i want SH

brentonwoodruff · Aug 30, 2012

Greg@LionfishLair said: ↑

Actually, all of the "plug-n-play" setups aren't the best for keeping SH...they all run too warm unless you chill them. They're also a bit tight, space wise.

A 20L is way too short...the minimum tank size for a single pair of large species Sh is a std 29 gal, which is a lot cheaper than a plug-n-play anyhow. Add 15 gals for each additional pair.

They'll do fine with a HOB power filter and normal fluorescent lighting. Be sure to give them places to hitch (we run LR and live macro). SH will use as much space as they're given, so why keep them all cramped up?

Contrary to popular belief, SH are pretty decent swimmers, and actually do OK with a bit of flow as long as they have some calmer areas to chill in if they want.

Also, tropical species should not be kept above 74*F, as they're susceptible to bacterial infections. THIS IS REALLY IMPORTANT, and is one of the biggest mistakes made.

Finally, INSIST on TRUE captive bred (CB) stock. SH ship well, and I'd only get SH from a reputable breeder. They will come to you happily eating frozen mysis, so no weaning is involved. My top choice is Dan and Abby over at SEAHORSE SOURCE. Dan is the top SH guy in the world as far as I'm concerned...seriously.

Don't fall for the "tank raised" SH you often see in the LFS...they're actually raised in net pens in the ocean, and don't always eat frozen, or go off of it. They're also exposed to all the same pathogens as wild caught (WC) specimens. To be honest, these SH were generally slated to be dried and ground into powder for the TCM (traditional Chinese medicine) trade, so they really aren't good quality.

WOW...that was way more than I wanted to say, but it did need saying. Not that is means anything, but I've been a mod over on the top SH forum for several years (as has Incognito/Renee@Lionfishlair).
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Wow this is why I'm on these forums. To receive all this abundant and amazing advice!

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i want SH

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i want SH

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