Temperature
Fish are "cold-blooded" and maintain the same body temperature as their
environment. It is very important to maintain constant temperatures. Sudden
temperature changes can cause stress to your fish and lead to disease. A
heater should deliver 3 to 5 watts per gallon.
Aquarium Thermometers
You should always verify the temperature of the heater with a thermometer.
This small item may save you some overheated or chilled fish. Check the temperature
every day.
You can pick thermometers that can be either on the glass of the aquarium
or inside it. I like the inside type.
Most tropical fish can be kept between 75 to 80°F (24 to 27°C).
Make sure you keep your fish at a temperature that is best for their species.
Do not mix cold water fish and tropical fish.
Place the heater in an area where there is good water movement. This will
keep the temperature stable throughout the whole aquarium.
If you are keeping very large fish, you should have a guard for your heater
so the fish does not break it. If possible keep it in an area the fish has
no access to.
Back to the Basic Guide
Lighting
Back to the Main Page