Collecting the fish is my version of going to the LFS. I have several great spots for collecting in the Everglades. I use a long handled dip net and a lot of patience although blind stabs in the weeds often yield some nice fish. Often fish aquired on blind stabs are slightly injured or have some fin damage. I place all new fish in a seperate tank to let them heel and become adjusted to aquarium lights. I feed these new fish live brine shrimp with an eye dropper. Eventually I change the food to dried blood worms soaked in water. After the break in period the fish will feed on food from the surface. When I feel they are ready and free of disease I place them in my community tanks. With the Dollar Sunfish the net is submerged in the water, the fish become curious of the net and will soon school above it, then I simply scoop them up. |