SPSHolic's Blog

The Marbled Shrimp in the Genus Saron - Zoologist Tristan Lougher surveys the members of this ornate shrimp genus that are most often encountered by divers and aquarists, and includes information on their natural history and aquarium husbandry.

Sarondipity - Roger Steene is considered by most marine animal photographers as the best in the world. In this amazing portfolio, he shares images of some of his favorite animals, the Saron shrimps.

Komodo Dreams - Photojournalist extraordinaire, Fred Bavendam, takes us on a search for the rare and exotic on the reefs around Komodo Island, Indonesia. This article includes some of his beautiful photos documenting undescribed and rare species, as well as images showing unique Komodo reef habitats sure to inspire any underwater enthusiast.

Flame Wrasse Fever - John Hoover, marine animal photographer and writer, shares the challenges involved in capturing the ultimate flame wrasse (Cirrhilabrus jordani) photos. John includes notes on the behavior of this stunning wrasse.

Recently Available Fairy Wrasses - The world’s leading authority on the Cirrhilabrus, Dr. Hiroyuki Tanaka examines some of the species of fairy wrasses that are new to the aquarium trade, including some newly discovered and undescribed species!

An Introduction to the Tridacnid Clams and Their Care - James Fatherree, tridacnid expert and author, provides an overview of what is required to keep these amazing mollusks in captivity. James includes an extensive look at their care requirements, as well as information on their biology.

Amazing Montipora Corals - Aquarist/biologist Jake Adams looks at this amazing genus and includes plenty of photographic “eye candy” that is sure to have you “Montie” fans drooling!

“What Is It??” A Tale Of Two Softies - Dr. Ronald Shimek reviews scientific research conducted on the taxonomy of soft corals - in particular, how to separate the genera Lobophytum and Sarcophyton, and the species within these two taxa. You will be surprised at the researchers’ findings!

Sleeper Gobies in the Genus Valenciennea - Aquarist/biologist Tristan Lougher examines the Valenciennea gobies, and helps unravel some of the challenges associated with keeping these utilitarian fishes in captivity.

Caribbean Rose Coral (Manicina areolata) - This interesting coral occupies a unique ecological niche and is one of the few non-cryptic Caribbean stony corals to be legally available in the aquarium trade. Biologist and coral care expert Jake Adams provides insight into its natural history and aquarium care.

The Perfect Coral: Euphyllia - With large, showy polyps in various shades of green, yellow and pink, the sight of a large Euphyllia colony with its tentacles gently swaying in the current can make for a mesmerizing display. In this article, J. Charles Delbeek, pro-aquarist and biologist, explores the natural history and husbandry requirements of these “perfect” corals.

Coral Reefs Receive Conservation First-Aid - Zoologist and aquarium-pro, Bruce Carlson, discusses how the Georgia State Aquarium has teamed-up with The Nature Conservancy and local islanders to save coral reefs and their inhabitants. The article is illustrated with amazing photos taken at the Arnavons Community Marine Conservation Area by Marj Awai.

“Crikey!” Two True Gems From Down Under - There are many more unusual fishes that are now regularly making their way into the marine aquarium hobby. In this article, professional fish-keeper, Kevin Kohen, examines two beauties that are being exported from Australia - the bluestriped Tamarin wrasse (Anampses femininus) and Choat’s leopard wrasse (Macropharyngodon choati).