Barclays Center
Saltwater Reef Aquarium
Welcome to the Barclays Center 700-Gallon custom built reef aquarium, designed and installed by the House of Fins in Greenwich, CT.
House of Fins has been the premier source for unique aquariums, expert aquarium maintenance, and exotic livestock from the world over. Specializing in the creation of unique works of living art, House of Fins continuously strives to exceed the expectations of our clientele in designing and implementing custom aquarium installations and providing the finest quality fish, coral, and invertebrates.
In front of you is a custom built 700-gallon reef aquarium at the Barclays Center. At almost 6 feet tall, this acrylic aquarium contains an intricately designed and custom-fabricated coral reef insert. Over time this reef insert will be covered by exotic corals, creating a one-of-a-kind private reef display. With the help of eight of the industry’s best LED lighting, these corals will, over time, grow and spread over the custom-fabricated reef insert.
"The System"
The reef structure in aquariums is comprised of a base of “Live rock”, as a ceramic structure on which corals are placed to grow, and sand. Live rock is collected in Fiji and kept wet from the time it was collected to the time it arrives to us to ensure the bacteria that makes up the ecosystem are intact. In the Barclays Center reef aquarium, we are likely to design and manufacture an artificial ceramic reef structure that will eventually become “alive” with the same bacteria as the live rock over an 8-12 week period.
Lighting is critical to a reef aquariums. Most of the corals we keep in the aquariums are found in shallow waters. In order to replicate this, we try to reproduce the light found at the ocean’s surface near the equator. A photosynthetic algae called zooanthelle lives within the tissue of the corals and provide the coral with most of its food. aquarium lighting keeps the zooanthelle alive and accentuates the colors found within the algae, producing the bright fluorescent color.
The Fish
Fish that are kept in Reef Aquariums are carefully selected to be not only compatible with each other, but with all of the other inhabitants of the aquarium. Many fish found on coral reefs eat the very corals and invertebrates that we are trying to keep alive and healthy! Therefore, great lengths are taken to choose what we refer to as “reef safe” fish. We aim to keep a wide variety of sizes of fish so that they can be seen from afar as well as up close.
Black or Orange Clownfish
Clownfish, also known as anemonefish, are small, vibrant fish renowned for their striking colors and playful demeanor. These charming marine creatures belong to the family Pomacentridae and are found in the warm waters of the Indo-Pacific, particularly in the coral reefs of Southeast Asia and Australia.
Clownfish are instantly recognizable with their bright orange bodies adorned with bold white stripes. However, not all clownfish share the same appearance, as different species exhibit variations in coloration and patterning. Some species may have shades of yellow, red, or black, while others may display additional intricate patterns or spots.
Azure Damsel
Azure Damselfish are primarily found in the shallow waters of coral reefs, where they form small social groups. They establish territories among branching corals or rocky crevices, defending them against intruders. Within their territories, they heavily contribute to the overall health of the reef ecosystem.
These damselfish are known for their high level of activity, constantly darting and swimming around their chosen area. They exhibit curious behavior, investigating their surroundings. While they may appear small in size, their bold personalities and striking colors make them a prominent presence on the reef.
Blue Hippo Tang
The Blue Hippo Tang is a breathtakingly beautiful fish that captivates with its vibrant colors and distinctive body shape. Popularized by the animated film “Finding Nemo,” where it was affectionately named “Dory,” this species has become an iconic representation of tropical marine life.
With their iconic appearance and friendly disposition, Blue Hippo Tangs have become highly sought-after additions to both public and private aquariums. Their presence brings a touch of tropical splendor to any aquatic display, allowing enthusiasts to appreciate the beauty of the ocean from the comfort of their own homes.
Achilles Tang
The Achilles Tang is a truly mesmerizing fish that stands out with its vibrant coloration and graceful presence. Named after the legendary Greek warrior Achilles, this species showcases a remarkable blend of bold colors and intricate patterns, making it a prized addition to marine aquariums.
The Achilles Tang is known for its active nature and constant exploration of its surroundings. It is a curious and social fish that interacts with other species in a peaceful manner. Due to its exquisite beauty and captivating presence, the Achilles Tang is highly prized among aquarium enthusiasts. The Achilles Tang is a stunning centerpiece, adding a touch of elegance and vibrancy to any marine aquarium display.
Yurple Tang
This Purple X Yellow Tang hybrid is one out of only 12 successfully captive bred hybrids from Bali Aquarich. Never seen as an adult, it will be exciting to see how this extremely rare hybrid will look as it continues to mature. Already eating a variety of frozen foods and swimming actively, this rare fish is already proving to be a hardy specimen.
Bartletts Anthias
The Bartletts Anthias is a captivating and vibrant reef fish that enchants with its vivid colors and graceful swimming behavior. This species is highly sought after by aquarium enthusiasts due to its striking appearance and active nature.
Due to their vibrant colors, graceful appearance, and active nature, Bartletts Anthias are highly sought after for marine aquariums. Their presence adds a touch of beauty and liveliness to any reef display, making them a prized addition for aquarists who appreciate the wonders of the underwater world.
Leopard Wrasse
The Leopard Wrasse is a mesmerizing and intricately patterned fish that enchants with its unique and eye-catching appearance. This species showcases a remarkable blend of colors and markings that resemble the intricate spots of a leopard.
Leopard Wrasses are active swimmers, constantly exploring their surroundings. They are known for their ability to bury themselves in the sandy substrate for protection and as a means of hiding from potential predators. Due to their stunning appearance and interesting behavior, Leopard Wrasses are a coveted addition to marine aquariums. With proper care and a suitable environment, the Leopard Wrasse brings a touch of elegance and natural beauty to any aquatic display.
Helfrichi Firefish
The Helfrichi Firefish is a captivating and vibrant species of reef fish that dazzles with its brilliant colors and intriguing behavior. This fish is highly regarded for its stunning appearance and captivating presence in the marine world.
Due to its stunning appearance and intriguing behavior, the Helfrichi Firefish is highly sought after for marine aquariums. With the right care and environment, the Helfrichi Firefish becomes a captivating centerpiece, adding a splash of vibrant color and a touch of elegance to any reef display.
Mandarin Goby
The Mandarin Goby is a captivating and vibrant fish that captivates with its dazzling colors and intricate patterns. Also referred to as the Mandarin Dragonet or simply Mandarin Fish, this species is renowned for its mesmerizing appearance and unique swimming style.
The Mandarin Goby showcases a kaleidoscope of colors that make it one of the most visually stunning fish in the marine world. Its body is adorned with a vibrant combination of electric blue, orange, green, and yellow hues, creating a dazzling mosaic of patterns and stripes. These colors are arranged in a captivating and intricate manner, making each individual Mandarin Goby a unique work of art.
Blue Spot Jawfish
The Blue Spot Jawfish is a captivating and unique fish that catches the eye with its distinctive appearance and fascinating behavior. This species showcases a beautiful combination of colors and a fascinating nesting behavior that sets it apart from other marine fish.
One of the most remarkable characteristics of the Blue Spot Jawfish is its behavior. These fish are renowned for their unique nesting habits, with the male’s excavating burrows in the sand or substrate to create their homes. They spend a significant amount of time maintaining and guarding their nests, using their mouths to carry and rearrange sand and debris. This fascinating behavior adds an additional layer of interest and intrigue to the Blue Spot Jawfish.
Dragon Face Pipefish
The Dragon Face Pipefish is a fascinating and captivating species that belongs to the family Syngnathidae, which includes seahorses and pipefish. As its name suggests, the Dragon Face Pipefish has a distinctive head shape that resembles the mythical dragon. This unique fish enchants with its elongated body and intricate features, resembling a mythical creature from a fantasy realm.
Dragon Face Pipefish are generally peaceful and prefer to stay hidden among seagrass or other forms of vegetation, where they can blend in with their surroundings. They have a slow and deliberate swimming style, often moving in a vertical position, relying on their pectoral fins for stability and control.
The Corals
The corals in Reef Aquariums are chosen for a variety of colors and movement. Some corals have more vivid coloration, others sway and move more in the current, and others do both well! Soft corals are known for their interesting and soothing movements and react dynamically to water flow. Large poly stony corals have a hard calcium base, but their large polyps also flow more readily in the current and have a nice variety of coloration. Small polyp stony corals are known to have the most vivid colors, but do not sway in the current. All of these corals are photosynthetic and need strong lights to thrive and grow. They pull nutrients and minerals from the water column as well, so these levels must be maintained precisely in this closed aquarium system.
Rock Flower Anemones
Rock flower anemones are captivating and vibrant invertebrates that belong to the cnidarian family. These beautiful creatures are commonly found in the marine hobbyist’s aquariums, where they bring a splash of color and life to the underwater landscape.
One of the most captivating aspects of rock flower anemones is their vivid coloration. They exhibit a wide range of hues, including vibrant reds, oranges, pinks, purples, greens, and blues. These colors can be solid, striped, mottled, or even fluorescent, making them a sight to behold in the aquarium. The vibrant hues are the result of pigments present in their tissues, which are responsible for their dazzling display.
Torch Coral
Torch corals are a popular and visually stunning species of coral found in the ocean’s reefs. They belong to the family Euphylliidae and are commonly sought after by reef enthusiasts for their unique appearance and fascinating behavior.
The coloration of torch corals is highly variable and can range from vibrant shades of green, brown, and tan to more exotic hues such as pink, purple, blue, or even a mix of multiple colors. Additionally, some specimens display striking fluorescent pigments under certain lighting conditions, further enhancing their visual appeal. Their beauty, combined with their relatively manageable care requirements, make torch corals a popular choice among coral enthusiasts seeking to create a stunning and thriving reef ecosystem.
Hammer Coral
Hammer corals are a captivating and popular species of coral found in coral reefs around the world. Hammer corals are sought after by reef hobbyists for their unique appearance, striking coloration, and mesmerizing swaying tentacles.
Hammer corals come in a variety of vibrant colors, ranging from shades of green, brown, and tan to more intense and striking hues of pink, purple, blue, or even fluorescent colors. Their polyps may have a contrasting color to the underlying coral tissue, adding further visual interest. These vibrant colors can vary among different specimens and may be influenced by lighting conditions and the presence of symbiotic algae called zooxanthellae. Their unique skeletal structure, vibrant coloration, and enchanting nocturnal behavior make them a highly desired coral species among reef enthusiasts, enhancing the beauty and diversity of the underwater ecosystem.
Mushroom Coral
Mushroom corals are highly sought after by marine enthusiasts for their stunning colors, unique shapes, and ease of care. One of the most striking features of mushroom corals is their vibrant and diverse coloration. They can be found in an array of colors, including shades of green, brown, blue, purple, orange, red, and even fluorescent hues. Some species exhibit intricate patterns, spots, or streaks, further adding to their visual appeal. The coloration is due to pigments within their tissues and can vary depending on lighting conditions, water quality, and the presence of symbiotic algae.
Their distinctive mushroom-like appearance, vibrant coloration, and adaptability make them a popular choice among coral enthusiasts. With proper care, mushroom corals can thrive and provide an enchanting display of natural beauty in the underwater environment.
Red Planet Acropora
Red Planet Acroporas are a captivating and highly sought-after species of stony corals found in coral reefs around the world. They belong to the family Acroporidae and are renowned for their striking red coloration and intricate growth patterns. Red Planet Acroporas have a distinctive branching or plate-like growth form, characterized by thin, delicate branches or plates that extend from a central base. The branches are covered in small, closely spaced polyps, each housing a tiny coral animal. These polyps, when fully extended, give the coral a fuzzy appearance and contribute to its overall visual appeal.
Their intense red coloration and unique branching or plate-like structures create a focal point in the aquarium, adding vibrancy and visual interest to the underwater environment. Proper care and suitable aquarium conditions allow these corals to thrive, showcasing their remarkable beauty and contributing to the overall splendor of a reef ecosystem.
Chalice
Chalice corals are a stunning and highly coveted group of stony corals found in coral reefs. They belong to the family Euphylliidae and are admired for their intricate skeletal structure, vibrant colors, and unique patterns. One of the most captivating aspects of chalice corals is their remarkable coloration. They come in a wide range of vivid hues, including shades of green, purple, blue, orange, red, and even multi-colored combinations. Some chalice corals display eye-catching fluorescent pigments under certain lighting conditions, adding an extra element of brilliance to their appearance.
Their vibrant colors, fascinating textures, and relative ease of care have made them highly desirable among coral enthusiasts. With proper care and suitable aquarium conditions, chalice corals can flourish, adding a touch of natural beauty and complexity to the underwater environment.
Acan
Acan corals are a captivating and highly sought-after group of stony corals found in coral reefs and marine aquariums. They belong to the family Mussidae and are admired for their vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and unique skeletal structure. The coloration of Acan corals is one of their most remarkable features. They exhibit an extensive range of vivid colors, including shades of green, blue, red, orange, pink, and purple. These colors can be solid or variegated, and some individuals may even display fluorescent pigments, which are particularly striking under certain lighting conditions. The vibrant colors of Acan corals make them a focal point in any reef aquarium.
Acan corals are highly valued for their beauty and unique characteristics. Their vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and relative ease of care have made them popular among reef enthusiasts. With proper care and suitable aquarium conditions, Acan corals can thrive, bringing a splash of color and a touch of natural artistry to the underwater environment.
Zoanthids
Zoanthid corals, commonly known as zoas or zoanthids, are a diverse and captivating group of soft corals found in marine environments worldwide. They are known for their bright colors, unique polyp formations, and fascinating behavior. Zoanthids typically form colonies composed of multiple individual polyps. One of the most remarkable aspects of zoanthids is their ability to form striking patterns and arrangements within a colony. The polyps can be tightly packed together, creating a dense mat-like appearance, or they may be more spread out, allowing for greater individual visibility.
With their vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and mesmerizing behavior, zoanthid corals have become popular additions to marine aquariums. Their relative ease of care and adaptability make them suitable for both beginner and experienced hobbyists. By providing them with appropriate lighting, water conditions, and occasional supplemental feedings, zoanthids can thrive and bring a splash of color and life to the underwater world.
Fungia
Fungia corals are a captivating group of solitary corals. They are commonly found in tropical and subtropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region, and they are highly valued for their unique shape, vibrant colors, and intriguing behavior. One of the most captivating aspects of Fungia corals is their remarkable coloration. They can exhibit a stunning range of colors, including shades of green, brown, blue, purple, pink, orange, and even fluorescent hues.
Their disc-like appearance, vibrant colors, and ability to change shape make them visually appealing and fascinating to observe. With proper care and suitable aquarium conditions, Fungia corals can thrive, providing a beautiful and dynamic centerpiece to the underwater environment.
Favia
Favia corals are a mesmerizing group of stony corals found in tropical and subtropical marine environments. They are cherished for their unique and intricate skeletal structures, stunning colors, and captivating patterns. Favia corals typically form large, rounded or hemispherical colonies composed of numerous individual polyps.
Favia corals are known for their vibrant colors, adding visual interest to any reef or aquarium setting. They can exhibit a wide range of colors, including shades of green, brown, gray, pink, orange, and even fluorescent hues. Some species display contrasting colors between the ridges and the valleys, enhancing the intricate pattern. The colors of Favia corals can vary among individuals and can be influenced by lighting, water quality, and the presence of symbiotic zooxanthellae algae.
Cynarina
Cynarina corals are a captivating group of large polyp stony corals (LPS) found in the tropical and subtropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region. They are highly valued for their unique appearance, large fleshy polyps, and vibrant colors.
Cynarina corals are prized for their unique appearance, large fleshy polyps, and vibrant colors, making them an attractive addition to reef aquariums. With proper care and suitable aquarium conditions, Cynarina corals can thrive, becoming a focal point in the underwater environment and adding a touch of natural beauty and elegance to any setting.
Euphyllia
Euphyllia corals, commonly known as torch corals, frogspawn, or hammer corals, are a mesmerizing group of large polyp stony corals (LPS) found in the tropical reefs of the Indo-Pacific region. They are highly valued for their striking appearance, graceful tentacles, and vibrant colors.
One of the most captivating features of Euphyllia corals is their mesmerizing tentacle movement. These corals have the ability to extend their tentacles during the day, creating a beautiful display that sways with the water currents. The tentacles can be translucent or translucent with vibrant colors, adding to their visual appeal. They often exhibit a rhythmic pulsing motion, which is both mesmerizing and functional, as it helps to facilitate water flow and nutrient uptake. Their captivating appearance and swaying movements make them a focal point in reef aquariums.
The Invertebrates
Invertebrates like shrimp, anemones, and starfish add a lot of color and interest to the reef aquarium, as do the janitors. The term “reef janitor” refers to a compilation of different kinds of crustaceans and invertebrates that act as nature’s little helpers by performing various cleaning tasks. Some are strictly algae eaters, others eat algae and consume detritus and debris off the ocean floor, while others are sand sifters. These invertebrates are a simple way to maintain a clean and tidy saltwater aquarium.
Babylonia Snail
The Babylonia Snail is a stunning and fascinating marine snail that captures attention with its beautiful spiral shell and intriguing behavior. This species possesses unique characteristics that make it a popular addition to marine aquariums. The shell showcases distinct ridges and whorls, creating an aesthetically pleasing and visually striking appearance. The overall shape of the shell resembles a spindle or a small tower, which adds to its allure.
The Babylonia Snail is known for its scavenging behavior, primarily feeding on decaying organic matter, detritus, and leftover food in the aquarium. This makes them beneficial for maintaining water quality by aiding in the breakdown of organic waste.
Halloween Hermit Crab
The Halloween Hermit Crab is a captivating and sought-after species of hermit crab that entrances with its vibrant colors and peculiar shell choices. This species displays distinctive features that make it a favorite among marine aquarium enthusiasts.
The Halloween Hermit Crab exhibits a striking coloration that is reminiscent of the Halloween season, hence its common name. Its contrasting colors create a visually stunning display, making the Halloween Hermit Crab an eye-catching addition to any aquarium. It is known for its scavenging behavior, primarily feeding on decaying organic matter, detritus, and leftover food in the aquarium.
Sally Lightfoot Crab
The Sally Lightfoot Crab — a striking and agile crab species that dazzles with its vibrant colors and nimble movements. The Sally Lightfoot Crab is known for its unique appearance and remarkable adaptability.
Due to its captivating appearance, interesting behavior, and suitability for marine aquariums, the Sally Lightfoot Crab is a popular choice among enthusiasts. Overall, the Sally Lightfoot Crab is a fascinating and visually stunning creature that adds a burst of color and energy to the coastal habitats it calls home. Its agility, adaptability, and vibrant presence make it a true marvel of the marine world.
Sexy Shrimp
The Sexy Shrimp is a captivating and charming species that attracts with its small size, vibrant colors, and peculiar behavior. This unique shrimp species, also referred to as the Dancing Shrimp or Anemone Shrimp, adds a touch of elegance and allure to marine aquariums.
The behavior of the Sexy Shrimp is what truly sets it apart. It exhibits a peculiar and mesmerizing dance-like behavior, hence its common name. The shrimp constantly moves its antennae in a rhythmic fashion, seemingly swaying and twirling, which gives the impression of a delicate dance. This captivating behavior adds an extra element of charm to this already enchanting species.
Pom Pom Crab
The Pom Pom Crab is a small and intriguing species that captures attention with its distinctive appearance and fascinating behavior. This crab species exhibits unique adaptations that make it a standout creature in marine aquariums.
One of the most intriguing aspects of the Pom Pom Crab is its unique behavior. It meticulously maintains the anemones on its claws, often using them to sweep the surrounding area for food particles. The crab can be observed waving its claws and maneuvering the anemones with precision and dexterity, creating a captivating spectacle in the aquarium.
Maxima Clam
The Maxima Clam is a magnificent and highly sought-after species that captivates with its vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and impressive size. This stunning bivalve mollusk is renowned for its beauty and its important role in reef ecosystems.
The Maxima Clam showcases an extraordinary array of colors, ranging from shades of blue, green, brown, and sometimes even purple. Its mantle—the soft tissue that covers the shell—exhibits intricate patterns, including vibrant stripes, spots, and iridescent hues. The combination of these striking colors and patterns creates a visually stunning display that can enhance the aesthetics of any marine aquarium.
Blood Shrimp
The Blood Red Fire Shrimp, scientifically known as Lysmata debelius, is a stunning and eye-catching crustacean that adds a vibrant burst of color to marine aquariums. This species, also referred to as the Scarlet Cleaner Shrimp, captivates with its vivid red coloration and fascinating behavior.
Due to its striking coloration, engaging behavior, and useful cleaning services, the Blood Red Fire Shrimp is a popular choice for marine aquariums. It brings a vibrant touch of red and a sense of activity to the aquarium, creating an alluring display and promoting a healthy environment for its tankmates. With proper care and attention, the Blood Red Fire Shrimp becomes a captivating and beneficial addition to any marine aquarium, captivating both seasoned hobbyists and newcomers alike.
Coral Banded Shrimp
The Coral Banded Shrimp is a fascinating and visually striking crustacean that adds a touch of elegance and activity to marine aquariums. Known for its vibrant coloration and unique body shape, this shrimp species is a popular choice among aquarists.
Due to its stunning coloration, intriguing behavior, and relative ease of care, the Coral Banded Shrimp is a popular addition to marine aquariums. It adds a touch of vibrancy and activity to the underwater environment, becoming a captivating centerpiece or a delightful addition to a thriving reef community. With proper attention to its specific needs and compatibility considerations, the Coral Banded Shrimp becomes a prized inhabitant of any marine aquarium, captivating both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers to the hobby.
Squat Lobster
The Squat Lobster is a fascinating and unique crustacean that captures attention with its unusual appearance and intriguing behavior. Despite its name, the Squat Lobster is not a true lobster but rather belongs to a distinct family within the order Decapoda.
With its unique appearance and intriguing behavior, the Squat Lobster adds an element of curiosity and diversity to marine aquariums. Its ability to adapt to various habitats and its captivating presence make it a sought-after addition for enthusiasts looking to create a visually interesting and dynamic underwater ecosystem. With proper care, the Squat Lobster becomes a fascinating and engaging resident, offering a glimpse into the intriguing world of crustaceans.
Linckia Starfish
The Linckia Starfish is a stunning and mesmerizing creature that enchants with its graceful movements and vibrant colors. Also referred to as the Blue or Red Linckia Starfish, it is a popular choice for marine aquarium enthusiasts due to its beauty and intriguing behavior.
The coloration of the Linckia Starfish is its most captivating feature, with shades ranging from vibrant blue and purple to variations of red, orange, and even brown. The intensity of the coloration can vary depending on the species and the region from which it originates. The Linckia Starfish is an enchanting addition to marine aquariums, adding a touch of elegance and vibrancy to the underwater environment.
Black Sea Cucumber
The Black Sea Cucumber is a fascinating and unique marine invertebrate that adds an intriguing presence to reef aquariums. Also referred to as the Black Sea Slug or Black Holothurian, it stands out with its elongated and cylindrical body, which resembles a cucumber or slug-like shape.
The Black Sea Cucumber has a fascinating method of locomotion, as it moves by contracting and expanding its body using muscular contractions. It uses rows of tiny tube feet on the underside of its body to slowly crawl along the substrate or move through the water. This rhythmic motion creates a mesmerizing spectacle as it glides along, contributing to the dynamic nature of the aquarium.
Red Coco Worm
The Red Coco Worm is a remarkable and visually striking marine invertebrate that adds a burst of vibrant color and elegance to reef aquariums. Also referred to as the Christmas Tree Worm, it captivates with its unique appearance and intricate feeding behavior.
The Red Coco Worm is cherished for its striking beauty and delicate presence in reef aquariums. Its colorful plumes and mesmerizing feeding behavior make it a focal point of admiration and a captivating addition to any underwater display. With proper care and attention to its specific needs, the Red Coco Worm becomes a cherished resident, infusing the aquarium with a touch of natural wonder and elegance.