Aquatical - Part 3

8 Easy Steps to Start a Healthy Reef Tank

Starting a reef tank usually scares a lot of people. Sometimes, people think it’s easy to find “Nemo” but it’s hard to take a little piece of the ocean home for him to swim in. While setting up reef tanks could be quite meticulous at times, it could be made a lot easier if you know what to look for and what to do. Need help? Then here it is, the 8 easy steps to start a healthy reef tank!

1. Research

Research! Research! Research! People say that a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. In any hobby, starting out by researching the ins and outs before starting out is, indeed, a wonderful first step.

Since this is the first, and probably the most important step, it’s extremely crucial to know that before you dive in the colorful and world of reef keeping, you must first gather all of the knowledge you could gather before starting out. In this step, you should be able to have at least a general idea about the reef keeping hobby. Specifically speaking, you must be able to have an idea which fishes and corals to keep, how big of a tank, the nitrogen cycle, basic filtration and what not.

This step may be accomplished by reading books, magazines, online articles and joining various social groups over the internet to be able to intercept as much knowledge and ideas as you can. Just remember that there will always be room for new things to learn and a little help. Also, by reading this article, it’s safe to assume that, at the very least, you’ve taken your first step! In other words, in any battle, preparation is always the key!

Lastly, take note that you will be constantly coming back to this step countless times in the entire process of reef keeping.

2. Picking your Aquarium

Now that you’ve done your homework on the general principles of reef keeping, it’s time to pick your aquarium. For starters, I would recommend something not bigger than 50 gallons. Although some would argue that bigger is always better, such is not always the case. The bigger the tank, the higher the overhead expense and the more maintenance it would entail and such tasks could be daunting to someone who’s just getting their foot in reef keeping.

In picking your aquarium, make sure the size suits the fish and corals you are planning to keep. Furthermore, you have to make sure that it fits perfectly to the area of the house you would want to place it.

The dimensions of the tank matter as well. Some corals and fish dwell on different levels of the water with preference to varying amount of water movement. Having different levels to a tank through making the total height a bit higher would help achieve this but it would also make siphoning dirt from the bottom a bit harder. You should keep all of these into consideration and let them factor in upon deciding which tank to get.

Ultimately, the size and orientation of the tank will limit which species you could keep. Other than deciding which fish fits a tank, I would suggest that you work the other way around and have an idea which species you would like to keep then tailor fit a tank that would best suit them. Another good choice are tanks with built-in filtration systems or “All in One” (AIO) tanks.

3. Filtration System

One of the most integral part of the fish keeping hobby is a proper and efficient filtration system. For this part, although some external filters could help, the most common filtration system we prefer is the SUMP filter. This allows countless modifications and enough space for different types of filtration media. You could even assign a chamber for your protein skimmer so that it would not be placed anywhere within the tank itself.

In setting up a filtration system, make sure it moves at least 300% of the total aquarium water volume per hour. If you have a 50-gallon tank, the filtration system should be able to accommodate 150 gallons per hour. What this means is that the tank’s entire water volume can circulate and pass through the filtration system at least 3 times ever hour. This helps the filtration media treat any impurities on your water which in turn makes it efficient in what it does.

4. Accessories

While there will be essential accessories for every reef tank, in this section we will cover everything that you may or may not need. We will be dividing this section into a few sub-section so that you will find it easier to learn about each product. It would be very helpful if you could source these products first before setting up your tank. Having these products at hand upon set-up could make the process infinitely easier.

a) Aquarium Light

In reef keeping, lighting is very essential. There is a specific spectrum of light that helps fish and corals grow and display their vivid colorations. In picking the proper lighting equipment, make sure to take the depth of the tank in consideration as not all lighting products penetrate water the same way. Furthermore, different species of both fish and corals may need different lighting needs.

b) Wave Maker

Just like lighting, fish and corals prefer different water movement patterns. The wave maker, as it’s name suggests, mimics the movement of water, or waves, in your aquarium. There are fish and corals that prefer strong currents while there are some that prefer more to none. The placement of this accessory is also essential. You could place the wave maker near the species that prefer high current and place the others that doesn’t on parts where it does not flow directly.

c) Protein Skimmer

Also a staple, in not just reef tanks, but salt water tanks in general, protein skimmers remove impurities such as protein deposits from the surface of the water. Although there are protein skimmers that may be hanged from the tank, a better option is one that fits right in your SUMP or other filtration system. Having a protein skimmer right on a display tank may be unsightly at times, so it’s better to have it hidden somewhere near the filtration system. Lastly, make sure that the protein skimmer is rated for the size of your tank and the amount of live animals you would be keeping.

d) Water Test Kit

Testing your water often helps assure you that your water parameters are conducive to life. Reef animals are sometimes very picky with water parameters. Having a water test kit on hand will help you monitor the levels of important chemicals in your tank.

This would be very essential down the road when you are cycling your tank. It would help you gauge if your tank is ready for its residents!

e) Refractometer

Another essential tool in salt water fish keeping, the refractometer is a tool that measures the salinity, or amount of salt, in the water. Having a refractometer is very handy because some reef animals will not tolerate discrepancies in salinity levels. Whether you are mixing your own salt water or buying pre-mixed solutions, it’s always good to check if the salinity is within the range of what your animals would like.

f) Glass Cleaner

Due to intense lighting needs of reef animals, algae buildup is hard to control in salt water tanks. Having a glass cleaner cleanly tucked by your tank is a sure way to help you keep your glass clean and enjoy your wonderful piece of the sea,

g) Fish Net

The fish net is one of the most often used tool in any aquarium. Whether it’s moving fish or removing unwanted things from the tank, you will surely use your fish net frequently.

h) Water Siphon

Having a water siphon ready is always helpful for any reef keeper. This helps you suck water out of the tank especially during water changes. Regular water hoses work but an aquarium water siphon helps reduce the risk of spills, accidentally vacuuming sand and of course, drinking aquarium water!

i) Heater/Chiller

Lastly, depending where your are around the world and the types of animal you would want to keep, having a heater or chiller on hand is essential to your success as a reef keeper. Animals are very temperature sensitive and you have to provide them with the optimal living conditions for them to thrive.

5. Live Rocks/Sand

Although it is a possibility to opt for non-live rocks and/or substrates, having live rock and sand helps the reef a lot. First and foremost, having “live” rocks and sand helps the cycling (to be discussed in detail later) process to be faster allowing you to add fish and coral easier and safer. Furthermore, adding live rocks and sands, will introduce good bacteria and other chemicals to the water that would help make living conditions more suitable for reef animals.

However, in sourcing your live rocks and/or sand, you must always keep in mind, that the live rock and/or sand you are getting must be free of unwanted parasites and chemicals that could be harmful to our pets and our aquatic system in general. Hence, make sure your get them only from reputable retailers.

6. Water

What’s a fish without water? Water is just as crucial as the fish themselves. Now in keeping a reef tank, water need is not as simple. We need salt water. To be specific, we need water that matches the salinity needs of the animals we want to keep.

There are two ways to achieve this, one is buying a “salt mix” or a powdered product we mix with water to get “sea water” while the other is by buying pre-mixed salt water. Both ways are effective and have their very own pro’s and cons.

Mixing your own salt water helps you be more hands on and specific on your salinity. However, it will be hard to correct and if you make mistakes in the mixing process and make your salinity too high.

On the other hand, buying pre-mixed solution, provided they match the salinity that of what you want. If there are discrepancies with the salinity of the pre-mixed solution and the need of the animals, it might not be able to provide the right conditions for your pets to thrive in.

Either way, if done right, should be good for you and your pets. Again, I will reiterate the importance of your refractometer so that you could always check if the salinity levels are right.

7. Cycling your Tank

Now that the tank is ready, there is water and the filtration system is running, you are thinking that the only thing left to do is to add fish right? Wait just a little more! In this step, patience is the difference between success and failure.

Now what Is Water Cycling? Without going in too much details, Water Cycling is basically waiting for your entire aquarium system to mature so that it can support animal life. Ammonia, and Nitrite are byproducts of any organic waste and they are extremely deadly to both corals and fish. However, there are beneficial bacterias that converts the said byproducts to the less toxic Nitrate.

When we say “Cycling” and/or “Aquarium Maturity”, what this means is that we are able to have a good enough supply the said beneficial bacteria within primarily the biological medias of our filtration system to be able to convert such byproducts from the organic waste our fish will produce. In other words, prior to putting in fish, we need to “seed” our filters with a lot of beneficial bacteria. This could be done through either 2 ways. First is the natural cycling method, that could last for weeks or months, where we let nature run it’s course and let beneficial bacteria naturally propagate within our system. Secondly, we could seed our filtration system with products that contain live beneficial bacteria. These are ready made solutions that you just have to add to your water. This helps the cycling process go faster.

In this process, the end result must be zero Ammonia and Nitrite and below 40ppm Nitrate. Such readings is known as “pristine water parameters” to achieve this, the tank must first be fully cycled. To be able to monitor this properly, having a water parameter test kit would be very handy.

8. Fish and Corals

Now that all is in place, running smoothly and fully cycled, the most exciting and fulfilling part starts! It’s time to add fish and corals! After carefully selecting fish, corals and other animals that could co-exist that fits perfectly within your system, sourcing them and adding them to your tank should be a breeze.

Just make sure you properly acclimate and quarantine them (if not sure about the source) before setting them free in your tanks. You would want to make sure they slowly adjust to the temperature and parameters inside your tank to avoid any problems upon release.

Now just have your high quality food ready for feeding times, your siphon for scheduled water changes and your commitment to routine to fully enjoy the wonderful and colorful world of reef tank keeping!

What’s the best fish tank for toddlers?

by James Book

“Mommy, Daddy, I want a pet fish!”

It may come after a visit from the zoo or a local aquarium, or maybe even after seeing movies like Free Willy or Finding Nemo, but at one point in time, kids will ask their parents for a pet fish. Pets and kids go hand-in-hand like fish and water. Often times, parents deny their kids’ requests outright and tell them that it’s too much work to maintain a fish tank. But what if it’s your kid who looks at you with those puppy eyes practically begging for his own “Nemo”? Fear not because today, we will discuss the best fish tank suitable for toddlers.

Before anything else, let’s set down some premises on things you should consider before buying your kid their first fish tank:

Safety – It must be safe for toddlers.
Durability – It must not break easily.
Size – It must be easy to move around.
Maintenance – It must be easy to service.

Safety First!

When it comes to your children, their safety is always our top priority. According to an article written by Lilly Fowler for NBC news, furniture-caused injuries to children have had a steady increase over the years; among the furniture mentioned in the said article are fish tanks. We don’t have to imagine how perilous a 20-gallon glass tank would be falling over or even near a child, don’t we?

With safety as your first and foremost consideration, definitely, glass tanks or fish bowls are automatically out of the conversation. Glass is relatively heavy and breaks easily upon impact; and toddlers, being naturally curious and clumsy as they are, just don’t mix well with glass. Shards of broken glass have no place near your children.

What’s our alternative? Acrylic or plastic tanks. Acrylic and plastic fish tanks, if made properly, hold water just as well, if not even better, than glass. More so, they don’t break as easily. Since, glass is generally harder than acrylic or plastic, in the unlikely event of a breakage, the tank won’t end up in hundreds of razor sharp shards which pose a significant danger to your children.

Built Tough

Again, considering the amount of energy a regular toddler has, your toddler’s fish tank should be durable to avoid breakage. Glass tanks are made from glass panels sealed by silicone to hold water. Over time, silicone is known to shrink and become less elastic which greatly impairs its integrity to hold both the glass and water.

It’s a good thing we have both acrylic and plastic tanks. Acrylic and plastic are built tougher than your usual glass tanks or fish bowls. Acrylic tanks are made by bonding acrylic panels together using a “glue” that bonds the acrylic sheets at the molecular level. On the other hand, plastic is usually formed or molded in the shape of the tank itself. With that said, there are virtually no actual seams that are being held together by anything. Such process greatly increases the structural integrity of these types of tanks as opposed to glass, which, in turn, makes them extremely durable.

Size, does matter

When it comes to fish tanks, the usual saying is “the bigger, the better”; however, such saying is not always true. In an article posted by PetHelpful.com, they cited that among the best starter-fish for kids are, guppies, betas, mollies, and platies; all of which grow to no more than 2 inches in length. Hence, we would not be needing a tank bigger than 5 gallons.

Furthermore, a tank as big as 5-gallons, filled with water, would weigh a little over 40 lbs. If you think that’s too heavy, a 2.5-gallon tank, which weighs a little over 20 lbs., should be okay as well. I would not recommend a tank too small for toddlers because smaller tanks could be easily moved around by our little rug rats resulting to a big watery mess or worse, an accident.

We should also consider how easily an adult can move around the tank because children, as fickle minded as they come, would probably ask you to move their tank from one place to another. 40lbs would be just a few pounds lighter than your international luggage allowance and wouldn’t be much of a hassle to move around.

Just add water

Any experienced aquarist would always advise beginners that part of the fish keeping hobby is taking good care of your water. This would usually cause the expenses to pile up. Filters, aerators, and other accessories are tank essentials someone new to fish keeping does not always consider upon planning to buy their first fish tank. Moreover, a kid would not have an easy time setting up such accessories as some tend to be too complicated to assemble even for adults.

Fear not, it’s 2018 and “All in One” tanks (AIO for short), fish tanks with built in filtration systems, aerators and even led lights, are already easily available in the market. AIO tanks are getting increasingly user friendly thanks to newly developed technologies. Some are even designed to help you change the water inside the tank with minimal effort to avoid water spills around the house! These types of tanks usually also have built in filtration systems which are able to handle waste byproducts of small fish recommended for kids. Thus, we can make sure the fish stays healthy while our kids enjoy hours and hours with them.

There’s even some types of fish that don’t need a filter.

The verdict:

With all the aforementioned things being considered, you’re well on your way to getting your kid his or her first fish tank. You are now able to narrow down your choices for your toddler’s new fish tank. You are now sure how they will stay safe while having fun in keeping a pet fish. As a parent, you now have an idea on what to expect and how to react while having an easier time in catering to its needs and your kid’s wants.

The next time your kid asks you to buy him or her a pet fish, you’d be able to confidently say “Yes!”. You can now head to your local fish store, or even browse online to find a 2.5 to 5 gallon acrylic or plastic AIO tank with a built in filtration system and have your kid enjoy the hobby of fish keeping!

Oh, and don’t forget to add the fish of course!

How to Figure Out What Size of Fish Tank You Need

by James Book

You want to start your first home aquarium. Or, maybe you just want to try out some new tanks. No matter how or why you’re looking for an aquarium, the biggest consideration you’ll want to make is the size of your tank. Deciding the right size of fish tank is the best way to get your home aquarium started on the right foot. Getting a tank that’s too big or too small can lead to some major issues for your fish and live plants, if set it up the wrong way. So, let’s take a look at some factors that will help you decide what size fish tank you’ll need for your home aquarium.

Going Tiny: Considerations for Small Fish Tanks

Small fish tanks are a great way for newbies and families to get started with a home aquarium. Families in particular tend to choose small fish tanks to start out. And, there are many Benefits to Having an At-Home Aquarium for your Children. So having a small fish tank at home is a no-brainer. If you get a small fish tank, they can fit easily into small or compact spaces. Plus, they work well for taking care of smaller groups of fish. Less space, less fish, and less plants generally means less maintenance for you. But, smaller doesn’t necessarily mean better if you get a tank that’s small but overload it with too many fish or plants. Here are some things to think about when going small:

How Many Fish Will You be Adding to the Tank?: Fish need room to swim. So if you’re getting a smaller fish tank, don’t get too many fish. Overcrowding can cause some major environmental and social issues in your tank.
How Quickly Can Harmful Substances Build Up?: Smaller spaces mean a higher chance of ammonia buildup. This is because the filtration systems in smaller tanks aren’t always as good as larger tanks. So, if you have a small fish tank, you’ll want to make sure you keep an eye on these levels.
Should You Monitor Unstable Temperatures, Water pH, and Oxygen Levels?: Unstable temperatures, water pH, and oxygen levels are the number one reason why many fish die in a small fish tank, and it’s a big reason why many aquarium veterans actually discourage new fishkeepers from getting smaller tanks. Fish tanks that are smaller have less water. This means that unstable temperatures and fluctuating pH can happen quickly and be hard to regulate. For this reason alone, considering a larger sized tank can actually help prevent some of these issues.
How Easy or Hard is it to Clean?: It might seem like less fish and plants means less cleaning. But, it can actually be really hard to clean a small tank, especially if you have too many fish or plants in your tank and things constantly build up. So, if you do have a small tank, having only have a few fish and plants will help with dirt and debris issues.
How Much Space Do Your Fish Need to Swim?: When you go with a smaller fish tank, make sure you have enough space for the fish you keep to swim. This means adding less fish and picking types of fish that can thrive in a smaller environment.

With these considerations in mind, if you are looking at a smaller tank, don’t go any smaller than a tank under 5 gallons in size. This means avoiding fish bowls and mini-aquariums. A 20 to 30 gallon size fish tank is a great smaller size that can accommodate most fish and plants.

Living Large: Considerations for Large Fish Tanks

They say bigger is always better, but in some cases having a tank that’s too big might not actually be a great fit for your, your fish, and your fishkeeping goals. When it comes to choosing a large fish tank, consider how much you want to spend and how much space you have for the tank. These two factors are the most important considerations before you even buy a large tank. Here are some other things you’ll want to think about before buying a larger size aquarium.

How Many Fish Will You be Adding to the Tank?: Like adding fish to small tanks, you’ll want to consider how many fish you want to add. It’s completely possible to overcrowd a large tank. So, you want to make sure you have a good balance between too many and too few fish.
How Big are the Fish You’re Adding to the Tank?: Generally, with a big fish tank, you can add fish that are larger in size or can grow over time. Believe it or not, fish can actually outgrow a tank, so definitely think about how large your fish could grow before you add them.
What is the Water Temperature?: Do you want to add cold-water or tropical fish? If so, having a larger tank may be a better bet for certain types of fish.
How Much Surface Area Do You Need?: There’s a lot of formulas out there to help you calculate the surface area for your tank. Surface area is simply the amount of space per inch per fish that you will need. Most newbies to fishkeeping might not need to think about this, but if you’re getting a larger tank, you’ll want to keep it in mind.

Bigger tank sizes can vary, and you’ll want to choose one that fits in your house and can be easily maintained. A good starter large tank size is 55 to 75 gallons, but of course, can go higher as the tanks get larger. If you’re not sure a large tank is for you, chances are you’ll want to scale back to a smaller, easier to maintain tank.

Choosing the Size of Fish Tank You Need

Choosing the perfect size fish tank depends on a lot of different factors. Whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned fishkeeping pro, you’ll want to think about the type of fish and plants along with some of the tips we’ve mentioned here to decide the size of fish tank you need. Still not sure where to start? Check out this article from the San Antonio Express News on Finding Your First Aquarium. Business Insider also shares their tips on How to Create the Perfect Home Aquarium. These are both great resources to continue learning more about fish tank size and home aquarium basics.

Best Fish Tank Plants

by James Book

When you think of home aquariums, you probably think of the different kinds of fish for your tank. But, don’t forget about the different types of plants you can include in your tank too. Aquariums are an ecosystem of both fish and plants, and plants are a key part of any successful aquarium. Plants have a variety of uses. . They are spots for your fish to hide and feel safe. They’re good places for fish to lay eggs when they are breeding. And live plants are even used as a food source — both the plant itself and the algae that collects on them. So, having plants in your aquarium can be a very good thing. There are even self-cleaning aquariums available now that use fish poop to grow plants, proving that having plants and fish working together creates the perfect ecosystem.

In this article, we’ll take a look at some considerations you’ll want to think about before buying and adding plants to your home aquarium. And, we’ll check out the top 7 best fish tank plants that are perfect for beginners to fishkeeping, as well as for fishkeeping experts.

Things to Consider Before Buying Plants

Plants like fish require some care and maintenance when adding them to your aquarium. So, before you consider buying any plants, here are some things you’ll want to think about. Plants require light, nutrients, and C02, so you’ll want to make sure that your plants, along with your fish get plenty of light and nutrition. Plus, you’ll also want to do some regular maintenance on your plants. That means a bit of trimming and other care too. With this in mind, what do you do if you want plants but don’t want to spend too much time on caring for them? If this is the case, having artificial plants may be your best bet. They’ll make your tank look great and still provide the same types of benefits a live plant can without as much effort. Of course, it’s always good to add in live plants when you can. This article from the Times Online about the Benefits of Live Plants in a Home Aquarium will help you learn a bit more about why live plants are beneficial to a fish tank.

One other important note to think about when buying live plants for your aquarium is what to do with them if the plant isn’t working well in your aquarium? How do you dispose of them properly? You’ll want to make sure you check with your local aquarium clubs or stores to ask their recommendations. The reason why? Believe it or not, many live plants in aquariums are not native to countries like the U.S. and can actually be harmful to their non-native environments. Here’s an OK article from a local Minnesota news site explaining how dumping aquarium plants in a lake or river can actually be harmful.

The Top 7 Best Fish Tank Plants

Now that we know a bit more about the different types of plants and considerations for adding plants to a fish tank, let’s take a look at some of the best plants you can include in your home aquarium.

Java Moss: Looking for a live plant that’s virtually impossible to kill? Look no further than Java Moss. This low-maintenance plant is the most popular for aquariums. It’s beautiful, easy to take care of, and perfect for fish who are breeding and want to lay eggs in the moss.
Amazon Swords: These hardy plants are an extremely popular live plant. They are great for background in an aquarium, and fish do love to hide and swim among these plants. One word of warning. The amazon swords can grow quite tall, so you’ll want to make sure your fish tank is big enough to handle these plants.
Java Ferns: If you’re looking for a background live plant that’s a bit more manageable than the amazon sword, check out the java ferns. These low-maintenance plants have a unique design work well in most aquariums.
Anubias Nana: If you’re a beginner to home aquariums and looking for live plant that’s easy to take care of and maintain, anubias nana is the perfect plant for you. This plant doesn’t grow a lot and doesn’t require much extra care. Plus, it looks cool. Anubias nana actually produces oxygen bubbles that create a fun to look at atmosphere in your tank.
African Water Fern: Next to Java Moss, this is one of the easiest live plants to grow in an aquarium. Plus, it does well in most fish tank conditions, which makes it good for beginner fishkeepers.
Green Tiger Lotus: If you’re looking for a brightly colored plant, you’ll love the green tiger lotus, with its wide leaves and marks of red and green. Like most of the live plants we’ve mentioned here, it requires little maintenance and creates the perfect hiding spots for your fish.
Artificial Plants: Let’s face it, keeping a plant alive isn’t something everyone can do easily. If you don’t have a green thumb, why not consider an artificial plant? They look great and cost a fraction of the price. Plus, you don’t have to worry about upkeep, maintenance, or pesky issues like parasites and snails. And, your fish will enjoy them just as much as live plants too.

There are lots of reasons to consider adding plants to your aquarium. And choosing the best plants can help create a healthy ecosystem for your fish. These top 7 best fish tank plants will help get you on your way to an amazing home aquarium environment.

How to Choose Between a Freshwater and Saltwater Aquarium

by James Book

Having an aquarium can be a great way to add a bit of wow factor to your home. But, it’s not necessarily that simple to get started. This article from the Detroit News shares how aquariums can be a great addition to your home, but also includes some considerations to think about when it comes to the type of tank you want to buy.

One of the first decisions you’ll want to make is to choose between a freshwater and saltwater aquarium. Of course, both of these types of aquariums can look great. But, there are some subtle and not-so subtle differences that you’ll want to think about before taking the plunge and deciding on the type of aquarium to buy. The two biggest factors to consider? Cost and maintenance. We’ll take a look at these and some other factors that will help you decide if a freshwater or saltwater tank is right for you.

Freshwater vs. Saltwater: The Basics

So, what’s the basic difference between freshwater and saltwater aquariums? Freshwater is any kind of body of water naturally occurring from ponds, lakes, rivers, and other bodies of water that do not contain saltwater or have a saltwater level that is very low. This means that a freshwater aquarium will only have fish and plants that live naturally in these environments. Freshwater fish do include some tropical fish that may thrive in warm freshwater and some may enjoy cold freshwater. Some examples of freshwater fish are platies, guppies, cichlids, and bettas.

Saltwater, on the other hand, is any kind of body of water with a higher salt count. Most saltwater that we think of comes from the ocean, and that’s exactly where most fish and plants for your saltwater aquarium will come from. Saltwater aquariums tend to be a bit more specialized than freshwater tanks. So, this means you’ll see fish-only tanks, fish and live rock only tanks, and reef tanks that recreate coral reefs. Some examples of saltwater fish are chalk bass, coral beauties, butterfly fish, and firefish.

Now that we’ve got the basics down, let’s break down some of the pros and cons of each kind of aquarium.

Freshwater Aquariums: Pros and Cons

Aquarium Setup Costs: Aquarium setup costs can vary based on the size of tank and types of fish and plants you add to it. Generally, the cost to setup a basic freshwater aquarium is $100-$500, depending on the size.
Fish Types and Cost: Freshwater fish are usually a bit hardier and less expensive than their saltwater counterparts. That’s partially because freshwater fish don’t live in as temperamental of environments. Fish are also quite affordable, which helps when you’re buying a lot of them for your tank.
Water and Maintenance: Freshwater aquariums can be both cold and warm. So, this means you’ll need to make sure you maintain a consistent temperature, water pH, and oxygen levels in your tank. This can be a bit easier to maintain than saltwater aquariums that require constant monitoring of the salt content (aka salinity).
Beginner vs. Expert: If you’re a beginner to fishkeeping, a freshwater tank is definitely the way to go. They are more affordable, easier to setup and maintain, and perfect for families and hobbyists.

Saltwater Aquariums: Pros and Cons

Aquarium Setup Costs: Like a freshwater aquarium, the setup for a saltwater tank can really vary depending on the types of fish and plants you add to to it and the size of the tank. Usually, saltwater tanks are a bit bigger, which makes the setup price higher. The average costs to setup a basic saltwater tank is between $200-$500, but can go well over $1000 depending on the aquarium and what’s included in it.
Fish Types and Cost: With setup costs being more expensive, you can expect that saltwater fish are more expensive too. Though there are a few exceptions, most saltwater fish cost over $15. That can really add up, especially if you’re buying a lot of fish. Saltwater fish can often be a bit more sensitive too. So, this means losing a fish to improper salinity or other conditions is a pretty real threat. This is one reason why maintenance is even more important with a saltwater aquarium.
Water and Maintenance: There’s no doubt that if you have a saltwater aquarium you’re going to be doing a lot of maintenance. You’ll need to make sure that temperature, salinity, pH, and other water issues are monitored, especially when you first setup your tank. Saltwater fish also require a little bit more maintenance and may also require special diets, depending on the type of fish.
Beginner vs. Expert: If you’re a newbie to fishkeeping, you may want to avoid getting a saltwater tank — at least in the beginning. They can be a wonderful addition to your home, but do require some dedication and persistence in order to maintain a healthy ecosystem for your fish. If you’re an avid hobbyist or expert fishkeeper, a saltwater aquarium will be great for you. Making the switch from freshwater to saltwater aquariums? Check out this article from Tropical Fish Magazine to help get you started.

The Choice is Yours: Choosing Between a Freshwater and Saltwater Aquarium

With some of the tips we’ve shared here, you’ll find it easier to choose between a freshwater or saltwater aquarium. Of course, no matter what type of tank you choose, you’re bound to enjoy all that both types of aquariums and their marine life have to offer. Still not sure if freshwater or saltwater aquariums are for you? This article from the Dispatch Weekly explains What it Takes to Keep Fish Happy and Healthy and breaks down a few more pros and cons of the different kinds of fish tanks.

Best Fish for a Small Tank

by James Book

smallest fish tank Having a home aquarium is a hobby that many people enjoy. But, the idea of maintaining a larger aquarium can be a bit overwhelming. That’s why small fish tanks are perfect for those new to fishkeeping and are also great for experienced hobbyists who want to have a home aquarium without as much maintenance or complications. The Washington Post even shared their thoughts on how a small fish tank can be a great way to maintain an eco-friendly aquarium in the home. So, there’s definitely a lot of reasons why having a small fish tank is a great idea.

Still, maintaining a home aquarium can be a lot of work. And, you want to make sure that the fish you care for do well in a small tank environment. In this article, we’ll be looking at the best fish for a small tank.

What Makes an Aquarium Small?

tank plants Size definitely matters when it comes to deciding if your aquarium is small or not. Generally, small fish tanks are anything that is less than 30 gallons. The can also vary in shape and size. Some of the most common small aquariums are:

Fish Bowls: Small and bowl shaped, fish bowls are generally not thought to be great ways to keep fish. Though they seem easy to maintain, they actually require a lot more maintenance since they do not have filtration systems in place. Because of this and the small space, they are not really a good environment for most fish. There are a few fish that can tolerate a fish bowl including goldfish, guppies, and betas. But, if you’re looking to have a small home tank, look for a mini-aquarium or a tank that’s larger and provides a better environment for your fish.
Mini-Aquariums: Small, compact, and can fit in most small spaces, a mini-aquarium is a great way to care for fish at home. If well-maintained, a mini-aquarium can be a healthy environment for small fish. Of course, just because it’s small, doesn’t mean it doesn’t require some work. You’ll want to make sure your tank’s ecosystem stays healthy, especially when starting a new aquarium. Generally, if you’re a beginner, you’ll want to look for a tank that’s a bit larger with a more advanced filtration system in place.
5-Gallon Aquariums: If you’re a newbie to fishkeeping, a 5-gallon aquarium can be the perfect starter tank. These smaller tanks offer a filtration system and lights, making it easier to maintain and keep fish in a healthy environment. This is still a fairly small tank, so if you have more space, consider a larger aquarium, even if you’re a beginner.
10-Gallon Aquariums: If you want a smaller aquarium that’s small, but not too small, a 10-gallon aquarium is your best bet. With a filtration system and lights, you’ll find this size tank a great choice for newbies and fishkeeping pros. If you have children, this is a nice size to get them interested and involved in home fishkeeping.
20-Gallon Aquariums: If bigger is better, choose a 20-gallon aquarium. You’ll get all the benefits of more space, better filtration systems, and lights, while providing your fish with the best small tank environment possible. If space is an issue, look for smaller tanks, like a 5-gallon aquarium that offers a good environment for small fish at a fraction of the size.

If you have kids and aren’t sure what size tank to get that’s best for kiddos interested in fishkeeping, check out this Child Friendly Fish Tanks: A Guide for Parents and Others for more tips and things to consider when buying a fish tank that’s great for kids and parents.

Fish Are Friends: The Best Fish for a Small Tank

corydoras catfisah Once you’ve chosen your ideal fish tank size, it’s time to start thinking about the best fish for your small tank. Because you’re working with a smaller space, you’ll want to think about several things before deciding what fish to include in your aquarium. This includes fish temperament (i.e. how well do they get along with other fish, are they aggressive, etc.), the space the fish need, and any specific fish care requirements (i.e. types of food, water temperature, etc.). Generally, you want to create an ecosystem of fish that get along and thrive in the same water environment. Here are some of the best fish for a small tank.

Guppies: These livebearing fish are pretty popular for small fish tank owners. Because they’re livebearers, if you have several, chances are you’ll have a lot of baby guppies sooner or later. They can live in fish bowls or mini-aquariums, but they do like to swim a lot and require space. So, definitely consider a slightly larger small aquarium with free space for them to be active.
Bettas: One of the most beautiful small fish out there, bettas are very popular. But, they are also a bit temperamental too. Also called Fighting Fish, they can be aggressive — especially with other bettas. This means you’ll want to include only a single betta in your tank. You’ll also want to make sure that the other fish in you aquarium are generally peaceful and get along well with other fish. Bettas can often be the target of nipping, because they have beautiful and long tails.
Gouramis: If you’re looking for a small and colorful fish to include in your small tank, look no further than the gourami. There are several different types of gouramis including the Sparkling Gourami and Dwarf Gourami. These small fish do grow a bit and should not be included in any tank less than 5-gallons. You’ll also want to make sure you give them lots of plants and spaces to hide too.
Corydoras: Every fish tank needs a bottom-dweller. These are the fish that help naturally filter the tank that they live in. Dwarf Corydoras, in particular, are perfect for a small fish tank. They get along with most fish. But, if you do choose to get a corydora, be sure to get at least 6 of them. They do like to be surrounded by other corydoras in a small school. Plus, having a few of them will help ensure that the bottom of your fish tank is clear of debris that could negatively affect the tank’s ecosystem.

Want even more tips on selecting the best fish for a small tank? Check out this great infographic released by Disney on Selecting the Right Pet Fish. It’s a great way for both children and adults to learn about fishkeeping basics.

Top Fish That Actually Clean Your Tank

by James Book

fish tank size You’ve got your aquarium, and you’re ready to start thinking about adding in fish and plants. One of the most important, but sometimes overlooked things to think about when starting a new aquarium or adding new fish to your current tank are adding fish that help clean your tank. These fish, often called bottom-feeders or algae eaters, are just that. They hang out at the bottom of your fish tank and help keep your aquarium clean by eating extra algae. They can definitely be a great way to add a variety of fish to your tank while maintaining a clean and healthy environment in a natural way. Not convinced? An article from the Daily Mail, goes in detail on how Smart Aquariums Turn Slime Into Food and Keep the Water Crystal Clear. With all of this in mind, let’s take a look at some of the top fish that actually clean your tank to help get you started.

Things to Know: Important Tips for Fish That Can Clean Your Tank

There are a lot of different kinds of fish that can actually clean your tank. With this in mind, here are a few things to think about before adding these kinds of fish to your aquarium.

Different Types: There are many different types of fish that can help clean your tank. With this in mind, definitely consider the pros and cons of each kind of fish. How well will the fish get along with others in the tank? Are they aggressive; or, will other fish be aggressive to them? You’ll want to make sure you get fish that get along.
Add Multiple Types to Your Tank: Knowing that different fish can offer different but important cleaning benefits to your tank, consider adding a few different types. This will give your aquarium variety and help naturally clean your tank in a few different ways.
Keeping Them in Separate Tanks: Some people choose to keep their algae-eaters in different tanks, only adding them occasionally to their main tanks, when they need to be cleaned or maintained. This is one way to help maintain their long-term survival, but it can also be hard for these fish and the fish in your main tank if you keep reintroducing them periodically and changing up the tank dynamic.
Give Them Food: Sure, these kinds of fish do eat algae and other materials from your tank. But, that doesn’t mean they don’t need other nutrition too. Make sure to give them extra food, so that they maintain a healthy nutritious diet.
If They Don’t Work Out, Don’t Dispose: Sometimes adding in a new fish to your tank, doesn’t work out. But, don’t improperly dump or dispose of your fish. Adding non-native fish to new environments can be really harmful. This article from the North Dallas Gazette shares how dumping algae eaters can have serious effects on fisheries. Not sure the correct way to dispose of a fish? Check with your local aquarium clubs or pet stores for more information.

A Clean Aquarium is a Happy Aquarium: Top 5 Fish That Clean Your Tank

molly fish Now that we know a bit more about bottom-feeders and algae eaters, let’s take a look at some of the best ones to add to your tank. These are the kind of fish that get along well with others and can be introduced into your tank right away.

Twig Catfish: If you want an algae eater that eats and eats, look no further than the twig catfish. Also known as the whiptail catfish, these fish are slender but long. They’re also pretty easy-going and get along well with other easy-going fish like tetras and pencilfish. But, watch out for cichlids and barbs. They are known to attack twig catfish. So, if you already have them in your tank, you’ll want to skip adding a twig catfish to the aquarium. These algae eaters do well in most tanks, even smaller ones, and love plants and wood. Even though they eat a lot, they should also have weekly food supplements too.
Bristlenose Plecos: If you have a larger aquarium, bristlenose plecos are the perfect algae eater for your tank. They can get quite big because they eat a lot. And, they also eat green spot algae, a type that a lot of algae eaters won’t eat, making them a very efficient addition to your tank. Because of their size and imposing features, they do well in tanks that may have aggressive fish in them. These fish may look intimidating to other fish, but they are actually pretty easy-going. They do like lots of rocky places to hide too.
Siamese Algae Eater: Let’s face it. Most algae eaters aren’t that colorful or pretty to look at. But, the siamese algae eater may be one of the few exceptions to the rule. These shiny fish are extremely efficient and will eat just about anything leftover in the tank. Because of this, they are one of the most popular fish to add to any home aquarium. But, on the flip side, they can be aggressive with their own species. So, if you do add siamese algae eaters, only add in a few to your tank. These fish also love swimming, so bigger tanks are better. And watch out for jumping. They have a reputation for being jumpers, so be on the lookout when you open your tank.
Otocinclus Catfish: Small in size, these are one of the smallest types of algae eaters. This makes them perfect for a small fish tank. Otocinclus catfish, also called dwarf suckers, love eating algae of all types. And, they also like other treats, from time to time too. So, don’t forget to add some extra vegetation and nutrition to their diet. These algae eaters do well in groups of 5, if you have the aquarium space. Like the twig catfish, watch out for aquariums that have cichlids and angelfish. They have a reputation for attacking dwarf suckers.
Mollies: Not known as an algae eater, believe it or not these fish actually can help reduce some of the algae in your tank. Don’t rely on Mollies to do a ton of algae eating, but if you’re looking for a few fish that can help reduce the algae in your tank and don’t want to get all bottom-feeders, Mollies are a great fish to add.

Looking for more information about algae eaters? Check out this article on The Algae Eater Debate to help you decide how an algae eater can help your tank’s ecosystem.

The 7 Best Freshwater Aquarium Fish for Beginners

by James Book

Cultivating a thriving freshwater aquarium is something to be proud of, but it isn’t quite so simple as it may look. Different species of aquarium fish have different needs, and some of them are more difficult to care for than others. If you are just getting started in the aquarium hobby, you should consider stocking your first tank with low-maintenance species. Keep reading to learn about the best freshwater aquarium fish for beginners.

What are the Best Freshwater Fish for Beginners?

There are thousands of different species of freshwater aquarium fish out there, but not all of them are beginner-friendly. When you are stocking your very first freshwater tank, you want to focus on species that are hardy and easy to care for. It will take some trial and error for you to learn how to control the water chemistry in your new tank, so you’ll want to keep fish that are adaptable to changing tank conditions as well as fish that are likely to get along with other species.

To help you choose the best fish for your first freshwater aquarium, here is an overview of some of the best beginner-friendly freshwater aquarium fish:

fancy guppy

Fancy Guppies – In addition to being very hardy, fancy guppies are also some of the most colorful freshwater fish out there. Guppies generally grow no more than 2 ½ inches in length, and they can safely be kept in aquariums as small as 20 gallons. These fish breed prolifically, however, so consider a larger tank – especially if you plan to keep several of them. (As a side-note these are also a great starter fish to try, if you’re make a few extra bucks to support your hobby)

Zebra Danios – These small, active fish are named for their striped pattern, and they are some of the best beginner-friendly fish for freshwater aquariums. Danios grow up to 3 inches long, and they can tolerate a range of tank temperatures and are also hardy in poor water quality. These fish should be kept in small schools, and they do well with other fish of similar size.

Swordtails – These fish come in a variety of different colors, and they are what is known as a live-bearing species – they give birth to live young instead of laying eggs. Swordtails grow up to 4 inches long, and the males of the species develop an elongated sword-like projection at the base of their tail.

Black Skirt Tetras – Available in both a short-fin and long-finned variety, the black skirt swordtail grows up to 2 ½ inches, and it is a hardy species that does well in a community tank. These fish should be kept in small schools, and they prefer a tank that is decorated with plants and rockwork to provide hiding places.

Corydoras Catfish – These fish are a type of bottom-feeder which simply means that they inhabit the lower level of the tank and typically eat food that sinks to the bottom. There are many species of corydoras catfish, but they are all hardy and peaceful species that are well suited to beginning aquarium hobbyists – the bronze corydoras is a good example.

Mollies – Another live-bearing species like the swordtail, mollies come in a variety of different colors and patterns, but they are all peaceful schooling fish. Mollies can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, and they are hardy enough that they can even survive in brackish water. This is a good choice if you want to cultivate a community tank with a variety of species.

White Clouds – White cloud mountain minnows are usually just called white clouds, and they are a small species of fish that are particularly well adapted to cooler tank temperatures. These fish should be kept in schools with six or more of their own species, and they do well with other community fish. They also stay very small, growing to no more than 2 inches in length.

In addition to being hardy and easy to care for, the fish listed above are also what aquarium hobbyists call “community fish.” This means that they are gentle species that tend to get along well with other peaceful fish. You want to avoid stocking your tank with aggressive or even semi-aggressive species, especially when you are first starting out because they are more difficult to care for.

Tips and Tricks for Novice Aquarium Hobbyists

The key to maintaining a thriving aquarium is to set it up correctly in the first place. When you are first getting started, you’ll have to think about everything from the size of your tank down to the last piece of equipment. What many beginning aquarium hobbyists don’t know is that larger tanks are actually easier to maintain than smaller tanks. It all has to do with water quality.

Like any living thing, aquarium fish produce waste, and there are beneficial bacteria in your tank water that help to break down the waste. A side effect of the process, however, is ammonia which is toxic to fish. Luckily, there are other bacteria which convert ammonia into less harmful substances that can be removed from the tank by performing weekly water changes. If you have a larger tank, those toxins will be more diluted than they would be in a smaller tank, so they are less likely to have a negative impact on your fish.

Another tip for creating a thriving tank environment is to invest in a high-quality filtration system. Your tank filter is responsible for removing solid wastes from the water column and, depending on the type of filter you choose; it may also help to filter out dissolved wastes and toxins. Having a lighting system installed in your tank primarily serves an aesthetic purpose unless you fill your tank with aquatic plants in which case the light provides energy for your plants to grow. You’ll also want to equip your tank with a heater to help maintain the right tank temperature for your fish.

Plan it & go!

If you want to give your tank the greatest chance for success, you need to take the time to do some research and planning before you head to the pet store. Think carefully about how large you want your tank to be and then choose your aquarium equipment accordingly. Once your tank has been set up and has been running for a few weeks, you can add some of the beginner-friendly fish listed above.