About Freshwater Aquarium

Features

• A freshwater aquarium features a glass or acrylic tank filled with elements that lake or other freshwater fish would find in their natural environment. They include rocks, plants, gravel, light, a filter to keep the water clean and aerated and a heater for certain types of tropical fish. Unlike a salt water aquarium, which mimics conditions found in the oceans, freshwater tanks do not need added salt. Plain tap water, properly treated with water conditioner to remove chlorine and pollutants, provides an environment suitable for freshwater fish.

Size

• Pet owners can choose from among a wide variety of freshwater aquarium sizes, styles and types. The smallest size freshwater aquarium is two and a half gallons. Fish tanks generally come in sizes ranging from two and a half to over 100 gallons. Experts recommend that beginners choose tanks of at least 10 gallons or larger. Longer and lower tanks are better than tall thin tanks because they provide more surface area for the water, which enables oxygen to reach the fish. Glass sides are easier to clean and maintain than acrylic. Be sure to determine where you wish to keep the aquarium, because once filled, fish tanks are heavy and difficult to move. Lights, filters and heaters require electricity, so place the tank near an adequate electrical outlet. An aquarium stand provides an attractive base. Many are made of wood with a cabinet underneath to store food and other supplies. A plain table will also provide adequate support.

Considerations

• For any freshwater tank setup, hobbyists must purchase basic equipment to create a healthy environment for fish. This environment must include substrate, or a gravel base for the bottom of the fish tank. Gravel sold in bags at the pet store is pre-cleaned and suitable to use in fish tanks. Place gravel about two inches deep on the bottom of the tank. A filter to clean and aerate the water is also essential for healthy fish. Look on the box of the filter to determine if it is compatible with the tank size it needs to clean. All the tank water should pass through the filter at least every 15 minutes. Living plants provide supplemental food, places for fish to hide and additional aeration of the water. Plastic plants provide places for fish to hide but not much else. A heater is needed for some types of tropical fish such as guppies, mollies and platys. A light and hood that fits snugly over the top of the tank provides adequate light for fish and plants while preventing objects from falling into or jumping out of the tank. Hobbyists also need a net to capture fish or remove dead fish, a thermometer to note temperature, replacement cartridges for the filter system and food appropriate for the fish. Decorative items such as plastic divers and treasure chests are fun but not essential.

Misconceptions

• Many people assume that a smaller tank is better, but that's not necessarily true. Smaller tanks are more difficult to keep clean. Mistakes made in smaller tanks tend to hurt fish faster. Adding cold water straight from the tap, for example, is a common mistake beginners make. In a small aquarium it's deadly. In a larger aquarium, the fish can move away from the water and there is more water to mix in and dillute any chlorine or chemicals left in the water. Another common misconception is that all types of tropical fish will peacefully coexist in one tank. Some breeds of freshwater fish, such as the betta, or Siamese fighting fish, will kill one another and must be kept in individual tanks. While these fish can mingle with other breeds, keeping more than one male betta results in the weaker fish being killed by the stronger one.

Potential

• Freshwater aquariums may be enjoyed as decorative items as well as for fish enthuiasts. Children learn responsiblity by caring for fish. Older children may learn about nature through understanding the delicate balance of plants, light, water and air needed to keep freshwater fish healthy. Breeding tropical fish is often easy and provides enjoyment in watching younger fish grow and develop.