Archive for the ‘Fresh Water Aquariums’ Category
Freshwater fish are said to be the easiest fish to keep compared to saltwater species because they are known to be hardier fish. A basic freshwater aquarium set up will be required . You will need a fish tank, some rocks or sand or gravel to line bottom of the tank. You will also need a filter, and some lighting.
When choosing fish, it is imperative to ensure the fish get on together. Not only do they need to be compatible for PH levels and the temperature of the water, but they need to have similar food requirement. Preferably keep the fish relatively the same size. A well know saying is that if a fish is small enough to fit in anothers mouth, that is generally where it ends up.
So don’t be demoralized if this happens. Even fish that have been collectively intoduced for a period of time have been known to go missing sometimes. It is a good practice when fish keeping to keep a diary of effents so you know exactly that has happened in your fish tank.
Feeding two times a day is important for freshwater fish. Feed only a small amount that they can eat inside the first two to five minutes. Feeding to much is a common mistake among beginner fish keepers. Any over abundance food should be lifted from the tank with a net if possible, as it will become debris and after not to long dirty the tank.
Your freshwater aquarium water should be kept regulated and tested weekly. Any discrepancies in P.H. and water temperature should be made good as soon as possibe in order to reduce stress caused to the fish. Stress is significant because it causes sickness in fish. It is imperative to keep a check on the activity and overall well being of the fish in an aquarium.
Change about a third of the water in the aquarium on a regular basis, because changing this level of water will create the least amount of disturbance to the fish and other inhabitants. This will need to be done every two to three weeks. Use either a bucket or a siphon to remove the water from the aquarium .
Try to remove as much loose or floating debris at this time. When replacing the new water to the aquarium, make sure that the temperature is within approximately two degrees of the tank water. The sides of the aquarium should be scrubbed regularly to remove an algae build up. Again be careful not to upset the fish.
Wash your hands very well before and after handling the aquarium. Finally, keep to the manufacturer’s recommendation on filters and change them as required . Filters collect any fish waste or left over food, they can’t work properly unless they are clean.
How to Keep Fish when setting up an aquarium introduce hardy fish to a new tank. Choose freshwater aquarium fish such as danios, barbs & gouramis. These fish are ideal for aquariums, they can withstand higher nitrite levels that are often present in a new aquarium. Do not be tempted to introduce more than three to four small fish per week. The time needed to acclimate is different for every kind of fish, so check with your retail merchant before adding any other new fish to your freshwater aquarium.
