1. Introduction
Child: Professor, have you ever seen a living canvas that looks like a masterpiece created by Michelangelo or Van Gogh?
Professor: Why, I believe you must be talking about the Gold Edge Magnum, a true work of art in the world of aquarium fish.
2. Characteristics
Child: Does the Gold Edge Magnum really shine as if a painter had mixed a touch of gold paint into their creations?
Professor: Indeed, young one. The Gold Edge Magnum is known for its striking body color consisting of black, silver, and gold edges. The fins exhibit a rainbow’s palette, giving them a truly breathtaking appearance. They can grow up to 15 inches in size, making them quite prominent among freshwater aquarium fish.
3. Habitat
Child: Tell me, professor, do these living paintings swim among natural temples like the ancient city of Atlantis or the Hanging Gardens of Babylon?
Professor: Ah, I appreciate your imagination, but Gold Edge Magnums are primarily found in the Amazon River basin in South America. The lush underwater vegetation and calm water flow in their natural habitat is very reminiscent of the Hanging Gardens, though. As for their role in the ecosystem, they are omnivores and play an essential role in maintaining balance within their aquatic society.
4. Husbandry Requirements
Child: Like many great artists who needed their ideal environment for creation, do these graceful beings also need specific conditions to flourish?
Professor: You’ve got it! As a matter of fact, a Gold Edge Magnum requires a tank that can hold at least 150 gallons of water since they like to have ample space. They prefer water temperatures between 78°F and 82°F, with a pH level between 6.5 to 7.5 and a hardness range of 5 to 15 dGH. They are highly flexible in terms of diet, but an ideal meal plan would include a mix of vegetable flakes, frozen foods, and live foods.
5. Behavior
Child: Oh wise professor, do these fish prefer a solitary nocturnal life like Emily Brontë, or do they gather like the Bloomsbury Group engaged in intellectual conversations?
Professor: What an interesting analogy, dear child! Surprisingly, Gold Edge Magnums do prefer to swim in groups, much like the literary circles you mentioned. However, they are generally shy creatures and in times of stress, they may adopt a nocturnal lifestyle.
6. Breeding
Child: Can you tell us how these astonishing creatures bring forth the next generation of living masterpieces, professor?
Professor: Ah, yes, their breeding methods are quite remarkable. Like many of their cichlid brethren, Gold Edge Magnums form monogamous pairs during the breeding season. They clean and prepare a flat stone or cave as their nursery, and once the female lays her eggs, the male fertilizes them. Both parents dutifully protect their offspring and watch over them closely.
7. Cautions
Child: On this delightful journey through their story, are there any cautionary tales I should be aware of, dear professor?
Professor: Wise of you to ask, my curious scholar. While the Gold Edge Magnum is generally peaceful, they can become territorial and show aggression towards smaller fish during breeding. Thus, it’s essential to closely monitor their interactions if you plan to have them coexist with other fish species.
8. Conclusion
Child: I have been enraptured by your tales, venerable professor. Please, give us one parting thought.
Professor: I’m pleased you enjoyed this journey. In conclusion, the Gold Edge Magnum is indeed an aquatic wonder with its mesmerizing colors, fascinating behavior, and remarkable breeding methods. Keeping them in an aquarium might require some care and attention, but they will reward you with a living exhibition of nature’s artwork.