Line, or variety, of a species, with particular characteristics of shape or color and developed in aquarium.
In the field of aquarophilia, the term "strain" can have several meanings.
First of all, it can designate a population of fish of the same species which comes from the same place and which has been kept in captivity for several generations. These fish often share common characteristics, such as color, shape or size, and are considered to be more "pure" than fish from different strains.
The term "strain" can also designate an aquatic plant, such as foam or anubias, which is cultivated from a piece of root or a sheet. In this case, the strain is maintained in the aquarium until it has produced new leaves and new roots, then it is cut into several pieces which can be planted separately in the aquarium.
Finally, the term "strain" can also be used to designate a group of bacteria or microorganisms that are used in an aquarium to maintain biological balance. These strains can be added to the aquarium when it is used to help establish biological filtration, or they can be used to maintain water quality in the event of an ecosystem disturbance.
In summary, the term "strain" can be used to designate a population of fish, an aquatic plant or a group of bacteria which are kept in captivity and which share common characteristics.