Melantho (Trumpet) Snail: Very active—multiplies rapidly—consumes algae.
Pond Snail: Very active and useful—a fast moving fellow.
Black Ramshorn Snail: Multiplies rapidly—excellent scavenger.
Coral Snail: Same as Ramshorn with coral red body, and shell.
African Snail: Good scavenger—light yellow brown—dark spots.
Australian Snail: Similar to Pond but bright scarlet in color—very
active.
Catfish: (Corydoras Paleatus) most popular scavenger. Look for full
description on page 26.
American Salamander: Brown with red and black spots—vest yellow and
brown.
Clam or Fresh Water Mussel: Filters all floating matter from water
leaving it crystal clear. Must have large tank or pool and several
inches of sand in which to work.
Snails will eat eggs of egg-laying fish.
To breed snails—place in separate tank and feed lettuce. Well fed snails
lay an abundance of eggs, resembling a gelatin like mass attached
to plants and glass. Fish will eat snail eggs. Salt will kill
snails—when using salt treatment remove snails.
MOSQUITO FISH: HETERANDRIA FORMOSA
(Southern U. S.)
[Illustration: average size]
Color: Numerous black bands adorn gray sides—black horizontal line
extends from eye to caudal. Red edged dark spot on dorsal.
Breeding Habits: Live bearers—Females produce several young every few
days during breeding season. Young are hardy and mature in about 6
months.
Temperature: 65° to 75° F.
Temperament: Peaceful.