Fresh Water Aquariums For Beginners

Preface: The fish keeping series presented here is meant to be of assistance to the starting aquarist. Advanced aquarist have varying needs that can not be covered here. There are however, some articles that will be presented that will be of interest to all hobbyist.

Section 1, Tank size and location

When selecting a tank always pick the largest tank that you can afford for the space you want it to occupy. Larger bodies of water are more conducive to appearance and fish health. If your purchase is for a small child you may wish to start off with a smaller tank until you are sure the child enjoys and wishes to keep fish.

Basically there are three types of tanks; long and low: these tanks offer the fish the most swimming area, high tanks are much more showy and easy to decorate. The other type are the unique shapes and sizes such as a hexagon or corner tank. These tanks lend themselves to particular areas you may wish to place the tank.

Always provide a safe, secure, and level surface to place the tank such as an aquarium stand.

Place the tank in an area that lends itself to easy viewing and servicing. Do not place it near a window or where it will receive direct sunlight. Do not place it in an area where there are sharp temperature changes.

Section 2, Filters, heaters, and air pumps

Even though you may have picked out your tank by yourself, now is the time to get the help of an experienced customer service person to help with the selection of the proper equipment for your tank. The proper equipment will assure better fish health and less maintenance. A basic rule of thumb is to never buy what you can just get by with, always buy up rather than down, you will appreciate your selections the longer you have your tank.

Choose a filter appropriate for your tank. Filters that have both mechanical (remove dirt) and biological action (water quality) are usually best. Your heater should be appropriate for the size of your tank and the temperature of the area you wish the tank to occupy. Your air pump should be somewhat oversized so that you can add air devices if you should so wish at a later date. Usually the more you spend on the air pump the quieter it is. See Fish keeping 103.

Section 3, Lighting and Decorating

You can purchase a full hood for your tank that will provide ample lighting to view your fish. Many types of bulbs for that hood are available, check with your customer service person for the bulb that will best suite your needs.

When decorating your tank try to invision a total look before you start decorating. Many types of decor are available from a carnival look to completely natural. Remember that you need not purchase all your decor at once. You can always add as you go. When selecting gravel remember the darker the gravel the more it intensifies your fish's natural colors. See fish keeping 104.

Section 4, Selecting fish and getting them home

Before coming in to purchase fish, your tank water must be in the 75-78 degree range and your PH must be about 7.0. Thermometers and PH test kits will assure this.

First look at the fish we have available. Get a basic idea of the fish you like and ask a fish salesperson if they will generally go together. Fish must be or similar size and nature. The store can't guarantee that they will get along but can give you helpful information as to the ones to avoid in your community.

At first only pick a few fish to add. This will be safest and will provide more interest as you add fish weekly.

Your fish will be placed in plastic bags with adequate air and water for them to arrive home safely. Never leave your fish in your car while shopping elsewhere. Winter cold and summer sun can cause problems or even death.

When you get home float the bags of fish on the top of your water. After about 15 minutes open the bag, and add about 50% more water to the bag from your tank. This procedure mixes any small pH changes while the floating helps average the temperature. After an additional 10 or 15 minutes you can gently release the fish into the water.

Section 5, General Care

Assuming that you have purchased the proper equipment for your tank, care should be relatively easy. Once a week add water to fill from evaporation. Vacuum the bottom of debris. Vacuums are very inexpensive and will keep your tank bottom clean. Read the instructions that came with your filter and change the filter material as recommended. You may also wish the clean the inside of the glass with a glass cleaner.

Feed your fish twice daily, do not overfeed! Ask a customer service person for advice on the type of foods you should be feeding the fish you have selected. Remember, variety in feeding will help insure fish health.

Note: These basic instructions outlined in Sections 1-5, are just that, basic. Please ask questions, we will help you with your new hobby and discuss any concerns you have to make your experience enjoyable.