Freshwater Aquariums: A Beginners Manual by Shannon

Freshwater Aquariums: A Beginners Manual Shannon Clark

Acknowledgements Thanks to Steve for keeping my fish floating.

Table of Contents Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Aquariums . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Tank Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 DĂŠcor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 Preparing the Aquarium . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Water Treatment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Fish Communities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 Introducing Fish . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

If you have decided to start your own tank, be sure to read the overview of each section before you purchase anything. The manual is designed to assist beginners in making the best decisions for their aquariums. It is ordered chronologically for what a starter aquarium owner needs to know at each step. If you are completely new, be sure to follow each section so that you purchase everything you need to promote the health and lifespan of the fish. If you have some experience or need to find something quickly, feel free to flip through to the information that is relevant to you. Sections are divided and color coded for your convenience. Should you start a fish tank? Fish tanks can be fun and decorative additions to your home. Fish are easy to care for and excellent for children, families, and young adults. You can decorate your fish tank in any way you please to fit your artistic style, and different fish tank sizes make it easy to find a fit for you. You should definitely consider owning a tank if:  You have previous experience owning pets.  You have an interest in decorating your home.  You want to try something new.  You want a pet for you or your children that is low maintenance.  You have been interested in owning fish, but not sure how to begin

Types of water for tanks There are essentially two types of fish tanks, salt– and freshwater. While saltwater tanks offer many positives, such as a variety of exotic fish and live coral, these tanks are more difficult to care for and are thus not ideal for a beginner. Salinity levels and acidity in a saltwater tank must be maintained properly, which makes setup and water changes more difficult. Fresh water tanks are much simpler to set up for this reason, and these tanks are highly suggested for new aquarium owners.

Introduction

While most people should consider owning a fish tank to improve décor and additional nurturing, it may not suit everyone. You may consider not owning a fish tank if:  You do not maintain a permanent residence  You have other pets that could cause you to neglect the tank or might interfere with the tank  You often travel or are rarely at home  It interferes with your lifestyle Otherwise, consider owning your own tank. While set up and initial purchases may seem difficult, the maintenance of the tank is simple!

The start of the manual is filled with information on the items needed to create a tank (Aquariums, Tank Accessories, and Décor), while the later sections (Preparing the Aquarium, Water Treatment, and Introducing Fish) are focused step-by-step tutorials.

Congratulations on starting your own aquarium. Good Luck!

Introduction

Not sure if you should own a tank?

Aquarium sizes vary greatly. Some people are satisfied with simple one gallon fish bowls, while others find joy in owning a 50 gallon tank. It all depends on which tank best fits your home and your needs. Consider how many fish are going to be in the aquarium, which types of fish they are, the physical size of the tank and how it would fit in the home, and the types of décor that will be in the aquarium. This section gives information on various types of tanks to help you make the best decision for your home. Tank Safety Tank safety is outlined with every aquarium you may purchase, but to ensure the safety of you and your family, please be sure to do the following. Water spilling outside of the tank is likely, so precautions should be made.  Place the tank away from any electronics, as they may become damaged.  Be sure to have a stand for your tank that can bear the weight. Water is heavy, and the full tank will be much, much heavier.  If leaks occur, contact the manufacturer of the aquarium.  Keep a towel nearby for spills. If the power filter, heater, air pump, or any other accessory in your tank needs to be plugged in:  Use one power strip or plug SEPARATE FROM ANYTHING ELSE with every accessory.  Use a plug that is not connected to any other electronics.  If the cords or plugs become wet, do not unplug.  Hang the cords in a U shape so that water does not drip into the plug.  If water gets near the plug, DO NOT unplug it or turn it off. Manually shut off the power strip or switch off the fuse.

Starter Kits Some aquariums that are available for purchase are marketed as “Starter Kits.” These include both a variety of other Tank Accessories and the actual aquarium. Usually this includes a power filter, heater, and net., although each kit will be different. It is important to note which elements are included so that everything needed is purchased. The list and explanation of these aquarium necessities is located in the next section, Tank Accessories . Starter kits are ideal for those who do not own any aquarium accessories, as they typically reduce the total cost of everything needed to maintain a healthy aquarium.

Aquariums

Tank Shapes

Some of these shapes include:  Bow front  Rectangle  Corner  Round  Cylinder  Square  Hexagon These non-traditional types of aquariums may work better for your home, especially stylistically. An aquarium is filled with fish which are fist and foremost a family’s pet, but an aquarium also functions as living art.

Tank Sizes Each aquarium owner will have a need for a specific size tank. Tanks range in size from desktop (under one gallon) to commercial (over 40 gallons). If you have never owned a tank before, purchase a five gallon tank, and upgrade sizes later, if you find you enjoy it and would like to have more fish. It is a good way to measure if owning an aquarium is something you like to do, without spending a significant amount of money or owning a large number of fish, but still allows you to customize the tank. Before purchasing a tank, consider how much space is available in your home. If you are interested in a tank over 10 gallons, be sure that have an aquarium stand that bear the weight of the water in the tank, and if you are considering a commercial sized tank (40 gallons or more), be sure that the structure of your home can bear the weight or place it in the basement. To ensure a tank fits, measure the space you want to use and compare it to the dimensions of some of the example tanks listed. Desktop Tanks Desktop tanks are typically 5 gallons and under. They come in various shapes, most notably as a standard fishbowl. These tanks typically hold no more than a few fish, depending on the size. Popular fish for this type of tank is either one goldfish or one betta, as they are hardy and do not require much space. Tanks under 2.5 gallons do not require a power filter and are more simple to take care of. They are ideal for small spaces and great additions to a workspace. (Continued on next page)

Aquariums

Aquariums come in a variety of shapes to fit the needs of each aquarium owner. Tanks like the fluval edge or chi (depicted on the right side of the page) improve the tank stylistically, some tanks are designed to increase the front viewing area, as with the bow front style, and others are made to reduce the dimensions of the tank to fit in the home more easily, as with corner tanks which fit snugly in any corner of the home (depicted left).

Desktop Tanks (continued) Typical Desktop Tanks: (depicted below, in order of appearance) Size (gallons)

Height (inches)

Width (inches)

Length (inches)

Plastic Bowl

Up to 1

Mini Bow Front

Corner

14.5

15.5

10.5

Fluval Chi

5 to under 20 Gallon Tanks This is a medium sized tank, capable of holding multiple fish and is great for small colonies of community fish, such as mollies and platys. These tanks require at least a few accessories, including a filter. Cleaning will be more regular, especially with the increase in number of fish in the tank. Medium Tanks: (depicted below, in order of appearance) Tank Type

Size (gallons)

Height (inches)

Width (inches)

Length (inches)

biOrb

9.5

Fluval Edge

17.5

10.25

16.9

Bow Front

Rectangular

Aquariums

Tank Type

Large Tanks: (depicted below, in order of appearance) Tank Type

Size (gallons)

Height (inches)

Width (inches)

Length (inches)

Bow Front

Rectangular

BioCube

Rectangular

40 Gallons and Over Tanks over 40 gallons are typically used as commercial tanks found in businesses. They hold large quantities of fish. Including colonies of medium sized fish, such as oriental gold fish or angel fish. Tanks this size tend to only be rectangular to bear the weight of the water and an aquarium stand should be purchased with it. Commercial Tanks: (depicted below, in order of appearance) Tank Type

Size (gallons)

Height (inches)

Width (inches)

Length (inches)

Rectangular

12.75

48.25

Rectangular

57.75

12.75

48.25

Rectangular

18.5

48.5

Rectangular

47.25

Aquariums

20 to under 40 Gallon Tanks These large tanks are designed to hold multiple colonies of fish, such as mollies, platys, loaches, and guppies. Large dĂŠcor can be added, such as large plants and decorative river rocks. These tanks require the majority of Tank Accessories, including up to two power filters, air pump, LED lighting, and heater.

Aquariums

In summation, small tanks are easier to maintain and start, but hold one or few fish and little dĂŠcor. Larger tanks allow an aquarium owner to customize their space more, but requires more cleaning as more fish are present. Five gallon tanks are ideal for new aquarium owners, but it is not a necessary rule to follow. Do what fits best for your needs and wants. There are many different shaped aquariums, both to fit odd spaces and for stylistic reasons. Some aquariums come with other essentials tank needs, as with starter kits, and some include items for specific needs, such as glo fish tanks, which illuminate bioluminescent fish and dĂŠcor. Whichever tank size and shape you end up choosing, be sure to read the next sections on Tank Accessories and Water Treatment to preserve your aquariums ecosystem. Each tank size will require different sets of tools, and it is important to be sure to purchase and use the correct ones. The water treatment section also includes setting up the tank for future fish, and should also be read thoroughly.

Tank Accessories

Starter Kits Once again, you may consider purchasing a starter kit tank, as it may include several tank necessities. The start kit depicted on the right, for example, includes an air pump, LED light, aquarium gravel, and dĂŠcor. Although the depicted tank is rather small, a desktop sized tank, the aquarium owner may also want to add a filter, as it promotes the health of fish and reduces time spent cleaning the tank. It is highly suggested for those who do not own any tank necessities to purchase a starter kit, as it is often cost efficient and helpful.

Air Pumps Air pumps are electronics used to aerate the water in a fish tank. Because modern power filters are stronger and quieter than past models, air pumps are not necessary. Power filters aerate the water sufficiently on their own. However, air pumps are often added for aesthetic reasons. A common use of the air pump is to run the air pumps through dĂŠcor, especially sculptures. An air pump works by pushing the air in the room through a length of tubing and permeating through an air stone (a porous stone or plastic piece that distributes the air). A simple air pump is shown on the right. If your tank has airy bubbles forming at the top without the presence of an air pump, then your aquarium does not require one.

Accessories

Now that you have decided on a tank size, you must consider the other elements that make a tank habitable for freshwater fish. While some of these items may not be necessary for each tank, you may still want to add them to yours. If you have decided on a one gallon bowl, for example, you will not need an air pump or power filter, but you may consider adding aquarium gravel and using a net to transfer your fish. Each item, listed alphabetically, will discuss in which type of tank it is used, and what is sufficient based on the tank size.

Aquarium Gravel Aquarium gravel is comprised of small, flaky rocks. The gravel lines the bottom of the tank, keeping dander from floating around in the water. It is not necessary to use aquarium gravel, but some type of rock must line the bottom of the tank to keep the tank clean. One pound of gravel should be used per gallon of water in the tank, or until up to 2 inches of the bottom of the tank is filled with gravel.

Circulation Pumps If you decided on an aquarium over 10 gallons, you may need a circulation pump. Similar to an air pump, it promotes aeration in the tank. Additionally, it circulates the water about the tank, keeping the water from stagnating. Circulation pumps also force the fish in the tank to be more active, as they would be naturally, and promotes their health. Be sure to turn off the circulation pump at night, along with any lighting, to simulate a natural change in currents and daylight that fish need.

Cover An aquarium cover sits atop the aquarium and keeps anything foreign and unwanted outside of the tank and keeps the water in the aquarium from evaporating. Most tanks come with a cover to fit its specific size. Leave the cover on at all times you are not maintaining the tank, especially if you own any animals, especially cats.

Food Every fish will need to be fed one to two times daily. Depending on which type of fish are in your aquarium, you will need different types of food. Food is made specific types of fish, Cichlids will not eat the same food as betta fish. They come in pellets and flakes. If you want, occasionally mix up the standard food with either blood worms or shrimp cubes. No matter which variety or brand of food you choose, be sure that it fulfills the needs of your tank.

Accessories

Aquarium gravel is much easier to clean regularly than alternatives such as larger river rocks. Aquarium gravel comes in any assortment of colors.

Heater and Thermometer Different types of fish has an ideal temperature of water. Do not place your tank near a radiator, ac unit, or window where the temperature of the tank could change drastically. Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature of the tank. Most freshwater fish prefer water between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. If your tank is naturally between these temperatures, there is not need to purchase a heater.

Size

Watts

Desktop, up to 5 gallons

Under 25W

Medium, up to 20 gallons

Up to 100W

Large, up to 40 gallons

Up to 200W

Extra Large, over 40 gallons

Over 200W

Lighting Aquarium lighting, especially LED lights, illuminate the fish and dĂŠcor in your tank and many of the ones designed for aquariums emit UV light, which is healthy for fish. Lighting may be less practical for desktop tanks, especially bowls, but should be added whenever possible. Many tanks and starter kits are sold with appropriately sized lighting. If a single light goes out, be sure to replace it quickly. Turn off lights, air pumps, and circulation pumps at night to simulate natural light.

Power Filter A power filter is an electronically powered system that cleans the water in the aquarium by removing dander and unwanted filth. It works by moving water through a filter cartridge. The filtrated water is then replaced back into the tank through an export, creating a small current in the tank. Larger tanks will need two filters or one very large filter designed for massive gallons of water. Rinse the filter cartridge weekly when changing the aquarium water with the removed water. Completely change the filter every month.

Accessories

For each size tank, purchase this wattage of heater:

Net A fish net is a simple item that you will need to transfer fish from one tank to another, as when new fish are introduced to the main tank. Rinse the net in tap water between changes to remove bacteria and other dander.

Once a week, at least 1/5 of the tank water should be removed from the tank and replaced with treated tap water (as outlined in the Water Treatment section of this manual). To remove the water, use a water changing maintenance system, like the one on the left. This tubing system allows the aquarium owner to remover water from the tank while sifting through the aquarium gravel to remove the dander. The structure of the tube keeps the dander from floating away into other section of the tank. To use, place the tube end, not the funnel end, into the sink or a bucket you will dispose waste water with. Fill the funnel end with water slowly, and turn the valve so that water drains out of the tank and into the sink or bucket. Use the funnel like a vacuum, sucking up dander from different sections of aquarium gravel, removing dander. Once 1/5 of the total tank capacity is removed, slowly remove the funnel end from the aquarium, and let the water left in the hose drain.

Accessories

Water Changer

Décor Aquarium décor is used to personally style a tank to the owners needs, and supply fish with a habitat that is more suitable than an empty tank. Ruff décor helps fish shed scales, as they rub on it, and plants establish territory boundaries. Before adding anything to your aquarium, be sure to rinse them carefully in either aquarium or tap water. Aquarium Plants Beginners should not consider owning live plants. Live plant require the owner to monitor the CO2 levels present in the tank, and mishandling of live plants can kill the fish in the tank. Instead, consider owning plastic plants.

Décor

Rocks or Logs Rocks and petrified logs are also common to find in aquariums. Along with being satisfying to look at, they offer places for bottom feeder type fish to cling to. Loose large rocks can also fill the bottom of a tank in place of aquarium gravel, though they are harder to clean and allow dander to fall through to the bottom.

Clings Aquarium clings are images that sit on the outside, back of the tank and hide exposed cords from view. They add style that makes an aquarium look clean and put together.

Decorations Additional decorations, such as sculptures, fake coral, and rock formations, are also common to find in aquariums. Choose whichever decorations fit with your tank. If you are considering adding an air pump, consider a decoration that can also be used as one.

Preparing the Aquarium Before adding any water to the tank, everything that is going to enter the tank must be cleaned. Any additives or soaps should not be used, as they contaminate the water for the freshwater fish. The Aquarium Before adding anything to the tank, rinse the tank with tap water. Do not use any soap or other additives. A clean, damp sponge will suffice.

Tank Accessories 1. Rinse off any tank accessories you have purchased, avoiding any cords if they are present. Run the filter cartridge through the tap water before placing it in the power filter, and rinse the aquarium gravel as best as you can. 2. Add one pound of aquarium gravel to the tank for every gallon of water. Gently slope the gravel toward the front of the aquarium to stabilize the tank. 3. Place any other tank accessory in the tank. Suction the power filter, thermometer, heater, circulation pump, and/or air pump to the inside of the tank.

5. Hang the cords in a ‘U’ shape, so that if water drips down the cord, it will drip to the ground and not into the plug or power strip. 6. Rinse the décor with tap water, not using any soaps or other additives. Place the décor where you wish them to sit in the tank. Bury any stands in aquarium gravel, if applicable.

Placement Placement of the tank accessories is important. Only hang objects with cords out of the back of the tank. Place the thermometer where it can be easily seen. Consult the manuals of each Tank Accessory to ensure proper placement.

Try to place your tank as it is shown on the right.

Preparation

4. Place the cords outside the tank, leading to the plug or power strip you have designated for the aquarium. Do not plug in any of the tank accessories until you have finished adding water.

Water Treatment Making tap water habitable for fish is a simple, but very important process. Add water directly to the aquarium, or to a bucket to be transferred to the tank. Add the following to the water to prepare it for fish. If this is the first time you are adding water to the tank, do not add any fish to the tank for at least 24 hours so that the bacteria culture can stabilize. Repeat this process every time you replace water from your aquarium. Never change more than 1/5 of the water in the tank at once. An example of each is shown at the bottom of the page, in order.. Aquarium Salt Even freshwater aquariums require a small amount of salt. Add the amount of salt per gallon, as is suggested by the product you have purchased. Only add to the point of how much water you are adding to the tank.

Aquarium Bacteria Every aquarium supports a colony of bacteria that promotes the health of fish. Add “quick start” bacteria formula to aquariums to start the colony. Add as much as is required based on the product you have purchased. Use again when changing filters or water, as is outlined in Tank Accessories under Water Changer.

To detoxify the water from any unwanted metals that are not found in nature (but are safe to drink), add a product that removes these metals. This is the most essential product to add, as fish will die in regular tap water.

Stress Relief Although there are not currently fish to be added to your tank, you should add a stress relief product to treat the water. Stress coast, and other products like it, contain aloe vera and other products that increase the “slime” levels on fish scales— which is good! Slime keeps fish healthy, and to stabilize your tank you should add it. Add the appropriate amount for your tank.

Do not add any fish to the tank for at least 24 hours so that the water can be fully treated and stabilize for your fish.

Water Treatment

Metal Remover

Fish Communities When choosing which fish to put into your aquarium, try to choose one or two fish communities. Choosing from one community ensures that all fish in the tank will be at their ideal temperature, have similar behavior, and, oftentimes, occupy different levels in the aquarium. For a list of specific fish types, skip to Appendix A. African Cichlids African Cichlids are colorful, active, and hardy fish. They create colorful and full tanks, but also happen to be aggressive and territorial. If there are multiple African cichlids in one tank, be sure that each fish has ample room and décor to separate their territory from another’s.

New World Cichlids Similar to African cichlids, they are color, active, and hardy. They are less aggressive toward their tank mates, but need to be similar in size to ensure compatibility.

Goldfish Goldfish are colorful, relaxed, and hardy freshwater fish. If well taken care of, they can live upwards of 20 years. They are common fish for a beginner to have, because of these qualities. They are colony fish, meaning they are non-aggressive toward other fish.

These fish are highly colorful and active. Many of these fish prefer to live in colonies of five or more. Schools of different types of colonies of tropical fish can make a lively and impressive tank.

Semi-Aggressive Tropical Fish Like tropical fish, these fish are very colorful and active. However, they tend to “bully” other fish of the same species if left together. Male and females of the same species can coexist, and they can cohabitate with colonies of tropical fish.

Fish Communities

Tropical Fish

Introducing Fish Before introducing fish to a new tank, let your aquarium, with all of the tank accessories on, flow and adjust for 24 hours. Every tank will create a healthy type of bacteria that promotes the life of your fish. Never change more than 1/5 of the water in the tank at once to make sure that this bacteria stays constant. For a list of terms, see Tank Accessories. Once your tank has adjusted and stabilized over at least 24 hours, introduce fish to the aquarium. Fish are often stored in plastic bags or containers for travel between the shop and home. 1. Turn off the LED lights in the aquarium, if applicable, to reduce the stress of the fish. 2. Add STRESS COAT to your entire tank. 3. Lift the cover and place the fish, STILL IN THEIR SEALED CONTAINERS, into the tank so that they float. 4. Let the containers float for 15 minutes. The water temperature between the container and the tank will adjust and match, over time. 5. Open the top of the container, and add an equal amount of YOUR TANK WATER into the container. 6. Close the container, and let float for another 5 to 10 minutes. 7. Repeat steps 4 and 5 for sensitive, non-hardy fish. 8. Using a NET, lift the fish out of their container and quickly transfer them to the aquarium. 9. Discard the used container and water. Never add foreign water to the tank. 10. Turn the LED lights back on. 11. Observe!

Introducing Fish

Follow each of these steps to ensure that the new fish are comfortable and adjust quickly to their new home. It is very important not to let any of the store water into your tank. Store water can contain parasites, which would then infect your aquarium.

Appendix A Species of Fish Community

African Cichlids

Picture

Species

Temperature

Diet

Care Level

Compatible Communities

Habitat Needs

Temperament

Max Size in inches

Blue Peacock Cichlid

72 – 82 F

Omnivore

Easy

African Cichlids

Hiding spots

Aggressive

Hiding spots

Aggressive

Hiding spots

Aggressive

Hiding spots

Aggressive

Hiding spots

Aggressive

Tropical Fish Goldfish

Electronic Yellow Cichlid

72 – 82 F

Omnivore

Easy

African Cichlids Tropical Fish Goldfish

Red Fin Kadango Cichlid

72 – 82 F

Omnivore

Easy

African Cichlids Tropical Fish Goldfish

Elongated Mbuna

72 – 82 F

Omnivore

Easy

African Cichlids Tropical Fish Goldfish

Red Zebra Cichlid

72 – 82 F

Omnivore

Easy

African Cichlids Tropical Fish Goldfish

Snow White Socolofi

72 – 82 F

Omnivore

Easy

African Cichlids

Sandy substrate

Hiding spots

Tropical Fish Goldfish

Sandy substrate

Community

New World Cichlids

Picture

Species

Firemouth Cichlid

Temperature

72 – 82 F

Diet

Carnivore

Care Level

Moderate

Compatible Communities

Habitat Needs

New World Cichlids

Hiding spots

Tropical Fish

Sandy substrate

Temperament

Max Size in inches

Semi-aggressive

Community

Goldfish

Jack Dempsey Cichlid

72 – 82 F

Carnivore

Easy

New World Cichlids

Hiding spots

Tropical Fish

Sandy substrate

Goldfish Eat smaller fish Red Devil Cichlid

72 – 82 F

Carnivore

Easy

Tropical Fish

Hiding spots

Goldfish Sandy substrate Dig up plants

Red Oscar Cichlid

72 – 82 F

Carnivore

Easy

New World Cichlids

Sandy substrate

Tropical Fish

Dig up plants

Goldfish Eat smaller fish Tiger Oscar Cichlid

72 – 82 F

Carnivore

Easy

New World Cichlids

Sandy substrate

Tropical Fish

Dig up plants

Goldfish Eat smaller fish Goldfish

Black Moor Goldfish

64 – 75 F

Omnivore

Easy

Goldfish

Slow Bad vision Dig up plants Social

Calico Fantail Goldfish

64 – 75 F

Omnivore

Easy

Goldfish

Slow Dig up plants

Community

Goldfish

Tropical Fish

Picture

Species

Temperatur e

Diet

Care Level

Compatible Communities

Habitat Needs

Temperament

Max Size in inches

Calico Ryukin Goldfish

65 – 75 F

Omnivore

Easy

Goldfish

Dig up plants

Community

Calico Shubunkin Goldfish

64 – 75 F

Fast

Community

Panda Oranda Goldfish

64 – 75 F

Slow

Community

Red Fantail Goldfish

64 – 75 F

Community

Blue Neon Guppy

72 – 82 F

Community

2.5

Community

2.5

Community

2.5

Tropical Fish

Omnivore

Easy

Goldfish Tropical Fish

Omnivore

Easy

Goldfish

Dig up plants

Omnivore

Easy

Goldfish

Slow Dig up plants

Omnivore

Easy

African Cichlids

Social

New World Cichlids

Needs a school

Goldfish Tropical Fish

Fancy Tail Guppy

72 – 82 F

Omnivore

Easy

African Cichlids

Social

New World Cichlids

Needs a school

Goldfish Tropical Fish

Lyretail Guppy

72 – 82 F

Omnivore

Easy

African Cichlids

Social

New World Cichlids

Needs a school

Goldfish Tropical Fish

Community

Tropical Fish

Picture

Species

Sunrise Guppy

Temperatur e 72 – 82 F

Diet

Omnivore

Care Level

Easy

Compatible Communities

Habitat Needs

African Cichlids

Social

New World Cichlids

Needs a school

Temperament

Max Size in inches

Community

2.5

Community

6.5

Community

6.5

Community

Goldfish Tropical Fish

Clown Loach

72 – 82 F

Omnivore

Moderate

African Cichlids New World Cichlids Goldfish Tropical Fish

Dalmatian Sailfin Molly

72 – 82 F

Omnivore

Easy

Semi-Aggressive Tropical Fish African Cichlids New World Cichlids

Hiding spots Social Needs a school of similar shading Some salinity Social

Goldfish Tropical Fish

Red Sailfin Molly

72 – 82 F

Omnivore

Easy

Semi-Aggressive Tropical Fish African Cichlids New World Cichlids

Some salinity Social

Goldfish Tropical Fish Semi-Aggressive Tropical Fish Mickey Mouse Platy

72 – 82 F

Omnivore

Easy

African Cichlids New World Cichlids

Hiding spots Social

Goldfish Tropical Fish

Plecostomus

72 – 82 F

Omnivore

Easy

Semi-Aggressive Tropical Fish African Cichlids New World Cichlids

Bloodfin Tetra

72 – 80 F

Omnivore

Easy

Hiding spots

Goldfish

Attach to hard surfaces

Tropical Fish

Nocturnal

Semi-Aggressive Tropical Fish African Cichlids

Scavengers Subdued lighting

New World Cichlids

Tall plants

Goldfish Tropical Fish Semi-Aggressive Tropical Fish

Needs a school Social

Community

Tropical Fish

Picture

Species

Neon Tetra

Temperatur e 72 – 82 F

Diet

Omnivore

Care Level

Easy

Compatible Communities

African Cichlids New World Cichlids

Habitat Needs

Subdued lighting

Temperament

Max Size in inches

Community

2.5

Community

Tall plants

Goldfish Tropical Fish

Penguin Tetra

72 – 80 F

Omnivore

Easy

Semi-Aggressive Tropical Fish African Cichlids New World Cichlids

Needs a school Social Subdued lighting Tall plants

Goldfish Tropical Fish

Black Ruby Barb

74 – 79 F

Omnivore

Easy

Semi-Aggressive Tropical Fish African Cichlids New World Cichlids

Needs a school Social Hiding spots Needs a school

Goldfish Tropical Fish

Bullies smaller fish

Semi-Aggressive Tropical Fish Cherry Barb

74 – 79 F

Omnivore

Easy

African Cichlids New World Cichlids

Hiding spots Needs a school

Goldfish Timid Tropical Fish

Tiger Barb

72 – 82 F

Omnivore

Easy

Semi-Aggressive Tropical Fish African Cichlids New World Cichlids

Hiding spots Needs a school

Goldfish Tropical Fish

Bullies smaller fish

Semi-Aggressive Tropical Fish Dwarf Gourami

72 – 82 F

Omnivore

Moderate

Goldfish Tropical Fish

Quiet environment Hiding spots Needs to breathe air

Kissing Gourami

72 – 82 F

Omnivore

Moderate

Goldfish Tropical Fish

Quiet environment Hiding spots Needs to breathe air

Community

Tropical Fish

Picture

Species

Panda Cory

Temperatur e 72 – 79 F

Diet

Omnivore

Care Level

Easy

Compatible Communities

African Cichlids New World Cichlids

Habitat Needs

Light sensitive

Temperament

Max Size in inches

Community

SemiAggressive

Hiding spots

Goldfish Tropical Fish

Zebra Danio

72 – 82 F

Omnivore

Easy

Semi-Aggressive Tropical Fish African Cichlids New World Cichlids

Needs a school

Needs a school Open spaces

Goldfish Tropical Fish

SemiAggressive Tropical Fish

Crowntail Betta

74 – 82 F

Carnivore

Easy

Tropical Fish

Needs to breathe air Attacks other bettas

Halfmoon Betta

74 – 82 F

Carnivore

Easy

Tropical Fish

Needs to breathe air Attacks other bettas

Veiltail Betta

74 – 82 F

Carnivore

Easy

Tropical Fish

Needs to breathe air Attacks other bettas

Marble Angelfish

Bala Shark

75 – 82 F

72 – 82 F

Omnivore

Moderate

Tropical Fish

Large tank

Semi-Aggressive Tropical Fish

Needs a school

Tropical Fish

Needs a school

Semi-Aggressive Tropical Fish

Appendix B in Order of Appearance Cover Photo Courtesy of: Alex Tosovsky, Public Domain. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Amaterske_akvarium.jpg

Koi Fish Art: Kelsey Sparrow. http://kelseysparrow67.deviantart.com/art/Koi-Fish-Line-Art-121241937 Moonlit Memories. http://moonlit-memories.deviantart.com/art/Japanese-Koi-Fish-211211474

Introduction: Pet Smart. http://www.petsmart.com/product/index.jsp?productId=11390248&f=PAD%2FpsNotAvailInUS% 2FNo

Bill Porter. http://www.billporter.info/2010/01/17/saltwater-fish-tank-water-change-system/ Deidra Wakeley. http://edison.tulsaschools.org/faculty/ms_faculty/6th_grade_teachers/deidra_tree_wakeley/ Water World. http://www.waterworld.pk/html/angel_f.html Koi Fish. http://www.hpgua.com/2012/11/foto-ikan-koi.html Ariel Bravy. http://www.arielbravy.com/photoblog/index.php?showimage=236

Aquariums: Aquarium Design Group. http://www.aquariumdesigngroup.com/data/photos/61_1aquarium_maintenance fishtank.jpg

XLordgoldX. http://s662.photobucket.com/user/XLORDGOLDX/media/koi-outline001.jpg.html?sort=3&o=7 Hay Needle. http://images.hayneedle.com/mgen/dynimage.ms?v=1&w=226&h=226&img=master:PLX395. jpg&pad=5&shadow=7&ds=ds4&fill=ffffff&

Amazon.com. http://g-ec2.images-amazon.com/images/G/01/AXB_pets/Hagen/Edge/Edge_White._ V402122868_.jpg Wallpaper Dev. http://wallpaperdev.com/stock/amphilophus-popular-aquarium-fish-desktop-wallpaper.jpg

Arab News. http://www.arabnews.com/sites/default/files/imagecache/580Xauto/Angelfish.jpg

B: Image Credits

Image Credits

Aquariums: (continued) Desktop Tanks Aquarium Oddities. http://www.aquariumoddities.com/reviews/fluval-chi/ Walmart. http://i.walmartimages.com/i/p/00/04/91/46/00/0004914600010_180X180.jpg Petco. http://www.petco.com/product/114818/Aqueon-Double-Sided-Blue-Mini-Bow-Desktop-AquariumKit.aspx?CoreCat=MM_FishSupplies_FishTanksAquariums

Medium Tanks Petco. http://www.petco.com/product/109698/biOrb-Life-30S-Aquariums.aspx Petco. http://www.petco.com/product/117228/Fluval-Edge-Aquarium-Kit-in-Black.aspx Petco. http://www.petco.com/product/11536/SeaClear-Mini-Kits.aspx Petco. http://www.petco.com/product/109954/SeaClear-Rectangular-15-Gallon-Aquarium-Combos.aspx Large Tanks Petco. http://www.petco.com/product/11544/SeaClear-Flatback-Hexagon-Aquarium-Combos.aspx Pet Smart. http://pet.imageg.net/graphics/product_images/pPETS-5707412_alternate1_t300x300.jpg Oceanic Systems. http://www.oceanicsystems.com/assets/008/27002.jpg Petco. http://www.petco.com/product/110211/SeaClear-Rectangular-40-Gallon-Aquarium-Combos.aspx Commercial Tanks Petco. http://pet.imageg.net/graphics/product_images/pPETS-6704003t300x300.jpg Pet Smart. http://pet.imageg.net/graphics/product_images/pPETS-6704012t300x300.jpg Pet Smart. http://pet.imageg.net/graphics/product_images/pPETS-6704015t300x300.jpg Petco. http://www.petco.com/assets/product_images/0/030172062759C.jpg

Tank Accessories: Animal Farmacy. http://www.animalfarmacy.ie/cache/47e7e728c095616128dc179dcd2a29ecd5a72801.jpg The Girl With Fish. http://thegirlwithfish.files.wordpress.com/2011/01/aquarium-air-pump.jpg Carl Strohmeyer. http://www.americanaquariumproducts.com/images/graphics/pebblesrainbow.jpg

Image Credits

Petco. http://www.petco.com/product/13809/Marineland-Eclipse-Corner-5-Aquarium-Kit.aspx

Tank Accessories: (continued) Petco. http://www.petco.com/assets/product_images/0/025033025158C.jpg Betsy Rothstein. http://www.mediabistro.com/fishbowldc/files/2011/09/1-fish-food.jpg Incredible Aquarium. http://www.incredibleaquarium.com/images/Aquarium-Thermometer@IA.jpg Deal Rebates. http://pet.imageg.net/graphics/product_images/pPETS-13341246r200.jpg That Pet Place. http://www.thatpetplace.com/242485g.jpg GPH.jpg

Wildco. http://www.wildco.com/images/P/122N30.jpg Petco. http://www.petco.com/assets/product_images/0/094036075148C.jpg

DĂŠcor: Petco. http://www.petco.com/assets/product_images/8/800443113677C.jpg Petco. http://www.petco.com/assets/product_images/8/800443113738C.jpg Petco. http://www.petco.com/assets/product_images/8/800443113783C.jpg Old River Rat Driftwood. http://www.oldriverratdriftwood.com/bmz_cache/a/a5acc5af37933750932d1beafc 2e9985.image.300x300.jpg

Petco. http://www.petco.com/assets/product_images/8/800443035252C.jpg Petco. http://www.petco.com/assets/product_images/0/030157012076C.jpg Petco. http://www.petco.com/assets/product_images/6/600740001338c.jpg

Preparing the Aquarium: Pinellas Aquariums. http://www.pinellasaquariums.com/Simple_Aquarium.gif

Image Credits

Way Fair. http://common2.csnimages.com/lf/49/hash/2292/288325/1/Hang-On+Aquarium+Power+Filter+185+

Water Treatment: Petco. http://www.petco.com/assets/product_images/3/317163021064C.jpg Pond Trade Magazine. http://www.pondtrademag.com/img/tradenews/1763/api_quick_start_aquarium_ cycle.jpg

Petco. http://www.petco.com/assets/product_images/0/048054334566C.jpg Petco. http://www.petco.com/assets/product_images/3/317163050859C.jpg

Petco. http://www.petco.com/assets/product_images/fish/1433644C.jpg Petco. http://www.petco.com/assets/product_images/fish/1433954C.jpg Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Nature. http://www.itsnature.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/goldfish.jpg International Fancy Guppy Association. http://www.ifga.org/guppy_pictures/GBuadier%20HBAOC.jpg Farm Tech Mart. http://farmtech-mart.com/yahoo_site_admin/assets/images/your-betta-fish.8175912_std.jpg

Introducing Fish: India Mart. http://2.imimg.com/data2/QH/AO/MY-2259630/fish-poly-bags-250x250.jpg

Appendices: All images provided by http://www.petco.com/N_10872/Freshwater-Fish.aspx? CoreCat=LiveFishHPFreshwaterFish

Image Credits

Fish Communities: