Fish tanks, Aquariums, and Fish
Welcome to Fishworship.com. This website is designed to provide information about aquariums and the fish we love that dwell in them. Fish are not the average pets. Unlike dogs they don’t need a daily walk or toys. But they do require some care. The work in owning fish is in the care of the aquarium.
When buying an aquarium cost and size are the two biggest factors. Those looking to start a fish tank on a budget will be surprised to learn that it will cost a consumer one hundred and fifty to two hundred dollars to get started. Inexpensive sets are often made of poor quality materials.
To get started a list should be made and prices should be checked so a rough estimate can be determined. The list should include:
•Aquarium
•Hood and light
•Heater
•Filter
•Gravel
•Water treatment
•Cleaning supplies
•Fish (obviously)
Picking out the aquarium can be the hardest part. Size is very important. Small tanks are hard to care for so look for at least a ten gallon tank. The size of the tank will limit the number of fish that can live in the tank. As general rule one inch of fish per gallon of water is good to follow, but for the happiest, healthiest fish go as big as the budget will allow. Also with a bigger tank mistakes in the water treatment are less likely to be fatal to the fish.
Fish tend to swim lengthwise more than up and down so look for long tanks as opposed to tall tanks. Longer tanks are also better because they allow more surface area for oxygen to enter the water. Better oxygenation of the water is good for fish.
Aquariums are typically made from either glass or acrylic. Acrylic is lightweight, doesn’t chip, and offers a more clear view of the fish; but it also scratches easily and needs support along the entire length of the bottom. Glass is easy to clean, resists scratches, and needs support only on the edges; but is heavy and can chip or break.
Fish tanks can weigh a lot when filled with water. A tank of fifteen gallons can weigh over two hundred pounds with water in it. This means tanks larger than ten to fifteen pounds should have a stand and not be supported by shelves or a desk. The area on which the tank is placed will sometimes get wet from cleaning and splashing fish, so a rug under the stand is recommended. Fish tanks should not be placed in direct sunlight.
Starter sets are common at discount pet stores. Some of these sets can be a good deal but it’s important to inspect all the items included and replace all items that are of poor quality- like questionable gravel. Starter tanks include filter, lights, heaters, gravel, and artificial plants.
So, once the aquarium has been bought and properly cycled the fish can be added. What is the most popular aquarium fish? The goldfish by far is the most popular. Goldfish have been kept in captivity since before 1000 A.D. by the Chinese. Earlier generations used to keep the fish in bowls. This is not recommended now however because fish in bowls without filters only live one to two years. Goldfish, in a properly maintained environment, can live fifteen to twenty five years, with the oldest goldfish recorded living forty-one years!
Fish that are found in schools (schooling fish) should be bought in groups of four to five. Any less than that and the fish will hide, ever fearful of its environment. For more information about fish behavior check local pet stores and book stores for books about specific varieties of fish.
Having an aquarium is rewarding and can be a beautiful addition to the home. Aquariums provide a relaxing view and many people enjoy the vibrant colors found on many fish. This site is full of information and articles on fish, aquariums, and their care. We continually update the site with the latest information in the aquatic world so check back often.
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