Planning on getting pet fish for your home? Here’s what you’ll need

Fish are fun to have, but they comes with their own set of challenges.

Just like any other pet, introducing them to your home requires careful planning and preparation.

By knowing the essentials beforehand, you can save both time and money.

So, where do we start?

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1. GET A FISH TANK

While shopping for a tank, try to put in mind the type of fish you’re interested in and understand their needs.

Consider the size of tank they require and some may even have preferences for tank shape.

You don’t need to immediately buy a tank for the fish’s maximum size but it’s good to plan ahead.

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2. DECORATE YOUR FISH TANK

Aquarium décor can be both fun and functional for fish.

Certain species prefer caves or rocky areas to hide in, while nocturnal fish need quiet, dark places during the day.

Live plants are also great for aquariums as they help clean the water and create a stimulating environment for fish.

Before buying plants, it’s important to know which fish you have and choose plants that can withstand fish behavior.

Consider the size of décor openings as some fish may enter but struggle to exit.

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3. TANK CYCLING

Tank cycling is vital for establishing beneficial bacteria colonies in your aquarium.

These bacteria consume waste products like nitrite and ammonia, converting them to nitrate.

High levels of ammonia and nitrite can be toxic to fish, causing harm and even death.

Creating a tank environment that supports beneficial bacteria helps maintain safe waste levels naturally.

So, how do you cycle a tank?

There are two common methods to cycle a tank: adding small amounts of ammonia directly or allowing food to decay and produce ammonia.

These methods provide food for beneficial bacteria, enabling their growth and development.

It’s important to invest in a test kit to regularly check ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels during the cycling process.

A fully cycled tank will show no ammonia or nitrite but will have low levels of nitrate.

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4. CHOOSING THE RIGHT FILTER

A crucial part of tank cycling and maintenance is choosing filter media with a high surface area for beneficial bacteria.

Opt for long-lasting filter media that requires minimal or no replacement.

This helps preserve the bacterial colonies and supports the cycling process.

By maintaining these colonies, you can ensure a healthy tank environment.

5. BRING YOUR FISH HOME

You can find fish at your local aquatics stores, pet shops, or online vendors.

It’s advisable to proactively treat or quarantine your new fish to prevent potential illnesses or parasites.

Enjoy the new lifeforms in your home!