As long as the fish are cleanly hooked in the mouth, they suffer no ill effects and are feeding by the first or second day. The shed is equipped with a thermostatically controlled exhaust fan to prevent heat buildups. The average summer temperature of the aquarium water was about 80 o F with a pH of 7.0. Anacharis grows wild in the waters where I caught the sunfish. The tank is enclosed in a plywood box with removable lid insulated with styrofoam.
Minimal heating is provided, using a voltage regulator connected to heat tape.
The heat given off by the heat tape warms the air space. This warm air is pumped into the tank by the air pump and effectively prevents freezing or major temperature drops. The heat is manually controlled and used only when excessively cold. I am trying to recreate their natural environment, and minimal feedings in the winter is part of it. The mummichogs, grass shrimp, and Atlantic Silversides were caught with a minnow trap and net while vacationing at the beach.