What Fish Is Called Ruby Red Lips? Unveiling the Mystery
The fish commonly referred to as “Ruby red lips” is the Moronidae Dichromis erythrops, or more formally, the African Ruby-eyed Bream, a captivating and often misunderstood species. This article dives deep into everything you need to know about this vibrantly colored fish.
Introduction: A Glimpse into the World of the Ruby-Eyed Bream
The world of freshwater fish is vast and diverse, filled with creatures of all shapes, sizes, and colors. Among them, the Moronidae Dichromis erythrops, often known as the Ruby-eyed Bream, stands out due to its striking appearance. What fish is called Ruby red lips? It’s a question often asked by aquarists and fish enthusiasts alike, captivated by the allure of this vibrant species. This article will explore the characteristics, habitat, care, and fascinating aspects of the Ruby-eyed Bream.
Appearance and Characteristics
The name “Ruby red lips” is a testament to the fish’s most distinguishing feature: its incredibly vivid red lips. However, the moniker is somewhat misleading, as it’s the eyes, not the lips, that display the most intense ruby-red coloration. Other defining characteristics include:
- A laterally compressed body shape.
- Silvery to bronze-colored scales covering its entire body.
- A forked caudal fin.
- Relatively large eyes, making them visually striking.
- Color intensity that can vary depending on the fish’s mood and health.
These features combine to create a visually appealing fish, making it a popular choice among aquarists.
Habitat and Natural Distribution
The Ruby-eyed Bream is native to several rivers and lakes across Africa. Specific locations include:
- The Congo River Basin
- The Zambezi River
- Lake Tanganyika
- Other smaller river systems in Central and Southern Africa
These environments are typically characterized by warm, freshwater conditions with plenty of vegetation and hiding places. Understanding its natural habitat is crucial to replicating ideal conditions in an aquarium.
Care and Keeping in Aquariums
While captivating, the Ruby-eyed Bream requires specific care to thrive in captivity.
- Tank Size: A minimum tank size of 75 gallons is recommended for a small group, as they appreciate having space to swim.
- Water Parameters: They prefer a water temperature between 72-78°F (22-26°C), a pH level of 6.5-7.5, and moderate water hardness.
- Filtration and Water Changes: Excellent filtration is a must to maintain water quality. Regular water changes of 25-50% should be performed weekly.
- Tank Decor: Provide plenty of hiding places with rocks, driftwood, and plants. Substrate should be fine gravel or sand.
- Diet: They are omnivorous and readily accept a variety of foods, including high-quality flakes, pellets, frozen foods (like bloodworms and brine shrimp), and even small live foods.
Social Behavior and Compatibility
The Ruby-eyed Bream is generally a peaceful fish, but it’s important to consider its compatibility with tank mates.
- They do best in groups of 5 or more to establish a social hierarchy and reduce stress.
- Suitable tank mates include other peaceful, similarly sized fish.
- Avoid keeping them with aggressive or fin-nipping species.
Breeding
Breeding the Ruby-eyed Bream in captivity can be challenging, but not impossible.
- A separate breeding tank with slightly warmer water and finer substrate is recommended.
- Provide plenty of spawning sites, such as fine-leaved plants or spawning mops.
- Water conditions should be pristine to encourage spawning.
- After spawning, the parents should be removed to prevent them from eating the eggs.
Common Mistakes in Care
Many new owners unknowingly make mistakes when caring for Ruby-eyed Bream. Being aware of these mistakes can help prevent problems.
- Overcrowding: Providing too small of a tank for the species.
- Poor Water Quality: Neglecting to maintain good filtration and perform regular water changes.
- Incompatible Tank Mates: Housing them with aggressive or predatory fish.
- Inadequate Diet: Feeding them a low-quality or unsuitable diet.
Conservation Status
What fish is called Ruby red lips, or Ruby-eyed Bream, is not currently listed as an endangered species. However, habitat destruction and overfishing pose a potential threat to wild populations. Responsible aquarium keeping and supporting conservation efforts are crucial to ensuring the long-term survival of this fascinating species.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the scientific name of the Ruby-eyed Bream?
The scientific name of the Ruby-eyed Bream is Moronidae Dichromis erythrops. Knowing the scientific name can help to avoid confusion, as common names can vary by region.
Are Ruby-eyed Breams aggressive?
No, Ruby-eyed Breams are generally peaceful fish. They thrive best in groups and rarely exhibit aggression towards other fish, except perhaps minor squabbles within their own group to establish dominance.
What is the ideal tank size for Ruby-eyed Breams?
A tank of at least 75 gallons is recommended for a small group of Ruby-eyed Breams. They are active swimmers and need ample space.
What do Ruby-eyed Breams eat?
They are omnivorous and will eat a variety of foods, including high-quality flakes, pellets, frozen foods, and small live foods. A varied diet will keep them healthy and vibrant.
What water parameters are best for Ruby-eyed Breams?
They prefer a water temperature of 72-78°F (22-26°C), a pH of 6.5-7.5, and moderate water hardness. Maintaining these parameters is crucial for their health.
How often should I change the water in my Ruby-eyed Bream tank?
Regular water changes of 25-50% should be performed weekly to maintain water quality. Consistent water changes are essential for the well-being of these fish.
Can I keep Ruby-eyed Breams with other fish?
Yes, but choose tank mates carefully. They are best kept with other peaceful, similarly sized fish. Avoid aggressive or fin-nipping species.
How can I tell if my Ruby-eyed Bream is sick?
Signs of illness include loss of appetite, lethargy, clamped fins, and unusual spots or lesions. Early detection is key for effective treatment.
Are Ruby-eyed Breams easy to breed in captivity?
Breeding can be challenging, but not impossible. A separate breeding tank with pristine water conditions and spawning sites is recommended.
What is the lifespan of a Ruby-eyed Bream in captivity?
With proper care, Ruby-eyed Breams can live for 5-7 years in an aquarium. Providing them with the right environment and care extends their lifespan.
Where can I buy Ruby-eyed Breams?
They are available at many reputable aquarium stores and online retailers. Ensure you purchase from a reliable source to ensure healthy fish.
What are some common diseases that affect Ruby-eyed Breams?
Common diseases include Ich (white spot disease), fin rot, and fungal infections. Maintaining good water quality and a balanced diet helps prevent these diseases.