Decomposing matter sinks to the bottom of your aquarium and accumulates. Because of this, it is important to use a gravel cleaner when doing a water change. If you are not sure what to do, call us for help.
All aquariums need some type of plant life. In fact, plants are not just for decoration: they also help to ensure the proper oxygenation of the water. Plants provide a more natural look and appeal while also giving your fish a place to hide or play.
Did you know that the location you choose for your aquarium can have a significant bearing on the lifespan of the fish? For instance, placing your aquarium near a fireplace, radiator, or in direct sunlight can change the delicate chemical balance of your tank and cause your fish to become ill or even die.
If you are setting up a saltwater tank for the first time, the process can be a little daunting. An aquarium expert should be able to help you choose live rock and create an aquascape. If you want to save time, look for live rock that is already cured, a process that can take a few weeks.
An aquarium that is larger than 15 gallons will weigh over 200 pounds when it is filled with water. It is important to choose an aquarium stand that is built to hold the total weight of your aquarium.
Many people prefer artificial corals in their tanks for less upkeep. Polyurethane corals have become increasingly popular due to their detailed and realistic look. Unlike real coral, during set up all you have to do is rinse, and put it in your tank. Plus you can secure it with underwater epoxy if you prefer.
Think about the air vents in your home when you pick a spot for your new aquarium. Any location that can trigger sudden drops in temperature, such as near an air vent, air conditioner or the stove, can be harmful to your fish.
Freshwater and saltwater aquariums have different needs when it comes to proper maintenance. The filters, cleaning materials, and equipment must be appropriate for each one. If you have not made a decision as to which you would prefer, our professionals will gladly discuss the pros and cons of each.
Unfortunately, the larger aquariums will often require significantly more maintenance and upkeep than smaller tanks. If you need to ensure you can afford to keep up with your aquarium’s care after you buy it, we’re always ready to help you find those in your price range.
Keeping your fish fit and healthy means they have to be fed properly. Many fish will eat flake foods available at pet stores, but it’s best to get food that matches the fish. For example, Guppies will grab their food at the top of the aquarium while Plecos are so-called bottom feeders. So, choosing pre-prepared fish food that will sink to the bottom of the aquarium works for some types of fish, but not others.
Did you know that aquariums are homes to animals other than fish? An aquarium is a good home for everything from hamsters, gerbils, rats, snakes and dragons, as long as the size is sufficient for the animal.
Fish eyes don't have lids, and the differences between fish and mammal eyes don't stop there. Many freshwater, bottom dwelling fish can only see the world in black and white, or in the case of catfish and carp, shades of gray.
Do you keep goldfish in your aquarium? Goldfish are heavy eaters and they are considered one of the most greedy aquarium fish. They will eat until they are full and if you decide to add more food, they will continue eating until they become bloated.
Aquarium heaters are necessary equipment when you are keeping tropical fish. They are used to replicate the sun’s warmth. Most tropical fish live between the temperatures of 75 degrees and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Heaters warm the water safely, so that your fish can live in comfort and not expend extra energy to maintain body heat.
Do you know that it wasn’t until the mid-1800’s that people started keeping fish as indoor pets? It was not until then that aeration and filtration of water was understood. The first fish aquarium owners lived in London.
Were you aware that all newly set-up aquariums must go through a filter conditioning process to sustain fish life? It will take the water approximately four to six weeks to condition or cycle. During this time, only a small number of fish can be added to the tank.
Does a slight change in the pH level of my aquarium have a real impact on the fish? It depends on the type of fish you have, but every increase or decrease by 1 on the pH scale indicates changes in multiples of 10. For example, if the pH increases from 7 to 8, that means the water is 10 times more alkaline.
We understand that fish aren’t the only aquatic elements that many people want to enjoy in their home. If you’d like a constant reminder of the reefs you saw while snorkeling, we may have the perfect aquarium setup for you.
Remember to inspect your biological media every month for signs of clogging. The biological media does not require monthly replacement, but if the media clogs, it should be rinsed with aquarium water so that beneficial—or “good”—bacteria is preserved.
Overfeeding saltwater aquarium fish can cause big problems, both with water quality and with algae control. Decaying food that's unappetizing to fish is a banquet for undesirable algae species.
To provide effective chemical filtration, a good rule of thumb is to use an ounce of granular activated carbon for every four gallons of water. At this rate, the carbon should last a month or two before needing replacement.
Even though fresh water accounts for only about 1 percent of all the water on our planet, about 40 percent of all known fish species inhabit fresh water locations, like lakes and rivers.
The water in which your fish live is very important to their health. It carries their oxygen to them, contributes to metabolic functions, and transports away waste products. The water also provides necessary amino acids, vitamins, and minerals needed in daily physiological functions.
Are you considering adding seahorses to your aquarium? Keep in mind that they require a tank with a low water flow and many places for them to wrap their tails around. Ideally, live rock should be provided for a natural food source with many types of gorgonians and sponges to hang on to.