Javascript Disabled Detected

You currently have javascript disabled. Several functions may not work. Please re-enable javascript to access full functionality.

Blackstripe Top Minnows

Started by Guest_AndrewR_* , May 14 2009 12:28 PM

Reply to this topic

4 replies to this topic

#1 Guest_AndrewR_*

Guests

Posted 14 May 2009 - 12:28 PM

Hi all,

My creek has a large population of these cool little surface critters and would like to bring some home to the small 10-gallon aquarium to raise for feeder purposes, as well as to just keep something in there along with the plants I will be raising.

How well do the Blackstripe Top minnows live in captivity? Are they hearty?

Also, how frequently do they reproduce? Not really looking to start a massive colony of them, but it would be interesting to see what might happen.

Lastly, what are the recommendations for filtration, and their ideal oxygen levels?

I am also considering Bluntnose Minnows as well.

Thanks!

#2 Guest_Uland_*

Guests

Posted 14 May 2009 - 01:30 PM

Andrew,

They do quite well inside a home aquarium. Eat almost anything and they appear hearty to me.

I cannot comment on breeding as I kept them in a community tank but I can link you to some additional information.
http://www.nanfa.org...cfundulus.shtml

#3 Guest_Kanus_*

Guests

Posted 14 May 2009 - 01:59 PM

If you want feeders, you're probably better off with the bluntnose minnows. Another Pimephales, the fathead minnow, is very widely cultured, and I would think bluntnose minnows would be similarly easy.

#4 Guest_Newt_*

Guests

Posted 14 May 2009 - 05:24 PM

I too have found blackstripe topminnows to be good captives, but have not seen them breed in my tanks. From what I have read they are seasonal breeders, meaning you might have to replicate day-length or temperature cues to induce breeding (or just keep them outdoors). Fatheads or livebearers would be better feeders, as they reproduce constantly.

#5 Guest_BTDarters_*

Guests

Posted 18 May 2009 - 10:27 PM

Andrew,

Welcome to the forum! Blackstripe Topminnows are very hardy in the aquarium and live for a number of years. Mine eat flake food, live food (blackworms), and frozen bloodworms very readily. As mentioned by the other posters, they probably won't make a good feeder species, as they can be difficult to breed.

Your profile shows that you are located (at least partly) in Wisconsin. Please be aware that in Wisconsin, removing live fish from all waters of the state is prohibited, except by permit. Make sure that you get a permit if you are going to be collecting in Wisconsin.

Again, welcome to the forum!

Brian