Factors Affecting Tank Aquarium Life

Setting up an aquarium can be a great way to bring the beauty of nature into your home, but many new hobbyists become frustrated when they experience problems. A lot can go wrong when you set up an aquarium, and the more you know before you set up the tank the better off you'll be.

  1. Tank Population

    • One of the most common mistakes new hobbyists make is trying to keep too many fish in too small a space. More fish means more tank pollution and that can quickly overwhelm any filtration system and deteriorate water quality. Increases in fish waste and uneaten food can reduce oxygen in the water while increasing the level of harmful elements like ammonia and nitrates. This can cause a massive die-off in the new aquarium. When you get your first tank stock it with a few attractive but hardy fish, then slowly add fish as the water quality stabilizes.

    Filtration

    • Proper filtration is essential regardless of your tank's size. Effective filtration for the home aquarium combines mechanical, chemical and biological processes to keep the tank clean. Mechanical filtration removes suspended particles, uneaten food and other contaminants through the water by passing those particles through a fine cartridge which traps the dirt. Chemical filtration breaks down harmful elements in the water and renders it safe for your fish. Biological filtration uses harmless bacteria to break down fish waste and other contaminants, creating a process found in nature.

    Maintenance

    • Proper maintenance is essential whether you have a 2-gallon aquarium on your desk at work or a 200-gallon aquarium built into the wall of your living room. Maintaining the tank properly means changing the water regularly each week or two. This can be done by removing approximately one-third to one-half of the water and replacing it with fresh water without chlorine or other chemicals. Tank maintenance also includes removing algae buildup from the glass and changing the filter cartridges on a regular basis. A well-maintained tank is more attractive and much healthier for your fish.

    Compatibility of Fish

    • The compatibility of the fish you choose is a critical factor and not one you can afford to ignore. Not all species of fish get along well and incompatible fish may result in die-offs, fights and other problems. Always ask the staff at your local pet store about which fish can live together, and let the pet store staff know what kind of fish you already have when you buy a new fish. Some fish species, including bettas, are best housed by themselves, since two male bettas will fight, often to the death. Many species of cichlids can be aggressive to both members of their own species and to their tank mates.