Observation #2

This observation was made exactly 2 weeks after the aquarium was constructed: a food formula was added to the aquarium

Initially, the first thing I noticed was that there was, on the whole, a greater amount of movement and total activity. Everywhere I looked there was an organism or several moving about. Even after focusing in on a particular specimen, there was a continuous frenzy of smaller organisms shooting about in the enviornment.

I observed three new organisms:

Firstly, the presence of little bell-shaped, transparent extensions were seen attached/stemming from plant life. These, I believe, are in the Ciliates group and are called Peritrichs. A long, clear, slender tube connected the cup/bell shaped end to the plant life and they moved along with the movement of the water.

Secondly, a long wormlike organism moved rapidly through the water with snake-like motion. It would coil itself and then quickly straighten out. It curled in and out of plant life, was extremely thin and fast, and mostly clear in appearance. Though not certain, it appeared to be a roundworm. I observed 2 of these fascinating creatures.

Thirdly, I saw two organisms when appeared to be long tubes like worms but had little motorized spinners on the end with cilia attached. Because of these spinners, I wonder if they are not a type of rotifer with a hairy appendage that attached to plant life. Also, it was transparent.

In addition to these new discoveries, I once again observed the Ostracods. Their "split bean" appearance was easily spotted as they are large and have a vigorous movement system. Some were seen moving in and out of the bottom plant growth and another was seen stationed firmly to a leaf, its little cilia turning a mile-a-minute.

Generally speaking, the amount of life and overall activity seems to be increasing. I will try and post pictures soon.