cycle.

When fish live and breathe, they produce ammonia as a natural byproduct of their metabolic processes. This compound is essentially a waste product that can quickly become toxic if not properly managed. In a brand-new aquarium, the environment starts completely sterile - a blank canvas waiting to be populated with life and beneficial bacteria.

Water treatment plays a crucial role in preparing your aquarium for life. Municipal water systems typically use chlorine or chloramine to make water safe for human consumption. These chemicals are essential for human health but deadly to fish. Chlorine typically dissipates within 24 hours, while chloramine is a more persistent compound that requires specific treatment to remove safely.

The key to a healthy aquarium is proper water preparation. Sodium thiosulphate, found in most water conditioners, neutralizes these harmful chemicals, making the water safe for your aquatic friends. It's critical to treat water before it comes into contact with fish, as chlorine and chloramine can cause permanent damage to delicate gill tissues.

Ammonia exists in two primary forms: ammonia (NH3) and ammonium (NH4+). The difference between these compounds is critical to understanding aquarium chemistry. Ammonia is extremely toxic and can kill fish in small concentrations, while ammonium is relatively harmless. The determining factor is the water's pH level - more acidic water decreases ammonia toxicity as it becomes ammonium, while alkaline water transforms it into the more toxic ammonia form.

Beneficial bacteria are the unsung heroes of aquarium maintenance. Specifically, Nitrosomonas bacteria appear seemingly out of nowhere, quickly colonizing the tank and beginning the process of breaking down ammonia. These microscopic helpers convert ammonia into nitrite, the next stage in the nitrogen cycle - a process that is fundamental to maintaining a healthy aquarium ecosystem.

For new aquarium owners, understanding this process is crucial. The first few weeks of an aquarium's life are critical, with ammonia levels potentially reaching dangerous heights if not properly managed. Patience, careful monitoring, and understanding the biological processes at work are key to creating a thriving underwater environment.

In our next issue, we'll explore the next stage of this fascinating biological filtration process - nitrite and the role of Nitrobacter bacteria. Stay tuned, and keep your tanks healthy!

Beyond the Basics:

Advanced Aquarist Adventures

The Roles of Bottomfish

There are a large number of species who have evolved and adpated to life at the bottom of a body of water.  Gravity has a way of drawing all objects down and the bottom becomes a place where all types of food deposits can occur.  Nature, in its infinite variety has evolved all kinds of species to exploit the various food sources found at the bottom.  

I see a number of fish as part of the bottom fish group. Catfish of course, but algae eaters and loaches also form strong contingents as well.

1. Clean-up Crew: Catfish

The catfish family, particularly the Corydoras species, are renowned for their clean-up capabilities. These bottom dwellers are often referred to as the "janitors" of the aquarium for their scavenging nature. They feed on uneaten food that sinks to the bottom, preventing it from decomposing and contaminating the water. Corydoras also possess a unique ability to breathe air, which allows them to survive in low-oxygen environments. Their varied color patterns and social nature add an extra layer of interest to any aquarium.

2. Algae Controllers: Plecostomus, Siamese, and Chinese Algae Eaters

Plecostomus, or "Plecos," are among the most efficient algae eaters. Their sucker-shaped mouths allow them to scrape off algae from aquarium glass and decorations. Siamese Algae Eaters are another excellent choice for controlling algae. They are particularly adept at eating stubborn Black Beard Algae, which many other species ignore. Chinese Algae Eaters, while not as efficient as their Siamese counterparts, can also help in algae control. However, they may become more aggressive and less interested in algae as they mature, so suitable tank mates and a varied diet are crucial.

3. Sand Sifters: Loaches

Loaches, such as the Kuhli Loach or Clown Loach, are celebrated for their sand-sifting behavior. These bottom fish dig into the substrate in search of food, which aerates the gravel or sand. This natural behavior prevents the formation of dead spots in the substrate, which can lead to harmful gas build-up. Additionally, their unique, elongated shape and active nature make them a delightful spectacle.

4. Snail Controllers: Botia Loaches

Botia Loaches, including the popular YoYo and Zebra Loaches, are renowned for their appetite for small snails. These fish can help control snail populations in your tank, preventing overpopulation issues that can affect plant health and water quality. However, as Botia Loaches can be somewhat aggressive, careful consideration is needed when adding them to a peaceful community tank.

5. Plant Fertilizers: Malaysian Trumpet Snails

Although not technically fish, Malaysian Trumpet Snails are bottom dwellers that play an essential role in planted aquariums. These snails burrow into the substrate, aerating it and improving water flow to plant roots. As they feed on organic matter in the substrate, their waste acts as an excellent natural fertilizer for aquarium plants. Moreover, their nocturnal nature provides a fascinating after-dark display.

In conclusion, bottom fish and other bottom-dwelling creatures are the unsung heroes of an aquarium. They tirelessly contribute to the cleanliness, balance, and overall health of your aquarium ecosystem, making them invaluable members of your underwater world.

Be sure to provide plenty of hiding spaces in your aquarium for your freshwater tropical fish to reduce stress and promote healthy behavior.

Aquascaping Freshwater Aquariums

Preparing the substrate for Plants

Crafting the Perfect Underwater Landscape: Substrate Preparation for Your Aquarium

Setting up an aquarium is more than just filling a tank with water and fish. The foundation of your underwater world - the substrate - requires careful planning and thoughtful design. Whether you're a first-time aquarium owner or an experienced hobbyist, understanding how to prepare your tank's bottom can make a tremendous difference in both aesthetics and functionality.

Gravity becomes your ally when designing the perfect aquarium substrate. By creating a gentle slope from the back of the tank to the front, you'll make maintenance significantly easier. This subtle gradient allows solid waste to naturally drift toward the front of the tank, making cleaning a much more straightforward process. Over time, regular maintenance with gravel cleaners will help maintain this gentle incline, ensuring your tank remains easy to care for.

Creating visual interest and functional spaces is crucial when designing your aquarium's landscape. Consider building terraces and different levels using flat rocks and strategic walls. These multi-level designs not only enhance the visual appeal of your tank but also provide excellent environments for plant roots to spread and grow. Deeper areas created by these terraces offer plants more room to establish themselves and create a more natural, dynamic ecosystem.

Bottom-dwelling fish and regular maintenance can naturally disrupt your carefully planned substrate. These little underwater inhabitants will root around looking for food, while gravel cleaners will inevitably move and redistribute substrate. Anticipating these natural processes allows you to design a more resilient landscape that maintains its basic structure despite constant activity.

Plant placement is an art form in aquarium design. Taller plants work best as a background, creating depth and providing a natural backdrop for your aquatic scene. Smaller plants should occupy the foreground, leaving open swimming spaces for your fish to exercise and explore. This approach not only looks beautiful but also mimics natural underwater environments, providing a more authentic habitat for your aquatic friends.

Filter placement and water flow are often overlooked but critical aspects of substrate design. Ensure that your filter's input remains clear and unobstructed, allowing efficient waste removal. Consider how water currents might impact plant placement and fish movement, creating a balanced environment that supports all inhabitants.

Remember, an aquarium is a living, evolving ecosystem. Your initial design will change and grow over time, so remain flexible and observant. Each adjustment you make brings you closer to creating a thriving, beautiful underwater world that delights both you and your aquatic companions.

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