Fish Tank Care Guide – New Tanks
When starting a new aquarium it is important to understand the nitrogen cycle. Many new aquarium owners jump into the hobby of fish keeping too quickly. Before purchasing fish, the aquarium must be cycled. This may take anywhere from around twenty four hours to four weeks. In an established aquarium there are specific bacteria which help the breakdown of ammonia to nitrates, but they are not found in a brand new tank since they’re developed from existing fish. If there aren’t any existing fish, then there are no good bacteria.
The basic principle with the nitrogen cycle is this. Fish eat food and yield waste. That waste along with excess food and plant debris become ammonia within the aquarium. Ammonia is toxic to fish and must be broken down. This is exactly why the nitrifying bacteria is essential. This bacteria, transforms the ammonia into nitrites which are more tolerable to fish as compared to ammonia. Next, different nitrifying bacteria will turn the nitrites into nitrates, which are even less toxic for the fish and other aquarium life. The nitrates are collected and minimized by filters; however they will ultimately accumulate in the tank. Regular water changes are needed to take away the nitrates from the water.
It is very important set up and run a fish tank before any fish are introduced in the environment. Wash the tank and any substrate and decorations thoroughly with water. Avoid using any soap. Fill the tank with de-chlorinated water and attach filters and lighting. Permit the tank to cycle until water is not cloudy and sufficient P.H and water temperatures have been established.If you do not want the trouble of dealing with fish diseases and aquarium issues but still wish to enjoy taking a look at fish take a look at these moving screensavers for your laptop or computer!
Now it’s time to purchase the fish! Buy hardy fish like danios, barb, gouramis, and live bearers. They must be able to withstand the high nitrite levels and ammonia within the new aquarium. Only introduce about four fish at the same time. Float the fish in the bag within the aquarium for about fifteen minutes prior to adding them to the aquarium. This helps the fish become acclimated to the temperature of water in their new home. When adding the fish, be careful not to allow the water from the bag into the tank. It may be contaminated, or will at the very least, throw off the temperature and P.H. Allow the fish about two hours to get acclimated prior to feeding.
Only feed an amount that can be ingested in the first 2 to 5 minutes. Overfeeding is a common problem in an aquarium tank. It is important not to overfeed, because excess food will become debris adding to the ammonia levels. This is particularly important in new aquariums that lack nitrifying bacteria. Test water P.H. every single day in the 1st month. Watch the tank for cloudiness; if your tank becomes cloudy, it may be necessary to add a clarifier. Monitor the fish for symptoms of stress or illness. A healthy fish will be swimming regularly. Lethargic fish will most likely hover close to the top of the fish tank. After about a week change approximately 10 % of the water and begin regular maintenance.
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