subject: Setting Up Your 1st Tropical Aquarium [print this page] 1. Selecting Tropical Fish Tanks1. Selecting Tropical Fish Tanks
If you've ever set foot into a pet store, you will have seen the plethora of dimensions and styles present. So, what's best for you? The main things you need to determine on are:
How many fish do you want to keep?
Do you plan on increasing this number?
What fish do you want to keep, i.e. many small fish or a few large fish?
Will the tank stand by itself or blend in with the furniture?
It's recommended to start out with a smaller tank, 100-150 litres, and a few small fish. Small tanks can be located on tables; heavier tanks require their own stands. Ideally, it can make sense to choose a tank that is economically feasible. Envision its place and make sure power outlets are close by, you have a good view, and there is no direct sunlight. Once you have determined on the shape and size, the next decision is the material. Tropical fish tanks aregenerally made of either glass or acrylic. Glass is the cheaper and more smart option as acrylic is expensive and scratches easily.
A larger tank needs a stand to support it. Stands come in a wide range of materials. If you have a way with tools, why not build your own! Before establishing your tank on its stand, position a layer of polystyrene to remove unevenness. The next step is selecting a hood. This is usually just an aesthetic option, so go with your gut feeling, but keep in mind ease of access for feeding and clearing.
2. Equipment and ancillary equipment for your tropical aquarium
The equipment for your tropical aquarium generally includes lighting the tank, heating it, and filtering the water. Gravel, a filtration technique and a heater are necessities. You will also need nets and fish food (obviously!). If you want to splurge, mood lighting, plants and rocks, an air pump and other equipment are available. Pet store staff will help you make the right decision regarding your needs.
3. What fish should you buy?
For a beginner, it's best to have a many smaller fish. Some of the best candidates are Platies or Guppies, as they're small, pleasing to look at and low maintenance. A few Tetras and/or Angelfish add to the show. Don't keep too many fish, as their waste makes the water toxic and can kill your tank inhabitants. Smaller tanks should have at most 10-12 fish. Make sure smaller fish arent dinner for the larger ones! Once bought, let the bag and fish rest in the tank for 15 minutes, to equalize water temps, failing which the sudden change in heat could be fatal.
4. Maintenance of Tropical Fish Tanks
Once you've set, up you need to make sure your tropical aquarium stays clean. Clear it whenever it's dirty, and feed the fish often. Check your fish are healthy regularly, and in the unfortunate event of death, remove the fish before it infects the water. Preferably, make sure the lighting cycle follows a day/night cycle so the fish and plants can get some rest and rejuvenate. Once you are confident, look to expand your tropical aquarium. Good luck!
