There are a number of tools you will need in order to maintain a healthy aquarium.
These tools include:
- siphon
- scraper
- net
- bucket
- water treatments
- filter
- gravel
- ornaments
- air pump
- plants
The filters will help you to get rid of chemicals. Different types of filters include biological, chemical, or mechanical filters. A filter – whether an under-gravel, internal or external filter – will also help to remove waste from your aquarium. External filters are usually the most effective, however these tend to cost a lot more than internal and under-gravel filters. It’s also a good idea to combine an under-gravel filter with either an internal or external filter.
How to choose gravel:
It is recommended that you purchase gravel from an aquarium or pet supplies specialist. The pre-washed gravel products are best. If you purchase non-washed gravel, you should boil, cleanse, and prepare before using – hence it’s much easier to buy the pre-washed ones. Remember also, the wrong gravel could affect the pH balance of the water in your aquarium, thus affecting fish health.
How do I choose ornaments?
Just like gravel, it’s a good idea to wash ornaments with boiling water (but no detergents!) before adding them to your aquarium.
Choosing the right plants:
You need to choose plants that don’t grow higher than your fish tank. The plants should also be marine water plants or fish plants if possible. The exact species will depend largely on the species of fish you will be keeping in your aquarium.
Choosing an air pump:
There are many different types of air pumps available and the one that suits your needs best will depend on the fish species you’ll be keeping along with the size of your aquarium.
Air pumps work to circulate or move air through turbulence, which increase the rates of oxygen available for your fish.
In addition to the items listed above you will need a test kit so that you can test the chemicals in The Aquarium‘s water and ensure the correct pH level. Basically, test kits will help you monitor the water quality to avoid over consumption of nitrates, ammonia, nitrites, and so on.
Fish naturally produce a certain amount of ammonia through waste, which can be converted to nitrites which fish feed off. To fish, nitrites are non-toxic since they too produce these chemicals.
You can also purchase water treatment to maintain the quality of the water in your aquarium. Chlorine treatments are ideal, since tap water tends to include chloramines and chlorine. Fish do not take kindly to these two chemicals.
It’s important to further research the requirements for your specific aquarium and fish species BEFORE buying your fish. Doing this will help ensure you give your fish the best possible chance of a long, healthy life.
