How to Care for Fish in a Trough

Most fish enthusiasts keep aquatic pets in an aquarium or outdoor pond. However, many types of fish can be kept in completely different containers, such as troughs, as long as proper care is given to ensure their health. Keeping fish in troughs is easier to manage than a full pond. Some fish are even kept in horse or cow water troughs, in order to help keep mosquitoes from developing in the water. In many ways, keeping fish in a trough is very similar to keeping them in an aquarium.

Things You'll Need

  • Various fish foods
  • Automatic water filler or hose
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Instructions

    • 1

      Select a trough that has not been chemically treated to repel insects. These chemically treated troughs can make the fish sick. A liner, such as a plastic pond liner, can also be used to keep any chemicals out of the water.

    • 2

      Choose fish that can live comfortably in the trough size you have. Many fish that start small can grow to large sizes. As a general rule of thumb, add only 1 inch of full grown fish to every one gallon of water in the trough.

    • 3

      Check the habitat of your fish to see if they are compatible with an outdoor weather conditions in your area. Fish such as minnows and goldfish can often withstand cooler temperatures and pond-like conditions. However, use a thermometer to keep an eye on the water temperature. Research the ideal temperature conditions for the fish you have, and move the fish indoors if the temperature becomes to cool or warm.

    • 4

      Place the trough in a semi-shaded area. Troughs that are in direct sunlight can cause dangerously high water temperatures for the fish.

    • 5

      Feed the fish as often as their species requires. Most fish require daily feeding. Although some fish are deemed as algae eaters, they still require supplemental sustenance. Give about as much food as the fish can eat within a few minutes. Research whether your fish are herbivorous, carnivorous, or omnivorous, and feed accordingly.

    • 6

      Keep the water in the trough clean. Many fish, such as catfish and goldfish, will nibble on algae, helping to maintain water conditions. However, in order for the fish to remain healthy, partial water changes will need to be performed frequently. This is when dirty water is replaced with clean water. Change about 15 percent of the water at least once a month, or as often as once a week, depending on how cloudy or dirty the water becomes. A small pond filter can also be used to maintain water cleanliness.

    • 7

      Keep the trough full. Water evaporates quickly outside. Use an automatic filler or a hose to add more water as needed.