Sticklebacks

Sticklebacks

Gasterosteus aculeatus
( Threespine, right )

Apeltes quadracus
( Fourspine, below )

Size:
to 4" (threespine)
to 2" (fourspine)

Sticklebacks

Habitat:
Weedy shore waters, occasionally at sea or even in freshwater.

Notes:
Sticklebacks are related to Pipefish and Seahorses. Three- and four-spined varieties are common in our area. A Ninespine variety is also possible.

Sticklebacks
Male Threespine Stickleback in breeding colors

Here are some dimensions and specifications for scuba cylinders. This is by no means an exhaustive list. These numbers should be taken as approximate since equivalent tanks from different manufacturers will differ slightly. The two most common models - the Catalina aluminum 80 and Luxfer aluminum 80 - are highlighted, along with my favorite, the OMS LP steel 85.

  • Weight, full - this is what you will have to be able to lift, in and out of your car, around the dock, and up the boat ladder with all your other gear. Times two for doubles.
  • Weight, empty - this is pretty much irrelevant
  • Buoyancy, empty - this is what you need to weight yourself for, so that you can do a safe free stop at 20 feet at the end of your dive
  • Buoyancy, full - this is what your BC needs to be able to support when you jump in the water, otherwise you are a "dirt dart" heading straight for the bottom and disaster

Printed from njscuba.net