| The Basic Stuff |
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Test monthly
for ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate - also whenever fish seem
unwell.
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Most freshwater fish are happy between pH6.5
and pH8
Coldwater fish like temperatures between 55° and 70°F but will tolerate
hotter and colder.
Most tropical fish like T° between 68°F and
84°F |
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Overstocking kills fish and there are several things
to remember. It's dangerous to stock new tanks too quickly or with too
many fish. Start with two to four hardy species (ask at the local shop)
and build up with monthly additions of three or four. Recommended stocking
levels: tropicals 1"/gal. initially, 2"/gal. after six months; coldwater
1"/gal.; marines 1"/two gal. |
| Read up on fish before buying. Far too many species
sold grow large even in small aquaria. |
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Stock a new tank too quickly and you'll get new tank
syndrome. Ammonia and/or nitrite builds up, the filter can't cope, and
fish become stressed. Overstocking an established tank can have the same
effect. |
| Aeration is usually only necessary when high
temperatures reduce the oxygen content of the water. Good water movement
from an active filter will keep the oxygen levels high. |
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Turnover: Slow filtration may not be bad filtration.
Think about the fish - are they from fast currents or slow? Otherwise aim
for a turnover through a tank filter of 2-3 times an hour. |
Water changes are essential but there are no hard and
fast rules. Changing 25% every few weeks is recommended - but you could do
as much as 25% to 50% weekly if you have a reliable water source and/or
messy fish. Use old tank water to wash filter media.
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