【Child】: Professor, I recently read about the legend of King Midas where everything he touched turned into gold, and it got me thinking; Is there a fish equivalent to King Midas?
【Professor】: That’s an interesting comparison! I’d say the Golden Platinum Redtail could be the perfect aquatic King Midas. This article shall provide you with a wealth of information on this remarkable fish.
【Child】: Splendid! Well then, what makes these fish as majestic as the golden touch?
2. Characteristics
【Professor】: The Golden Platinum Redtail, also known as the Albino Redtail Arowana, is known for its stunning appearance. Its metallic golden scales, white head, and red tail resemble a piece of art come to life.
【Child】: Like a watery version of “The Great Wave Off Kanagawa,” with a touch of golden beauty! How big do they grow?
【Professor】: They can grow quite large, up to 36 inches in length or even longer. It’s like keeping Moby Dick in your very own aquarium!
3. Habitat
【Child】: Their beauty must be inspired by the Garden of Eden! Where are their natural homes?
【Professor】: They hail from the freshwater rivers and swamps of Southeast Asia. However, the conditions suitable for keeping them in an aquarium may vary from their natural environment. Their natural ecosystem sees them serve as both predator and prey.
4. Husbandry Requirements
【Child】: If we were to give them an aquatic paradise, what should the conditions be like?
【Professor】: They need a spacious tank, at least 200 gallons or larger, considering their size. The tank should have a temperature between 75°F and 85°F, with a pH between 6.5 to 7.5. As for feeding, they enjoy live or frozen food such as shrimp, worms, and feeder fish.
【Child】: If they were to star in a Shakespearean play, it would surely be “Much Ado About Food”!
5. Behavior
【Professor】: And what a fascinating play that would be! Their behavior often includes swimming gracefully in groups and showcasing their nocturnal nature. They even mimic birds diving for prey by leaping out of the water to grab insects and small animals!
6. Breeding
【Child】: Would it be a union like the Montagues and Capulets? How can we help these swimming Romeo and Juliets to breed at home?
【Professor】: Indeed, a romantic tale! Breeding them in captivity can be difficult, as they need specific conditions. You’ll need a separate breeding tank with a pH of 7.0, a stable temperature around 82°F, and replicating their natural habitat with plants and hiding spots.
7. Cautions
【Child】: Let’s avoid tragedies in our aquatic kingdom and discuss any imperative cautionary measures.
【Professor】: Indeed. One precaution is to ensure that the aquarium has a secure covering, as they’re known to jump! Also, they’re territorial, so it’s important to carefully consider tank mates. Ideal tankmates are large, peaceable fish who will not compete for food or territory.
8. Conclusion
【Child】: Professor, with your wisdom, I now feel equipped to share my kingdom with these aquatic Kings Midas!
【Professor】: It’s been a pleasure, young Socrates. Embrace the thrill of creating a suitable environment for these magnificent creatures, and may your aquarium become their Moorish Castle of Alhambra – a world of beauty and wonder.