10 EASY STEPS TO A HEALTHY AQUARIUM

1. Don’t Overcrowd Your Aquarium.  

Start with just one or two fish (up to five is OK, if they are small). Add additional fish gradually over a four to six week period. Your limit depends on the size of the fish and the size of your aquarium. To have a harmonious aquarium, your fish mix should be compatible in preferred water conditions, size, and temperament. It's best not to mix aggressive fishes with passive ones but if you really like fishes with differing temperaments, add the peaceful fishes first, followed by the relatively more aggressive ones a few weeks later.

2. Don’t Over Feed Your Fish.

Feed them a small amount once or twice a day — only what they can eat in less than five minutes. Food that isn’t eaten will pollute the aquarium.

3. Replace Your Filter Cartridge.

To keep your water clean and odor-free, replacing your filter cartridge every two to four weeks is best.

4. Change Your Water.

Every time you change your filter cartridge, change 15 to 25 percent of the water in your aquarium, but never change more than 50 percent. You’ll need to replace any water lost to evaporation, too.

5. Treat New Water.

The chlorine and chloramines in regular tap water can kill your fish. When you add new water to your tank, always be sure to treat it first with a water dechlorinator.

6. Vacuum Your Gravel.

With a standard gravel siphon, you can vacuum away dirt and uneaten food as you change the water.

7. Clean Your Aquarium.

Algae growth is normal in any aquarium. To remove the algae, wipe the inside walls of your tank with an algae magnet, scraper or pad designed specifically for cleaning aquariums. After you’ve cleaned the inside, use a clean, soft towel to gently wipe the outside surfaces.

8. Provide Lighting

Proper lighting is important for photosynthesis of the plants, to prevent algae growth and to emulate a natural setting for the fish. Most fish require about 12 hours of light daily. A timer can help you control lighting for different times of the day.

9. Daily Checkup.

Make sure the heater, lights, air pump and filter are working properly. Check on your fish to see that they are eating and swimming normally; check their skin for any signs of disease. Identify any problems early, before they are out of control.

10. Test Your Water Frequently.

In a newly set up aquarium, water testing is critical to avoid fish loss as ammonia and nitrites can rise rapidly. In an established tank, water testing is important to ensure the continued health of your fish. Testing can identify potential water issues before they occur. Water testing checks your aquarium’s pH, nitrite, nitrate and ammonia levels. Bring a sample of your water to ANIMART and an associate can test your water for you, or you can purchase a kit to test your water at home