May 18th, 2010
by Aquarium Lover.
Fish make wonderful pets that are interesting and quite easy to maintain. Although they need regular attention like any other pet, like feeding and cleaning, they don’t demand the personal attention of their owners. Before you go out and buy fish tanks you should learn a few things about how to take care of the fish.
Use technology
If you don’t have time to keep your tank clean there are ways to makes the task easy or less frequent. All you need to do is get a few filters, aeration pumps, etc. They will keep your fish tanks cleaner for a long time by getting out all the debris.
You will still need to clean it once in a while but not as often as otherwise. Cleaning a tank is not very difficult but will take about half an hour to one hour as you will need to be thorough with the cleaning.
Continue reading →
Posted in: Filters and Heaters, Freshwater, Planning and Startup, Saltwater, Water Treatment.
Tagged: chemicals · clean a fish tank · cleaning accessories · cleaning fish tanks · fish handling · handle fish · how to clean an aquarium
May 18th, 2010
by Guest Blogger.
Glass catfish – Kryptopterus bicirrhis (Family: Siluridae)
Behavior
The Glass catfish is timid and pefers to be in a small shoal with its own kind but is alright in a community aquarium. Its is a delicate tropical fish that will grow to about 11 cms. It has an unusal behavioral mode as it sometimes rests on the tank bottom, quite still, in the plants.
They may even be leaning to one side or have their head down and appear to be in poor health r even worse, dying! However they are not. This is normal for them and they will suddenly shoot away when disturbed. Continue reading →
Posted in: Fish Types, Freshwater.
Tagged: Breeding · feeding · fish behavior · glass catfish · glass tetra · golden otocinclus · gorgeous colors · Kryptopterus bicirrhis · Loricariidae · Octocinclus affinis · Roeboides microlepis · Siluridae · tank conditions · water conditions
Apr 18th, 2010
by Guest Blogger.
Image via Wikipedia
Tilapia are usually though of as being a fish for your plate more than an aquarium fish, but these fish can also be good in aquariums. Tilapia are very hardy and strong fish that can adapt well to many conditions and will eat just about anything.
This can make tilapia good to keep in an aquarium but they are not so good as community fish since they can be territorial and because they will eat just about anything.
Tilapia are native to Africa where they can be found in streams, rivers and lakes. Tilapia can be very prolific and have been introduced into parts of the world, often to control aquatic vegetation. In many of these areas populations have exploded and they have become invasive pests. Continue reading →
Posted in: Breeding, Fish Types, Freshwater.
Tagged: Breeding · freshwater aquarium fish · mouth breeders · tilapia
Jan 8th, 2010
by Aquarium Lover.
So you’ve decided to purchase those saltwater fish, but where do you go from there? The planning and preparation for your new fish shouldn’t be taken lightly or made on a whim. Caring for salt water fish is relatively easy; however, you’ve got to make sure that you’ve prepared the ideal living environment first.
Before investing in a tank for your fish, you’ve got to think about the type of fish you want to put in it. Some salt water get very large and you’ll want to have a tank large enough to accommodate your fish.
Once you’ve purchased your tank, make sure that you have a good place in your home for it. It should be kept away from direct sunlight, which can raise the internal temperature significantly.
Also make sure that you have a quality stand for the tank. A 25 gallon tank can weigh as much as 250 pounds and you certainly don’t want that to spill.
Setting the Tank Up
Once you’ve filled your tank with water, add the premixed salt mixture to the tank and allow it the settle for a few days before adding your fish. Then set up the plants and decorations you would like to use. Allow them to acclimate to the environment for a couple of days. Continue reading →
Posted in: Aquariums, Saltwater.
Tagged: Fish · fish tanks · gallon tank · maintenance check · salt mixture · salt water fish · tank water
Jan 6th, 2010
by Guest Blogger.
Image via Wikipedia
The downside to owning a large fish tank is that it is more work to clean it every week (preferable.) If you want your fish to live a long time and your tank to look clean and clear and free from algae overtaking your habitat then you’ve got to properly clean your tank. Here are the basics.
Siphoning
At least once a week you should siphon out 20% of the water from your tank into a giant bucket and then replace that old water with new tap water that has been properly treated to remove the harmfull acid and iron from the water. When siphoning make sure you dig around into the rocks to get all the waste and leftover food out that has fallen to the bottom.
Don’t worry about scaring your fish they should be fine with your sticking your hand and siphon into the tank and going over it thoroughly. When you put the new water into the tank don’t just pour it in which can upset the landscaping but use the siphon to slowly filter the new water into the tank.
Algae scraper
These tools are cheap and effective. Use a squeegee like algae scraper to clean up the walls of your tank from being overrun with algae which not only looks bad but can be harmful to your tank. If you are looking for an easier solution invest in buying an algae eater fish like a pleco which will roam around your tank at night and help to keep it clean and free from algae.
Don’t overfeed
The amateur mistake of first time fish keepers…don’t overfeed your fish as it can lead to waste buildup in your tank. Feed them a small amount of flakes or pellets about twice a day to keep them healthy and satisfied. Remember that it is always more safe to underfeed than to overfeed.
Alan McGee is a freelance writer from MN.
Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/how-to-clean-your-large-fish-tank-1671316.html
Posted in: Aquariums, Freshwater, Saltwater, Water Treatment.
Tagged: alan mcgee · algae eater fish · article source · fish keepers · fish tank · old water · pleco · tap water
Dec 30th, 2009
by Aquarium Lover.
When it comes to something as cool as a fish tank, why would you want to get the cheapest tank you can? That is just asking for trouble. You wouldn’t skimp out on your house selection just because it’s thousands of dollars less. Get what you really want and what your fish really deserve and avoid buying cheap fish tanks just because you think you are broke. Save up and get the tank that’s perfect for your home and your pets. Here are some reasons why you definitely don’t want to purchase cheap fish tanks.
- If the “glass-like” material is too cheap, it won’t be able to hold much and it could bust open when you add water leaving a stinky mess on your freshly vacuumed carpet.
- Your fish could become really ill from particles of cheaply made accessories contaminating their water and their food source.
- It might not be way too small for your fish.
- It could be stylistically way too different from the rest of your rooms, making it a forced, and honestly an ugly addition to your home.
- It will become dirtier much faster and most times they are actually harder to clean due to the cheap faux glass that they are made with.
- Your fish will begin to rebel and cause much more trouble in the tank than if you had the proper, more expensive materials present.
- Your fish may not reproduce or decide to boycott eating any of their food leaving you with a super cloudy tank and a lonely couple of fish.
Getting cheap fish tanks is really not recommended. There are some deals out there but just be sure they are using real glass and that it is put together properly. The last thing you need is a leaking fish tank that leaves a horrible stank in your house for weeks on end. Do the right thing, spend a little more on your fish tank. It will save you time and money in the long run.
Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/reasons-to-avoid-cheap-fish-tanks-1646039.html
Posted in: Uncategorized.
Tagged: article source · cheap fish tanks · do the right thing · fish tank · food source · html reasons · real glass · stinky mess
Dec 30th, 2009
by Aquarium Lover.
There are some things about fish tanks, you may never realize. They come be installed to your toilet or become half of your living room wall. You decide. Read on to find out some interesting, albeit crazy true facts about fish tanks and aquariums.
- Fish tanks impress kids who love animals and drunk people who are easy to entertain.
- Creative people are usually intrigued by fish tanks, although sometimes they like the colors and backgrounds more than the fish themselves.
- Toilet fish tanks have become popular because they keep things interesting, no matter what you are doing in there.
- Some people make it a full on bathroom theme and get an entire fish tank to make up their sink and toilet areas.
- Toilet fish tanks definitely stir up conversation.
- Kids love toilet fish tanks.
- Newer types of fish tanks can be put into old TV or computer monitors to make for an interesting conversation piece.
- Fish tanks are expensive over time so serious fish lovers or people with children generally invest in them.
- Certain fish such as the betta fish are not allowed to be in the same tank as one another, they will indulge in murder.
- Places like the Rainforest Café are known for having extravagant, swirling, blocks long fish tanks that are cooler than any other fish tank that can fit into a home.
- Fish tank stands are great because the provide a lot of room for other things such as shelving space, storage cubberts, and not to mention a decorative element.
- Some people take over five years to create the perfect, sustainable fish tank stand for their home.
Fish tanks aren’t for everyone but they sure are fun to have and fun to look at!
Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/random-things-about-fish-tanks-1646193.html
Posted in: Uncategorized.
Tagged: betta fish · computer monitors · decorative element · fish lovers · fish tank stand · fish tanks · home fish · types of fish
Dec 29th, 2009
by Aquarium Lover.
A male betta fish will be the perfect first fish for anyone interested in starting their very own aquarium. They are relatively easy to care for, however they do require some work on the part of their owner so be prepared to spend time each day caring and maintaining your betta fish. Follow my tips below and you’ll have a healthy happy fish.
- Before you bring your betta fish home, make sure that you’ve got all of the necessary equipment. Betta fish tanks are relatively inexpensive; just make sure that it holds at least 3 gallons of water. Make sure to wash it out if you’ve purchased it used, but avoid using soap as it may be toxic to your fish. Just use piping hot water instead. Next fill it up with tap water or bottled water. Avoid distilled water. If you use tap water you will need to add water conditioner. Follow the directions on the bottle for specific amounts.
- Next you will need to purchase a water heater for the tank. Bettas are happiest in water temperatures of 78 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Heat the water up with your water heater and be sure to check the thermometer daily to ensure the temperature is stable. Do not place the tank in direct sunlight as this may affect the water temperature as well.
- Once you’ve prepared your tank, you can go out and purchase your male betta. Make sure that the fish appears healthy. Check for a bubble nest at the top of the aquariums as this is a sign of happiness. Make sure that the betta you choose is lively and brightly colored.
- When you bring your betta home, place the closed travel container into the tank. Allow the travel container temperature to adjust to the tank water temperature. Allow your new betta to get used to the tank water by adding a little bit of tank water to its travel container. After about ten minutes, remove the fish and place it into the tank.
- Purchase betta fish flakes to feed your betta. Follow the directions on the bottle for specific instructions on how much and how often.
Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/caring-for-male-betta-fish-betta-fish-tanks-feedings-and-maintenance-1641046.html
Posted in: Uncategorized.
Tagged: betta fish · bubble nest · first fish · fish flakes · fish tanks · happy fish · male betta · sign of happiness
Dec 29th, 2009
by Aquarium Lover.
If you’re interested in creating your first aquarium, tetra fish will be a great first addition. Originating from the depths of the Amazon River, these fish are beautiful, dynamic fish that you can gaze at for hours. They do require some basic care and maintenance so follow my tips and you’ll have a happy healthy tetra fish.
- First you will need to look at fish tanks for your new fish. You may want to invest in an aquarium kit. Tetras are tropical fish so their aquarium needs differ from most fish. A kit will come with everything that you need for the ideal tropical environment for your fish. Make sure to set up the tank before you bring your tetra home. You will need to line the bottom of the tank with sand and fill it with de-chlorinated water. Make sure to add plenty of plants so that your tetra will have several hiding places. Make sure to cycle the water so that the nitrogen and ammonia is diluted properly.
- Next go out and purchase your tetra fish. Make sure that you go to a reputable pet store with a knowledgeable staff on hand. Look for signs of neglect as this may have an affect on the health of your tetra.
- Once you’ve purchased you tetra, allow it some time to get acclimated to its new environment. You may want to place the travel container into the tank and allow it to heat up to the same temperature then slowly add small amounts of the aquarium water to the container. After about ten minutes place the fish into the tank.
Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/adding-tetra-fish-to-your-fish-tanks-1641099.html
Posted in: Uncategorized.
Tagged: amazon river · aquarium kit · aquarium water · fish tanks · reputable pet store · signs of neglect · tetra fish · Tropical Fish
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