Tropical Fish Care

Aquariums And Aquatics, and Reptile Supplies Superstore. Including the best Reef One BiOrb & BiUbe Aquarium Tank range around

Tropical, Coldwater & Marine Aquariums & Accessories

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Tropical fish tanks are a great addition to any room and a beautifully kept aquarium always attracts attention. Whether you choose a tropical or coldwater aquarium, with a little research, planning and adequate preparation, your fishkeeping experience can be a rewarding one.

Introduction
The warm water environment of a tropical aquarium allows you to choose from a wide variety of colourful fish. As coldwater aquariums don’t need heating, they are generally less expensive to run, but can still provide a bright, attractive display.

Housing
Aquariums come in many shapes and sizes and are made from acrylic or glass. The larger the aquarium, the more stable the environment within, and this allows you a greater choice of fish and plants.

Full aquariums are heavy – approximately 1kg per litre of water – which means that a modest 40 litre tank will weigh around 40kg. So using the correct stand is vital, as any uneven support across the base of the tank can prove disastrous. Using other items of furniture is not only potentially unsafe, but will usually invalidate the guarantee.

Site the aquarium on a level surface away from direct sunlight. If placed too close to a window, algae problems can develop. Also avoid fires or radiators, as these can upset the temperature balance and sources of sound such as hi-fi speakers can upset the fish.

Decor
Natural plants not only look great but also enhance the quality of the water, aiding filtration, absorbing carbon dioxide and producing oxygen. Some people, however, prefer to use imitation plants as fish such as cichlids and goldfish will eat or uproot any living plants.

Choose rocks, ornaments and substrates specifically designed for aquarium use. There is an enormous variety to choose from.

Heating
All fish are cold-blooded, which means their bodies are the same temperature as the water around them. A heater keeps the water and your tropical fish at a constant temperature, which is important as sudden changes can cause stress and disease.

Ceramic heaters such as those in the Fluval Tronic range provide even heat dispersal throughout the aquarium. These heaters come with a protective guard to prevent accidental breakage and protect the fish from burns.

An aquarium thermometer will help you monitor the water temperature and ensure the welfare of your fish.

Lighting
Lighting not only provides essential stimulation to plants and fish, recreates the changing patterns of sunlight in nature, but also enhances the look of your aquarium.

Aquariums should be lit for around 8-12 hours per day. If the aquarium has no plants or artificial plants, 8-10 hours per day is sufficient. If the aquarium contains natural plants, illuminate the tank for 10-12 hours per day. Less time will cause brown algae; greater time will cause green algae to appear. Use a timer to regulate your aquariums photoperiod.

Fluorescent tubes housed within your aquarium canopy are a safe and effective way to illuminate your tank. Different tubes can be selected to provide the optimum light conditions for your fish and plants.

Feeding
Good nutrition is vital and feeding with a quality complete food will ensure your fish are colourful, lively and healthy.

Every species is different and you should seek advice as to the correct feeding regime for your fish. A pinch of food is sufficient.

Surface feeders generally eat all they need in about two minutes, twice daily, while bottom dwellers will take about five minutes. Always remove any uneaten food with a net.

Water
Both tropical and coldwater aquariums require filtration to remove waste from the water. There are three main types:
- Mechanical – this works like a sieve.
- Biological – beneficial nitrifying bacteria colonise the filter’s foam and ceramic media neutralising toxic ammonia and nitrite.
- Chemical – chemically active filter media is used to remove specific substances, adjust hardness or pH levels.

The internal filter is the simplest to install, combining mechanical, biological and chemical filtration in a compact unit that fits inside the aquarium.

External filters are house outside the aquarium, leaving more room inside and allowing easy access to change the filter media.

By testing your water regularly with a test kit, you can select the correct water treatments to neutralise any harmful chemicals.

Health
Fish can and do succumb to illness. Preventing problems by following a good aquarium care regime is always better than treating a fully stocked tank.

Simple measures such as choosing healthy fish, acclimatising them properly, stocking your tank slowly, performing regular water tests and aquarium maintenance can go a long way to ensuring that your fish remain healthy.

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