If you have finally decided to take the plunge and own an aquarium there are certain things you should do before plucking down any of your money. First, make a list of everything you want and the type of fish you want to own. You can do this by browsing the Internet and seeing what is available. You can also go to a pet shop and check the selection. Once you have decided on what kind of fish you want, do some research to make sure you aren't buying fish that like to eat each other. You also need fish that enjoy the same type of environment (water and pH level). When exploring different options you will find freshwater fish are better to sustain than saltwater. Freshwater fish are hardy and handle changes in water conditions better.
As a beginner, you might think tropical saltwater fish are pretty and these are the fish you want. Let's consider the basics of fish first and see why freshwater fish are better for beginners. A fish needs water to live. We all know this. Freshwater fish absorbs water through its body. However, saltwater fish have to drink it because the body's fluids leave the skin by osmosis. Salt is excreted through the skin in the form of urine.
Freshwater fish also have a large range when it comes to water temperature sometimes up to ten degrees. Many saltwater fish have little room for error. They tend to need temperatures that can only fluctuate two to five degrees.
If you are just starting out, maintaining the right water level is going to be hard. Just be patient and keep at it. Eventually you will figure out the tricks to keep the water regulated. If the freshwater fish do happen to pass while under you care, don't take this is a failure. They are sensitive creatures and you are going to learn more about balancing the water. Speak to pet shop employees or go online to get extra tips to maintain the proper water conditions.
When you first get the freshwater aquarium, set it up and let it run for at least 24 hours before adding any fish. This is the time to regulate the water and get it under the right conditions. During this period, set up the filter and any plant life you want in the tank. (Live plants are a great way to reduce ammonia). Check the ammonia and nitrate levels. When you do finally add fish to the tank, start small. Only put three to four fish. You want to wait about a month before you put anymore in for a couple of reason. First, you want the fish to get used the environment because with too many the fish might get stressed. Second, there is an incubation time with diseases. You want to ensure the fish are healthy before contaminating others. Monitor the temperature, pH, ammonia and nitrate levels.
Feeding freshwater fish is relatively easy. You only need to feed them twice a day. However, be careful of overfeeding. This is a common rookie mistake. Put small amounts of food in the tank. These should be gobbled up within five minutes. Any extra food, scoop out because it will cause debris in the tank and possibly add toxins to the water.
When it comes to the filter, you want to follow the manufacturer?s specs on replacing it. The filter is important because it keeps the water clean for the fish. Without a good, clean filter the fish won't thrive.
These are some basic tips for caring for your freshwater aquarium. If you have other questions speak to pet shop workers or get some books from the local library. There is plenty information available to help care for freshwater aquariums.
Abhishek is an avid Fish Lover and he has got some great Aquarium Care Secrets up his sleeves! Download his FREE 105 Pages Ebook, "Aquarium Care Made Easy!" from his website http://www.Wonder-Homes.com/636/index.htm. Only limited Free Copies available.
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