微信扫一扫
Ornamental goldfish keeping gained popularity in China because of Song's forced southward migration by Jurchen's invasion. Crude Carassius were domesticated and cultivated, where a niche built on creative and empirical experiment burgeoned and passed down. The most valuable skill I got from fishkeeping was a habit of consistent acquisition of new skills. For example, I learned to regularly test the pH value, ammonia and chlorine concentration, and the oxygen level to maintain balance of the water ecosystem. The deeper I delve into the professional side of this trade, the more I realize its complexity. The math, chemistry, life sciences, and environmental sciences in it, all demand serious knowledge and can sometimes be stressful.
Nevertheless, my joys were genuine when it came to paying attention to scientific details, as well as continuous learning and exploring. Old library books preserved very few helpful information on contemporary fishkeeping. Therefore, I resorted to more up-to-date sources such as online forums and interest groups, which became crucial instruments in not only my fishkeeping business but many other endeavors. I discovered practical solutions to various problems, such as lesser-known folk prescriptions for fish diseases. “What millions died that Caesar might be great!” Neither the store owner nor I anticipated the number and volume of repurchases since that first visit. Through trial and errors, along which I buried over a few dozen test subjects, I mourned the departed who sacrificed their lives to introduce me to the lessons of scientific parenting. The regret was that fish could never complain or grimace like people do, counteracting the delights of welcoming new ones whenever I thought of the old.
Above all that, the most joyful inspiration came from breeding the paradise fish. This is a more complex process, filled with infinite possibilities governed by genetics. At its simplest, the color of a fighting fish determines its value. While some colors come through multiple generations of controlled breeding, others may come by mutation. The diversity of colors reflects the magnificence of genetic inheritance and the ingenuity of craftmanship, which should not be attached to monetary values. My experiments, successful or not, yielded new generations of fish and research methodologies to be added to my armory. Just as in my fish tank, where each species has been bred with unique characteristics and formed a diverse ecosystem, I believe that I, too, can become a lively fish in the tank of society.
The simple truth of zero or infinity, equating none or maximum efforts made, has enlightened me to rationality and reasonings. In pursuing my hobbies, I often cross paths with countless opportunities that lead to splendors once seized. Whether simply contemplating my beautiful aquarium or pondering the science, I must always be observant, determined, and respectful for life. Fishkeeping taught me how to be an active learner and independent problem solver, qualities that would benefit my future endeavors. Such wisdoms will stay with me for the rest of my life, playing a role in extracurricular engagements and academic and professional pursuits. Whatever path I tread, whether as challenging or backbreaking as fish farming, I shall find endless fun and inspiration.
