Despite the typically small size of its members, the family Gobiidae is the largest family of marine fishes, being the home of over 2,000 species. Of course, I won’t be going over all of these, but I do want to give you an introduction to the family and cover some of the species most commonly seen in the hobby.…
There are quite a few types of crabs offered to hobbyists, and there are occasional hitchhiking crabs that make their way into our tanks without our approval, too. Some of these are suitable for reef aquariums and aren’t likely to bother other tank inhabitants, but many of them are not, and some are rather iffy.…
All of the species of clams in the family Tridacnidae are commonly called giant clams, but they actually vary a great deal when it comes to how large they can grow. For example, a large specimen of Tridacna crocea may be only four inches in length when measuring the shell from end to end, while its close cousin, T.…
Most corals and all giant clams (tridacnids) contain symbiotic algae, which they rely upon for much of their nutritional needs. When these algae, commonly known as zooxanthellae, receive adequate illumination they can produce far more food than is required for their own survival, growth, and reproduction, and this excess can be given to the host animal they reside in.…
Some myths die hard, especially when they get spread all over the internet these days. The idea that giant clams (tridacnids) have to be fed plankton to prevent starvation is one such myth, and I’ve been telling hobbyists this for about six years now.…
Several species of sea anemones are available to aquarium hobbyists, but the bubble-tip anemone (Entacmaea quadricolor) is certainly the most popular, and for good reasons. Unlike some other common anemones, this one can host numerous species of anemone/clownfishes and is relatively hardy, too.…
Of all the corals hobbyists can choose from, the bubble corals are definitely some of the most unique in appearance. Topped with oddly-shaped, swollen vesicles, these are eye-catchers in any aquarium.…
Tridacnids, generally called giant clams, are common additions to reef aquariums, most of which belong to the genus Tridacna . However, there are two tridacnids available from time to time, which are not in the same genus with the rest of the bunch.…
Some of the most popular fishes in the marine aquarium hobby are the surgeonfishes, all of which are in the Family Acanthuridae. Commonly known as tangs, many are very attractive, have unique personalities, and will also help keep your tank clean.…
It might seem counterintuitive that corals of various sorts can survive a lengthy exposure to air, considering they’re generally thought to spend their entire lives submerged in seawater.…