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What I Want for Christmas…

I ran across the Fish Shop of an on-line pet supply store, and found some of the most beautiful, interesting and useful fish tanks, stands, supplies and accessories I’ve seen anywhere, including local fish stores—from high-quality algae scrapers to gorgeous acrylic and glass aquarium coffee tables. So now I want just…everything.

I found all sizes of aquariums and stylish, furniture-quality aquarium stands—from traditional cherry to ultramodern acrylic. I especially like the modern tank-and-stand sets that go perfectly together and look like a single unit. They are so sculptural. I like that look.

I also liked a sort of globe aquarium for a betta with a sculptured metal holder that shows off the betta as the jewel it is without obscuring the view. Beautiful and elegant, especially for a formal environment. I want one for my office.

But if anyone asks what I really, really want for Christmas, there’s this octagonal acrylic coffee-table aquarium with the round glass top. (Yes, I know experts recommend against coffee-table aquariums, but I love it!)

 


Why is my Fish Tank Water Cloudy?

Fish owners who are not necessarily pros when it comes to caring for fish tanks usually ask, why is my aquarium water cloudy? Well, there is no single answer because there really is not one single cause. But, based on the circumstances that cloudy water exists, it can usually be narrowed down to a few basic causes.

Residue from your gravel: If you notice that your fish tank water appears cloudy within an hour or two of filling it then it’s most likely due to insufficiently cleaned gravel. To resolve this problem simply drain the tank and rinse the gravel until the water runs perfectly clear. Remember to never use soaps, this will get your fish sick.

Dissolved constituents and nutrients: If your water is still cloudy after attempting the above, it is probably because of its high levels of constituents. This can include anything from phosphates, silicates, or heavy duty metals. At this time, if you test the water you will notice that the pH levels are super high in alkaline. To resolve the problem in this case, you can treat your water with conditioners. You may also try switching to Reverse Osmosis water. It will be sold at your local pet store.

Blossomed bacteria: Sometimes it takes weeks or months for a fish tank to become cloudy. This is usually caused by bacterial bloom. The cool thing about this cause is that over time, the bacteria forms colonies and the problem eventually resolves itself. Uneaten fish food or decaying plants usually cause bacterial bloom and cloudy waters. All you have to do is remove these decaying objects and the bacteria will be cleared away naturally.

Keep your feeding times to a minimum and try not to overfeed your fish. If a vacuum doesn’t work you may invest in a flocculent to clear away all the debris from your fish tanks. These are marketed as water clarifiers and can be found at any local fish shop.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/why-is-my-fish-tank-water-cloudy-1585166.html


Top 3 Fun Items to Put In Your Fish Tank

Buying a fish tank is more than just filling it with water and throwing some fish in, you’ve got to decorate it. The goal is to customize your tank for the specific type of fish you have. Many bottom feeders or nocturnal fish like to have some little crevices or caves to hide in. Other middle or top swimmers like some sort fake or real foliage to hide in. Here is a list of some fun items to put in your fish tank.

Toys. Yes, that may sound strange, but take a look at the sunken ships and other props to put in your tank at your local fish store and you will see how expensive these things can get. Dig through your old toy chest and I’m sure you will be able to find something cool to put in your tank. I found an old Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles pipe/sewer type of toy that my fish love hiding it. It also gives my tank some unique personality and I didn’t have to spend any extra money on it. Make sure you wash with water any toys before you put them in your tank. Make sure to also take off any stickers as well as the adhesive can contaminate your tank.

Live plants. If you really want to boost your ecosystem and give your fish something beautiful to nibble on you’ve got to put some live plants into your tank. Live plants aren’t always the easiest to take care of and some species can grow extremely fast and can often overrun your tank so make sure you get the right species and follow any precautions to keep them from taking over your tank. Read up on what type of plants your main fish like and then check out your local fish shop to find it.

Rocks. This is another easy prop to put in your tank that you don’t have to spend a lot of money buying at the fish store. If you live near the beach you can find some great sea shells or other unique rocks to place in your tank. Always make sure you thoroughly scrub and clean anything from the wild that you find before you put it in your tank. Any unique rocks, large or small can work perfectly in giving your tank some cool and affordable style.


Alan McGee is a freelance writer from MN.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/top-3-fun-items-to-put-in-your-fish-tank-1555651.html


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