Tanks
Size is important! The larger the tank is, the more stable the environment
will be. Buy yourself the largest aquarium you can afford that will fit into
the space you would like to place it. This usually means you have more of
a choice of fish and plants.
Aquarium surface area is important. The greater the surface area is, the
greater the oxygenation will be. Generally, this means you should try to get
a tank as wide and as long as you can. This will contribute to providing
superior oxygenation. Height can also sometimes be a consideration. Certain
species of fish can benefit from taller aquariums (e.g. discus or angelfish).
A completely set up aquarium (including decorations) will weigh approximately
10 pounds per gallon. Therefore, location of the tank is very important. You
should use a proper aquarium cabinet or stand. If you get a large tank, you
should be sure the floor is strong enough to bear the load of a filled tank.
For example, a 100 gallon tank will weigh around 1,000 pounds. Large aquariums
should be positioned close to a supporting wall. Don't place your aquarium
on a bookshelf, dresser, or other household furniture. They were not made
to support the heavy load of an aquarium. You may also damage the finish
on your furniture with water. Before placing your tank on a stand, you must
make sure the stand is level. If it is not level, stress will build
up and eventually cause a tank to crack.
In general, two materials are used for aquarium construction, glass and
acrylic. Glass is preferable due to cheaper cost, and it's ability to resist
scratches and discolouration better. Acrylic is preferred for the lighter
weight factor.
Place the aquarium away from areas which will create temperature fluctuations
(e.g. radiators, fireplaces, windows). You also don't want an aquarium in
an area that will allow light entry (windows, sky lights) since that will
lead to an algae problem down the road. A grounded electrical receptacle (GFI)
is important for safety reasons. Try to place the aquarium where you will
enjoy it the most. Do not place any household electrical equipment near the
aquarium.
When you first get your aquarium, wipe it down using wet filter wool or
a clean cloth and rinse with lukewarm water to clean your aquarium before
filling. You can dry the
aquarium with paper towels to avoid water droplet marks on the outside. Don't use glass cleaner, detergent
or chemical cleanser to clean the inside or outside aquarium glass. You can dry the aquarium with paper
towels to avoid water droplet marks on the outside. Never use a bucket that has been exposed
to soap, detergent or any chemical cleansers to transport water for your
aquarium. You need to have a bucket dedicated to the fish only.
You do not require a hood for the tank. However, if you want to keep plants,
you'll need one for lighting purposes. A hood can also help prevent water
evaporation. Evaporation can result in a low water level that may damage filters
and heaters. It can also cause a build-up of carbonates and minerals (water
hardness) as water evaporates and minerals remain in the aquarium, if you
have hard water. An aquarium cover can prevent contaminants from getting into
the tank. A hood may stop fish from jumping out of the aquarium. It can also
help keep water temperature more stable.
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