>The Aquarist who cared for this tank prior to me was not, how
>should I say, big on "Biotope Authenticity".
This is a reasonably common problem that I sadly have noticed elsewhere.
<snip>
> I guess what I'm trying to say is that I'd love to see only
>realistic biotopes depicted, I agree a tank full of hybrids is a sad, sad
>thing (at these in a "educational facility". So maybe my request for help
>was too narrow.
> I'm going to go out on a limb here, and ask for the help of this
>list to put together a truely realistic display on Australian fishes. Now,
>remember I'm making no promises, but if I can swing it I try and revamp
>this whole tank. The tank is, as I've said, approx. 300 gallons, and about
>45cm deep (so a shallow square). I've got a small sandy shelf in the rear
>1/6 of the tank which is generally submerged under 6cm of water.
> I guess I'm trying to depict and Australian stream, but if you'd
>like to dream outside this realm feel free. Obviously I can't liken this
>tank to a specific stream, but perhaps Northern Australia would be a good
>guide.
>From memory I have seen a particularly attractive aquarium at Darling Harbour,
Sydney.
The scene I believe is of a tropical QLD? river with overhanging, leggy,
leafy shrubs. Water was continually pumped up and dripping from the leaves
into the tank which were about 2'-3' from the water surface.. Green lights
were used to emphasise the leafery. Again from memory the river bank was
made from mock rock. Driftwood and roots sticking out of the bank into the
water look good. The overall dispaly did indeed look spectacular and *very*
realistic. The fishes looked a treat. Pity I can't remember which fishes
were displayed. Plants could be optional, say, clumps of Valisnaria (eel
grass) might be what I would consider.
> Ok, now the touchy part, if I can swing this past my bosses and
>associate keepers I'll send everyone who contributes ideas a couple photo's
>of the display and you can feel even more involved in the education of the
>masses.
Cash would be nice ;) ;) (Only kidding about the cash for those that don't
notice the smileys.)
>A word of warning though, beware the danger of turning a very enjoyable
>hobby into a job! ;-)
This is exactly the problem I have got now. I constructed a 6' community
display in the foyer where I work and it's now I that have to maintain it...
Cheers
Alan
|__________________________________\|/_________________________________|
Alan Ford aford at pcug.org.au Canberra, Australia
Perfect Love and Perfect Trust.
Homepages: http://www.pcug.org.au/~aford
http://www.pcug.org.au/~aford/angfa.htm