ON THE COVER: No, this isn’t an underwater photo taken in the Amazon. This gorgeous chool of altum angels Pterophyllum altum swims peacefully in a Nature Aquarium designed and maintained by famed aquascaping master Takashi Amano. Many planted aquarium enthusiasts consider him to be a magician, but unlike your typical magician, Mr. Amano freely shares his secrets. You can read his Nature Aquarium articles every month in TFH, including September’s installment, “Combining Rocks and Driftwood in the Nature Aquarium” (p. 70). Photograph by Takashi Amano
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Our cover photo, free of any text or graphics and suitable
for framing, etc., is reproduced in full size on page 69.
Our 57th Year • Volume LVII • Number 1 • #630
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Combining Rocks and Driftwood
in the Nature Aquarium
The layout artist extraordinaire describes the necessity of integrating and combining material such as rocks
and driftwood to establish natural-looking landscapes. Takashi Amano
A Story of Four Neon Tetras
Part 1: The First Three Neons
Ever wonder how the neon tetras came to be in the hobby? They may be among the most popular aquarium
species of today, but they come with an elaborate and storied history. Heiko Bleher
Journey to the Mighty Rajang River of Sarawak
Our author takes you on a trip to the waters of Malaysia, home to a variety of aquatic treasures. The
blackwater streams may not always be a pleasure to wade through, but the exotic fish and plant life
certainly make it worthwhile! Lo Shiang Huei (Michael Lo)
Geophagus parnaibae:
The Maintenance and Reproduction of a New Eartheater
If you’re a cichlid lover with limited tank space, this eartheater may be right up your alley. Learn about
this colorful, tolerant, and easily bred species. Radek Bednarczuk
The Dwarf Victoria Mouthbrooder
Pseudocrenilabrus multicolor victoriae:
A New Look at a Classic Fish
What’s the best way to impress a female tankmate? By building a dance floor on the substrate, of
course! Marvel at this apisto’s crafty and fascinating breeding habits—including, surprisingly enough,
mouthbrooding! Mike Hellweg
Pike Fever
Residing in a location brimming with exotic species, our young author becomes captivated by an
intelligent and agile pike. Read about its habitat and why its reputation for extreme aggression may be
unjustified. Hudson Ensz
A Noisy Tankmate from the Island
of Koh Samui, Thailand
Frogs aren’t the only croakers in aquaria. Meet a noisy and supplemental-air-breathing species from
Southeast Asia. Ronny Lundkvist
A Marine Aquarium in Progress
Part 1: A Blank Canvas
What is more exciting than setting up a new marine aquarium? Our Q&A man details his latest project,
sharing the setup, equipment, and setbacks involved in its undertaking. Jeff Kurtz
Cleanup in Aisle Three: Marine & Reef Janitors, Part 2
Beyond snails, there are a variety of other practical species that will aid in the maintenance of your reef
aquarium. From shrimps to sea stars to sea slugs, our author explains the benefits of each, and details
their caretaking and interaction with tankmates. Kieron Dodds
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