The Caldwell Mini-Reef



salt water tank as seen from the kitchen salt water tank as seen from the family room
The salt water tank as seen from the kitchen . . . . . . . . . . . . and from the family room

In May, 2014, we set up a salt water aquarium. The base of the tank is "live rock," by which is meant old coral populated with many forms of micro- and macroscopic marine life. We are slowly populating it with coral, fish, shrimp, and crabs:

star coral and two snails
The star polyp coral looks rather like miniature grass. Its polyps grow in starburst patterns from central stalks.





star coral and two snails
The star polyp coral looks rather like miniature grass. Its polyps grow in starburst patterns from central stalks.



Oscar is an entertaining member of the family; he talks, sings, and dances (when he feels like it, not on cue!). He loves to watch TV, especially preferring shows about dinosaurs or mummies. We generally expect to outlive our pets, but Amazons have a life expectancy about that of humans; Oscar will likely move to Nacogdoches when we are gone.


Casper was imprisoned at the Town Lake Animal Center for crimes unknown. He happily joined the family, assuming the responsibilities of alpha dog to our pack. He is Jim's dog, but loves everyone.


Sue had always wanted a tiny female dachshund, and Jim helped her find Lizzie from a dachshund breeder our vet recommended. Lizzie has big brown eyes and fuzzy feet. She is entirely too enamored of her own voice, but curls up on Sue's lap and curls Sue's heart around her paw.


Snowflake was found wandering the streets, a matted and miserable urchin, and brought to the city animal shelter. She and Lizzie have become friends, playing tug-o-war and racing one another around the yard. She is a bright girl and wonderful addition to the pack.

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