==== ==== Visit this site to learn more on how to set up and maintain your freshwater aquarium: http://www.freshwateraquariumcareguide.com/ ==== ====
An aquarium adds beauty and movement to any environment. For many people, keeping one in a home or office is a relaxing hobby that provides Anyone who is considering keeping fish as a hobby can benefit from these tips for keeping small freshwater aquariums. A smaller environment is ideal for people who have limited space but it does require special attention. A tank smaller than 30 gallons will show fluctuations in temperature and water quality faster than a larger system, so any imbalances must be recognized and corrected immediately. The majority of tanks are made of plexiglass and glass. A plexiglass model is lighter than glass and less likely to leak but will cost more and is vulnerable to scratches. A cover should be included to keep fish from leaping out and reduce evaporation. Some beginners will opt to purchase an aquarium kit that includes a light system, heater and filtration unit. This saves the hobbyist with limited knowledge from having to choose separate components. A small aquarium should be placed in a location where external sources of light and heat will not affect water temperature. Unfiltered sunlight will cause the water to warm up. This is not only unhealthy for the fish but may also lead to green algae growth. It helps to select a theme and stick with it. Choose fish and plants that are the same species or from the same geographical region. This makes it easier to keep the environment within parameters that are favorable for all inhabitants. A familiar shelter will also reduce stress levels and allow fish to thrive. Introducing a natural filtration system is the most convenient way to maintain a favorable environment for the inhabitants. Choose live plants instead of artificial ones and let nature take its course. If an external filtration system is necessary to supplement this natural environment, only a minimal system will be needed. Thoroughly wash gravel before spreading it across the tank floor. Arrange decorations and plants around the interior and fill it with water. Set a plate on the bottom and direct water onto the plate when filling the tank to avoid messing up the arrangement. Avoid overstocking the tank to make it easier to keep the water viable. Choose small fish to start with and introduce them a few at a time over a period of several weeks. Float the fish in a plastic bag in the tank for a few minutes to allow them to acclimate to its water temperature. Introduce some aquarium water to the bag after about five minutes to give the fish a chance to adapt to the pH level. These steps will reduce stress levels. Start with a small school, add a maximum of two
showcase fish and complete the community with a few bottom cleaners. Carefully observe fish behavior. Hiding, drifting, darting and gasping are all indicators that the water quality is poor. Purchase some test strips designed to test for nitrite, ammonia, nitrate and pH level and periodically analyze the results. Water quality in a smaller aquarium will cycle quickly, so it pays to keep a close eye on it. A portion of the water should be replaced on a weekly basis. Water currents are responsible for carrying away toxins in nature but there is no way for the water in a closed environment to be replenished naturally. Approximately 10% to 20% of the water volume should be replaced each week to keep the inhabitants healthy. A small problem will become more serious quickly due to the low volume of water. Any imbalances need to be fixed right away. Postponing action even a single day can cause the system to crash and make it impossible to recover. Changing the filter media on a regular basis is the best way to keep algae from taking over the aquarium. Follow the manufacturer recommendations for frequency. Some media will seep toxins back into the water when it has become saturated. An aquarium will add to the decor of any living space. At the same time, it will humidify the air for a more comfortable environment. People who feel stressed find it very soothing to sit quietly for awhile and gaze at the fish swimming around. These tips for keeping freshwater aquariums will make it possible for anyone to add an underwater ecosystem to any living space. Tanks, equipment, decorations and fish may be found to fit all size budgets. Consumers are encouraged to take a look at the various options and choose something that suits their individual needs.
Next, find out more about keeping your tank healthy by identifying freshwater aquarium parasites and learning the effects nitrites have on your fish.
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Visit this site to learn more on how to set up and maintain your freshwater aquarium: http://www.freshwateraquariumcareguide.com/ ==== ====