Setting Up A New Aquarium Is A Slow Process

Written by Melissa Sutton | January 19, 2011 at 2:26 am

Most people who want to start an aquarium will rush out, buy the aquarium and equipment, set it up and add their fish. But after a week ,the aquarium starts its cycle and the fish begin to die. Then, being discouraged, they will give up. In reality it is a much slower process.

The first thing to do is sit down and write down if you want a fresh or salt water tank. Then determine what types of fish you want. You will need to research this as all fish do NOT get along with each other. Also research specific types of aquariums. Once your basic research is done, you can visit you local aquarium stores to get prices on fish and equipment.

The dealer should also be able to answer most questions you may have.If the dealer only seems to be interested in “what they can sell you” and not getting you the right aquarium and fish that suits your needs, move on to another dealer. Find a store that is genuinely interested in helping you with your new hobby.

After accomplishing this, you will know what equipment the aquarium requires and the budget it will take to set up and maintain it.

After getting the tank set up, DO NOT add fish right away. The aquarium will go through a chemical cycle that can be extremely stressful and deadly to your fish.

You can buy the chemical tests at the fish store so that you can test the water before adding the fish. As a rule, you should wait until the ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels are at ZERO before adding fish. Once the levels are safe, add fish slowly, starting with the more hardy ones. Watch to see they are in good health before adding the more fragile ones.

Always do your research first and the end result will be very rewarding.

Submitted by Melissa Sutton

Photo courtesy of photobucket/ junebug 941976/p1000734 jpg.

Source courtesy of msn post group Mountain Woods

fish tank 300x225 Setting Up A New Aquarium Is A Slow Process