Ornamental Fishes by Shivani Verma, Rajasthan, India

A Report On In –Plant Training
Programme , 2017-18
Group Members:
Shivani Verma Heena Sanvriya Jyoti Upadhyay Neelam Purbiya
Submitted To: Submitted By:
( DEAN , COLLEGE OF FISHERIES
Dr. S.K. Sharma)

2 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
At the very outset I acknowledge my heartiest gratitude to respected Dr.
S.K. Sharma, Dean, College of Fisheries, Udaipur,who is always
instrumental in providing us the basic facilities for our studies. We are
highly thankful to the Dean CoF for providing us the opportunity to have
such a wonderful exposure of industrial training in the most prestigious
Aquarium Gallery of India i.e." Under The Sun Aquarium Gallery".
I am deeply grateful to the faculty of College of Fisheries Science,
Udaipur specially Dr. B.K.Sharma , Dr. V.P.Saini, Dr. M.L.Ojha, for
their help and encouragement.
I take this opportunity to express my profound gratitude and deep
regards to Shri Kailash Khandelwal, Shri Vivek Mehra for support and
enthuse us despite their hectic schedule.
I take this opportunity to express my gratitude to our instructor cum
guide ; Mr. Krishna Kumar Tiwari (seniors aquarist) who trained us in
our In-plant Training Programme period . Under his guidance, we learn
about different aspects of ornamental species, caring and maintenance of
aquarium. He taught us many major points and instructions to keep
aquarium and management measures.
He play major role to build our confidence in this colourful branch of
science. We complete our training in his guidance with most hilarious
and enthusiastic experiences not only as a trainee but as a hobbyist also.
We sincerely pay our thanks to his valuable instructions, Co-Operation
and help during our entire programme period.
I also offer my heartiest thanks to all the staff of Under The Sun
aquarium gallery for their affection and coordination during the In-plant
training programme.

3 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
INDEX
S. No. Name of Chapter Page No.
1. Introduction
2. Aesthetic way of aquarium keeping
3. World trade of aquarium fishes
4. Present Status of ornamental fish trade in India
5. Site of In-Plant training
6. Aquarium accessories
7. Aquarium fish feed
8 Water quality management
9. Fish health management
10. Description about fishes
11. Setting of aquarium
12. Daily dairy

4 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
Introduction
o What is Aquarium ?
A Aquarium is a receptable that holds one or more aquatic organisms for decorative, pet –
keeping, aesthetic or research purposes. Modern aquarium most often made from
transparent glass or acrylic glass. Typical inhabitants include fish, plant, amphibians, and
invertebrates, such as snails and crustaceans.
Aquarium may be fresh water, marine water, cold water, brackish water, tropical species
types.
o What are the Ornamental fishes ?
Attractive, colorful fishes of peaceful nature in confined aquatic systems are known as
Ornamental fishes. Ornamental fishes are also called as "living jewels".
o Why should we keep fish as pet? / Benefit of fish keeping as a hobby.
 Ornamental fish hobby gives pleasure to young and old people.
 Relaxation to the mind.
 Keep blood pressure at normal level and therefore heart related diseases could be
prevented.
 Increases life span.
 Children could acquire new knowledge and skills, by counting the number of fishes in
an aquarium they get mathematical knowledge and by observing the behaviour,
colour and fin shape of fishes they get scientific knowledge.
 Children could develop sense of attachment with nature.
 Ornamental fish keeping is easy over other pets as they don’t make noise and also
tank cleaning once in a while is enough (Dog barks, sheds fur and daily cleaning of
shed is a must).
 Ornamental fishes like Arowana is believed to bring good luck, wealth and
prosperity.
 Ornamental fish keeping can make hobbyists to start their own farms in due course
of time thus creates self employment opportunites.
 According to psychiatrists, placing aquaria with ornamental fishes in patient’s house
could treat certain types of mentally disordered persons.

5 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
Aesthetic way of Aquarium
Keeping
“Wealth and Health “
Fish is generally regarded as one of the symbols of wealth and good fortune. (eg.
Arowana) Feng-Shui means wind and water, these two powerful forces of nature. By
means of aquarium we are able to keep Air, Water and Fishes in beautiful, sparkling
manner in home. This is very simple and important way to increase our growth and
expression. If aquarium is arranged in house,office,factory wherever in right direction, it
brings stream of money to keeper.
Gold fish and Arowana fish is referred as real Feng-Shui fish. Very beautiful Arowana fish
is very expensive and fully grown can some time fetch several thousand rupees.
Especially when their scales have noticeably transformed from the original silver colour
into either Gold or Pinkish red. It is believed that this is a clear indication that the
millions are coming.
Feng Shui – for Aquarium Keeping
TAICHI
CENTE
R
SOUTH
Fame
WEST
Children
activity
NORTH
WEST
Helpful
People
career
NORTH
Career
EAST
Family
Ancestors
Health

6 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
World Trade Of Aquarium Fishes
The trade of ornamental fishes has been increasing since 1980s. It was estimated at US $ 4.5
billion in 1995 and grew further with an annual growth rate of about 14% per year (FAO,
1999). According to FAO (2000), the world trade of ornamental fishes was estimated at US $
9 billion, out of which the total retail trade was at about US $ 3 billion (live-animals for
aquarium).
We can say “Sleeping Giant” for ornamental fish industry because of its scope in worldwide
markets. Almost 70% of the world trade in ornamental fishes is in the hands of Asians. The
principle players in this trade are Singapore, Hong Kong, Thailand and almost every country
in South-East Asia. In the world there are 140 countries involved in aquarium fish trade
World import trends
World import of ornamental fishes increased markedly from US $ 50 million in 1982 to a
peak of around US $ 330 million in 1994-96 (Info fish International No. 3, 2005; Table 1.1).
Imports from then had fallen to US$ 262 million in 1998. And total imports stood at 234.2
million in 2002.
Main importers were United States (16.9%), Japan (10.9%), Germany (10.4%), the United
Kingdom (10.11%) and France (8.8%).Europe. Other important destinations were Singapore
(4.8%), Italy (4.4%), Belgium (4.3%), the Netherlands (4.3%), China (4.1%) and Canada
(2.8%).
Table – Main ornamental fishes suppliers of Asia in 2002
Country Percentage
Singapore 37.0
Malaysia 16.0
Indonesia 11.0
China 10.0
Japan 7.0
Sri Lanka 5.0
Thailand 5.0

7 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
Taiwan 2.0
India 1.0
Source: Info fish International Number 3/2005, p.12
 On an average, 90% of the fresh water species are farmed, against 10% collected
from wild. For marine species, almost 99% are collected from wild and just 1% is
reared.
 World turnover of ornamental fish aquaculture is estimated at US $ 200 million.
 In terms of value, fresh water species represent about 90% against 10% of marine
species in the international trade.
 Consequently the species that dominant market is all of freshwater, particularly of
families Poeciliidae, Characidae, Cichlidae and Cyprinidae. And marine species are
becoming more and more popular, particularly of the families Pomacentridae,
Acanthuridae, Labridae, Pomacanthidae, Chaetodontidae, Balistidae, Syngnathidae
and invertibrates.
 According to many experts, marine aquarium with live-coral reefs is the trend for the
21st century.
Various Components of the Aquarium Fish Industry
Aquarium
Fish
Industry
Wholesaler
Packaging & Transport
Aquaponics
Aquatic & Animal
Health Managment
Aquarium & Accessories Indegenous
Ornamental Fish
Inventory
Research &
Development
Export
Production Technology
Feed Formulation &
Nutrition

8 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
Present status of Ornamental Fish Trade
In India
Almost 70% of the world trade in ornamental fishes is in the hands of Asians. The
principle players in this trade are Singapore, Hong Kong, Thailand and almost every country
in South-East Asia. In the world there are 140 countries involved in aquarium fish trade.
India’s share in this global aquarium fish trade is only 0.007 %. In terms of money it
comes to Rs.23 million or two crores and thirty lakhs. However, India has a domestic market
of Rs. 10 crores in ornamental fish trade can this is fastest growing. M.P.E.D.A.(Marine
Products Export Development Authority) has estimated that India’s potential for trade in
aquarium fish is 5 billion U.S. dollars which are earned by the export of ornamental
fishes.”NABARD” had visualized the rise in out trade up to 1 % of the global trade in five
years.
At present, our centers of trade and even in the breeding of ornamental fishes are
Kolkata,Mumbai and Chennai. West Bengal is in the forefront with the share of around 90 %
of our export earnings. Around 7 to 10 thousands people are engaged as part time breeders
of Ornamental fishes in West Bengal. The ornamental fish market of Kolkata is locally called
“Hatibagan Haat” and is the largest in the country. Along with the fish sale, it also sales
aquarium accessories, fish feed, aquarium etc. It opens only of Sunday and the fish trade on
single day runs in to 2-3 lakh rupees minimum. ( Durvey,V.S..2005)
Prospectus of Commercial Production in India
The export of ornamental fishes from fishes from the country at present is mainly confined
to fresh water varieties and the export is limited to the fishes from north-eastern states (
85%) and few bred varieties of exotic species ( 16 %) from other parties. In spite of the
availability of rich ornamental fish fauna in and around coral reef of Lakshadweep,Andaman
and Nicobar Island and mandapam area, the country could not make any headway in the
export of marine ornamental fishes so far due to non-availability of required infrastructure
facilities. As the country possesses vast resources in term of natural water bodies and
species diversity, we have a great potential to increase the level of export of ornamental
fishes to about Rs. 110 crores every year.
Overview of Demand Situation

9 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
The number of species known as ornamental is estimed at about 1600 of which
750 are from freshwater and the remainder marine species, which only represent 10 to 20
per cent of imports of ornamental fish into the USA are traditionally from Asia and 10 per
cent from South America. The US imports from Indonesia and the Phillippines are mainly
composed of marine species.
Advantages of Ornamental Fish Culture in India
1. Both fresh and marine ornamental fish are available in India.
2. Being a tropical country ornamental fish culture is economically viable. Fishes can
grow and attain maturity very fast.
3. Maintaining an ornamental fish farm (both hatchery and grow out) is very
easy,particularly a fresh water ornamental farm.
4. Breeding can be done through out the year.
5. As most fishes breed naturally,the cost of hormone for breeding purpose can be
avoided, unlike fresh water edible fishes.
6. Ornamental fishes have a thriving domestic and international market.
7. Ornamental fishes are generally more hardy; they can tolerate a wide reange of
fluctuations in the water quality parameters and less susceptibility to disease
infection.
8. A lot of new opportunity exists for employment generation in the rural
sector,particularly in the coastal areas where unemployment is a hinderance to the
development process.
9. Unlike prawn farming, ornamental fish culture requires only a small area.
10.Ornamental fish farming is very profitable venture which requires less initial
investment compared to prawn farming.
11. As the investment is less, the risk of production is also less.

10 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
Site Of In-Plant Industrial Training
For Industrial In – Plant training our batch was placed to “UNDER THE SUN AQUARIUM
GALLERY”. This aquarium gallery is situated in heart of Udaipur city at FATAH SAGAR LAKE ,
near Vibhuti park. Under The Sun is the largest public aquarium gallery in terms of gallons of
water, numbers and species of fish in the entire nation. Inaugurated on 21 st October 2017
by the respected home minister of Rajasthan, Gulab Chand Ji Kataria. The place have both
fresh water and marine water fishes.
 The aquarium is a 125 meter long gallery which hosts a number of small as well as
large aquariums with various fish
Variety of fish:-
 The species of fish have been brought from the around world viz. South America,
Brazil, Senegal, Japan, America, Malaysia, Congo, Indonesia, America, China and
marine fish are from the Indian Ocean.
 In Under The Sun , they also have some of the rare species like Mormyrus rume,
Alligator gar, Marine water Sting ray, Senegal dragon, Puffer fish, Archer fish and
other sea creatures like – Sea Urchins, Sea Anemone, Fire Belly Newts, Indonesia
mud crabs, Hermit crabs, Albino frog, Fresh water Scampi and more.
 There is a marine section where we can see a variety of amazing and unique Brackish
water fish. This section has 4 marine water aquarium and 1 brackish water aquarium.
In which fish like Clown fish, Brown banded Bombay Shark, Blue eyed yellow tang,
Blue Tang, Sea anemones, Sea Urchins, Hermit crabs, Star fish, Fox fish, Rabbit fish,
Trigger fish, Two – spotted Damsel, Blue Demsel, Mono angel, Emperor Angel fish,
Turbo Snail can be seen.
Managment & Structure of the aquarium :
 Under The Sun aquarium have beautiful architecture.
 UIT Udaipur has spent Rupees 2 crores in the construction of the aquarium which is
evident and other three crores have been spent on the interior of the gallery which
is even more evident.
 The whole inside of the place is covered with insulating material and not much light
enters the premises, to give the aquatic life their natural habitat.
 The aquarium gallery is a built and is being managed by team of Manshapurn Karni
Mata Ropeway, headed by Mr. Kalash Khandelwal . Anjali Azad Dubey, known for
green designs at her firm “Pratham Interiors” gave creative consultancy for the

11 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
interiors of the aqua gallery. This gallery is running under the supervision of Mr.
Vivek Mehra. The consultancy for procurement, wellbeing and maintenance of fish is
provided by wildlife expert Mr. Aashish Mahesh Baagla who is based in Mumbai.
Opportunities at the Fish Aquarium:
 It has good opportunity for the students of the fisheries college of Udaipur as
they can learning about various international breeds of fish and other aquatic
animals.
 Mr. Krishna Kumar Tiwari seniors aquarist has trained us in our In-plant Training
Programme period who look after the aquarium under his guidance. Under his
guidance we learn about different aspects of ornamental species, caring and
maintenance of aquarium. He taught us many major points and instructions to
keep aquarium and management measures of this colourful branch of science.
 The aquarium poses as a major tourist spot as it drivers not only local people but
also tourist for the entire globe.
 As per the management states, it has a monthly foot-fall of around 1,00,000
people.
Various Components at the Under The Sun Fish Aquarium,
Udaipur :
 World’s first Aqua Trick Art Museum by World Renowned Artist Mr. AP Sreether.
 India’s first Aqua live Virtual Experiences – for feeling sea life is an immersive 360 –
degree environment. It is an Award Winning oceanic VR Experiances deployed
through state of the art and latest VR Gadgetry .
 Interaction with fish at the Touch Pool where we can feed as well as touch the fish.
 The CODAK Tank – the only fish tank in India where we can get inside and experience
life underwater , without getting wet.
 A Cafeteria for munching needs.
 Free high – speed Wi-Fi.
 Aquaponics unit is also point of curiosity in visitors. It have approx. 70-80 pots of
plants with circulatory water system with fish pond.
 Gallery also have a fountain.
Map of the Under The Sun Aquarium Gallery : -

12 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
(1)
(2)

13 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
(3)
Models for Small Aquarium Arrangement
Type – 1 :-
Type – 2 :-

14 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
Type – 3 :-
Measurement of Aquariums :- All aquariums are built by “TAFAN GLASS”.
No. Gross total/Name Of
Tanks
Length Width Height Type of water
1. CODAK Tank 10’ 10’ 2’ Fresh Water
2. 4 Nos. 6’ 2’ 4’ 2 Marine , 2
F.W.
3. 13 Nos. 10’ 4’ 2’ 12 F.W., 1
Brackish Water
4. 2 Nos. 12’ 4’ 2’ F.W.
5. 1 Nos. 12’ 4’ 4’ F.W.
6. 90 Nos. 18’’ 22’’ 12’’ F.W.

15 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
7. 3 Cylindrical Tank 4’ Diameter 4’ Depth 2M.W., 1F.W.
8. Touch Pool 9.5’ Radius 4’ D. F.W.
9. Fountain unit 7.5’R. 4’ F.W.
*00’ = Unit in foot
*00’’= Unit in inches
Water Capacity :-
 From the above mentioned table tank no. 1,2,3,4,5 have 500-600 gallon water
capacity.
 18’’×22’’×12’’ dimension tanks which are 90 in quantity have 30 gallon water
capacity.
 Unit :- 1 Gallon = 3.785412 liters.
For example - 5gal = 5×3.785412= 18.927059 -˷ 19 lit.
 30 gal = (30×3.785412) = 113.56236 lit.
 600 gal = (600 × 3.785412) = 2,271.2472 lit.
 Total aquarium – 113 , 1 – codak tank, 1 – Touch pool , 1 – Fountain unit.
 Besides all tanks there were some extra tanks (6 nos.) at the second floor.
(i) First type tanks named “Hospital Tanks”. In these tanks was treatment purpose for
infected and unhealthy fishes.
(ii) Second type tanks are “Breeding Tanks”. For breeding purposes.

16 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
Aquarium Accessories
Introduction
All the aquatic life in an aquarium is its software whereas all the accessories which are used
to maintain the water quality and all the aquatic life in an aquarium are its hard part. For
proper housing of the software, hardware has to function properly and efficiently. Various
accessories are installed in an aquarium as hardware. The accessories could be further
classified as essential and decorative.
Equipments and accessories needed for ornamental fish farm
Glass Tank
A small tank made of sheet glass/float glass or transparent fiberglass may be kept in a strong stand
made of wood, steel etc. To prevent accumulation of dust particles a hood may be provided. Such
hoods will serve as ‘lid’ for the tank.
Accessories for fish tanks:
To beautify aquarium tank, various accessories are used depending on one’s taste and affordability.
They are as follows:
Hood:-
Hood or tank cover is made of glass, wood or tin plate.
Stand:-

17 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
To keep aquarium tank in position a stand made of wood or metal is required. It must be capable of
carrying the weight of tank
Light Source:
Aquarium lights to be fixed inside the hood give bright illumination to the inner environment and
help to maintain healthy plants and fishes. Direct and excessive sunlight increases water
temperature and development of algal bloom. Lamps may be fluorescent tubes, mercury vapor
lamps or metal halide lamps. Lighting for 10 to 15 hours a day is considered sufficient for an
aquarium of 5 l capacity a lamp with 10 watt is enough.
Heaters:
Heaters are required in cool places where the temperature is less especially during night hours.
Heating is most commonly done by using immersion heaters with adjustable thermostat.
Air Pumps and Accessories:
In order to keep good water quality in the ornamental tanks and for maintaining the fish in a healthy
manner, oxygenation of water is very important. For this purpose, air pumps costing Rs.200 to 500
per piece are available in the market. Air tubes and controlling devices are also needed to regulate
the airflow to the system. Air stones are useful for production of small air bubbles and for efficient
oxygenation.

18 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
Filter:-
Biofilters and mechanical filters are frequently used to maintain ornamental fish in an aquarium.
Some of the filters used in ornamental fish farming include under gravel filter, box filter, poly U filter,
power filter, etc. Biofilter can be set up by ornamental fish culturist himself by knowing the principle
and by using the easily available raw materials. For institutional establishment and for aquarium
maintenance, biofilters coupled with a sump and overhead tank will be of much use. In such flow
through systems, a small electric pump (of lesser capacity) will be needed to lift water from sump to
overhead tank/filtering units.
Hand Nets:-
To handle ornamental fishes without subjecting them to injury/diseases, hand nets are very
important. Hand nets made of mosquito nets or velon screen or bolting silk are in common use. The
brood stock of ornamental fish should normally be handled by hand nets made of velon screen
(no.30-40).
Aeration Devices:-
If ornamental fishes are mass reared in pond systems, good aeration facilities are very much
essential. Various aeration devices are used in aquaculture to oxygenate the water in the culture
system. They can be mainly classified as surface aerators, diffuser aerators and turbine aerators.
Besides, the water inlet system can also be set up in such a way to facilitate gravity aeration (splash
board, race way, transversely corrugated inclined plane etc). Among the various aerators, paddle
wheel aerators (a surface aerator type) are readily available in the market at reasonable price (1 HP
aerator costs Rs.15,000 to 20,000). Aspirator type aerators are also available in different brand
names in global market. For oxygenation of pond bottom, aspirator aerators (air injectors) are
efficient. If the depth of the culture system is more than 2m, one can choose aspirator type aerator.
Pumps and pipe lines:-
For mass rearing of ornamental fishes, the culture system should be free from any weed fish and
predator fish. For keeping the weed fish and predator fish at bay, it is advisable to avoid using water

19 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
from natural water bodies such as rivers, irrigation tanks, reservoirs, etc. Underground water with
good quality especially from rich aquifers is always preferable. In the above background, quality
pumps are highly essential. In order to maintain good water quality, water exchange may be needed
under high density stocking. In such cases, to carryout periodic flushing and emergency irrigation,
pumps assume priority.
Aeration:-
Aquarium fish like other fish breathe in water by means of gills, using oxygen dissolved in water. A
certain minimum level of dissolved oxygen in water is essential for their survival. For a number of
reasons, the water may have oxygen level critically depleted, endangering fish. The confined water
of the aquarium is more prone to risk of depletion in level of dissolved oxygen (hypoxic condition).
To offset the risk, it is necessary to provide additional means of aeration of water because oxygen of
atmospheric air diffuses only slowly into water at the interface between it and air (the surface of
water). Aeration achieves fast oxygen optimization in the following manner:
(a) a stream of air-bubbles, when forced through a column of water, provides enhanced interface
area between air and water; smaller the bubbles better is aeration.
(b) water when sprayed like a fountain head (broken into tiny parts or drops) has increased surface
area at the interface with air, achieving efficient aeration.
(c) a turbulence produced in water due to rising air bubbles as they break at the surface greatly
increases the surface area of water at the interface with air.
(d) a movement of water (air driven or pump driven) speeds up circulation of dissolved oxygen
(which in still water is a very slow process) as it spreads from surface down to bottom by diffusion.
Aeration is accomplished by any one of the following ways, singly or in
combination:
(i) Air is bubbled through the column of water using an aerator (air pump) and an air stone (diffuser).
This combines the three processes stated above.
(ii) Pumping water out of the aquarium tank (as during filtration) and returning it directly into the
tank water or spraying it over its surface using spray-bar. In this case processes b and d are involved.
In a small aquarium (home aquarium), agitation of water produced by air-bubbling is more
important for oxygenation than air-bubbling itself. The fact is that a bubble takes only a few seconds
to rise to surface and burst there. Such a short time of exposure to water does not permit much
oxygen diffusion from air to water as it is a slow process. Use of an air stone increases chance of
oxygenation as air is broken down into very fine numerous air bubbles. However, air-bubbling is
instrumental in oxygenation of water rather indirectly. The agitation and turbulence produces
circulation of water – an unending renewal of surface water (most oxygenated) by less oxygenated
or oxygen depleted water brought from below with rising stream of air bubbles. The main
oxygenation of water takes place at water-air interface at the surface.
Aeration, on the one hand, increase dissolved oxygen concentration in water and, on the other
hand, removes equally fast free carbon-di-oxide from it. It also helps in preventing “cold spots” in
the aquarium tank which otherwise may develop in still water of large tanks. Aeration should be
looked upon not as a substitute for management but a mere part of it.

20 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
Aerator:-
Aerator is an air-pumping device which is electrically operated. The device consists of a vibratory air
pump – a tiny rubber diaphragm. When alternating current (A.C) passes a shaft bearing a magnet
vibrates briskly under a magnetic field effect. As the shaft is attached to the diaphragm, the latter is
allowed to vibrate up and down like a piston, producing a forceful stream of air. The air flow is then
directed into the bed of the aquarium tank using plastic air tubing (thin pipe). At the opening, a
diffuser (air stone) may be used to produce tiny bubbles of air. The aerator is a very useful handy
device for small home aquarium. They are cheap, long lasting and need little maintenance. However,
there are a number of drawbacks too. First, they produce an unpleasant, rather loud, humming
sound. Second, they are ineffective in large and deep tank. It must be noted that an aerator does not
generate fresh air. On the contrary, it only pumps out into the tubing the air of the surrounding. An
aerator is likely to drive any fumes, chemical vapours and so forth alongwith the air into the
aquarium tank which may prove harmful to fish. It should therefore not be operated if any such
situation exists in the room.
Apart from its role in aeration of tank water, aerator has a role of air-lifting of water for filtration. In
undergravel filter, an aerator is used to confine the rising stream of air-bubbles into a narrow
vertical tube (the uplift pipe) to bring about air-lifting of water and any suspended particles in it.
Power Air Pump:-
To produce aeration in large and deep aquarium or a battery of aquaria, such as those installed in
public aquaria, more powerful electric motor driven piston-pumps or rotary pumps are used. They
are more efficient due to high output and noiseless running. However, they are expensive and need
care and maintenance more frequently.

21 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
Spray Bar:-
The outlet of power filter is fitted with a spray bar to enhance aeration of water as the filtered water
is returned to the aquarium tank. The spray bar is a perforated tube which produces a rain of small
droplets of water falling on the surface of tank water. The agitation of water produced at the surface
by falling water drops helps in better oxygen diffusion at air-water interface.
Essential Accessories
Filtration
Introduction -
(A) Filters :-
Fish is constantly discharging its urinary and faecal waste in aquarium water,
uneaten food also starts putrefying. All these increase ammonia load in water, which
becomes toxic to fish. To control this either one has to constantly change water or use
water filters. The regular change of water is quit cumbersome and also stressful to fish.
Thus, the water filters are used. These filters provide substrate to various ammonifying and
nitrifying bacteria and also absorb the remove the suspended particles in water. (Atul Kumar
Jain, 2005)
Filtration of aquarium water is an essential element of water management. The process
serves two purposes:
1. Maintenance of good water quality.
2. Partial correction (within certain limits) when the water goes wrong.
Good quality of water means a water that ensures a proper environment for fish to “drink”,
“breathe”, “move” and even “pass metabolites” (excreta, urine and carbon-di-oxide) into it
without becoming harmful to fish’s health and well-being. Water is said to be of good
quality when its contents (chemicals, dissolved gases, organic matter) or condition
(temperature and turbulence) are in a state which is good for fish, and is free from
undesirable suspended particles and pollution. Pollution may arise from intrinsic
(developing within the aquarium) or extrinsic (accidentally introduced) factors and will make
the water wrong, weakly harmful or lethal to fish. Even a very well planned and properly
stocked aquarium will need filtration in the long run.
Aquarium filtration is the single most important requirement for a successful fish tank. In a
filtration process the aquarium water is allowed to pass through a filter medium to cleanse
it and is finally returned to it. Filtration is done basically in three ways:
(a) Mechanical filtration:

22 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
Solid suspended particles are trapped and filtered out just mechanically. Mechanical
aquarium filtration removes solid particles from the water via the aquarium filter. It does
not remove or convert ammonia, nitrite or nitrate.
This filter type actually provides a means to remove free-floating waste before it decays.
Mechanical filtration will only be beneficial if the filter material is replaced every 2-4 weeks
because the waste will still decay while trapped in the filter material. To save money on
replacements, you can also rinse the filters in use or use an alternative filter such as filter
floss, which costs only a fraction of replacement cartridges.
Common types of filter media are paper cartridges, sponges, and floss. Mechanical filtration
will be ineffective on matter that settled in the gravel. Use a siphon to remove these
particles. Kill two birds with one stone (bad remark for an animal related web-site, but you
get the picture) – siphon during water changes!
Be aware, that beneficial bacteria might settle on the filter media. Take this under
consideration, and replace part of the media at a time if it’s possible. Sponges will clog
quickly and paper even faster.
Filter floss is very efficient due to small and large openings, which will not clog as easily.
(b) Chemical filtration:
Harmful soluble chemical contents of water as those which alter its pH, impart it hardness
or fish’s metabolites are rendered harmless by changing their chemical composition
chemically. Chemical filtration removes dissolved wastes. The most common type of
chemical filtration is activated carbon.
(c) Biological filtration:
Biological filtration is the term used to describe beneficial bacteria, which are established
during the initial cycling of the aquarium. These bacteria break down ammonia and nitrite
and convert them into the less toxic compound nitrate.
It is widely acknowledged throughout the aquatic community that these bacteria require a
surface to attach to as well as oxygen rich water.
Biological filtration is essential and needs to be adequately established in every aquarium.
On this note it is recommended to medicate fish in a separate tank (hospital tank) when
using antibiotics (anti bacteria), as extensive use of these medications will kill the bacteria.
Live rock and sand are by all means biological filtration as well. In theory you could maintain
an aquarium with these alone, however the tanks fish population would be restricted to
small numbers.

23 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
Saltwater tanks can be successfully maintained using only a protein skimmer and biological
filtration.
Conversion of ammonia and nitrite which are highly toxic into non-toxic nitrates is done biologically
by using a population of bacteria to feed upon the excretory products and similar detritus wastes.
Except the chemical filtration, mechanical and biological filtration combines in any filter eventually.
All the three kinds of filtration process may be incorporated in a single filter. Accordingly, in a filter
one or more filter media are used.
One has to be prudent in deciding which filtration to choose for a given aquarium. A number of
factors need to be considered such as size, effective water volume and movement / turbulence and
metabolic loading due to fish / other animals (stocking density and feeding and locomotory habit).
On the other hand, it is also important to monitor filtration efficiency (filter volume and turnover
rate) of the filter used in the aquarium which may be done by estimating the concentration of
ammonia (NH3), nitrites (NO2) and nitrates (NO3).
Filtration also helps in aeration by circulating the water of the tank irrespective of whether water is
power driven or air-driven.
Filter Media:-
A number of filter media are available. The more common ones are given in Table.
Sl.No. Filter Medium Working Items removed
1. Nylon floss Mechanical Solid suspended particles
2. Filter (glass) wool Do do
3. Plastic foam Do do
4. Sand Do do
5. Gravel Do do
6. Diatomite (diatomaceous earth) Do do
7. Sponge Do do
8. Diatom Skeleton Do do
9. Activated charcoal Chemical (CO2, pH & hardness)
10. Limestone chips Do (pH & hardness)
11. Coral sand Do do
12. Peat Do do
13. Resin (zeolite) Do Hardness & NH3
In fact, all media work mechanically and biologically if left undisturbed over long period. In the
latter case, all media will be eventually colonized by bacteria. Plastic, glass and gravel may offer
good bed (surface area) for bacteria to grow on.
Of all the filter media, the cheapest are floss, foam and gravel. Peat, on the other hand, is not
long lasting and needs replacement at quick intervals (as it is quickly exhausted).
Types of Filters:-
Canister Filter (Power Head Filter)
It is a self-contained internal type unit comprising of a container, provided with an
aerator. It operates on a principle that aquarium water is siphoned into filter unit where it is

24 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
allowed to slowly pass through one or more filter or being pumped up or air-lifted and
returned to aquarium.
It may be kept inside the aquarium. The filter media used include nylon floss, glass
wool, foam, activated charcoal, resin etc. It may be used for mechanical, biological and/or
chemical filtration.
Basically an enhanced corner filters. A closed canister where water is forced through filtration media
(mechanical and/or chemical). This filter is generally placed beside or underneath the aquarium. The
canister filter has the most powerful mechanical filtration system, and can be used with messy
eaters. The down side is that it requires frequent cleaning. Bacteria will also settle in this filter type.
Biological filtration can be improved, by placing wet dry wheels at the outflow of the canister filter.
Corner Filter
Placed inside the aquarium water is forced through it. On the inside filter floss or other
media. It is mainly a physical/mechanical filter. Beneficial bacteria settled on the medium
and provided biological filtration.
This very inexpensive filter is an excellent way to set up a hospital tank. Buy one for pennies
on the dollar and use some gravel from your established tank. You will immediately have a
working biological and mechanical filter for your hospital tank.
Fluidized Bed Filter
This filter is a recent development, using sand as a bacteria settlement media. In a tubular
design, sand is fully submerged in water. The water is pumped upwards through the sand,
allowing bacteria to settle within. Additional tubes can be used as pre-filters (mechanical)
and also for chemical filters. This filter provides a large surface for bacteria colonies, but
sometimes lacks in providing enough oxygen for optimum performance.
Power Filter
The very easy to maintain power filter hangs on the back of the aquarium (easy access).
Water is pulled through a mechanical filtration, using floss and insert cartridges. They also
provide enough space for chemical filtration media. Within the last few years a wet dry
wheel (biowheel) was developed, to provide an even larger area for bacteria to settle.
Protein Skimmer
The protein skimmer is a chemical filtration method. It takes out dissolved biological waste
before it can decompose. This is achieved by a tubular design with air bubbles inside. The
waste is attracted to the surface of air bubbles, which then rises to the water surface. There,
a skimmer removes the biological waste. This filtration type has revolutionized reef tanks. It
only works with high pH and salinity which make it a saltwater only filter.

25 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
Sponge Filter
A sponge filter looks like a tube with a sponge like material inside. As water flows through,
bacteria will colonize the porous foam and establish a biological filtration. These sponges
also serve as a mechanical filter, removing larger particles from the water. The advanced
versions use two sponges, making it easier to preserve bacteria colonies by replacing the
sponges at different times.
Using a sponge from an established aquarium can also jump-start a new tank or
quarantine/hospital tank.
Under gravel Filter
The under gravel filter (UGF) is basically a perforated plate below the gravel. Water is
pumped upward through the gravel by air bubbles, water stream, or a combination of both.
This slow flow of water and oxygen allows the bacteria to colonize the gravel.
The UGF is an aid for biological filtration. It does not remove larger waste particles. It has to
be well maintained, especially through vacuuming of the gravel. UGF’s are inexpensive, but
have a tendency to clog up.
It is recommended to replace this filter as they age. Of course, they can be combined with a
power head as a pre-filter for larger particles.
Wet–Dry Filter
Also known as trickle filter. This kind of filter was designed with consideration of the oxygen
demand of the beneficial bacteria. It consists of a plastic tube with unsubmerged media
(floss, bioballs etc.) over which water trickles down – hence “Trickle Filter”. The wet dry
filter provides a large air to water surface. The larger the surface structure of the media gets
the better it works.
This filter provides no mechanical filtration and works on the principle of the wet dry
wheels.
Understanding the basics of filtration – biological, mechanical, and chemical, will enable you
to create the best combination for your aquarium.
Description about Filters
Conventional filters are usually designed on two working-principles:
A. Aquarium water is siphoned into filter unit where it is allowed to slowly pass through one
or more filter media before being pumped up or air-lifted and returned to the aquarium
tank.
B. Aquarium water is allowed to pass through the substrate at the bottom in a continuous
circulation which is maintained either by air-lifting or by power head.

26 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
Most filters combine filtration with aeration (for optimizing dissolved oxygen concentration of
aquarium water). Various measures are taken for aeration.
Canister Filter:-
It is a self-contained unit comprising of a container, provided with an aerator or an electric pump. It
operates on principle 'A' described above. It may be situated inside or outside the aquarium. The
external types have inlet and outlet pipes while the internal types are provided with slits for the
purpose. The filter media used include nylon floss, glass wool, foam, activated charcoal, resin etc. It
may be used for mechanical, biological and / or chemical (optional) filtration by combining it with a
sub gravel filter.
It is used for both freshwater (air-lifting type) and marine aquarium (power lifting type). The power
driven type can remove all solid debris and maintains a constant forceful circulation of water
dislodging food particles trapped in gravel or corals.

27 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
Trickle Filter:- It is a modified version of external canister filter. A stack of several trays with
perforated bottoms are placed above the aquarium and used in conjunction with an external
canister filter. The aquarium water after initial filtration in the canister filter is sprayed into the top
tray from where it trickles from one tray to the other and is finally returned to the aquarium. The
trays are part-filled with filter media and thus reinforce filtration. The main advantage of the trays
atmospheric oxygen. Optimization of oxygen uptake of water results in enhanced bacterial activity.
Submersible power filter (box filter / corner filter):-
It is a very compact filter that works under submerged condition at any depth of water. The plastic
box sits at the gravel bottom in a corner. It is very suitable for small aquarium in which metabolic
loading is less. A flow of water is continually maintained in and out of the filter unit. The flow is
driven by a power head. The aquarium water is drawn in through a slit in an outer chamber and then
passed through a sponge / foam, held against a sieve, and finally driven out of the unit to be
returned to the aquarium. The box filter silently works to carry out mechanical and biological
filtration. It will need to be supplemented with chemical filtration, if necessary. The outer chamber is
so designed as to trap detritus “dirt” in a partitioned portion from where it cannot escape. Filter,
however, needs periodical cleaning. The power head also needs maintenance; the impeller attached
to the pump shaft needs periodical cleaning. It is generally used for freshwater aquarium only.
Submersible air-lifting filter (inside filter / corner filter):-
The submersible filter is rather compact. It is attached to the aquarium wall on the inside in a corner
by means of a sucker. It works on the principle of bubble-air-lifting of filtered water, which is
produced at the air stone fed by an aerator pump. A foam filter is used. Obviously, the filter
combines filtration with aeration. Aeration takes place during the bubble-airlifting as well as the
outlet where water is returned to the aquarium in the form of a spray.
Protein skimmer Filter
A protein skimmer or foam fractionator is a device used to remove organic
compounds such as food and waste particles from water. It is most commonly used in
commercial applications like municipal water treatment facilities and public aquariums.
Smaller protein skimmers are also used for filtration of home saltwater aquariums.

28 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
Function: -
Protein skimming removes certain organic compounds, including proteins and amino
acids found in food particles, by using the polarity of the protein itself. Due to their intrinsic
charge, water-borne proteins are either repelled or attracted by the air/water interface
and these molecules can be described as hydrophobic (such as fats or oils)
or hydrophilic (such as salt, sugar, ammonia, most amino acids, and most inorganic
compounds). However, some larger organic molecules can have both hydrophobic and
hydrophilic portions. These molecules are called amphipathic or amphiphilic. Commercial
protein skimmers work by generating a large air/water interface, specifically by injecting
large numbers of bubbles into the water column. In general, the smaller the bubbles the
more effective the protein skimming is because the surface area of small bubbles
occupying the same volume is much greater than the same volume of larger
bubbles.[1]
Large numbers of small bubbles present an enormous air/water interface for
hydrophobic organic molecules and amphipathic organic molecules to collect on the
bubble surface (the air/water interface). Water movement hastens diffusion of organic
molecules, which effectively brings more organic molecules to the air/water interface and
lets the organic molecules accumulate on the surface of the air bubbles. This process
continues until the interface is saturated, unless the bubble is removed from the water or
it bursts, in which case the accumulated molecules release back into the water column.
However, it is important to note that further exposure of a saturated air bubble to organic
molecules may continue to result in changes as compounds that bind more strongly may
replace those molecules with a weaker binding that have already accumulated on the
interface. Although some aquarists believe that increasing the contact time (or dwell time
as it is sometimes called) is always good, it is incorrect to claim that it is always better to
increase the contact time between bubbles and the aquarium water.[2]
As the bubbles
increase near the top of the protein skimmer water column, they become denser and the
water begins to drain and create the foam that will carry the organic molecules to the
skimmate collection cup or to a separate skimmate waste collector and the organic

29 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
molecules, and any inorganic molecules that may have become bound to the organic
molecules, will be exported from the water system.
In addition to the proteins removed by skimming, there are a number of other organic and
inorganic molecules that are typically removed. These include a variety of fats, fatty acids,
carbohydrates, metals such as copper, and trace elements such as iodine.
Particulates, phytoplankton, bacteria, and detritus are also removed; this is desired by some
aquarists, and is often enhanced by placement of the skimmer before other forms of filtration,
lessening the burden on the filtration system as a whole. There is at least one published study
that provides a detailed list of the export products removed by the skimmer. Aquarists who
keep filter-feeding invertebrates, however, sometimes prefer to keep these particulates in the
water to serve as natural food.
Protein skimmers are used to harvest algae and phytoplankton gently enough to maintain
viability for culturing or commercial sale as live cultures.
Alternative forms of water filtration have recently come into use, including the algae scrubber,
which leaves food particles in the water for corals and small fish to consume, but removes the
noxious compounds including ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, and phosphate that protein skimmers
do not remove.
Alpha 170, designed by Klaus Jensen
Paper Filter
Filter sock, except that it filters detritus out of the water column by passing it through filter
paper off of a long roll. As the filter paper clogs, the water level in the cleaner rises. When
the water rises it activates a float switch that causes the roll of paper to rotate, exposing
fresh new filter material. This method results in a filter that is smaller and less expensive
than models that rely on a mechanical water wheel.
In the Genesis system water comes down through the overflow and passes through the
sheet of filter paper in the filter. As the filter paper removes debris it slowly clogs. When
that happens the water level rises and flows out a secondary exit. As the water flows out the
secondary exit it passes over a water wheel. The water wheel rotates and mechanically
turns the roll of paper, exposing fresh new paper.

30 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
Compared to other similar concepts out there, the Genesis is unique because it doesn't
require any electricity. The rolls are not controlled by motors and float switches, but is
entirely mechanically via the water wheel. The secondary outlet also functions as a backup.
In the event you are not home to change the filter material the water will simply pass
around the filter and continue on its journey.
UV Sterilizer :-
Ultra Violet or UV Sterilizer are used fish tank aquariums to help remove unwanted free
floating algae, parasites and bacteria from both freshwater and marine aquariums.
A UV (Ultra Violet) light will alter and disrupt the cellular structure of living cells found in
algae and bacteria which effectively kills them off by preventing them from reproducing
which will effectively remove them from your aquarium system. This is done in quite a
simple manner by the UV filter as it will be part of where the water flows in your system and
so all water will pass through it as some point. Many people will install these on the inlet to
their filter if a sump or canister filter is being used. The system itself has a UV bulb in it
which will shine on the water as it passes through.
It is important when choosing a UV steriliser that you get a unit specifically for the flow rate
and aquarium size you are installing it on otherwise the available surface area will not be
large enough to eradicate the unwanted bacteria and algae. It is also possible to get a
canister filter with a UV steriliser built in to it which effectively takes away this concern as
the manufacturers have optimised the UV filter size based on the flow rate of the filter it is
attached to.
So, to work out whether you need a UV steriliser or not is something which you can
normally tell from the visual water quality and fish behaviour.
If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms it might be worthwhile investing in a
UV sterilizer:
 Poor water quality – green water
 Algae blooms
 Parasite related fish diseases such as Ich
 Harmful bacteria present in the aquarium

31 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
It is more common to install a UV sterilizer in a marine tank than a freshwater one; this is
down to freshwater planted aquariums taking care of any bacteria or parasite issues and
algae blooms by the plants themselves using up all available resources which these things
would require to survive. It may be that you are keeping mbuna or other rift valley African
cichlids which eat algae and so you want it to grow rather than killing it off.
Also worth noting is that the UV sterilizer will not distinguish between beneficial bacteria
and harmful bacteria and will kill all types so if you are planning to use a UV sterilizer in a
marine tank and don’t wish to kill off any of the free floating beneficial planktonic animals
like Amphipods and Copepods then you could always put the filter on a timer to only come
on when the main lights are on as these beneficial bacteria tend to hide away in rocks
during daylight hours. A UV sterilizer may also have a negative or neutralizing affect
treatments you may add to your aquarium so be sure to switch it off if you are treating your
fish with any chemicals.
The last thing to note is that a UV sterilizer bulb would need to be replaced every 6 months
so this is a cost consideration worth taking in to account if you are considering purchasing
one. It can potentially be dangerous and should be noted that you must never look at the
UV sterilizer bulb when it is on as it can be very harmful to you!
In summary we believe that in a freshwater aquarium it is unlikely you would need a
UV sterilizer however it may be worth getting one. It is more likely you would need one in a
marine aquarium although you must be careful when you decide to use it and be sure to
pick the correct model for your requirements.

32 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
Aquarium Fish Feed
Aquarium fish feed is plant or animal material intended for consumption by pet fish kept
in aquariums or ponds. Fish foods normally contain macronutrients,
trace elements and vitamins necessary to keep captive fish in good health. Approximately 80%
of fishkeeping hobbyists feed their fish exclusively prepared foods that most commonly are
produced in flake, pellet or tablet form. Pellet forms, some of which sink rapidly, are often used for
larger fish or bottom feeding species such as loaches or catfish. Some fish foods also contain
additives such as sex hormones or beta carotene to artificially enhance the colour of ornamental
fish.
Prepared foods -
Prepared foods are those foods that are non-living and are made by the aquarist or bought already
prepared for consumption for fish.
Dry foods
Flake food is a type of proprietary or artificially manufactured fish food consumed by a wide variety
of tropical and saltwater fish and invertebrates. It is ideally suited to top dwellers and mid-water fish
though numerous bottom dwelling species consume flake food once it has settled on the bottom.
Flake food is baked to remove moisture, ensuring a longer shelf life. Generally the more moisture a
particular example of fish food contains, the more readily it will deteriorate in quality. Dry foods are
also available as pellets, sticks, tablets, granules, and wafers, manufactured to float or sink,
depending on the species they are designed to feed.
Vacation food
Vacation foods, also known as "food blocks" (or "weekend blocks" for smaller versions), are
designed to be placed inside the aquarium to forgo feeding while the owner is absent. These blocks
release small amounts of food as they dissolve. Food blocks can be a good choice for smaller tropical
fish, but can pollute the water if the tank is neglected for too long.[3]
Medicated fish food
Medicated fish food is a safe and effective method to deliver medication to fish. One advantage is
that medicated food does not contaminate the aquatic environment and also, unlike bath
treatments, does not negatively affect fish, filtration and algae growth in the aquarium. The
parasites will get treated spot on by medicated food, because the fish is ingesting it.
Freeze-dried and frozen fish diets
Freeze-dried and frozen fish foods were primarily developed for tropical and marine fish and are
useful in providing variety to the diet or specialist feeding needs of some species. These
include tubifex worms, mosquito larvae, bloodworms, water fleas (Daphnia and Cyclops spp.) along
with brine shrimp (Artemia salina).
Frozen fish food

33 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
Perishable food can be preserved by frozen storage, and is often sold in blister packs or resaleable
packets. These can contain a variety of ingredients such as bloodworms, Daphnia, or brine shrimp,
and are commonly used to feed such fish as Discus which require a high protein diet. Often fed on
beef heart fish food within the aquaculture industry, the discus fish are not the only fish which can
benefit from a high quality prepared frozen mixture such as beef heart, although by far these are the
fish most associated with this particular frozen food.
Live foods
Live fish food include earthworms, sludge worms, water fleas, bloodworms, and feeder fish. Food
for larvae and young fish include infusoria (Protozoa and other microorganisms), newly hatched
brine shrimp and microworms. These are the most preferred type of food for fishes, but are difficult
to get. However, freeze dried forms of earthworms, tubifex etc. are available now.
Ingredients of quality fish food
Fish food should ideally provide the fish with fat (for energy) and amino acids (building blocks of
proteins) and the fish food (whether flake or pellet) must be speedily digested in order to prevent
buildup of intestinal gas, renal failure and infections (such as swim bladder problems and dropsy)
and to avoid aquarium pollution due to excessive ammonia. Aquatic diets for carnivores must
contain vegetable matter such as spirulina.
Building block ingredients of fish food
 Amino acids are the basic components of proteins. Protein requirements vary according to
species. Carnivorous fish need a greater percentage of proteins than herbivorous. An example of
an aquatic diet that is a good source of amino acid is a crumbled hard boiled egg offered to
small fry. Large amounts of DL-Methionine enhance the head growth of the Lionhead goldfish.
 Fats that are broken down into fatty acids are the main source of energy in fish especially for the
heart and skeletal muscles. Fats also assist in vitamin absorption. Vitamins A, D, E and K are fat-
soluble or can only be digested, absorbed, and transported in conjunction with fats.
 Carbohydrates are molecular substances that include sugars, starches, gums and celluloses.
Most of the carbohydrates that are incorporated into aquatic diets are of plant origin and are
sources of the enzyme amylase. Carbohydrates, however, are not a superior energy source for
fish over protein or fat but digestible carbohydrates do spare protein for tissue building. Unlike
in mammals, glycogen is not a significant storage depot of energy in fish.
Sources of fish food
 Fish meal (protein source) have two basic types: (a) those produced from fishery wastes
associated with the processing of fish for human consumption (such as salmon and tuna) and (b)
those from specific fish (herring, menhaden and pollack) which are harvested solely for the
purpose of producing fish meal.
 Shrimp mix (shrimp meal) is made from cull shrimp that are being processed before freezing or
from whole shrimp that is not of suitable quality for human consumption. The material to be
made into shrimp meal is dried (sun-dried or by using a dryer) and then ground. Shrimp meal is a
source of pigments that enhances the desirable colour in the tissues of fish. It is also a secondary
supplemental protein source for fish.
 Squid meal is made from squid viscera portions from cannery plants including the eggs and
testis. Squid Meal is a highly digestible protein source for fish which provides a full range of

34 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
amino acids, vitamins, minerals and cholesterol (1.0–1.5%) of cholesterol suitable for fish fry and
young fish.
 Brine shrimp (adult Artemia) is a common food source for fish that are available in adult-form,
as eggs or freeze-dried. Brine shrimp is a source of protein, carotene (a colour enhancer) and
acts as a natural laxative in fish digestive systems. Brine shrimps can also supply the fish with
vegetable matter due to their consumption of algae.
 Soybean meal is a high protein source for fish and has become a substitute for traditionally-used
marine animal meals.
 Spirulina is a blue-green plant plankton rich in raw protein, vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, B12, C and E,
beta-carotene, colour enhancing pigments, a whole range of minerals, essential fatty acids and
eight amino acids required for complete nutrition.
 Whole wheat (carbohydrates) is not the best source of energy in fish but is an excellent source
of roughage for fish such as Goldfish and Koi. It is also a natural source of vitamin E which
promotes growth and enhances coloration.
Colour Enhancer – Carotenoids –
“Carotenoids are a group of naturally occurring lipid-soluble pigments that are produced
primarily in plants (including phytoplankton and algae).”
Carotenoids (pigments) are primary source of colour in the fish skin.The various colours are
produced by the presence of specific carotenoids and carotenoids-protein complexes. Since
carotenoids are only synthesized by plants and modified in animal tissues,fishes must obtain
them from their diet.
Various pigmented plant(Spirulina), invertebrate ingredients like brine shrimp powder, dried
tubifex, shrimp meal, shrimp head meal, acetes meal can be added in feed in required dose to
enhance colour pigmentation. Carotenoids have a role in reproduction, respiration, membrane
permeability, light absorption, reflection and efficiency of immune system. Many animals also
use colour for communicating warnings, mating calls, feeding signals and camouflage.
Nutritional Requirement
Like other fishes, ornamental fishes require proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, vitamins and
minerals. Supplementation with probiotics gives resistance for disease , provides nutritional
advantage and facilities amelioration of aquarium environment.
Nutritional requirement for different growth stages
Nutrient Fishes for all group Young Brood
Protein 30-40% 40-45% 30-35%
Lipids 4-9% 4-6% 6-8%
Carbohydrates 30-40% 40-45% 40-45%
Minerals and Vitamins requirement of fishes

35 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
Minerals Vitamins
Calcium 5g A 5,000 - 10,000 IU
Phosphorus 7g D3 100 - 200 IU
Magnasium 500mg E 100 - 200 IU
Sodium 1 - 3 g K 5 - 20 IU
Potassium 1 - 3 g C 200 - 400 mg
Sulphur 3 – 5 g B1 50 - 100 mg
Chlorine 1 – 5 g B2 30 - 50 mg
Iron 50 – 100 g B6 30 - 50 mg
Copper 1 – 4 g B12 0.02 - 1.0 mg
Manganese 20 – 50 g Biotin 5.0 - 1.0 mg
Cobalt 5 – 10 mg Choline 400 - 200 mg
Zinc 30 – 100 mg Folic acid 500 - 10 mg
Iodine 100 – 300 mg Inositol (E) 200 - 300 mg
Molybdenum Trace Niacin 100 - 150 mg
Chromium Trace Pantothenic acid 50 – 100 mg
List of Supplementy food which was used to in UNDER THE SUN
AQUARIUM GALLERY to feed fishes
1) Complete Tetra Bites
2) Optimum Cichlids Feed
3) Premium Flekes Colour Delight
4) Freeze Drying Bloodworm
5) Marine – A
6) Marine – S
7) Dry Srimp
8) Wet food

36 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
Discription about supplementary fish food
1) Complete Tetra Bites –
Ideal for all mid – water and bottom feeding tropical fish. This is
patented BioActive formula. The BioActive formula is a scientific blend of vitamins and essential
nutrients proven to strength disease resistance. Contains natural pigment enhances to intensify
the radient colours of fish. With Beta Glucan, a natural immunity boosting supplement.Tetra
Bites is designed with high grade ingredients,this unique formula helps to fish grow more
colourful, build immunity and ensure its vitality & longevity. It helps to reduce water pollutin
with very high digestible ingredients. High nutritious feed helps in accelerating growth rate of
fish. Therefore aqua fish food from tetrabites enhances lustrous skin and keeps the fish in good
body shape.
Feeding Instruction – 2-3 times a day.
Ingredients –
Fish and fish derivatives, Vegetable protein extracts, Cereals, Derivates of vegetable
origin, Molluscs and crustaceans, Yeasts, Minerals, Algae, Oils and fats.
Analytical constituents –
Crude protein 47.5%
Crude oils and fats 6.5%
Crude fibre 2.0%
Moisture content 6.0 %
Additives : Vitamins, pro-vitamins and chemically well defined substances having similar effect :
Vitamin A 29770 IU kg, Vitamin D3 1860bIU/kg. Compounds of trace elements : E5 Manganese
67mg/kg, E6. ZINC 40mg/kg.Colourants, Preservatives, Antioxidant

37 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
2) Optimum Cichlids food: -
Optimum Cichlid Fish Food is a special nutritional formulation for
all cichlid fish. It is complete and balanced in addition to being fortified with astaxanthin to
colour enhance. Contains astaxanthin, a carotenoid pigment that enhance the brilliant natural
colour of aquarium fish. Rich in vitamin C and vitamin E to help reduce stress and increase
immunity.
Special features :
 Promote growth, Induces Starry and Induces Humpy Head
 Enhances colour by Astaxanthin
 Rich in Vitamin C & E
 Complete nutrition
 Small Pellet, Floating Type

38 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
Ingredients:
Fish meal, Soyabean meal, Corn gluten meal, Yellow corn, Wheat flour,Shrimp meal,
Fish oil, Monocalcium Phosphate, Astaxanthin, Vitamins & Minerals.
Nutritional Composition:
Crude
Protein
Min 35%
Crude Fat Min 4%
Crude Fibre Max 5%
Moisture Max 12%
Feeding Instruction: 2-3 times daily. Sprinkle just enough food that the fish can consume within
15 minutes.
Type of Optimum cichlid fish food: (Basis of fish mouth size)
1. Big Garnius : These are big pellet form.
2. Small Garnius : These are small pellet form of fish food.

39 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
Small Garnius Big Garnius
3) Premium Flakes Colour Delight :
Premium Delight flake fish food is promoting beautiful colours of all tropical fish.
Specially formulated from natural enhancing ingredients to provide all essential nutrients and
improvr colour. This is ideal daily maintenance diet that provides energy, longevity and overall
health. Scientifically developed formulation supports immune health and helps enhance natural
fish colouration. Highly digestiblr, clear water formula.
Feeding Instructions : Feed two to three times daily. Fish should be consume within 5 minutes.
Ingredients : Fish meal, Shrimp meal, Soya Flour, Oat flour, Yeast, Fish liver meal, Algae Meal,
Carotene, Chlorophyll, Wheat Fish Oil & Vitamins.
Approx. Analysis :
Min. Crude Protein 45%
Min. Crude Fat 5%
Max Crude Fibre 3%
Max. Moisture 8 %

40 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
4) Freeze Drying Blood Worm :
Blood Worm is specially selected high-quality fresh red as raw material, through
multiple sterilization, remove microbes, impurities by refining freeze drying technology and the
latest.
Characteristics: High quality fresh red worm contains rich protein, fat and calcium, phosphorus
and vitamins. To take off the water in the vaccume state with zero degree centrigate. Good
nutrition and can keep the original red colour perfect the palatability. The infection of the
disease is effectively eliminated by multiple sterilization, and it is a clean and sanitary natural
feed. Without any additives, the water quality is not contaminated after feeding. Daily feeding
within 15 minutes can make the fish healthy and strong, colour is gorgeous.
Ingredients :
Crude protein 60%
Crude fat 6%
Crude fiber 5%
Ash
Moisture
7%
3.8 %
Feeding Method : Daily feeding 2-4 times, each feeding the fish can in 15 minutes to eat better.

41 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
5) Marine - A : -
Marine –A is a daily diet for large marine fish, specially angel fish, butterfly fish and tanges.
 Slow- sinking pellets help eliminate overfeeding
 Help enhance fish coloration
 A healthy blend of protein, vitamins and minerals
Feeding Instructions : Feed 2 or 3 times daily. The precaution is that feed should be consumed
within two to three minutes by fish.
Ingredients :
Fish meal, Krill meal, Starch, Brewer’s dried yeast, Soyabean meal, DHA oil, Wheat flour,
Spirulina, Dried seaweed meal, DL- Methionine, L-lysine, Astaxanthin, Cnthaxanthin, Choline
Chloride, Viamin- E supplement, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate(Stablized vitaminC), Inositol,
Calcium Panthothenate, Riboflavin, VitaminA oil, Thiamine, Mononitrate, Pyridoxin
Hydrochloride, Niacin, Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Complex(Souce of vitamin K), Folic acid,
Vitamin D3 Supplement, Ferrous Sulfate, Magnesium Sulfate, Zinc Sulfate, Manganese Sulfate,
Cobalt Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Calcium Iodate.
Analysis:
Crude Protein 47.0% min
Crude Fat 5.0% mim
Crude Fibre 10.0% max
Moisture 10.0 % max
Crude Ash 17.0% max
Phosphorus 0.8% min

42 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
6) Marine – S: -
Marine-S is a daily diet for small marine fish, especially damsels, clown fish and
wrasses.
Ingredients : Fish meal, Krill meal, Whole crushed silkworm pupae, Brewers Dried yeast, Starch,
Dried Seaweed meal, Fish oil, Wheat flour, Chitosan, Spirulina, DL-Methionine, DHA oil, L- Lysine,
Astaxanthin, Canthaxanthin, Choline Chloride, Vitamin E supplement, L-Ascorbyl-2-
Polyphosphate(Stablized Vitamin C) , Inositol, Calcium Pantothenate, Riboflavin , Vitamin A oil,
Thiamine, Mononitrate , Pyridoxine, Hydrochloride Niacin, Menadione, Sodium bisulfite complex(
Source of vitamin K), Folic acid, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Biotin, Vitamin B12 supplement, Ferrous
Sulphate, Magnesium sulphate, Zinc sulphate, Manganese Sulphate, Cobalt Sulphate, Copper
sulphate, Calcium Iodate
Analysis:
Crude protein 48.0% min.
Crude fat 8.0 % min.
Crude fibre 4.0% max.
Moisture 10.0% max.
Crude ash 19.0% max.
Phosphorus 1.0% min.
7) Dry Shrimp:-
 100% sun dried baby fresh water shrimp for aquarium fish.
 Excellent source of roughage to improve fish digestion.
 Great supplemental food to add variety to staple fish diet.
 Natural fish food.

43 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
Dry shrimp ia a nutritious supplement to food. These complete shrimp, including the shell, are an
excellent source of roughage for improved digestion. Ideal for nearly all largr ornamental fish,
gouramis, angels and gold fish.
Ingredients: 100% sun dryied baby fresh water shrimp( includes the shell, an excellent source of
roughage to improve digestion)
Analysis:
Crude protein 44.0% min.
Crude fat 6.0% min.
Crude fibre 6.5% max.
Moisture 14.0% max.
Phosphorus 0.9 % min.
8) Wet food:-
“Baam Fish” ( Indian motted eel , Anguilla bengalensis , Family – Anguillidae) in
chooped form is given to fishes as wet fish food. Its fin both dorsal & anal) have soft rays. The mucus
of this eel is used in a medicin for arthritis. It is most common fish in Indian waters
Detail of fish food on behalf of fish species
In following table, supplementry fish food as per respect of fish species.

44 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
No. Name of fish Fish Food
1 Parrot fish DS
2 Hump head cichlid DS
3 Black Shark SG
4 Puffer fish BF, SF,BW
5 Prawn SF,TB
6 Albino tiger barb BW,DS,SG,Fl.,WF
7 Clown Loach TB,DF
8 Zet Black Angels TB,BW
9 Serape tetra TB
10 Vail tail tiger barb DS
11 Koi Angel TB,DBW
12 Shubunkin gold fish SG
13 Red eye tetra TB
14 Marbel Angel TB
15 Ab tetra TB
16 Fancy pearly scale gold fish SG
17 Blue Gourami TB
18 Guppy TB
19 Molly TB
20 Silver shark TB
21 Sword tail TB
22 Red cap gold fish SG
23 Distichodus TB
24 Albino binos TB
25 Banded leporinus TB
26 Uaru cichlid DS
27 Albino widow tetra DS
28 Widow tetra DS
29 Chochlate molly TB
30 Bubble eye gold fish SG
31 Silver spotted dollar fish TB
32 Auratus cichlid TB, S
33 Pink Zebra TB
34 Clouded archer fish S
35 Red rainbow TB
36 Panda garra TB
37 Discus DBW,TB,AL.
38 Blue jack damsey TB
39 Fresh water Indonesian Crab DS
40 Red Backford Pencil fish TB
41 Albino Cardinal Tetra TB
42 Harleyquien Rasbora tetra TB
43 Tigar loach TB
44 Black neon tetra TB

45 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
45 Giant Gourami BG
46 Blue emperor tetra TB
47 Flag fish TB
48 Garra rufa TB,SG,BW
49 Honey gourami TB
50 Fire belly newts BW
51 Powder blue dwarf gourami BW,TB
52 Leopard cat fish TB
53 Red lobstars SS,TB
54 Pearl gourami TB
55 Albino water frog BW
56 Elephant nose fish BW
57 African lung fish WF,F
58 Platinum vail tail angel TB
59 Marbel angel TB
60 Koi carp BG
61 Fresh water silver shark SG
62 Sting ray WS, SF,GF,CR.
63 Silver dollar SG,TB,Fl.,DS
64 Mono Sebae TB
65 Silver Arowana WF,GF,SF
66 Flower horn BG
67 Milky Koi BG
68 Two Spotted Demsal fish TB
69 Mono Angel TB
70 Hermit Crab WF
71 Pacu Piranha WF,SG
72 Angels TB
73 Black Ghost fish TB,DS,BW
74 Albino rainbow shark TB,BG
75 Marine Blue Demsel Fish MA
76 Black Moor Oranda gold fish SG
77 Shubunkin gold fish SG
78 Fire oscar DS,BG,BW,F
79 Severum TB,BG
80 Red Tail Cat fish WF,S
81 Tin fold barb TB,SG
82 Red Jewel fish TB
83 Mango Oscar BG
84 Green Terror fish DS,BG
85 Aropiama SF
86 Alligator gar SF
87 Senegal Dragon SF
88 Sucker mouth cat fish TB,SG
89 Clown fish MS
90 Carpet Sea Anemone MS

46 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
Key Words :-
A – Al. – Algae
B - BF – Bait food , BG – Big garnius( Optimum Cichlid Food , Big pellets) ,
BW – Bloodworm
C – CR. – Crustacean
D – DBW– Dry Bloodworm , DS – Dry Shrimp , DF – Dry feed
F – Fl. – Flex, F – Fish
G - GF – Gold Fish
M – MA – Marine – A , MS – Marine – S
S – SG – Small Garnius (Optimum Cichlid fish food, Small size pellets) , SF – Small Fish
SS – Small (sized) Shrimp, S – Shrimp
T - TB – Tetra Bites
W – WF – Wet Food, WS – Wet Shrimp

47 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
Water quailty management
Introduction
Water is the prerequisite for the maintenance, breeding and culture of tropical ornamental fishes.
For ornamental fish farming water is mainly obtained from rain, river, artesian well, canal and
reservoir. The physico-chemical characteristics of water such as pH, hardness, temperature,
dissolved oxygen; chlorine and carbondioxide content play a key role in the breeding and production
of many ornamental fish species.
pH
The pH of water usable for ornamental fish farming may vary from acidic to alkaline depending upon
its source, chemical and biological factors. Marshy and peaty water has acidic pH. Similarly, water
springing from a soil poor in calcium will have acidic pH.. Some ornamental fishes such as oscar and
discus will spawn only in slightly acidic pH and soft water. To this, various makes of water softeners
are used and inorganic acids, for example, hydrochloric acid can be used. If the pH of the water falls
below the desired value, it must be increased by the addition of required doses of calcium hydroxide
(slaked lime). The optimal pH for the growth and breeding of majority of the ornamental fishes
should be neutral or slightly alkaline i.e. 7-8. Water in ornamental fish tanks should never fall below
5 or rise above 8.5. Ornamental fishes preferring slightly acidic pH (6.2-7) include rosy barb, tiger
barb, tetra, angel and danio. On the other hand, certain fishes like cichlids, goldfish, koi and gourami
prefer alkaline pH.
Chlorine
Ornamental fish culturists in cities often have water quality problem as the tap water used by them
contains chlorine beyond permissible level. The growth and survival of any sensitive fish are affected
by chlorinated tap waters. Chlorine content as low as 0.1.ppm itself is toxic to fishes. The chlorine
content of such waters can be dechlorinated by heating the water.. Alternatively water with chlorine
will have to be kept over night where the chlorine escapes and the water becomes usable.
Water hardness
It is nothing but the total soluble calcium and magnesium salts present in the water expressed as its
calcium carbonate equivalent. The total hardness of water however, includes the sulphates and
chlorides of calcium and magnesium. The total hardness is mainly used to classify waters into ‘hard
water’ or ‘soft water’. Water with hardness of 100-300 ppm have been found to be optimal for the
normal growth of majority of ornamental fish. Water with less than 12 ppm require liming for higher
production of fish. Hard water is also known to influence feed intake and growth of cichlids such as
angel, black zebra, firemouth, blue morph and auratus.
Carbondioxide
Free carbondioxide at a concentration of more than 15 ppm is detrimental to ornamental fishes.

48 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
Temperature
Water temperature is one of the most important factors influencing the breeding, rearing and
transport of tropical fishes. Although majority of the ornamental fishes tolerate water temperatures
between 21 and 30o
C, 28o
C, have been found to be most suitable for the breeding of tropical
ornamental fishes. In order to maintain optimal temperatures, suitable devices have to be used.
Oxygen
Dissolved oxygen content of the water plays a crucial role in fish culture. Fishes of aquarium tank
would be under stress and be liable for parasitic attack if optimal oxygen levels are not maintained.
The solubility of oxygen in water depends on its temperature and also on the rate at which it is kept
in contact with water. Oxygen dissolved in water by direct diffusion at the air-water interface.
Further, it is also made available by the presence of aquatic plants. The oxygen level of aquarium
tanks can be enhanced by constant aeration, circulation of water, sprinkling of water, surface
agitation, etc.
OPTIMUM LEVEL OF WATER QUALITY PARAMETERS REQUIRED FOR ORNAMENTAL FISH CULTURE
Factors Optimum Level
Temperature 24-280
C
Oxygen More than 5ppm
pH 7-8
Hardness 150-200ppm
Ammonia Trace
Nitrite Trace
CO2 less than 1ppm
Chemicals For Better Aquarium Management Practices
Aquarium water care is one of essential component for healthy life of aquatic creature.
Aquarium water is the most key component of the environment for fish. Aquarium fish are
often susceptible to numerous disease, due to the artificially limited and concentrated
environment.
To maintain aquarium environment in Under The Sun aquarium gallery we learn about
following chemicals, their uses and application . These are following:-
1) Anti – Fungus
2) Anti- Chlorine
3) Anti – Ich

49 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
4) General Aid
Description about these chemicals :-
1) Anti – Fungus:-
Effective against tail and finrot, fish and egg fungi, mouth fungus,
white spots, flukes and veivet, fin and skin turbidity or cloudiness and external injuries.
Spectrum of Action:
Effective against disease caused by Ichthyophthirius spp.( white spots),
Costia spp., Trichodina spp., Trichodinella spp., Chilodonella spp., ( protozoan parasites –
main cause of white spots and sliminesss of the skin), Saprolegnia spp., (cotton – like
threads grow on gill filaments fish and egg fungi), Trichodinella spp., Flexibacteria( cotton-
wool disease, mouth fungus), Cryptobia spp., and Trypanosoma spp.,(listless behaviour,
emaciation and “pop eye”)
Directions: Use 5 ml. ( one teaspoon) to every 25 litres of water. For bigger fish such as
Carps, Gourami, Goldfish, Cichlids, Parrot fish, Oscars and in severe fungi infections, use 10
ml.(two teaspoonful) if necessary.
Caution: Some fish , such as “scaleless catfish ”,tetras and some charachins may not tolerate
this remedy very well. Use half the dosage and remove the fish immediately to a clean and
well aerated water at first sign of distress.
2) Anti- chlorine : -
Creates natural water condition instantly by neutralising fresh
tap water’s chlorine contact, which is very harmful aquarium fishes. Removes Chlorine
immediately without need to wait or keeping water ʽʽover nightʼʼ.
It also removes heavy metals such as arsenic, mercury or cyanide normally found in water
collected from the lakes and springs. It is economical, safe and non toxic to aquarium plants
and fishes.
Directions:
Use 5 ml.(one teaspoon) to 25 litres of fresh tape water changed. It should be
used whenever fresh water is added to the aquarium.
Apply Anti- chlorine as introduced new water into the tank and not wait until after filling- up
the tank.
3) Anti – Ich:-

50 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
It is the latest development in” Aquarium Pharmaceuticals” for the specific
treatment of Icthyophthrius Multifiliis( “Ich” commonly known as “white spot”) in aquarium
fish.
It destroys Ich parasites effectively within 24 hours and within 3 days for persistent cases.
Directions: On first detection if Ich,( white pepper-like specks found on affected fish) Use 5
ml (one teaspoonful) to 25 litres( 5 gallon) of water. Repeat treatment on secondary day for
persistent cases.
For tetra species, maryrids, loachs and baby fishes, use 5 ml. To 40 litres of water and
continue treatment for two days or until fish recovers.
For mouth and body fungi, fin and tail rot, torn fins, and sore spots, applied directly to
affected areas with a cotton swab dipped in undiluted Anti – Ich, or soak the affected fish
for 15 seconds using a higher concentration of 5 ml to 5 lit of water.
Anti –Ich can be useful to sterilized aquarium tanks at 5 ml. To 10 lit. Of water for 6 hours.
4) General Aid:-
This is a famous standard preparation used as cure and more as a general
prevention of most fish disease commonly faced by the aquarium trade.
It is widely used in fish farms and hatcheries all over the world; and by exporters of
aquarium fishes to cut down on mortality rates during transit.
Unlike most Acriflavin- based products General aid will not cause the lethal egg binding in
most aquarium fish.
Directions:
For early detection of ich, mouth and body fungi, fin and tail rot, torn fins and sore spots:
add 5 ml. With one teaspoonful of salt to 5 litres of aquarium water.
If there is no improvement after 2 days, repeat treatment using 10 ml.
For most GOLD FISH disease such as red spots and bleeding veins on fins, constipation,
bladder problems, lack of appetite, use 5 ml. to 10 litres of water plus one teaspoonful of
salt.
As a general tonic and when adding new fishes, or as a prevention of diseases, particularly in
baby fishes, use 5 ml. to 25 litres of water weekly.

51 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
Temperature of tanks
Tank
No.
Tank name Temperature in range( in
0C)
1. Arapima 26-29
2. Green terror 27-30.5
3. Koi 28-30
4 Mango Oscar 28-30.8
5. Giant gourami 30-31
6. Tin fold barb 28-30
7. Mixed cichlid 29-32.4
8. Rainbow shark 29-30.8
9. Black ghost 27-29
10. Motoro Sting ray 28-33.5
11. Arowana 26.8- 31.2
12. Mono seabae 26-29
13. Silver dollar 28-29
14. Alligator gar 26.4-28
15. Marine hall 1 25-27.9
16. Marine hall 2 26.8-28
17. Touch pool 26-27.1
18. Aquaponics 24-25
19. Fountain 27.7-28.5
20. Pacu Piranha 28-30

52 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
FISH HEALTH MANAGEMENT
Principles of fish health management
– Minimizing stress in cultivated fishes
– Confinement of disease outbreak to
affected ponds
– Minimizing losses from disease
outbreak.
Introduction
• A health management program and a
disease emergency plan are essential
documents on farms. As many farmers have
recognized, the frequency and severity of
disease outbreaks in ponds seem to depend
on a number of factors
• The first point to appreciate is that not all
diseases are infectious. For example, some
are caused by toxins, others by nutritional
imbalances.
• Infectious disease outbreaks in ponds
depend on particular interactions between
the host, the pathogen and the pond
environment
Natural resistance of fish to infectious diseases
• Surface mucous membrane of fish
Lysozyme secreted from the cell can kill
bacteria.
• Digestive enzymes which can kill
pathogens.
• The phagocytotic function of white blood
cells, Lymphoid cells, reticulo-endothelial
cells of spleen, liver and blood vessel can
eliminate foreign body as well as
pathogenic micro-organisms.
• Blood of fish contains bactericidin which
can eradicate all kinds of pathogenic
bacteria.
Sources of infectious diseases
• Primary source
• Sick fish serves as a primary infectious
source
• The pathogen infects through
direct contact or by discharge of disease
causing agents into the water.
• Secondary source
• Water coming from diseased ponds,
contaminated silt, feeds and gears.
Type of diseases
Parasitic
Bacteria, fungi, protozoans, worms, leeches and copepods
Non-parasitic
Disorders associated with nutritional deficiency and
sudden changes in abiotic and biotic factors
Common symptoms are
(a) Changes from normal behaviour,
(b) Signs of reduced vitality,
Sources of infectious diseases
• Primary source
• Sick fish serves as a primary infectious
source
• The pathogen infects through
direct contact or by discharge of disease
causing agents into the water.
• Secondary source
• Water coming from diseased ponds,
contaminated silt, feeds and gears.

53 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
Dropsy
Causative organisms: Pseudomonas punctata
Symptoms: Accumulation of fluid inside the body cavity;
scale protrusion; exophathalmic condition.
Treatments: Dip treatment in 5ppm potassium
permanganate solution for 2 minutes.
BACTERIAL DISEASES
Fin and tail rot
Causative organisms: Aeromonas, Pseudomonas and Vibrio
Symptoms: White line on the margin of the fin; fin rays
become brittle and start breaking.
Treatments: 1 minute dip treatment in 500ppm copper
sulphate solution.
FUNGAL DISSEASES
Water – mold disease (Saprolegniasis)
Causative organisms: Saprolegnia parasitica
Symptoms: Dies after ulceration or exfoliation of skin
followed by haemorrhage, blindness, tufts of white hair
like out-growth in the affected region.
Treatments: Dip treatment for 3 seconds in 1:10,000
solution of malachite green or for 5-10 minutes in 3%
common salt solution or potassium permanganate.
Eye disease
Causative organisms: Aeromonas liquifaciens
Symptoms: Cornea of eye becomes vascularised and later
becomes opaque; eye ball gets decayed.
Treatments: Chloromycetin (8-10 mg/litre) bath for 1 hour
for 2-3 days.
Boil disease
Causative organisms: Myxobolus pfeifferi
Symptoms: Large boils varying from the size of a nut to
that of a hen’s egg on several parts of body.
Treatments: Bath in 3% common salt solution or in 1:2,500
formalin solution for 10 minutes.
PROTOZOANS
Ichthyophthiriasis (White-spot disease) ;Causative
organisms: Ichthyophthirius multifilis Symptoms: Small
whitish-cysts of about 1mm diameter on the skin, gills and
fins.
Treatments: 5 days bathing in 2ppm methylene blue,
hourly dip treatment in 1:5,000 formalin solution for 7-10
days.

54 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
Costiasis
Causative organisms: Costia necatrix
Symptoms: Bluish-coating on the skin, lesions as irregular
patches.
Treatments: Bath in 3% common salt solution or in 1:2,500
formalin solution for 10 minutes.
Whirling disease
Causative organisms: Myxobolus cerebrails
Symptoms: Caudal bend, deformity of the oral region and
blackening of tail
region.
Treatments: Destroy all infected fish by applying quicklime
(pond disinfectant) at the rate of 2t/ha.
Dactylogyrosis ;Causative organisms: Dactylogyrus
sp.Symptoms: Fading of colours, drooping of scales,
peeling of skin.Treatments: Dip treatment in 5% common
salt solution or in 1:5,000 formalin solution for 5 minutes.
TREMATODES
Gyrodactylosis ;Causative organisms: Gyrodactylus sp.
Symptoms: Fading of colours, drooping of scales, peeling
of skin.Treatments: Dip treatment in 5% common salt
solution or in 1:5,000 formalin solution for 5 minutes.
CESTODES
Ligulosis ;Causative organisms: Ligula sp.Symptoms: Dull,
sickly and with parts of alimentary canal swollen or
completerly choked by cestode cysts or worms.Treatments:
Dip treatment in 3:1,00,000 Picric acid for 1 hour, Di-n-butyl
tin oxide at the rate of 250mg/kg fish.
Diplostomiasis (Black-spot disease)
Causative organisms: Diplostomulum sp.;Symptoms: Small
black nodules of about 1-5mm diameter in the affected
region.Treatments: Dip treatment in 3:1,00,000 picric acid
for 1 hour, Di-n-butyl tin oxide at the rate of 250mg/kg fish.

55 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
Miscellaneous Diseases
Gas bubble disease
• When nitrogen of the water is in saturation
• Gas bubble disease may result and fish fry
particularly, die in large numbers.
• Fish affected by this disease often swim at an angle
of 45o
with head pointing down.
• Other symptoms are the presence of bubbles
beneath the skin, on fins, around eyes, in stomach
and intestine or in blood capillaries
Disease: Infectious Pancreatic Necrosis-(IPN)
Causative organisms: IPN virus
Symptoms: Darker in color, tail chasing, spiral swimming
behaviour
Treatment: uncontaminated water supply, providing
optimum feed
VIRAL DISEASES:
Disease : - Lymphocystis Causative organisms :
Lymphocystis spp. (DNA Iridovirus). Symptoms: Lethargy,
may affect balance and swimming .Control if along the
lateral line. Treatment : Frequent water changes and
reduction of ammonia and nitrites in water may reduce
stress to help the fish battle the infection and shrink tumors
on its own.
COPEPODS ;Disease : -Causative organisms: Argulus sp.,.,
Lernea sp., Symptoms: Loss of scales and presence of red
spots, damage of gills.Treatments: Half an hour treatment
in 500ppm formalin solution, mechanical removal by forceps
followed by a bath in weak potassium permanganate
solution for 2-3 minutes, bath in 1:1,000 glacial acetic acid
solution for 5 minutes and subsequent bath in 1% common
salt solution for 1 hour, pond may be disinfected by applying
Lindane at the rate of 8ml/1,000 litre
NEMATODES
Causative organisms: Philometra sp., Camallanus
sp.Symptoms: Dull, sickly and with parts of alimentary canal
swollen or completerly choked by round
worms.Treatments: Dip treatment in 3:1,00,000 Picric acid
for 1 hour, Di-n-butyl tin oxide at the rate of 250mg/kg fish.
ACANTHOCEPHALA
Causative organisms: Acanthogyrus sp.Symptoms:
yellowish white fibro epithelioma on lip, skin and fin
Treatments: Quick lime
HIRUDINEA - Causative organisms: Hemiclepsis
sp.Symptoms: Abnormal movements of the fish due to
irritation as the parasites feed on the blood of host.
Treatments: Dip treatment in 1:1,00,000 solution of
glacialacetic acid

56 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
Description Of Fish Species
1. Blood Red Heart Parrot Fish ( = Parrot cichlid)
Scientific name: No binomial nomenclature
Family: Scaridae
Size: 8 inch
Feeding habit: Voracious feeder, Omnivore
Description:
1) Hybrid of Midas and the red head cichlids.
2) The first fish was created in Taiwan around 1986.
3) As the result of hybridization of the parent species, the fish have several genetic defects
(anatomical deformalities).
4) One deformality is its mouth, which has only a narrow vertical opening. This makes blood
parrots somewhat harder to feed and potentially vulnerable to malnutrition.
5) Blood parrot sometimes have deformed swim bladders, causing an awkward swimming
pattern; and usually large, and often deformed irises.
6) Blood parrot are often bright orange in colouration, but there are other colours like red,
yellow or grey.
7) By cutting the tail while small which causes the fish to grew into a heart shape and are
usually sold under the name of heart parrots.
2. Humphead cichlid
Scientific name: Cyphotilapia frountosa
Family: Perciformes
Order: Cichlidae
Origin: Africa
Size: 13.8 inch

57 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
Feeding habit: Omnivore , feed on shell fish(Snail & mussel) and fish.
Description:
Rock- dweller, often in aggregation.Food intake of mouth brooding female is for
nourishment of both female and the young. Aquarium keeping: Several female for one male.
Minimum aquarium size : > 200 cm. Female incubate eggs in buccal cavity. Early hatching
embryos commence feeding on inhaled particles by female when still in possession of large
yolk.
3. Green terror
Scientific name: Andinocara rivulatus
Order: Perciformes
Family : Cichlidae
Size : 30 cm
Origin : Pacific sidebof South America
Feeding habit : Omnivorous.
Description :
Also known as the gold saum.As the name implies, late juvenile-phase and adult-phase
specimens can be very aggressive.This fish is somewhat deep-bodied,possessing a
prominent forehead. Adult male develop a pronounced forehead hump, composed of fatty
tissue. This is tropical climate fish. A. rivulatus is a popular fish in aquarium trade and it is
noted for its aesthetic appeal.
4. Red Tail Cat Fish
Scientific name: Phractocephalus hemiolipopterus
Order: Siluriformes
Family : Pimelodidae
Size : 1.8 m
Origin : Amazon river
Feeding habit : Carnivorous
Description :

58 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
These colourful large catfishes have a brownish back, with yellow sides and characteristic
orange-red dorsal fish and caudal fin. It has a pair of barbells on the upper jaw and two pairs
on the lower jaw. It feeds heavily on live and dead fishes and other meat. Even as juvenile of
only a few inch in length, they are able to swallow many of the more aquarium fish such as
tetras.
5. Oscar (= tiger Oscar , velvet cichlid, marvel cichlids)
Scientific name: Astronotus ocellatus
Order: Cichliformes
Family : Cichlidae
Size : 45 cm
Origin : Peru, Equador, Colombia, Brazil and French Guiana and in the Amazon river basin.
Feeding habit : Carnivorous
Description :
It have typically darkly coloured with yellow-ringed spots or ocelli on the caudal peduncle
and on the dorsal fin. This species reach sexual maturity around one year of age and
continues to reproduce for 9-10 years. Oscar will often lay claim to an area of the aquarium
and will be very aggressive towards other fish encroaching on their newly established
territory inside the aquarium or lake.
Type of Oscar fish : Tiger Oscar, Red Oscar, Albino Oscar, Mango Oscar.
6. Sucker Mouth Cat Fish
Scientific name: Hypostomus plecostomus
Order: Siluriformes
Family : Loricariidae
Size : 50 cm
Origin : Tropical northeastern South America
Feeding habit : Omnivorous. Feeds on algae, aquatic plants, and small crustaceans
Description :
It belonging to armored cat fish family( Loricariidae) , named for the armor-like
longitudinal rows of scutes that covering upper part of the head and body( the lower surface
of head and abdomen is naked). In the aquarium, this is dark-coloured, bottom-feeding,

59 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
noctoral catfish is often purchased for its ability to clean algae from fish tanks. It’s life spawn
is 10-15 years.
7. Giant Gourami
Scientific name: Osphronemus goramy
Order: Anabantiformes
Family : Osphronemidae
Size : 70 cm max.
Origin : Southeast Asia ( Java, Sumatra)
Description :
The Giant gourami is egg-layer , and the male will built a bubble nest before spawning.
Spawning occurs in the vicinity of the nest and the eggs are transported there by the male.
The female is chased away at this point and should be removed. The eggs hatch in 25-36
hours and the fry become free swimming 3-5 days later. The male develops pointed dorsal
and anal fins. An incredibly hardy, long-lived fish which can survive fore over 20 yrs in
captivity. These fish develop real personality and can learn to recognize their owner.
8. Tin Fold Barbs
Scientific name: Barbonymus schwanenfeldii
Order: Cypriniformes
Family : Cyprinidae
Size : 35 cm
Origin : Thailand , Sumatra, Borneo and Malayan pennisula
Feeding habit : Herbivorous
Description :
It is distinguishable rom other species of the genus in having a red dorsal fin with a black
bloch at the tip, red pectoral, pelvic and anal fins, red caudal fin with white margin and a
black sub marginal stripe along each lobe, and 8 scale rows between dorsal – fin origin
lateral line. The tinfoil barb is a schooling species that prefers to be placed with a number of
its own species.
9. Severum(= Banded Cichlid)

60 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
Scientific name: Heros severus
Order: Perciformes
Family : Cichlidae
Size : 20 cm
Origin : South America
Feeding habit : Omnivorous
Description :
The Severum , like the Discus, is a high-bodied and laterally compressed fish with pointed
anal and dorsal fish. They are a moderately sized cichlid which reach around 73/4 inches( 20
cm) in length and have a life span of about 10 years. They are fairly easily to take care of for
a fishkeeper with some cichlid experience and can be kept by a beginner who is well
informed and diligent in their maintenance.
10. Fox Fish
Scientific name: Siganus vulpinus
Order: Perciformes
Family : Siganidae
Size : Medium
Origin : Coral reefs of the Western Pacific ocean
Description :
The Fox fish is an extremely popular species of salt water fish belonging to the rabbit fish
family. They are characterised by their bright- yellow coloured bodies and black, brown and
white stripped heads. When stressed or feeling preyed upon, the fox fish has the ability to
change to mottled brown colour. The fox fish’ anal, dorsal and pectoral fins are lined with
venomous spikes. The head and frontal body area of the fox fish is comprised of black,
brown and white bands. The rest of its body is a vibrant yellow colour. There are some
species of fox fish with darker body colourations.
Aquarium Varieties: Bi colour fox fish, One spot fox fish, Magnificent fox fish, Tongan black
foxface etc.
11. Clown Fish (False percula clown fish or common clown fish)

61 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
Scientific name : Amphiprioninae ocellaris
Order: Perciformes
Family : Pomacentidae
Size : 110 mm
Origin : Northern Australia
Description : The common clown fish is a small fish which grows up to 11 cm . Its body has
stocky appearace and oval shape. It is compressed laterally , with a round profile. It has
three vertical white stripes outline with a fine black line . The first passes just behind the
eyes , the second middle of the body widens forward to the head centrally and the third one
circles to the caudal peduncle. It is a protandrous hermaphrodite, which means the male
can change its gender to female during its life.
12. Trigger Fish
Scientific name : Rhinecanthus aculeatus
Order: Teraodontiformes
Family : Balistidae
Size : 20-50 cm
Origin : Indo-Pacific Sea
Description : Trigger fish have an oval- shaped, highly compressed body. The head is large,
terminating in a small but- jawed mouth with teeth adapted for crushing shells. The eyes are
small, set far back from the mouth, at the top of the head. The anterior dorsal fin is reduced
to a set of 3 spines. As a protection against predators, trigger fish can erect the first two
dorsal spine: The first( anterior) spine is locked in place by eraction of the short second
spine, and can be unlocked only by depressing the second, “ Trigger” spine, hence the family
name “Trigger fish”.
They are known to exhibit a level of intelligence that is unusual among fishes, and have the
ability to learn from previous experiences.
13. Brown Banded Bamboo Shark
Scientific name : Chiloscyllium Punctatum
Order: Orectolobiformes

62 | I P T , C O F , U d a i p u r
Family : Hemiscylliidae
Size : 1.04 meter( 41 inches)
Origin : Indo-west Pacific
Feeding habit : Carnivore
Description: The Brown banded bamboo shark is known as one of the cat sharks bcoz the
barbells at the mouth look like cat whiskers. It is also referred to as the black banded
bamboo shark, and has a cream- colour body with broad dark brown or black strips. They
may be large, muted brown spots between the stripes. The medial edges of the male’s
pelvic fins are modified to form claspers. The claspers are tube like organ designed to
deliver sperm into the female’s reproductive tract. As the males grow older the claspers
become more pronounced. The females do not have these.
14. Carpet Sea Anemone
Scientific name : Stichodactyla gigantea
Order: Actiniaria
Family : Stichodactylidae
Size : Diameter 80 cm Max.
Origin : Indo pacific area
Feeding habit : Carnivorous.
Description : The oral disk expends when submerged. The large oral disk covered with short
tenticles so that it resembles a shaggy carpet. The oral disk is often folded and rarely held
flat against the surface. The long body column usually buried or inserted into a crevice and
ends in a pedal disk that anchors the animal. By column is sometimes colorful (bright pink,
orange yellow). Bumps( Verruca) appear as rows of spot, generally in bright colour( pink,
purple). They are non-adhesive and found on the upper part of the body column.
15. Rainbow Shark
Scientific name : Epalzeorhynchos frenatum
Order: Cypriniformes
Family : Cyprinidae
Size : 15cm
Origin : Southeast Asia

Ornamental Fishes by Shivani Verma, Rajasthan, India

Ornamental Fishes by Shivani Verma, Rajasthan, India

Recommended

Recommended

More Related Content

What's hot

What's hot (20)

Similar to Ornamental Fishes by Shivani Verma, Rajasthan, India

Similar to Ornamental Fishes by Shivani Verma, Rajasthan, India (20)

Recently uploaded

Recently uploaded (20)

Ornamental Fishes by Shivani Verma, Rajasthan, India