I guess it depends on the attitude of the particular aquarist - but they tend to start off by following the book and gradually follow their experience. Also the people that write the books and articles are usually only quoting what worked for them ( or so
mebody else) rather than the results of a mult-environment trial. Usually by following the articles the chances of success are increased - but not always:-)
<<. For example, who would try and spawn
neons in anything but soft acid water? I've had them spawn in softish
alkaline water in a community tank.>>
Hold on Peter, you weren't trying to spawn them in that community tank they were telling you that they were ready,willing and able. My understanding is that the eggs of neons need darkness and the acid/soft water for the viability of the embryo. I guess
that after countless generations in captivity that their needs may be somewhat modified but I'll bet you didn't raise too many fry in that community tank.l
Bruce Hansen