A tropical fish tank is undoubtedly a beautiful addition to any space. It’s relaxing to look at and easy to keep when you have the right tools for it. You can easily set up and nurture a sustainable tropical fish tank anywhere.
Here are 7 things you need to set up a tropical fish tank:
1. The Right Location
You need to select the right location to set up your tropical fish tank. Make use of a strong and sturdy stand good enough to hold the tank weight and its contents which are mainly fishes, substrate and water. Place your tank in the correct position before filling it because it might be difficult to move once you fill it with water. Don’t forget to position it in a place away from direct sunlight.
2. Thermometer
Setting the right temperature for the fish tank is very important, because the fishes can’t regulate body temperature. It’s also essential for their growth. A thermometer is vital if you want to maintain and correct the water temperature.
Check out this review from Fish Lab of the best thermometers in the market. Make sure to choose one that can help you set up the right temperature for your tank and avoid getting your new fishes killed.
3. Substrate
The substrate, also called gravel, is the underlying layer or surface of the fish tank. A good tip here is to select the best substrate for the species of the fish you’re keeping. For instance, a catfish will require a sandy substrate. The gravel you choose should be small enough to facilitate the growth of nitrifying bacteria essential for the live plants.
Rinse your substrate in a water-filled bucket and swirl it around to remove any dirt before putting it in the tank to avoid making the tank cloudy.
4. Live Plants
Having different live plants in your fish tank will help provide oxygen essential for fish growth. Oxygen from the tropical plants helps in removing harmful nitrates and phosphates which can cause and encourage algae growth in the water. Besides, the live plants also make the water tank feel like a natural habitat for the fish.
5. Tank
Tanks do come in different shapes and sizes. The number of fishes you’re keeping will determine the size of tank you need to set up. Follow the popular and easy rule of 1 inch of fish for a gallon of water.
Clean the tank first before adding any water and never use soaps or detergents in cleaning it as this may be harmful to the fish. Instead, get a damp cloth to wipe off dirt that has settled in the tank. Check here for more tips for beginner fish keepers.
6. Hood Cover
Select a tight, covered hood that fits the tank top perfectly. Though most hoods usually have a space in between it that allows you to just dip your hand inside the tank easily, try and select the one that’s perforated with tiny holes to allow air into the tank.
The hood prevents the fish from jumping out of the fish tank. It also prevents excessive loss of heat and evaporation and keeps the fish safe from pets and harmful elements.
7. Filter System
You won’t be able to keep and sustain a tropical fish tank without a good filtering system. Have more than enough filter cartridges with you, as you’ll need more during the initial stages of the fish tank.
You should select a filter that’s specified to turnover at the minimum rate of 3-5 times the fish tank volume per hour. A sponge or canister filter is important to enhance biological filtration and break down the fish waste.
Conclusion
A tropical fish tank is not just something interesting to have, it is vital for anyone who wants to have one to understand the responsibilities that comes with it. Having the right fish tank tool is the best way to keeping a healthy fish. The information above highlights the necessary things you need to set up and maintain a fish tank.
