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Managing Your Aquarium
By Staff Writer
No one disputes the calming effect of a well maintained aquarium. The quiet bubbling, the elegance of fish dancing in their natural habitat and the soft light will add an element of class to any home. Sure, aquariums are a source of unending pleasure and pride, but, it doesn't happen overnight. With a little guidance, you will enjoy your aquarium, whether it be fresh or salt water.
Most dealers will suggest that beginners start with a fresh water tank. With a fresh water tank, there is an allowance for a learning curve. At this time, you can now decide if you want a reef or fish only tank. Keep in mind that to accommodate your favorite fish, your tank size will have to fit. Some freshwater fish only grow to a few inches; some salt water fish grow to a few feet.
You must consider how much space you're working with. With the amount of power, take a look at your outlet situation. Now you can select your fish, price the species that you want and what they cost. Also, prepare for the marine tank cycle, roughly every six weeks. You will not be able to assimilate the fish until you cycle the tank. With salt water fish, your maintenance cycle will be every couple of weeks. This usually means providing water changes, as well as feeding your tropical fish every day.
After you have chosen a tank, consider aquarium location. Place the tank where it will not be directly impacted by windows or heating vents. Also be investigate a surface stand for your tank. If the tank is 55 gallons, it will weigh 550lbs when filled with water. This means that you must choose wisely the table that will go underneath your tank.
Now you must buy your equipment. If you're doing a saltwater tank, you'll need a good water circulator. If you're doing fresh water, you'll have to pick the type of filtration you want. This means you will need to purchase a heater capable of heating the tank that you choose. You will also need a sturdy power strip, decorations, plants and gravel. A good rule of thumb: 1 pound of gravel to 1.5 lbs of water.
It is now time to scrub out your aquarium and set it up. Wash it out with water only! Soap and detergents will leave residue that will kill your fish. If you insist on a gravel filter, (it is not recommended), you may set it up now as well.
Your gravel, plants and decorations must be washed before you add them to your tank. A trick of the trade is to put some rocks in a pasta strainer and wash them out in your bathtub. You may now place the clean gravel in a clean bucket for transport. After you arrange the gravel, you can insert your plants and decorations.
If you're adding saltwater to your aquarium, use lukewarm water to cut down on the work for your heater. Infuse the salt according to the directions on the bag. After you fill your saltwater tank, check the pH balances.
When you add your water, your gravel and plants could be crushed if you aren't careful. If you place a plate in the middle, it will act as a splash guard and direct the water where you want it. Make sure your water has become a room temperature before adding to the tank. To remove the chlorine and chloramine, use something like Tetra AquaSafe for Aquariums. Don't completely fill up the aquarium until you are sure of the layout of your decorations. Otherwise, when you place your arm in to move stuff around water is going to spill over.
Your next task is the equipment set up. Hook up your heater, but, wait until the thermostat has adjusted to the water before you plug it in. This should take about 15 minutes. Spend this time hooking up the filter and other equipment that needs attention. At this time, slowly, carefully add water to top off the aquarium water to sit just under the lid. You should now do a systematic cord check. Make sure that the plugs and cords are not in water or in danger of becoming water-logged. Now you may put the hood on and turn on the aquarium lamp. After all of your equipment and plugs are checked, plug them in and turn on your aquarium.
Waiting is perhaps the hardest part. After everything is up and running, you'll have to wait until your aquarium is properly "cycled" before you add your fish, salt or fresh water alike. But, once you do, there will be nothing left to do but enjoy your hard work.