Fish Behavior

Yes, some plastic tubs are safe for fish if made from food-safe plastics like polypropylene. Avoid washing them with soap. Always check recycling numbers for safety. While clean and appropriate tubs can be suitable, not all plastics are non-toxic. Some may release harmful chemicals, which can threaten fish and their safe environments. When using plastic … Read more

Plastic plants can harm betta fish due to sharp edges that may cause fin rot. Silk plants are safer choices as they lack this risk. Both silk and live plants help mimic a natural ecosystem. Always check the quality of these decorations. A safe environment is crucial for the health of your betta fish. Betta … Read more

Yes, plastic fish bowls can be safe for fish if they are food-safe and BPA-free. Ensure the bowls are clean and check their recycling code. While they work for short-term housing, they are not best for long-term health. Acrylic tanks are shatter-proof and do not leach toxins, making them a better option for permanent setups. … Read more

Plastic bottles can be toxic for fish because they can leach harmful chemicals. #1 plastics (PETE) are often unsafe, while #4 and #5 plastics are usually better options. Avoid painted plastics. Microplastics can harm aquatic life and may enter the food web, threatening the health of fish and the entire ecosystem. Using plastic bottles for … Read more

Piranhas are schooling fish from the Serrasalmidae family. They show shoaling behavior and swim in coordinated groups. Mainly detritivores, they consume benthic invertebrates and algae. Piranhas can be aggressive but thrive in aquariums when kept in larger groups, which promotes their natural behavior. When considering compatibility, piranhas can be challenging tank mates. They may not … Read more

Otocinclus, commonly known as otos, are social schooling fish that thrive in groups. Keep at least 6 otos together, but aim for 10 to 12 for optimal comfort and health. In larger groups, they effectively clean algae in aquariums, creating a peaceful tank. Proper group size ensures they feel safe and happy. Feeding Otos is … Read more

Oscar fish (Astronotus ocellatus) are sociable cichlids that show schooling behavior in groups of six or more. They have vibrant colors and distinctive personalities. Despite their social nature, they can be aggressive and may bully smaller tank mates. Ensure a spacious tank with adequate hiding spots for their health. Ideal tank mates include larger cichlids, … Read more

Bluegills (Lepomis macrochirus) are not gill perch. They are freshwater fish known as bream or sunnies. Bluegills belong to the sunfish family (Centrarchidae). True perch, which differ from bluegills, belong to the Perca genus in the Percidae family. Bluegills live in lakes and rivers across North America, east of the Rockies. Identification tips include examining … Read more

Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) are schooling fish inhabiting the temperate waters of the northern hemisphere. They usually form large groups in colder depths, especially in the North Atlantic. Overfishing has impacted their numbers, so fisheries management now focuses on rebuilding their populations for sustainability. Their habitat plays a crucial role in this behavior. North Atlantic … Read more

Mudskippers are classified as ray-finned fish, not lobe-finned fish. They have pectoral fins made of spines that help them thrive in water and on land. This amphibious lifestyle shows their evolutionary significance. Unlike lobe-finned fish such as coelacanths and lungfish, mudskippers belong to the group known as osteichthyans. Mudskippers exhibit distinct behaviors that showcase their … Read more