June 2006: The mangrove crab Goniopsis pelii reached us from the Atlantic coast of Africa. Their orange and blue coloured claws are very remarkable. They owe their name to the mangrove woods where they naturally occur. This by water and land affected biotope has to be reproduced in the terrarium, since they need both habitats for their well-being. With some bogwood and stones the land part can be arranged, as water part a simple, flat basin filled with brackish water is sufficient. Some hard plants can complete the decoration. A close not displaceable covering is necessary, particularly if the decoration reaches the edge of the aquarium, since crabs are protruding escapees. As omnivores they are to be nourished rather unproblematically. In water frosted food can be fed, on land vegetarian food should be handed. Here you can make a lot of experiences, nearly all vegetables can be offered to the crabs (Photo F. Schäfer, Text K. Diehl)
| Angaben zum Tier | |
|---|---|
| Herkunft | (sub)tropisches Afrika |
In the last years some quite difficult to classify new species of characins arrived from Paraguay. Usually they belong to the genera Creagrutus, Hemibrycon and Piabarchus. As a common characteristic a high swimming activity can be called for all species of this relationship. They need thus tanks, with a large free swimming area. Thus long stretched aquaria are ideal for them. There a strong current can be produced with the help of a centrifugal pump, in which they can organize their “swimming contests”. They like to jump, a complete cover helps to avoid losses. According to their origin they do not like it durably hot, an unheated aquarium is very pleasant and preserve the purse of the owner. They do not place increased requirements on their nutrition, living and frosted food are preferred, but they can also be fed with flake food.(Photo F. Schäfer, Text K. Diehl)
