Owning a fish tank is a commitment. Maintaining healthy aquarium water requires patience, time and money.
Choose the size of your aquarium as well as the extent to which you plan to include plants. Certain species require a certain temperature.
Set your aquarium on a stand or table that is strong enough to support its entire weight and conceal equipment. It should be placed away from direct sunlight in order to avoid excessive algae growth. This will also keep the water warm.
Beginner Aquarium Guide
Anyone can enjoy a freshwater aquarium no matter their age. Additionally, they can be easier to maintain as opposed to saltwater tanks. They can be a great first step before moving on to an additional saltwater setup. For beginners, it is important to research the size of fishes and tanks prior to purchasing them to avoid getting one that is too big or that won’t survive in their tank.
The largest tank that you are able to afford is the ideal place to start. It is essential to take into consideration the size of the tank as it will affect the fish and the ecosystem. You must also study the fish you are considering to make sure they are suitable for the size of your tank and will not cause harm to each other or the ecosystem.
Buy a filter that is suitable for be ca thuy sinh dep aquarium, as well as an aquarium heater that can heat the water to a suitable temperature. If you use tap water, you should consider purchasing an RO filter to eliminate chlorine and other toxic substances which are harmful to fish.
Your tank should be placed in a protected space that is not damaged or destroyed by pets. Place the aquarium on a sturdy stand that can support its weight once it is filled with water. For instance an aquarium that is 55 gallons can weigh more than 500 pounds when filled with water, so ensure that the flooring can handle this.
Aquarium Equipment Checklist
Be aware of your options before deciding on a freshwater tank for your home. Freshwater aquariums are investments for the long term and must be taken care of as like. Much like a cat, or dog, the tank will consume much of time and cash.
Besides the standard filter, you will also need test kits for water tests (ammonia and nitrite), a siphon for draining and filling the tank, as well as a cleaning brush and a clean cloth to clean the tank sides and gravel. When you perform regular water changes, you’ll require a container of water for transporting the tank. Other useful tools that can make your life easier are an algae scraper, a hose for recirculating the tank water and a bucket for transporting the fish while you make water changes.
A stand and gravel or sand may be required. A majority of the in-one tanks start with some gravel, but you should buy more as your tank gets bigger. Choose a gravel that looks like river rock, not the neon-colored types that are sold at pet/fish stores.
A heater is a must for maintaining a constant temperature of the water, in case your all-in-one starter tank isn’t equipped with an electric heater, you could utilize a traditional type heater or a Smartheater. Thermometers are also required for monitoring the temperature of water.
How to cycle a freshwater tank
Buy a freshwater test kit in case you haven’t already (you will find a link in the checklist above). This will help you maintain the water quality of your tank at a high level and detect problems early. Most importantly, it will notify you when your tank is running! The process of cycling involves creating important nitrifying bacteria that transform harmful wastes from fish (ammonia) into nitrite then nitrate which are safe for your fish. It generally takes between four and six weeks, however certain foods or treatments may speed up the process.
Fill your cycling tank with clean water that has been dechlorinated. Then, put in gravel or sand as your substrate (gravel works best for bottom-feeders like khuli Lachs). Install the filter, and connect the airpump and heater. Vacuum your substrate regularly to get rid of the waste of fish and food items that can contaminate your water (vacuuming has no negative effects on the cycle). Examine your tank for levels of ammonia and nitrites every day to see the rate at which the bacteria colonies are developing.
Fish can be added when ammonia levels are at or at or near zero. Non-fancy guppies are an excellent option for freshwater tanks. If you’d like speed up the cycle you can add nonfancy tetras, such as x-ray tetras, pupfish, or banded gouramis.
How to maintain an aquarium
A freshwater aquarium is easy to maintain once established. Each week, wipe down the outside glass and inside surfaces of the tank with a non-ammonia aquarium-safe cleanser, lightly shake or scrape plants (live or fake) to dislodge debris and perform a partial water change. Weekly water tests help maintain the ammonia levels and nitrites in check. A tank that is not fully stocked requires cleaning and water changed less often, however it will depend on the size of the aquarium.
Do not place the tank close to a window or door. Full sunlight will promote algae growth and create stress to certain species of freshwater fish. Likewise, it’s best not to put the aquarium in proximity to a heater or air conditioner and rapid fluctuations in temperature could stress fish and can even kill them.
It’s a good idea to buy a specific aquarium bucket and label it for use with a freshwater aquarium; this can help avoid accidental contamination with other items. Keep a siphon hose, water conditioner and an algae scrubber in your arsenal. A sponge cleaning product, small scissors and a water conditioner are also important tools for maintenance.
If you’re performing a water changing make sure to use a gentle touch when introducing the new water. Agitating or stirring the substrate can alter the beneficial bacteria which live within it. It is also recommended that you wash new gravel using aquarium water before adding to the tank.