Taking Care of Fish in a Fish Bowl

The displaying of fish for decorative purposes dates back to the ancient Egyptians who considered fish sacred. While colorful fish swimming circles in a tiny bowl may be esthetically pleasing, it is not always healthy for the fish. As with any pet, care and planning are a necessary part of owning a fish. Under the right conditions, your fish can live a long life, offering hours of tranquil entertainment.

Things You'll Need

  • Clean container
  • Colander
  • Clean cloth
  • Fish food
  • Sturdy surface
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Instructions

    • 1

      Clean the fish bowl once a week. Pour the water from the fish bowl, along with the fish into a clean container. Pour the gravel into a colander and rinse with hot water. Do not use soap.

    • 2

      Scrub the fish bowl with a clean cloth and hot water; no soap. Add the substrate back into the bottom of the fish bowl. One-inch of substrate is sufficient for a gallon-sized bowl.

    • 3

      Refill the fish bowl two-thirds full with lukewarm water. Use a net to scoop your fish and place it into the clean fish bowl.

    • 4

      Feed your fish at least once a day. Follow the instructions on the fish food label for allocation amounts. Some fish food manufacturers recommend two smaller feedings over one large feeding.

    • 5

      Consider the size of the fish bowl before filling it with additional fish. Although it may seem like a nice gesture to provide your fish with friends, keep in mind that a gallon-sized bowl can only accommodate one 2-inch fish or two guppies, at the most.

    • 6

      Set your fish bowl in an area where it will not be subject to tipping, spilling, falling, rocking or potentially breaking. A fish bowl is safest in the center of a large, sturdy table or a wide shelf. While plenty of natural light is important to the health of your fish, avoid direct sunlight. Direct sunlight can quickly heat the water to such a degree that it kills your fish.