3 useful tips for getting into fishkeeping
Fishkeeping can bring joy to your home. However, there are a few things to consider before starting your aquarium and sinking into the magical world of fishkeeping.
When it comes to building a fish tank, it is important to plan ahead. The mistakes that may occur are easily preventable. One of the most common misconceptions is that a smaller fish tank is easier to maintain than a bigger one. In the world of fishkeeping, the general rule of thumb is that bigger is better, and that is the case because of a simple reason. The larger ecosystem is harder to disrupt and mistakes are not very punishing. If you have enough space, you should attempt to obtain the biggest tank possible.
Three initial steps:
- Fish selection
You have to know what type of fish you are interested in keeping and what kind of environment suits the fish. There are three most common biotopes that hobbyists are building. The South American, African, and Asian biotope. Research has to be conducted on what types of fish are able to coexist, so that they can live and thrive in harmony. The selection can be divided into three categories: top level, middle level, and bottom level fish. Based on the decision of what fish species you wish to keep, adequate equipment should be purchased.
2. Equipment
The essential pieces of equipment include a fish tank, a cover with lights, a heater, and a filter. If you wish to dive into fishkeeping without doing too much research about necessary equipment, an optimal choice is to get the plug-and-play setup. It is beginner friendly and easy to set up.
3. Acclimatize
The final step is to play the waiting game after setting up your aquarium. You have to wait for about two to three weeks before the ecosystem becomes balanced and the aquarium is ready for the fish. After you have purchased the desired fish and you come home, make sure to secure a stress-free transition to your new fish tank.
If you are living a fast-paced life and you are not able to invest enough time into appropriate maintenance, then fishkeeping may not be the hobby for you. Keeping fish properly includes building a healthy ecosystem. Aquariums provide significant health benefits. They reduce stress levels and have a calming effect on children. They require time and money, but in the end it is rewarding to have a piece of nature in your home.
Written by Matija Konjic
