Harlequinmania

Click through to see the images. When I first started work in a laboratory, determination of various aqueous constituents was a laborious task, beginning with mixing standards, manually graphing their absorbances, and then making comparisons with samples' absorbance tests results. We manually recorded this information and charted it on graph paper. It was state-of-the-art for the 1970's. We would be (and are) amazed with today's analytical instruments. Compact, battery-operated colorimeters (a type of spectrometer) use conveniently packaged chemicals to quickly determine concentrations of various aqueous substances. Of particular interest to me in this new world of laboratory instruments are devices used to analyze for alkalinity and phosphorus. Hanna Instruments offers relatively inexpensive colorimeters called 'Checkers' priced at about $50-$60 each (including a small supply of reagents, 2 test tubes, and carrying case). These instruments are small and highly portable. But how accurate are they, and are they worthy of your consideration? This article will attempt to answer these questions. Hanna Instruments Hanna Instruments (Woonsocket, Rhode Island, USA) has been in business since 1978, and today offers over 3,000 products to its customers worldwide. Many of their products are of interest to aquarist and Hanna has in fact targeted the aquarium market. For more details, see 'Contact Information' near the close of this article. Hanna imports the Checkers and their reagents from Europe (Romania). Why Test? Since you're reading an article about testing for phosphorus and alkalinity, I'll make an assumption you understand the role they play in aquaria. If you'd like to learn more about these, see: Phosphates: http://reefkeeping.com/issues/2006-09/rhf/index.php Alkalinity: http://www.advancedaquarist.com/2002/11/chemistry Glossary The following terms are used in this article: Cuvette A vessel for holding water, especially a transparent laboratory vessel (such as a test tube) Colorimeter A device for determining the concentration of a substance dissolved in liquid by comparing the intensity of its color with that of standard solution(s) of known concentration(s) mg/L milligrams per liter, essentially the same thing as ppm ppm parts per million Reagent A substance for use in a chemical reaction, especially for analysis Spectrometer For our purposes, an optical instrument capable of measuring intensity of transmitted light at a specific (but varying) wavelength, especially for determining the concentration of a dissolved substance Titrant The liquid reagent used in titrations Titration A method for determining the concentration of an aqueous substance by adding a liquid reagent of known concentration and measuring the volume necessary to convert the substance from one form to another Methods and Materials First of all, the results shown here are simply comparisons of those gathered by different analytical means. No standards were tested, and I am operating on the assumption that results of Hach's EPA-approved methods and a 'laboratory-grade' spectrometer are most accurate. In addition, only one Hanna instrument each was used in these comparisons. Water, gathered from a functioning marine fish-only aquarium, was used for the testing. Samples tested for phosphate were gathered in acid-washed glassware and analyzed within a few hours' time. Initial analyses indicated the phosphate content was at the upper detection limits of both instruments used (a Hach DR2800 spectrometer and the Hanna HI-713 colorimeter). Simple dilution with deionized water brought the phosphate to concentrations spanning the full range of both instruments and to levels realistically found in many reef aquaria. The Hanna and Hach devices both use the ascorbic acid chemistry method for analyses. Comparing alkalinity results is not as straight-forward. The Hanna device estimates alkalinity through colorimetric analysis. Apparently Hanna has made correlation of chromatic shifts (indicating pH) and the impact of an acidic titrant on alkalinity. While making for a quick and convenient test, there are caveats. First, the amount of alkalinity determines the titration endpoint. In addition, the presence or absence of phosphate and/or silica also affects testing protocol (See Table 1 for titration endpoints). Table 1. Titration end-point pH Values. Test Condition End-Point pH Values Alkalinity Concentration (as ppm CaCO3):304.91504.65004.3Silicates, Phosphates present or suspected4.5For comparative purposes, alkalinity values were determining using the Hanna's colorimetric method and an end-point pH titration method. Hach reagents (sulfuric acid, either 0.160 or 1.600N) were used to titrate a magnetically-stirred sample. A calibrated meter monitored pH. End-points depended upon alkalinity values shown in Table 1 while Figure 1 shows various endpoints based on alkalinity concentrations. Figure 2 is a photo of equipment used in measuring alkalinity according to EPA guidelines. Figure 1. Titration endpoints for determining alkalinity while using Hach reagents. Figure 2. Measuring alkalinity according to EPA guidelines requires a bit of laboratory equipment. With background information out of the way, we can now turn our attention to Hanna's HI-755 and HI-713 devices. Alkalinity: Hanna Instrument HI-755 Hanna advertises these specifications for their Alkalinity Checker: Hana Specifications for Alkalinity Checker Item Specification Range:0 to 300 ppm (mg/L) (some retailer ads incorrectly say 250 ppm)Resolution:1 ppm (or mg/L, if you prefer)Accuracy :±5 ppm (mg/L) ±5% of reading @ 25°C (77°F)Battery Type:One 1.5V AAA (included)Light Source:LED @ 610 nmLight Detector:Silicon photocellEnvironment:0 to 50°C (32 to 122°F); 95% Relative Humidity maximum, non-condensingAuto-off:Yes, after ten minutes of non-useDimensions:81.5 x 61 x 37.5 mm (3.2 x 2.4 x 1.5")Weight:64 grams (2.25 oz.) - actually a little heavier (~75 g - yes, I checked!)Colorimetric method, using a liquid pH indicator (bromcresol green)As discussed in detail in the Methods and Materials section, the results from the Hanna Checker were compared to analyses performed by the acid titration method using endpoints dictated by alkalinity concentrations and the presence of phosphates and/or silica. The results are shown in Figure 3. Figure 3. The Hanna Alkalinity Checker consistently reported values higher than those measured by the pH-endpoint titration method, but see Discussion (below). Next, we'll look at the Hanna Phosphorus Checker. Hanna advertises these specifications: Phosphorus (Low Range), Hanna Instrument HI-713 Suitable for freshwater, brackish and seawater. Model Tested: HI-713 Phosphorus, Low Range Hana Specifications for Low Range Phosphorus Item Specification Range:0.00 - 2.50 ppm (mg/l) as Phosphate (PO43-)Resolution:0.01 ppm (mg/l)Accuracy :±4 % of reading @ 25°C (77°F)Battery Type:One 1.5V AAA (included)Light Source:LED @ 610 nmLight Detector:Silicon photocellEnvironment:0 to 50°C (32 to 122°F); Relative humidity: 95% maximum, non-condensingAuto-off:After two minutes of non-use, and ten seconds after readingDimensions:81.5 x 61 x 37.5 mm (3.2 x 2.4 x 1.5")Weight:64 grams (2.25 oz.)Analytical Chemistry:Ascorbic Acid Method: Ammonium molybdate and potassium antimonyl tartrate react in an acid medium with ortho-phosphate to form phosphomolybdic acid that is reduced to molybdenum blue by ascorbic acid.Interferences:Silicates in excess of 10 mg/l; highly colored water (such as visibly yellow water)As discussed in detail in the Methods and Materials section, the results from the Hanna Checker were compared to analyses reported by a Hach 2800 spectrometer and ascorbic acid reagent. The results are shown in Figure 4. Figure 4. The results generated by the inexpensive Hanna Checker are remarkably close to those reported by a $3,500 spectrometer. Comments and Recommendations In many cases, results from colorimeters (and other photometric devices such as spectrometers) are superior to visually judging (comparing) colored samples. In fact, Standard method states: Visual comparisons of treated samples in Nessler tubes is not better than 5% (more often 10%) whereas photometric analyses can be reliable to within 3%, depending upon many factors. Naturally, the photometric device can eliminate personal biases of the user as well as accurately and precisely differentiate between small increments of sample absorbance/transmission. If photometric analyses are potentially superior, the question of device engineering and quality becomes the issue (that is, will an inexpensive device deliver results comparable to an expensive one?). Under the conditions stated in the Methods and Materials section (above), these observations and recommendations are made: Hanna Alkalinity Checker These observations apply to the Hanna Checker HI-755 (Note the instrument is marked 'Checker Marine' suggesting it is intended for seawater analyses only): Likes: Easy to use Results are generated in seconds The procedure is simple - no drip titration is required (just add reagent, shake, and read) Does not require any manual conversions (results are expressed as parts per million calcium carbonate) Replacement reagent is inexpensive Auto-shutoff Reagents marked with expiration date Small sample size (10 milliliters) Spare cuvette included Directions and MSDS available online Alkalinity measurements were consistently higher than those generated by the titration/pH end-point method Multiple measurements are not possible without zeroing the instrument each time No Material Safety Data Sheet included (see below for link) Reagent will stain skin and clothing (all procedures using organic dyes carry the same risk) Battery replacement requires a small screwdriver and removal of a tiny screw Though my quick comparisons showed the Hanna Alkalinity Checker delivered results consistently higher than those obtained with an EPA-approved method, I am impressed with the speed and ease of measurement. If I were to establish a correction (and comfort) factor to apply to the Hanna Checker's results, this would be my method of choice for establishing alkalinity concentrations. I recently received a Hach catalog advertising their version of a colorimetric alkalinity test. Hach's chemistry, just as Hanna's, apparently uses bromocresol green sodium salt in the analysis method. It seems this method is becoming widely accepted, if only for estimations (this is not an EPA-accepted procedure). Recommendation: Yes, with some reservations Footnote: 1 ppm Alkalinity as CaCO3 = 0.02 milliequivalent per liter (meq/L) 1 ppm Alkalinity as CaCO3 = 0.056 degrees Carbonate Hardness (dKH, or German Hardness) Hanna Phosphate Checker These observations apply to the Hanna Checker HI-713 (Low Range Phosphate): Likes: Results compare very favorably with those generated by a much more expensive device Much less expensive than a full-blown spectrometer or photometer Easy to use and portable Results are generated in several minutes (including a 3-minute reaction time) The Checker incorporates a timer The procedure is simple - Add reagent, shake and bake for several minutes, and read results in parts per million as phosphate Replacement reagent is competitively priced Auto-shutoff Reagents work in fresh, brackish, and saltwater Reagents marked with expiration date Low Battery, Dead Battery, Under Range, Over Range, Inverted Cuvettes, High Light and Low Light errors are displayed when appropriate Small sample size (10 milliliters) Spare cuvette included Directions (but not MSDS) available online Test results for phosphate are displayed for only 10 seconds after they are reported Multiple measurements are not possible without zeroing the instrument each time No Material Safety Data Sheet available Battery replacement requires a small screwdriver and removal of a tiny screw Recommendation (Phosphate): Yes! Footnote: To convert PO43 to P, divide by 3.066 Reagent Cost Comparisons The following approximate prices are for replacement reagents only, and do not include instruments (unless noted), taxes, insurance, or shipping costs. Phosphate: [*]Hanna Phosphate Reagents: $27.99 U.S. per 100 tests[*]Hach PhosVer3: $28.19 U.S. per 100 tests (10 milliliter sample)[*]Footnote: The Hanna HI-714 phosphate colorimeter can use Hach reagents (ascorbic acid powder pillows). Alkalinity: [*]Hanna Alkalinity: $9.99 U.S. for 25 tests (~40 cents per test)[*]Hach: Alkalinity for digital Titrator, $59.17 - includes sulfuric titration cartridges, phenolphthalein and bromcresol green/methyl red reagents. $219 includes reagents and Digital Titrator. To comply with EPA guidelines, a pH meter is also required, and a magnetic stirrer is useful.[*]Hach's new colorimetric Total Alkalinity test (25-4,000 mg/l as CaCO3): 25 tests for $31.45 ($1.26 U.S. per test) using only their spectrometer models DR2800, 3900 and 5000 (Note: These spectrometers begin at about $3,500 U.S.) Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) The two kits I obtained did not include Material Safety Data Sheets. Here is a link to the Alkalinity reagent: http://www.hannainst.com/sds/SDS_HI%20755S_2010-12-14.pdf I could not find a link to the Low Range Phosphate reagents on Hanna's website at the time of this writing. Sampling Procedures "Garbage in; Garbage out" is a saying applicable to results generated when improper sampling procedures are in place. Use reasonable care when gathering samples for analyses. It is recommended that the vials (cuvettes) supplied by Hanna are used when sampling to avoid contamination. Alkalinity: Analyze immediately or fix sample by refrigerating at 4°C (39.2°F) for up to 24 hours. Bring to room temperature before analysis. If the sample is gathered in a container other than Hanna's cuvette, either clean plastic or glass is OK, and it should be completely filled to avoid prolonged exposure to any air trapped in the bottle. Filter if the sample contains excessive suspended particles. Phosphate: Analyze immediately. Use the Hanna 10 milliliter cuvette to draw the sample if possible. If not possible, use clean plastic or glass containers - they should be scrupulously clean - preferable acid-washed with 1:1 hydrochloric acid and rinsed with de-ionized water. To fix the sample, exclude particulate matter via filtration and refrigerate at 4°C (or 39.2°F). Maximum holding time is 48 hours. Treat the cuvettes with respect, and keep them clean and free of scratches. Don't allow the treated samples to remain in the cuvettes any longer than necessary as the chemicals might stain the glass. If the vials do become stained, gently clean them with paper used for sensitive applications (such as that used to clean camera lenses). In extreme cases, a dilute bleach solution may be required to remove the stains. Some hobbyists keep the vials filled with deionized water between uses to prevent spotting within them. Other Instruments from Hanna Many of Hanna's other instruments may be of interest to aquarist, including: [*]HI-727 Color of Water (0-500 Platinum-Cobalt Units; absorbance @470nm)[*]HI-736 Phosphate Ultra-low Range (0-200ppb; Ascorbic Acid Method)[*]HI-718 Iodine (0-12.5 mg/l; DPD Method)[*]HI-706 Phosphate High Range (0-15mg/l; Ascorbic Acid Method)[*]HI-717 Phosphate High Range (0-30mg/l; Ascorbic Acid Method)[*]HI-764 Nitrite Ultra-low Range (0-200 ppb) Contact Information Hanna Instruments has targeted the aquarium market and has devoted a webpage to hobbyists. See: aquariums@hannainst.com Specific questions concerning Hanna instruments and aquaculture can be addressed to Jessica Hoagland, Email: jhoagland@hannainst.com Or write to: Hanna Instruments, Inc. 584 Park East Drive Woonsocket, RI 02895 Additional Comments These products were obtained through normal retail channels, and descriptions, specifications and other information were current at the time of writing. Questions? Comments? I am best reached at: RiddleLabs@aol.com or sound off in the comments below. References http://reefkeeping.com/issues/2006-09/rhf/index.php[*]Holmes-Farley, R., 2002. Chemistry and the aquarium: Solving calcium and alkalinity problems. http://www.advancedaquarist.com/2002/11/chemistry [*]Holmes-Farley, R., 2006. Phosphate and the reef aquarium. View the full article

All taken thanks for support.

Selling these spare equipment sitting around at home; 1) Ehiem 1048A ( 10W, flow : 600 litres/ hour ) , Pump has been use externally but the cover for the suction has been missing. - $ 30.00 Revered by Hobbyist 2) Skimz FR - FM100 ( up to 600 litres ) - $ 80.00 reserved by Resser 3) Coral Life UV Turbo twist 12X ( use for up to 1200 litres of water ) bulb only run for about 5 month - $ 180.00 reserved by eniram collection / viewing at cck ave 3 or clementi MRT during office hour but have to pre-arrange with me. thanks ctc me at 9231 6904 for fast deal

About 8.7 million (give or take 1.3 million) is the new, estimated total number of species on Earth -- the most precise calculation ever offered -- with 6.5 million species on land and 2.2 million in oceans. Announced by the Census of Marine Life, the figure is based on a new analytical technique. The number of species on Earth had been estimated previously at 3 million to 100 million. View the full article

Hake is constantly being fished in the waters of the European Atlantic Ocean and, nevertheless, resists stock depletion relatively well. At times nature is capable of correcting the mistakes made by humans, new research suggests. The environment has favored the hake fish since the 1990s: The sea has turned milder, and so larvae have grown better and faster. View the full article

Hake is constantly being fished in the waters of the European Atlantic Ocean and, nevertheless, resists stock depletion relatively well. At times nature is capable of correcting the mistakes made by humans, new research suggests. The environment has favored the hake fish since the 1990s: The sea has turned milder, and so larvae have grown better and faster. View the full article

Selling these spare equipment sitting around at home; 1) Ehiem 1048A ( 10W, flow : 600 litres/ hour ) , Pump has been use externally but the cover for the suction has been missing. - $ 30.00 Revered by Hobbyist 2) Skimz FR - FM100 ( up to 600 litres ) - $ 80.00 3) Coral Life UV Turbo twist 12X ( use for up to 1200 litres of water ) bulb only run for about 5 month - $ 180.00 collection / viewing at cck ave 3 or clementi MRT during office hour but have to pre-arrange with me. thanks ctc me at 9231 6904 for fast deal

Both fish reserved by Strangreef .

Expect to see some nice SPS ; Monti, Tonga Green center/ white organ pipe. red lobo, bright cyphastrea, acroporas, yellow leather and Acanthastrea ect.....

Selling these spare equipment sitting around at home; 1) Ehiem 1048A ( 10W, flow : 600 litres/ hour ) , Pump has been use externally but the cover for the suction has been missing. - $ 30.00 2) Skimz FR - FM100 ( up to 600 litres ) - $ 80.00 3) Coral Life UV Turbo twist 12X ( use for up to 1200 litres of water ) bulb only run for about 5 month - $ 180.00 collection / viewing at cck ave 3 or clementi MRT during office hour but have to pre-arrange with me. thanks ctc me at 9231 6904 for fast deal

Hi, Selling two of my bullet proof angel fish, has been with me for many months . 1) Adult size flag fin angel fish previously bought from CF ( Size about 5 - 6 " ) - $ 30.00 2) Blue face angel fish ( Size: 3" ) - $ 50.00 ** Viewing / collection at 18 Boon lay way, trade hub 21 during weekday and weekend office hour. ** collection / viewing at 6pm , i will have to bring the fish back to my home at cck ave 3 for collection. sms me at 9231 6904 for quick deal thanks

Click through to see the images. Biscayne National Park is 173,000-acre marine park, which covers shorelines and coral reefs in southern Biscayne Bay, Florida. Their waters are home to coral reefs and a wide variety of fish, including popular sporting fish such as groupers and snappers. The National Park Service are currently contemplating numerous options to help protect the park's wildlife. The NPS is now accepting written comments and plans to hold public hearings to discuss the hot topic (schedule below). View the proposal at www.parkplanning.nps.gov/bisc (click on General Management Plan/Environmental Impact Statement) As native Atlantic predators are overfished, invasive Indo-Pacific lionfish are growing at alarming rates. Researchers have documented sharp declines in both the size and numbers of fish species in these waters. In a study published in June, 2011, scientists also discovered that as grouper and snapper populations dwindle, invasive lionfish populations increase seven-fold because groupers and snappers compete for food with lionfish as well as prey on lionfish directly. The loss of top predators have also been shown to create widespread disruptions to ecosystems. The National Park Service is weighing several alternative plans but prefers a plan which includes the establishment of a no-fishing zone. However, they are likely going to encounter heavy resistance from the sport fishing industry; Sport fishing in Biscayne Bay is a popular and lucrative activity. No-fishing zones are exactly what tropical reefs in the Atlantic need to right now in order to set ecosystems back in balance. I recommend anyone who wishes their voice heard to write to the National Park Service and/or attend one of the three public hearings scheduled in Florida in September, 2011. The sport-fishing industry will be lobbying against these proposals, so it is critically important reef lovers must speak up as well. Written comments on the plan may be sent to: Biscayne National Park GMP National Park Service M. Elmer (DSC–P) P.O. Box 25287 Denver, CO 80225-0287 The schedule of public hearings: Sept. 13, 6-9 p.m. Crowne Plaza Hotel Miami International Airport 950 NW 42 Ave Miami, FL 33126 Sept. 14, 6-9 p.m. Florida City City Hall 404 W. Palm Drive Florida City, FL 33034 Sept. 15, 6-9 p.m. Holiday Inn Key Largo 99701 Overseas Highway Key Largo, Florida 33037 [via the Sun-Sentinel] View the full article

Click through to see the images. Biscayne National Park is 173,000-acre marine park, which covers shorelines and coral reefs in southern Biscayne Bay, Florida. Their waters are home to coral reefs and a wide variety of fish, including popular sporting fish such as groupers and snappers. The National Park Service are currently contemplating numerous options to help protect the park's wildlife. The NPS is now accepting written comments and plans to hold public hearings to discuss the hot topic (schedule below). View the proposal at www.parkplanning.nps.gov/bisc (click on General Management Plan/Environmental Impact Statement) As native Atlantic predators are overfished, invasive Indo-Pacific lionfish are growing at alarming rates. Researchers have documented sharp declines in both the size and numbers of fish species in these waters. In a study published in June, 2011, scientists also discovered that as grouper and snapper populations dwindle, invasive lionfish populations increase seven-fold because groupers and snappers compete for food with lionfish as well as prey on lionfish directly. The loss of top predators have also been shown to create widespread disruptions to ecosystems. The National Park Service is weighing several alternative plans but prefers a plan which includes the establishment of a no-fishing zone. However, they are likely going to encounter heavy resistance from the sport fishing industry; Sport fishing in Biscayne Bay is a popular and lucrative activity. No-fishing zones are exactly what tropical reefs in the Atlantic need to right now in order to set ecosystems back in balance. I recommend anyone who wishes their voice heard to write to the National Park Service and/or attend one of the three public hearings scheduled in Florida in September, 2011. The sport-fishing industry will be lobbying against these proposals, so it is critically important reef lovers must speak up as well. Written comments on the plan may be sent to: Biscayne National Park GMP National Park Service M. Elmer (DSC–P) P.O. Box 25287 Denver, CO 80225-0287 The schedule of public hearings: Sept. 13, 6-9 p.m. Crowne Plaza Hotel Miami International Airport 950 NW 42 Ave Miami, FL 33126 Sept. 14, 6-9 p.m. Florida City City Hall 404 W. Palm Drive Florida City, FL 33034 Sept. 15, 6-9 p.m. Holiday Inn Key Largo 99701 Overseas Highway Key Largo, Florida 33037 [via the Sun-Sentinel] View the full article

Click through to see the images. Biscayne National Park is 173,000-acre marine park, which covers shorelines and coral reefs in southern Biscayne Bay, Florida. Their waters are home to coral reefs and a wide variety of fish, including popular sporting fish such as groupers and snappers. The National Park Service are currently contemplating numerous options to help protect the park's wildlife. The NPS is now accepting written comments and plans to hold public hearings to discuss the hot topic (schedule below). View the proposal at www.parkplanning.nps.gov/bisc (click on General Management Plan/Environmental Impact Statement) As native Atlantic predators are overfished, invasive Indo-Pacific lionfish are growing at alarming rates. Researchers have documented sharp declines in both the size and numbers of fish species in these waters. In a study published in June, 2011, scientists also discovered that as grouper and snapper populations dwindle, invasive lionfish populations increase seven-fold because groupers and snappers compete for food with lionfish as well as prey on lionfish directly. The loss of top predators have also been shown to create widespread disruptions to ecosystems. The National Park Service is weighing several alternative plans but prefers a plan which includes the establishment of a no-fishing zone. However, they are likely going to encounter heavy resistance from the sport fishing industry; Sport fishing in Biscayne Bay is a popular and lucrative activity. No-fishing zones are exactly what tropical reefs in the Atlantic need to right now in order to set ecosystems back in balance. I recommend anyone who wishes their voice heard to write to the National Park Service and/or attend one of the three public hearings scheduled in Florida in September, 2011. The sport-fishing industry will be lobbying against these proposals, so it is critically important reef lovers must speak up as well. Written comments on the plan may be sent to: Biscayne National Park GMP National Park Service M. Elmer (DSC–P) P.O. Box 25287 Denver, CO 80225-0287 The schedule of public hearings: Sept. 13, 6-9 p.m. Crowne Plaza Hotel Miami International Airport 950 NW 42 Ave Miami, FL 33126 Sept. 14, 6-9 p.m. Florida City City Hall 404 W. Palm Drive Florida City, FL 33034 Sept. 15, 6-9 p.m. Holiday Inn Key Largo 99701 Overseas Highway Key Largo, Florida 33037 [via the Sun-Sentinel] View the full article

Click through to see the images. In the three months since we put an Amphiocotpus marginatus we collected in the Philippines on display at the Steinhart Aquarium, the octopus, named Fontenelle, has been engaging visitors to the aquarium. Fontenelle is in plain sight 95% of the time, often in interesting ‘lookout’ poses, playing with toy squid and toy octopus, or moving its den from jars to bottles to clay pots while keeping an eye on the people watching its antics. This species is one of the boldest cephalopods I have worked with, hunting with startling speed and latching onto my arm with that same unnerving speed anytime I have to put my hand in the tank. The growth rate on this animal is amazing, and since we decided not to be invasive with gathering data with this animal because we don’t want to stress it as we learn its husbandry needs (this may be the first time this species has been on public display) the two pictures at packedhead.net/​2011/​coconut-octopus-grows-and-opens-jars/​ show the growth of the octopus in just a few months. Even more exciting, Fontenelle has learned how to open jars by unscrewing the jars lid, one of the more captivating behaviors that octopus can learn (another being squirting me in the eye when I bring shrimp). The octopus has been opening jars for a couple of weeks already, and actually learned within a couple of days, but I have been unable to capture the opening on video. Either the jar is open before I get to the front of the tank, or the jar gets opened when I leave to attend to other animals. Today I set up the tripod before putting the jar in the tank and was able to catch the act on video. Its hard to see the actual unscrewing of the lid, and the final opening of the jar looks like the octopus simply pulls the lid up, but trust me, to get to that point the lid had to be unscrewed. Now, its time to start with other jars with more threads on the lid, tightening the lid much more, and finding other objects in which to hide food. View the full article

Click through to see the images. In the three months since we put an Amphiocotpus marginatus we collected in the Philippines on display at the Steinhart Aquarium, the octopus, named Fontenelle, has been engaging visitors to the aquarium. Fontenelle is in plain sight 95% of the time, often in interesting ‘lookout’ poses, playing with toy squid and toy octopus, or moving its den from jars to bottles to clay pots while keeping an eye on the people watching its antics. This species is one of the boldest cephalopods I have worked with, hunting with startling speed and latching onto my arm with that same unnerving speed anytime I have to put my hand in the tank. The growth rate on this animal is amazing, and since we decided not to be invasive with gathering data with this animal because we don’t want to stress it as we learn its husbandry needs (this may be the first time this species has been on public display) the two pictures at packedhead.net/​2011/​coconut-octopus-grows-and-opens-jars/​ show the growth of the octopus in just a few months. Even more exciting, Fontenelle has learned how to open jars by unscrewing the jars lid, one of the more captivating behaviors that octopus can learn (another being squirting me in the eye when I bring shrimp). The octopus has been opening jars for a couple of weeks already, and actually learned within a couple of days, but I have been unable to capture the opening on video. Either the jar is open before I get to the front of the tank, or the jar gets opened when I leave to attend to other animals. Today I set up the tripod before putting the jar in the tank and was able to catch the act on video. Its hard to see the actual unscrewing of the lid, and the final opening of the jar looks like the octopus simply pulls the lid up, but trust me, to get to that point the lid had to be unscrewed. Now, its time to start with other jars with more threads on the lid, tightening the lid much more, and finding other objects in which to hide food. View the full article

A population biologist has found that not all certified Chilean sea bass are what they are claimed to be. Some fish sold in stores are not from the fishing grounds certified as sustainable, and some are not Chilean sea bass at all. View the full article

A population biologist has found that not all certified Chilean sea bass are what they are claimed to be. Some fish sold in stores are not from the fishing grounds certified as sustainable, and some are not Chilean sea bass at all. View the full article

Click through to see the images. Boergesenia forbesii (photo from algaebase.org) It's little surprise that Ercolania kencolesi was only recently discovered. This sea slug measures a mere 0.5 centimeters (0.2 inches) and mostly lives within the tubes of the sea algae Boergesenia forbesii. The tiny green nudibranch bores a hole to enter the tubes where it dines on the algae from the inside. The algae provides both a safe habitat and food source for E.kencolesi. What's more, this sea slug assimilates the chloroplasts from the algae into its own tissue. E.kencolesi can derive energy from photosynthesis. Other nudibranchs are known to do this as well. The most well-known example amongst reefkeepers is Berghia verrucicornis (reclassified to Aeolidiella stephanieae). These Aiptasia-eating sea slugs will harbor the stinging cells (nematocysts) of their prey in their body, helping protect the sea slug from their own predators . View the full article

Another interesting mangrove tank

Another interesting concept.

Interesting mangrove tank

Ancient fossilized clams that lived off the coast of Antarctica some 50 million years ago have a story to tell about El Niño, according to new research. View the full article

Click through to see the images. Absolutely Fish, a local fish store in Clifton, New Jersey (about 20 miles outside of Manhattan) is a has been around for well over a decade and annually hosts a "Midnight Madness" sale, offering major discounts on livestock (fish, corals, and other invertebrates), as well as a chinese-auction style raffle that featured aquarium setups, fish food, aquarium salt and more. This year, the event took place on Friday, August 19, and had over 500 attendees. The store was packed with everything under the sun, including rare, hard to find fish like the Blue Porcupine Puffer, a Spanish Flag Grouper, as well as a plate-coral producing rock and a massive tank filled with beautiful SPS colonies. If you haven't ever been to the store, be sure to check it out the next time your in the tri-state area, as there's always something unique that you won't likely see anywhere else. A line of over 300 hobbyists, all anxiously waiting to enter the doors of Absolutely Fish. A beautiful Spanish Flag Grouper, Gonioplectrus hisppanus, an incredibly rare deepwater fish from Curacao. A rock containing a few beautiful green Plate Corals, one of which that regularly produces babies. The much talked about Blue Porcupine Puffer, a fish that the LFS boasts no other store has. While standing in line, the store owner explained to the crowd that he created and planned the event so that folks could gather for one night in an effort to bring hobbyists together and offer some great discounts. The staff worked extremely hard to help each and every customer and provide excellent advice to those who were new to the hobby and wanted to join in on the excitement. All in all, it was a great night of fun and the groups of smiling attendees proved it to be a major success. View the full article

Click through to see the images. Posted on the Cherry Corals Facebook page earlier this afternoon, we can't help but admire the sheer color array and pattern of this amazingly colorful Scoly. Granted the fact that it's likely taken under the most favorable lighting spectrum, it's something that all hobbyists can admire. From what we're told, it's going to be put up for sale soon, but for now we're happy to grace your screen with a high-definition photo of such an amazing Scolymia australis. View the full article