Love is in the water at London as two species of fish make great use of their new aquariums.
50 fry (baby fish) have been born since the Mexican Rainbow Characodons which are endangered and the critically endangered Corfu killfish, native to Greece, moved into new tanks recently.
Recently the zoo was donated new tanks by Pets at Home New Malden and they believe this has inspired the frisky fishy feelings.
Alasdair Maltby, ZSL London Zoo Aquarist said, “We’re thrilled that these fish have settled in to their new homes so quickly. To have over 100 fry born in such a quick period shows us just how happy and content they are – and are a great boost for the conservation breeding.”
Currently just 1cm (0.4in) long the 100 new arrivals will soon grow to 6cm (2.4in) long.
While these guys have the opportunity to do this a number of their wild counterparts will not have this opportunity as Maltby explained, “These two species have a long way to go when it comes to fighting the tide of extinction; but the tiny new arrivals ensure we are one step closer to making small fry of that battle.”
They are under threat as a result of pollution and the draining of waterways. New predators have also been introduced to their habitats putting extra pressure on their populations.
“Being able to help conserve these small but significant fish is fantastic and, by collaborating with other zoos and aquariums across the world as part of ZSL’s Fish Net project, it’s great that we’re able to work together for wildlife offering hope to species such as the Rainbow Characodon and Corfu Killifish,” added Maltby.
Photo Credit: ZSL London Zoo
