Owning a fish tank is an obligation. It takes time, money and perseverance to keep healthy aquarium water.
Choose the dimensions of your aquarium and the extent to which you plan to add plants. Some species require a specific temperature.
Place the aquarium on an aquarium stand or table strong enough to hold its weight. This will also hide any equipment. It is best to keep it far from direct sunlight in order to avoid excessive algae growth. It will also help keep the temperature of the water warm.
Beginner Aquarium Guide
Freshwater aquariums are an enjoyable pastime for anyone, regardless of age. They are also prone to needing less care than a saltwater tank. They are a good first step before moving on to bigger saltwater aquariums. But, novices should take the time to research size requirements for tanks in order to avoid taking home an animal that is too large or won’t be able to thrive in the aquarium.
Begin with the biggest tank you can afford to purchase. It is crucial to consider the tank size because it could impact your ecosystem as well as your fish. Study the fish you want to keep and make sure that they are suitable for your tank.
Buy a filter that is suitable for your aquarium, and a heater that will warm the water to the proper temperature. If you are using tap water, it is recommended to purchase an RO filter to remove the chlorine as well as other toxins that can harm fish.
Install your tank in a secure area where it is unlikely to be knocked over or damaged by pets. It’s important to set the aquarium up on a stand that is going to be able to support the weight once it is filled with water. For instance an aquarium that is 55 gallons is more than 500 pounds when filled with water so make sure the flooring is able to handle this.
Aquarium Equipment Checklist
Take your time before deciding on a freshwater be nuoi ca tank to your home. Freshwater aquariums are long-term investments and should be considered as like. The tank will consume a lot your time and money as a dog or cat.
In addition to the standard filter, you’ll also require test kits for water tests (ammonia and Nitrite) and a siphon for emptying and refilling the tank, and a cleaning brush and a cloth to wash the tank’s edges and gravel. When performing regular water changes, you’ll need to use a container of water to transport the tank. Other tools can make life easier, for example, an algae scraper or hose to recirculate the water in the tank. You will also need an appropriate bucket to transport the fish when you change water.
You’ll also want to get an aquarium stand as well as some sand or gravel. The majority of in-one starter tanks come with a few pounds of gravel, but you should purchase additional gravel as the tank gets bigger. You should choose the natural river-like gravel over the bright neon colored types commonly sold at fish and pet stores.
If the tank you are using as a starter doesn’t include a heater, you can choose to use an Smartheater or traditional heater. It is crucial to utilize thermometers in order to keep track of the temperature of your water.
The process of cycling a freshwater tank
If you haven’t yet taken the time to do so, purchase an aquarium test kit for freshwater (there is a link on the above checklist). This will help you ensure that your tank’s water quality is in good shape and help you spot issues before they become serious. It also lets you know when your tank is cycling. It is the process through which beneficial bacteria grow which converts harmful wastes from fish into nitrite, the nitrate, and finally the Nitrate. This is safe for your fish. It usually takes between 4 and 6 weeks, however certain foods or treatments may speed up the process.
Your cycling tank should be filled with clean water that has been dechlorinated. Then, place either gravel or sand for the substrate (gravel works best for bottom-feeders such as khuli lachs). Install the filter, and connect the heater and airpump. Vacuum your substrate often to remove food and fish waste that can cause water contamination. (Vacuuming is not a cause for concern and does not cause any harm to the process of cycling). Check your tank every day for ammonia and nitrite levels to check how the bacterial colony is progressing.
You can start adding fish once ammonia levels are low or at or near zero. Non-fancy guppies are an excellent choice for a freshwater tank. If you’d like to accelerate the process you can add nonfancy tetras, like x-ray tetras pupfish, or banded gouramis.
How to maintain an aquarium
A freshwater aquarium is easy to maintain once established. Each two weeks, wipe off the glass surfaces and the interior of the aquarium with an ammonia-free aquarium cleaner. Gently shake or scrape the plants (whether they’re living or artificial) to get rid of debris. Weekly water tests help maintain the ammonia levels and nitrites in check. The size of your tank will determine how often you need to change the water and wash an aquarium that is not fully stocked.
Do not place the tank near a window or outside door. Full sunlight will encourage algae growth and cause stress to certain species of freshwater fish. It is also recommended to not place the aquarium close to an air heater or air conditioner. Extreme temperature fluctuations can stress fish, and can cause them to die.
You should purchase an aquarium bucket that is specifically designed specifically for freshwater aquariums. This will prevent contamination from other materials. Keep a siphon hose as well as a water conditioner and an algae scrubber in your arsenal. Also, a sponge cleaning product as well as a pair of tiny scissors for trimming live plants are great additions to the maintenance tools.
It is recommended to add water gently when performing a water exchange. The act of stirring or agitating the substratum can alter the beneficial bacteria within. In addition, it is suggested to wash the new gravel in aquarium water before placing it in the tank.