I would like to create a multi-faceted exhibit for inside our interpretive
center that seeks to achieve two primary objectives:
1. Exhibits a number of native fish and other aquatic species in one or
more community tank system(s), and
2. Is an example of the ability of a wetland system to cleanse water.
In my mental image, I see one or more tanks housing an appropriate number of
individuals and species of fish native to this region. Aquascaping would of
course be as natural as possible. This tank or series of tanks would be
fairly typical of any attempt to exhibit native fish species and would
achieve objective #1, above.
The tough part, and the part that I really am seeking advice on, is
achieving objective #2. In my vision, I see the tanks not having any
regular filtration. Water is drawn from the tanks and directed to a created
wetland system which could be located indoors or out (I can run water
through an existing hole in an exterior wall if necessary). The wetlands
would be stocked with appropriate native plants, invertebrates and other
critters. Water would then be drawn from the wetland and pumped back into
the tank(s). I realize that this has some inherent potential problems, i.e.
shared water chemistry and the like, but I think that our visitors would be
intrigued by learning that the wetlands were the only filter used.
In my ultimate, and admittedly unrealistic, vision, there would even be a
tank in which contaminants could be added to simulate an accidental spill or
even continuous non-point pollution. Water would be cleansed by the wetland
and pumped back into the tanks. (Just dreaming but you have to admit that
such an exhibit would be excellent for showing the value of wetlands)
Sorry for the inadequate description but it's just an idea right now.
Anyway, feel free to provide advice and encouragement or to blast the entire
concept.
Thanks,
Rob Denkhaus
Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge
/-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
/"Unless stated otherwise, comments made on this list do not necessarily
/ reflect the beliefs or goals of the North American Native Fishes
/ Association"
/ This is the discussion list of the North American Native Fishes Association
/ nanfa_at_aquaria.net. To subscribe, unsubscribe, or get help, send the word
/ subscribe, unsubscribe, or help in the body (not subject) of an email to
/ nanfa-request_at_aquaria.net. For a digest version, send the command to
/ nanfa-digest-request_at_aquaria.net instead.
/ For more information about NANFA, visit our web page, http://www.nanfa.org