Fish Keeping

Freshwater fish are perhaps the easiest fish to care for in comparison to saltwater species because they are known to be hardier fish. A basic freshwaterfish tank set up will is needed . You will need a fish tank, some rocks or sand or gravel to line bottom of the tank. You will also need to have a filter, and some light. When choosing fish, it is imperative to ensure the fish are compatible . Not only do they need to be compatible for water temperature and P.H. , but they should also have like the same types of food . 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. Sodon’tbedemoralizedif this occurs.Even fish that have been collectively intoduced for a period of time have been known to disappearon occasion. It is a good practice when fish keeping to keep a diary of effents so you know  everything that is going on in your fish tank. 

Feeding two times a day is important for freshwater fish. Feed only a small amount that can be consumed within the first two to five minutes. Feeding to much is a quite often made mistake among beginner fish keepers. Any excess food should be lifted from the tank with a net if possible, as it will become debris and rapidly dirty the tank. Your freshwater aquarium water should be tested and checked every week . Any discrepancies in P.H. and water temperature should be made good without delay in order to minimize stress caused to the fish. Stress is very important 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. The signs of stress will be fairly visible. Slow moving or lethargic looking fish will require a stress coat that can be purchased at a local pet storeor on line . Try to avoid overcrowding your tank. This should help to minimise the level of stress inflicted on the fish.

Change about a third of the water in the aquarium on a regular basis , because this type of change will cause the least amount of disturbance to the fish and other inhabitants. This will need to be done every a minimum of once a month . Use either a bucket or a siphon to remove the water from theaquarium . Try to remove as much loose or floating debris at this time. When adding the new water to the aquarium, make sure that it is within approximately two degrees of the tank water. The sides of the aquarium should be cleaned thoroughly, regularly to remove an algae build up. Again be careful not to disturb the fish. Wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling the aquarium. Lastly , check the manufacturer’s recommendation on filters and change them as required . Filters collect any fish waste or left over food. They will not work correctly unless they are clean.

How to Keep Fish when setting up an aquarium introduce hardy fish to a new tank choose hardy fish for a new tank. These fish ideal for aquariums, they can with stand higher nitrite levels that may well be present in a new aquarium. Choose freshwater aquarium fish such as danios, barbs, gouramis, and live bearers. Don’t add more than three to four small fish per week. Acclimation times vary per species , so check with your aquatic center before introducing any additional fish to your freshwater aquarium .