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• Published: August 13, 2006, 5:48 am
• Displayed: 7222 times
• Preview: 10 tips for a successful Betta splendens reproduction Brief description This article describes 10 simple tips that make breeding Betta fish easy and more successful. However you should also visit the following pages too since they contain other information about breeding and raising this species: Breeding Betta Fish in Fish Tanks with plenty of experiences/posts, Siamese fighting fish (Betta splendens) profile with huge forum, Betta fish care, FAQ, pictures and caring for Bettas, Diseases of Betta fish. We'd also love to hear about your Siamese fighting fish! Use a form at the bottom of this page for sharing your experiences! Betta splendens is one of the most wanted fish in everyone`s aquarium. Breeding Bettas is not hard, though you might face problems at spawning them. They are oviparous fish, the male builds a nest in which the eggs/fry are kept for few days under the strict care of the Betta male. If you follow the next advices, you have big chances to get nice results of your Betta fish spawning. 1. Reproduction tank equipment: volume of 15-20 liters, a heater, a thermometer an...

• Published: March 10, 2006, 6:39 am
• Displayed: 2906 times
• Preview: A Few Bits & Pieces on the Fairy Cichlid Neolamprologus brichardiBy David Marshall From the July 2004 Ryedale Reporter, Ryedale Aquarist Society, England Aquarticles (this article was taken from aquarticles.com - free aquarium articles) The Fairy Cichlid is known to science as Neolamprologus brichardi. English aquarists christened this particular fish the Fairy Cichlid as they believed the fish to have a strong ethereal appearance. These fish grow to a size of 3.4" (8.5cm). Neolamprologus brichardi Photo copyright Mrs Jackie Goulder These fish are endemic to Lake Tanganyika in the African Rift Valley. The fish in my care are several generations on from original stock, which came to me from two local aquarium retail outlets. Although there have been times when as many as four tanks in my fish house have held Fairy Cichlids, in various stages of growth, I am currently down to around 25 young individuals who occupy a 36"x12"x12" tank. This tank has various slate formations and small mounds of coal as décor. The fish are in their first thr...

• Published: May 8, 2008, 6:09 pm
• Displayed: 567 times
• Preview: Setting up an aquarium - A step by step guide When deciding to set up an aquarium it is important to think about how to approach the situation. There are very specific methods to setting up a successful aquarium no matter what kind of fish you decide to keep. There are so many things to think about like, what types of fish do you want? How much time and work are you willing to put into the hobby? How much are you willing to spend on your new aquarium? These questions are only the beginning of what is to come with the start of a new aquarium. It might all be overwhelming at first but in the grand scheme of things having an aquarium will pay off in the end because it is a rewarding and relaxing hobby. This article is going to present some guidelines to follow in order to start a successful aquarium. The key is to consider all of your options and choose features that compliment one another in the underwater world you are about to create. Choosing your fish The first step to setting up an aquarium is choosing the types of fish you would like to keep, but do not buy them. By first choosing ...

• Published: October 19, 2006, 6:07 am
• Displayed: 21541 times
• Preview: A guide to the tropical fishkeeping Brief description This page is, as the title implies, about tropical fishkeeping and I wanted this guide to be easy to understand and easy to follow. You should also visit the following pages (will open in new window/tab): list of aquarium fish, list of aquarium plants and list of our articles. Once you're finished reading the guide below, the mentioned pages will give you a better insight on the fishkeeping hobby. Don't forget to share your experiences, problems and solutions regarding fish, plants and fish tanks, and submit your story at the bottom of this page. Questions are welcome too! Before you start an aquarium, you should know many things about fish, plants, tanks, biotopes, lighting, filters and other details. Otherwise, your effort will result in diseases, unhappy fish and a dirty tank. Basically, it doesn’t matter if you want to start a species or community tank, it also doesn’t matter if you’re about to start a Cichlid tank or a tank with Guppies, Bettas, Gouramis or Catfish. There are very simple principles which apply to all tanks. Take aqu...

• Published: October 3, 2008, 7:11 am
• Displayed: 333 times
• Preview: What Accessories to Purchase for a Fish Tank There are many potential fish keepers wandering around the pet stores looking at their future tanks, not realizing the purchase of the tank is only the first step towards setting up a good, healthy aquarium. There are many accessories to the tank that are required, not by choice but by need. The costing of the set up should include all of these before the initial purchase of the tank is undertaken. Nowadays it is possible to buy complete packages i.e. the tank plus everything you need to set it all up, but in most cases the extras are usually not of the standard that you would get if the equipment was purchased separately. This is not true in all cases and often novice keepers will purchase the packages with the intention of upgrading equipment further down the line as they get more experienced. TropicalFish.hu link exchange Whether you're from Hungary or speak Hungarian, feel free to visit TropicalFish.hu - aquarium plants, tropical plants, tropical fish. The golden rule before actually buying your tank is to think first, get an idea i...

• Published: November 4, 2009, 5:25 pm
• Displayed: 162 times
• Preview: Freshwater Angelfish Care and Introduction an article submitted by Exotic Aquariums The angelfish or Pterophyllum Scalare is a part the Cichlidae family more commonly referred to as cichlids. They have long been a favorite of freshwater aquarium keepers worldwide. They are indigenous to the Amazon River, Orinoco River and Essequibo River basins of South America Angelfish are elegant and graceful creatures. Their unique disk shape undoubtedly contributes to their popularity. They come in a variety of color palettes, from unadorned to striped, marbled, black, golden, or Koi. Because of their popularity they can be found at virtually any store that sales fish. They are inexpensive to buy and easy to maintain. But don’t be fooled by the size of the angelfish you see for sale in the fish store. Angelfish commonly grow to six inches in diameter. Keep this in mind when deciding whether to purchase one as an addition to your fish tank. They can be kept in an aquarium as small as 10 gallons. But 20 gallons and up is preferable. Angelfish work well in community fish tanks. But a no...

• Published: November 15, 2009, 9:03 pm
• Displayed: 149 times
• Preview: About Goldfish an article submitted by Exotic Aquariums The goldfish or Carassius auratus is a genetic mutation of the Crucian Carp (Carassius Carassius). Goldfish were originally a drab olive color. The reddish-orange color was a result of selective breeding in china over a thousand years ago. The Chinese have bred goldfish since as far back as the Sung Era, approximately 1000 A.D. Goldfish were the first historically document fish to be domesticated. The modern goldfish was exported to Japan and Korea in 1500 A.D. and made its way to Europe in the early 1600s. It was first introduced to the United States in 1876 and achieved notoriety at the World’s Fair in Chicago in 1893. The goldfish is one of the most commonly kept fish among freshwater aquarium enthusiast and pond owners throughout the world. Selective breeding has produced several varieties of modern goldfish including the Ranchu, Celestial, Bubbleye, Comet, Shubunkin and Pearlscal. They come in an assortment of colors including red, orange, white black and calico. Goldfish have been reported to live up to 43 years. ...

• Published: November 11, 2009, 3:21 am
• Displayed: 151 times
• Preview: About Jewel Cichlid an article submitted by Exotic Aquariums Jewel cichlids or Hemichromis bimaculatus belong to the family Cichlidae. Jewel cichlids are commonly known as African cichlids because that is their continent of origin. They are native to the rivers, streams, creeks and lakes of west and northeast Africa. Jewels are plentiful in the Nile, Zaire, and Niger Rivers. They live in a variety of water conditions including stagnate lagoon waters. Jewel Cichlids are not for amateur aquarists. Nor do they make good community fish. They require fairly specific water conditions. They fare well in water with a pH level of 7.5 and a temperature range between 70-82 °F. Jewel cichlids are innately aggressive. They appear to suffer from an extreme case of Alpha Male Syndrome. They will fight other species for dominance over their territory. They are best suite for a mono-species aquarium. There have been reported cases where Jewel cichlids have adapted to a community environment. They are introduced when still quite young to a well established tank. This procedure, however, is not recom...

• Published: November 15, 2009, 10:26 pm
• Displayed: 150 times
• Preview: About Kribensis an article submitted by Exotic Aquariums Kribensis or Pelvicachromis pulcher are of the family Cichlidae more commonly referred to as cichlids. They are native to the waters of West Africa, primarily found in Nigeria. They can be found in anywhere from free flowing to brakish water. Kribensis are also referred to as dwarf African cichlids, purple cichlids, and kribs an abbreviation of their species name. Kribs are very popular among freshwater aquarists because of their almost saltwater quality coloration. Unlike most African cichlids, kribs have a temperament conducive to community living. They will adapt better to a community tank if given plenty of plants, rocks and hollow aquarium decorations to hide in. Kribs thrive in soft to medium hard water with a pH level between 6.5-7.0 and a temperature range of 75-82°. They are a medium sized fish reaching three to four inches in length as adults and have an average life spa of five years. Kribensis are omnivores. They eat worms, insects, small crustaceans and plants in their natural habitat. In captivity they...

• Published: November 11, 2009, 3:45 am
• Displayed: 146 times
• Preview: About Malawi Blue Dolphin an article submitted by Exotic Aquariums The Malawi blue dolphin or cyrtocara moorii is a member of the family Cichlidae. Cichlidae are commonly referred to as cichlids. The Malawi blue dolphin is just one on many species of cichlids native to Lake Malawi in Africa. Cichlids from Lake Malawi are collectively referred to as African cichlids. Blue dolphins are quite popular among freshwater aquarium keepers because of their brilliant blue hue. They, of course, are not related to dolphins. They were dubbed dolphins because of a nuchal hump on their head and their elongated snouts which gives their heads a vague resemblance to that of a dophin’s. This hump is present on both the males and the females and continues to grow as the fish does. The blue dolphin is a docile fish. They do not posses the aggressive instinct prevalent in many Africa cichlids. They make great additions to a community tank provided they are not mixed with more aggressive tank-mates. There are, however, a few considerations to take into account before deciding whether they are the...

• Published: November 30, 2009, 11:27 pm
• Displayed: 151 times
• Preview: About Oscar Fish an article submitted by Exotic Aquariums Oscars or Astronotus ocellatus is part of the family Cichlidae more commonly referred cichlids. Oscars are endemic to South America. They can be found in the Peru, Venezuela, Columbia, French Guiana, and the Amazon River basin. They are a member of the Cichlidae family more commonly refered to as cichlids. This family includes, angelfish, discus and African cichlids. Numerous numbers of new cichlids are discovered every year. So the actual number of species belonging to the cichlid family is unclear. Estimates vary from 1,300 to 3,000 different species world wide. Oscars are among the largest species of the cichlid family. They will grow to an adult length of 12-16 inches and can weigh in excess of 3.5 lbs. Don’t consider buying one for your kid’s 10 gallon aquarium. Selective breeding has produced a number of ornamental oscars bred specially for aquarists. Albino, leucistic, xanthistic and red marbled oscars are all a result of selective breeding. The variety with mainly red coloration is typically sold under the trade name...

• Published: November 30, 2009, 11:45 pm
• Displayed: 136 times
• Preview: About Paradise Fish an article submitted by Exotic Aquariums The paradise fish or Macropodus opercularis are members of the family Belontidae. This family grouping includes both betta fish and gouarmis. The paradise fish is a gourami. They are also commonly referred to as paradise gouramis. Paradise fish are native to East Asia. They populate the rice patties and ditches of Northern Vietnam and the Korean Peninsula. They were one of the first ornamental fish introduced to western society. They were first exported to Europe in the 1800s. Despite their long history as a commercial ornamental fish, you are unlikely to see one in a home aquarium. They aren’t even stocked in most fish specialty stores. This may be because paradise fish do not make good aquarium fish. Paradise fish are predators by nature. They are combative and harassing. They will attack each other and other species often seriously or fatally wounding them. You can no sooner put two males in the same tank together than you can betta males. Paradise fish are even more aggressive than bettas when it comes to male territo...

• Published: December 1, 2009, 6:11 pm
• Displayed: 142 times
• Preview: About Pearl Gourami an article submitted by Exotic Aquariums The pearl gourami or Trichogaster leeri is a member of the family Belontiidae. Pearl Gouramis inhabit the lowland swap waters of Sumatra, Borneo, Malaysia and Thailand. All gouramis belong to the suborder Anabantid. The members of this suborder evolved in poorly oxygenated environments. They subsequently developed an auxiliary breathing apparatus in addition to their gills. This lung-like organ, the labyrinth organ, allows them to breathe atmospheric oxygen. At some point in the evolutionary process they became dependent on both as a means of survival. They will die without a combination of dissolved and airborne oxygen. This is why they are frequently seen at the surface of an aquarium. Unlike the paradise fish, the pearl gourami is a timid creature. They are good additions to a community tank if they are provided with plants, rocks and aquarium décor in which to hide. There optimum water condition is a neutral pH with a water temperature around 78 °F. Pearl gouramis reach a length of approximately 5 inches and have...

• Published: December 1, 2009, 5:59 pm
• Displayed: 136 times
• Preview: About Platies an article submitted by Exotic Aquariums Platies or Xiphophorus maculates are members of the family Poecilidae of the order Cyrinodontiformes. The platy is native to southern Tamaulipas and northern Vera Cruz, states in northeastern Mexico. Although not native to these areas, the platy have taken root elsewhere in the world primarily due to aquarium trade related releases into the wild. They have established themselves in the United States in the canal systems of Tampa Bay and Gainesville, Florida. They have become naturalized in the state of Montana. They have also acclimated to the freshwaters of Columbia, Singapore, and Hong Kong. Hong Kong ecologists report that these “illegal aliens” are creating an adverse impact on their aquatic eco systems due to the platies’ prolific breading habits. The platy thrives in slow moving waters. They are perfectly suited for canals, ditches and warm springs. The platy has crossed more than international boundaries. They have crossed over genealogically. They are a member of the same family that includes guppies and swordtails. Mos...

• Published: February 20, 2008, 9:15 pm
• Displayed: 840 times
• Preview: The purpose of using filtration media in aquarium filters Brief Description If you came here searching for online suppliers of filtration media, simply click this link. In case you need knowledge and answers, continue reading. Bear in mind that if you cannot find answer on your question in the article below, you're welcome to ask at the bottom of this page! The article about Aquarium Filter Media has been updated and now answers all following questions (now you might skip to the following paragraph) Aquarium biological filter media get very dirty - what to do, Filter media for discus, Aquarium canister filter and media setup, How and when to change aquarium filter media, Aquarium filter media per gallon, Aquarium filter media to remove ammonia, Can dirty filter media cause rise in ammonia, Do all aquarium filter media grow beneficial bacteria, Do I really need bio media in my external filter in my planted aquarium, Should you put new media in your pump after treating white spot, What filter media should I use for internal filter. No one has ever had the heart to stand up and say that filtra...

• Published: December 1, 2009, 3:56 pm
• Displayed: 149 times
• Preview: About Swordtail Fish an article submitted by Exotic Aquariums The Swordtail or Xiphophorus helleri is a member of the family Poecilidae in the order Cyrinodontiformes. The sword fish is endemic to both North and South America. Their natural habitat stretches from Vera Cruz, Mexico to Honduras. The name swordtail is literal. These fish are named for the extended pointed region at the bottom of the caudal fin. This species is sexually dimorphic. The extended tail is found only among the males of the species. The different sexes do share the same color palette. The female is often slightly larger than the male. Swordtails are related to another popular fish among freshwater aquarium owners, the platy commonly referred to as the southern platy fish. They are so closely related that they can crossbreed with one another and do so regularly in the wild. Just like their cousin, the southern platy fish, the swordtail’s prolific breeding has wreaked havoc on previously uninhabited ecosystems. Feral populations can be found in both Africa and Australia. This ecological nuisance has cau...

• Published: May 1, 2010, 3:36 am
• Displayed: 127 times
• Preview: Aquarium and Varieties of River Rocks & Forum Brief description This article is devoted to river rocks in fish tanks; Especially to safety and tips. If you came here searching for online suppliers of aquarium river rocks, then simply click this link (it will open in new window/tab)! Also visit out Aquarium Rocks FAQ with Forum article! Many keepers who prefer the natural look to their aquariums will scout around looking for décor that gives their aquariums a special feel and replicates the natural surroundings of the fish. Biotopes are becoming more popular than ever, keepers are drifting away from aquariums with comical ornaments and fake plants etc., replicating a certain area of the world is much more pleasing to them. Of course you cannot guarantee that adding rocks for décor will be exactly the same rocks that are found in that part of the world but the overall effect is the same. For many years Malawi keepers would use Ocean Rock or Tuffa Rock in their set ups, this too has now fallen out of favour for more natural river pebbles. There are many types of river roc...

• Published: April 16, 2008, 9:25 pm
• Displayed: 501 times
• Preview: Aquarium Accessories Needed for Running a Fish Tank So, you`ve just got home with your new fish tank, to me that is 30 gallons or less. Aquariums are larger, at least in my mind. Since most new fish tanks and some 55 gallon models come in as a kit probably have: 1.the tank2.a hood with light3.an adequate filter4.a 4 inch net5.some tropical fish flakes6.a small amount of a chlorine remover7.a plastic/silk plant or two8.possibly some coupons It is strongly suggested, if you haven`t already, that you do a good deal of research before investing any more of your hard earned cash. TropicalFish.hu link exchange Whether you're from Hungary or speak Hungarian, feel free to visit TropicalFish.hu - aquarium plants, tropical plants, tropical fish. Research This is the most important step in any endeavor that involves dealing with live animals. Speak with store personnel to get a recommendation for what is best suited to your application. THEN check on-line forums for the opinion of experienced users. Then commit your hard earned money. This is true of any purchase you may wish t...

• Published: September 8, 2006, 2:19 am
• Displayed: 6454 times
• Preview: Adding a Fish Pond to Your Garden Landscape Brief description This page is a guide on essential tasks when building a fish pond; However here we also answer questions that visitors of Aqua-Fish.Net asked us; You're welcome to ask too - at the bottom of this page! Many homeowners take pride in designing and maintaining their own landscapes and gardens. There is a lot of hard work involved and a lot of money spent, but owners definitely reap great benefit as well. Adding a fish pond, or water garden to your property will not only make it more appealing to the eye, it will also increase the value and equity of your home. Not to mention the enjoyment and relaxation you will get from the addition. Once the decision has been made to incorporate a fish pond into your landscape design, the next step is to determine the exact placement of your garden pond. It’s important to place it where you’ll always be able to see it from inside the house, or other areas of the garden. You should take into consideration the lay of the land, so you don’t have to worry about possible contamination fr...

• Published: February 20, 2008, 12:43 pm
• Displayed: 1150 times
• Preview: Adjusting and Measuring pH in Fish Tanks, Recommendations & Forum Brief Description This article explains how o measure and adjust pH in a fish tank; However we also have other articles that are directly related to pH, you should visit them: Normal pH in the aquarium, Water chemistry with FAQ, Use of distilled water and water quality and Water hardness with forum. The Adjustment of pH in the aquarium article has been updated in order to answer more questions! A short excerpt of explained topics: What pH level should it be for guppies, swordtails, discus, angelfish; How to control pH in an aquarium; pH levels for tropical fish; Fish tank - pH too high; Ideal pH for an aquarium; Acceptable pH and nitrite levels; How do you check pH, ammonia and nitrate. If you cannot find answer on your question, use a form available at the bottom of this page to ask. We will gladly answer! pH (the measure of the acidity or basicity of a solution) is one of the most important variables that must be measured in every fish tank on a regular basis, preferably once a week, in order to avoid unexpec...

• Published: April 15, 2008, 9:41 pm
• Displayed: 488 times
• Preview: Fluidized bed filters - Advantages and Disadvantages Nowadays in the aquarium hobby there are many forms of filtration available from the suppliers, so sometimes it can get confusing as to which are the right ones to use on your aquarium. We have internal filters, external canister filters, running a sump, wet and dry trickle filters, diatom filters plus an old favorite with many people – the fluidized filter bed. All of the above filters have their advantages and disadvantages but over them all, the fluidized bed filter makes a great secondary filter to use as a back up for your overall system. They come into their own with heavily stocked aquariums, planted aquariums and marine aquariums. The great advantage with planted aquariums is the fact that these filters will not reduce the CO2 levels in the water which the plants depend on. Another great advantage of this system is that the maintenance side of them is drastically reduced as they tend to run for much longer periods without clogging and indeed they have the ability to clean themselves. Internal filters tend to be restric...

• Published: November 26, 2007, 7:25 pm
• Displayed: 2239 times
• Preview: Sump filtersWhen do I need one? Sump filters are very large filters, capable of handling high volumes of water and processing it quickly. They are only practical on large water systems, such as display tanks in shops, multiple fish tanks in a single location or a large aquarium in the home. If you have 100 gallons or more in one tank, or a combination of tanks in a rack, then a sump is worthwhile, as long as you are able to connect the tanks to it. This usually involves drilling the glass to take piping, so, on an established setup, it isn’t always possible. I am considering installing a sump on my living room display, because there are 6 tanks, all on the same level around two walls, but to do this I have to take each tank down, drill a hole in the bottom to take the pipe connector and then set the tank back up. I also have to install piping to take the outlet flow from the tank to the sump, and piping to put the filtered water back into the tank at the top. So why bother? 6 tanks all need regular water changes and conditions change more quickly in each tank, all the tanks req...

• Published: August 22, 2008, 11:07 pm
• Displayed: 435 times
• Preview: Aquarium sand - Advantages, risks, usage & forum Brief description This page is devoted to those who use sand in their aquariums, or to those who are deciding whether to use sand or not. We'd love to hear about your aquarium with sandy bottom, so leave a message at the bottom of this page once you're finished reading the information. If you came here looking for online suppliers of aquarium sand, then click this link, please. Advantages Many fishes hail from sandy environments in the wild and will love a sandy substrate in the aquarium. For some species, sand is more or less mandatory, e.g. for bottom feeding fish with delicate barbells adapted for fine sand rather than coarse gravel. There are also many species of fish and invertebrates that likes to hide in sand and some will even dig out burrows. Examples of popular fish that will appreciate a sandy substrate are Tanganyikan featherfins, shelldwellers and sandsifters.Some species will only breed in sandy aquariums.Some species need sand to aid digestion.Sand is an ideal choice for many species of aquatic plants.Since grains of...

• Published: June 9, 2008, 10:48 pm
• Displayed: 440 times
• Preview: Digital aquarium thermometers, strip thermometers, accuracy Temperature inside your aquarium is something that needs to checked on a daily basis. It is crucial to your fish’s health that they are kept in an environment that is best suited for them. Most fish and invertebrates are cold blooded, they can only maintain their body heat from the environment that they are living in; incorrect temperatures can affect their metabolism in all sorts of ways. Large changes in the temperature are not a good thing in any aquarium. When I perform water changes in my tanks I always preheat the water that is going in, not all keepers do this, so checking the temperature for sudden drops as they refill the tank is vital. Make sure the water is added back slowly, giving it time to reheat this is the only way around this problem. Incorrect temperatures can cause the following problems:- Illness caused by stressDeath brought on by stressReduction in the appetite of the fish, this in turn will reduce the capability of their immune system. Every aquarium must have a thermometer fitted, most fish ...

• Published: June 13, 2008, 12:10 am
• Displayed: 408 times
• Preview: Suppliers and Advantages of Titanium Aquarium Heaters As most of us know there are a wide variety of submersible aquarium heaters available to buy, normally aquarists will purchase the standard units where the heating element is enclosed in a glass or plastic case. Another option on the market that is now widely available is the submersible titanium heater. Standard heaters are more in the price range of most people, but they do have their disadvantages. They have to be submerged to the recommended water level (normally there is a line on the glass tube to act as an indicator), if the water drops below that the tube can blow, or at least overheat, this could mean a premature death for your fish, and it will definitely kill off the heater. Remembering to turn off the heater before removing it from the aquarium is often overlooked; I have done it myself on numerous occasions.After constant use a build up of scale can accumulate on the heater, not only is this unsightly, it can lead to total failure of the heater.Some of the cheaper heaters can sometimes be made to fairly low standards;...

• Published: May 7, 2006, 3:45 am
• Displayed: 5738 times
• Preview: African Cichlids - Requirements, Species & FAQ Introduction This article is introduction to raising African cichlids in fish tanks with links to several species that are classed as "African cichlids". We've also answered a couple of questions asked by visitors of aqua-fish.net in the questions & answers paragraph. We'd love to hear about your African cichlids too - use a form at the bottom of this page to share details of your tank, species that you keep and your experiences! African Cichlids come from three of Africa`s great lakes - Malawi, Tanganyika, and Victoria. In these lakes there are more species of fish than in any other lakes in the world. We don`t know the exact number of species and new ones are being continually discovered in all the lakes, so you can understand how difficult it is to count them. Cichlid fishes in these lakes often have extraordinary opportunities to instigate speciation, an evolutionary process that leads to differences. That is why they are the most spectacular examples of speciation and adaptive radiation within any vert...

• Published: October 24, 2007, 9:01 am
• Displayed: 1316 times
• Preview: Air pumps They not only offer pleasing effects but also essential oxygenation and current to the aquarium. Not all aquarists use them though. It is possible to have an aquarium without one, but it poses challenges sooner or later. What do they do? An air pump can be used for filtration using foam, box or under-gravel filters, airation of the water by bubblestones, wands, or bubble tubes, and they can also power ornaments and create movement in the aquarium. Filtration: This is very often the first use of air pumps. Most aquarists buy air pumps for this reason initially. Filtration is an essential part of any aquarium and not all can be filtered by other methods. The principle advantage of air filtration is that it is gentle and safe for delicate and small fish. Many electrically powered filters are too powerful for small fish and fry to cope with, creating strong currents in the tank and tiring them out. They also create strong intake currents and can pull small fish into the intakes. Air filtration is much less dangerous for these fish. Because it uses air to move the wa...

• Published: March 20, 2007, 8:31 am
• Displayed: 20499 times
• Preview: Algae eaters & Types of algae Algae eaters - click to find out more Brief description This article describes what causes algae in fish tanks and links to fish that eat algae: simply click here. We also answer questions and offer FAQ in the article below. We'd love to hear about your algae eaters or problems with algae, so after you're finished reading the article leave a comment via the form at the bottom of this page, please! We'd also want you to visit the following pages since they're related to algae problems: Black brush algae, Staghorn algae, Blue-green algae, Chinese algae eater with large forum, Siamese algae eater profile, Controlling algae in fish ponds. If you notice small or large green spots, or even some hair algae in your freshwater tropical aquarium, you usually try to remove them manually. After careful removal or cutting sick plants for weeks you`ll find that it`s almost impossible to displace all the algae which grow, grow and grow all the time. An ordinary aquarist may consider introducing algae eaters into the tank at this point. Fish shops like this ki...

• Published: June 1, 2009, 8:42 pm
• Displayed: 265 times
• Preview: Aquarium book - All about aquariums Our ebook called All about aquariums has been made available free of charge on July 6th 2011 after a generous donation from anonymous donor. Feel free to go through this page where you can find the download link - at the bottom of the article. Do you want to keep happy and healthy fish? Do you want to know how to grow aquarium plants? Do you want your aquarium to look like this? So download our free e-book! The aquarium book called "All About Aquariums" covers all topics that are: Needed to start a freshwater tropical fish tank,Needed to run a freshwater tropical aquarium properly without seeing fish suffering,Needed to understand how freshwater tropical fish behave,Needed to help you breeding your freshwater tropical fish,Needed to enjoy this hobby! In order to differentiate this book from most of others which are already available on the internet, here`s what you won`t find inside: Lack of contentMissing referencesPoor qualityImpossibility of finding answersPoor navigation within the book What`s ins...

• Published: October 29, 2008, 10:39 pm
• Displayed: 321 times
• Preview: Fish Pond De-icers; Questions and Links to De-Icers Each of the questions below has been asked by visitors of Aqua-Fish.Net in the past. In order to share the knowledge and experience, I decided to publish and answer them within this article. You may be also interested in visiting another article devoted to fish pond de-icers, which is here: aqua-fish.net/show.php?h=ponddeicer. What is the purpose of a pond de-icer? (or what a de-icer does) To melt the the ice in a fish pond. This helps to keep the fish healthy since dangerous gases can get out from water (these gases are a result of excrements for instance). It also helps to avoid fishes from suffocate. How do I choose a fish pond de-icer? Firstly compare a few products (you can compare products listed at the bottom of this page too) and based on your requirements, select one. The requirements are: How big is your pond? How much do you want to spend on the de-icer itself, and how much are you willing to spend on electricity bills? What are the lowest temperatures in your garden pond during Winter? How many days are temperature...

• Published: December 27, 2006, 3:53 pm
• Displayed: 5694 times
• Preview: Caridina Japonica – Amano shrimp - Proper care, feeding, breeding & forum Brief description This page is devoted to raising Amano shrimp in fish tanks. Our forum which can be found under the article contains useful information and experiences and we'd like you to submit your experiences with Cardinia japonica too! If you came here searching for purchasing Amano shrimp online, simply follow this link! Caridina japonica is the most common shrimp present in aquariums, is also known as Amano Shrimp because Takashi Amano has been the first one to introduce them in his aquariums, noticing their habit to eat algae. Caridina japonica, native of Japan, Korea and Taiwan, is a small transparent grey shrimp with black spots covering the body and a white line from the head to the tail; the body colour can anyway change a bit due food nutrients and water quality. Aquarium life Amano shrimp can live in every aquarium, prefer neutral or lightly acid PH, temperature can fluctuate between 71°F and 82°F (22°C – 28°C), while water hardness has not to be too much soft, because bei...

• Published: August 2, 2006, 2:14 am
• Displayed: 34624 times
• Preview: Angel Fish - Detailed care, Breeding, Raising fry & Forum Freshwater Angelfish Pictures Saltwater Angelfish (click to get information) Expert Advice by Jan, keeping fish since 1995 Quick links - Answers »How long do angelfish live »How to mate angelfish »How long does it take for angelfish to grow »How big do angelfish grow »How many angelfish should I keep in my aquarium »How to sex angelfish »How fast do angelfish grow »How often do angelfish spawn »How big fish tank do angelfish need »How do you start an angelfish aquarium »How often do angelfish eat »How often do you clean an angelfishes tank »How to stop angelfish aggression »How to add an angelfish into a tank with already 1 in it »What is an angelfish Brief Description This page is devoted to raising freshwater Angelfish (we have pages dedicated to saltwater Angelfish too; continue reading) and contains hundreds of answers! Some an...

• Published: March 24, 2010, 12:41 am
• Displayed: 127 times
• Preview: Caring for the aquarium plant Anubias congensis Origin - West Africa Proper name - Anubias Barteri var. Congensis Family - Araceae Temperature - 20-28°C pH - 5.0-8.0 Lighting - medium to low Growth Rate - very slow Difficulty - easy Planting position - midground to background Propagation - rhizome General description:- This plant is a very tall species from the Araceae family and even though it is slow growing, many keepers find that it can outgrow smaller tanks over a period of a few months. Individual specimens can range from 12” right up to 24” dependant on their tank surroundings and available minerals. They are very undemanding of light levels and it is often best to keep them n the lower lighting levels as they are very slow growing, with slow growing plants algae can form on the leaves, lower lighting levels will reduce this problem a great deal. Anubias Congensis produce bright green leaves that are lanceolate in shape ( the leaves finish in a point) and they certainly stand out from other plants in the aquarium due to their colouration. They can be purchased...

• Published: August 31, 2006, 11:57 am
• Displayed: 7781 times
• Preview: Aquarium air pumps & links to online suppliers Brief description This page is devoted to aquarium air pumps, answers FAQ and contains forum under the article. If you came here searching for online suppliers of air pumps, simply click this link. We'd love to hear your experiences with various pumps, so other aquarists will know better what to purchase and what to avoid! Use a form at the bottom of this page to share your knowledge or ask questions! Aquarium air pump is a device that brings air into the aquarium. The air pumps are usually very alike but you can choose from many types of decorations, from which the air will come out to the aquarium. The most common is just an air stone. You put the air stone into the aquarium and start the pump. Another forms are aquarium ornaments like treasure chests, shells, which open if the decoration is full of air, divers and many more. Such aerating devices make bubbles and the bubbles move the water surface and that is how they aerate the water. Choosing the right air pump is not so difficult. You just have to choose it according to t...

• Published: September 8, 2006, 2:07 am
• Displayed: 49190 times
• Preview: Guide on Using Aquarium Backgrounds - FAQ and Forum Brief description This page is devoted to aquarium backgrounds - types and use. If you'd like to purchase backgrounds for your fish tank, simply click this link (will open in new window/tab). You're welcome to visit the following pages too (links will open in new window/tab): DIY Aquarium Backgrounds, Aquarium backgrounds. We'd love to hear your experiences with backgrounds and your opinions too - use a form at the bottom of this page to share your story! Aquarium owners have the luxury of having a piece of the underwater kingdom available for their viewing pleasure twenty four hours a day. Since a well maintained and presented aquarium can represent quite an investment, the die hard fish lover wants to perfectly display and enhance the appearance of his fish. One way to do this is through the use of aquarium backgrounds. These backgrounds can be made of various fish-safe materials and can be placed inside or outside the aquarium. Aquarium backgrounds come in an almost endless array of sizes shapes and colors, so it’s quite certain t...

• Published: September 30, 2008, 7:05 am
• Displayed: 371 times
• Preview: The purpose of bacteria in aquarium Brief description This page explains the purpose of beneficial bacteria in fish tanks and in case something isn't clear or if you'd like to ask, use a form at the bottom of this page! Also visit following pages (they will open in new tab/window): Biological Cycle in the Aquarium and Ways how to Cycle an Aquarium with FAQ. When an aquarium is first set up it is incapable of supporting any livestock until it has built up large enough colonies of beneficial bacteria that will convert all traces of toxic ammonia and nitrites into nitrates that are removed during water changes or consumed by plants that have been added to the tank. But what are these beneficial bacteria and how do they keep our aquariums healthy? To understand the processes that are taking place in the aquarium, we have to first learn a little about water chemistry and what it involves. We have heard the phrase “cycling the tank” but what does that mean. When we first set up an aquarium we are actually setting up an artificial ecosystem that hangs on a fragile balance. If we get everythin...

• Published: April 26, 2010, 7:48 pm
• Displayed: 112 times
• Preview: Aquarium Care and Maintenance - Daily, weekly and monthly tasks Setting up an aquarium can take a lot of planning, positioning the tank, getting the tank cycled ready for the fish and finally adding your fish selection. When the tank is first set up it will have that clean, new look that really catches the eye as people walk past and spot it but how do you keep your aquarium looking that way and how can you guarantee that you are supplying your fish and plants if added, the best water quality that they need for growth and long term health. Just like the planning stage, the maintenance stage requires careful thought, some tasks need doing on a daily basis while others probably only need doing once a month. These tasks are very important to keeping a successful aquarium so skimping on these will eventually lea to the downfall of the tank and problems will start to occur, these problems will then escalate to a total tank shut down. To ensure that the aquarium care and maintenance is carried out on the required dates it is best to start a tank log, this can be notes in a notebook or even add ...

• Published: August 30, 2006, 1:44 pm
• Displayed: 16599 times
• Preview: Chilling and making an aquarium cooler and better place Brief description This page is guide to aquarium chillers, with links to online suppliers! If you're interested in purchasing chillers, simply click this link. If you're a first-time buyer, then visit this article too: Things to know before purchasing an aquarium chiller, it contains FAQ and answers them! The below-shown guide also offers sharing experiences and asking questions about aquarium chillers. You're welcome to tell us why and how you make your aquarium cooler - at the bottom of this page! Also visit aquarium chillers page at OCReef.com where you can purchase one! Aquarium chiller (or cooler); an unusual and unknown piece of equipment in many countries... That's how one description of these items could be written. In my previous article, I was talking about heaters in aquariums. Unlike the winter months, warm months in summer means problems with high temperatures, which could lead to fish problems. Also, fishes will live longer if you keep them in water which is colder than 30°C (86°F). Making an aquarium a cooler place is so...

• Published: August 23, 2006, 7:02 am
• Displayed: 15709 times
• Preview: Aquarium decoration - Suppliers, Guide & Forum Brief description If you came here looking for aquarium decorations, simply click this text. The below-shown article contains information about various decorations and tips on decorating a fish tank. You should also visit following pages (they will open in new tab/window): What to use as Aquarium Ornaments - with Pictures, Fish Tank Decorations FAQ and Tips and Types of fish tank decorations. We'd love to hear what decorations you use in your tank, so submit your story at the bottom of this page, please! As we all know aquarium decoration nowadays, it includes items such as caves, air pumps, plastic plants, rocks, shells, pearls. However, let's go through it's history and tips how to decorate your fish tank. The first kinds of fish tanks were small ponds in the gardens. The fish kept there were goldfish and some kinds of carps. It all started in China around the 10th century and it could be, that even in the 7th century. The goldfish species came to Europe in about 17th century. The first aquariums like we know them now we...

• Published: March 19, 2008, 4:31 pm
• Displayed: 628 times
• Preview: Examples how to design an aquarium Brief description This page is a short guide on designing fish tanks, however you should also visit our list of biotopes which points at different biotopes - and where you can get inspiration for your design. Simply click the following link: list of biotopes and also continue reading. If you'd like to ask or share experiences, there is a form at the bottom of this page for this purpose! These days, everyone who has an aquarium has seen the vast range of ornaments, fake plants and novelty toys that can be placed into the aquarium. There is no need to detail these, as you see the every time you enter the local fish stores. I want to look at the choices we have for alternative decorations here, letting your mind create the end result. It is quick and easy to run to the store, buy a few trinkets and put them into the tank just to give some effect, but that`s not what we want or strive for. Yes, it`s great for kids with their first tank and a couple of goldfish, but most of us have aquariums for pleasure and they need to be in keeping with our homes. You t...

• Published: September 22, 2006, 11:07 am
• Displayed: 11110 times
• Preview: Landscape Your Aquarium with Aquarium Driftwood Brief Description & Links to Purchasing Driftwood Online If you came here looking for online suppliers of aquarium driftwood, simply follow this link and you'll be forwarded to a list of places where it's possible to buy driftwood! Otherwise - This is a guide on using driftwood in fish tanks with FAQ and place for sharing experiences - use a form at the bottom to tell us your experiences or ask questions! The article Aquarium Driftwood also answers all following questions (you might skip to the next paragraph now) How to clean driftwood for aquarium, How much does driftwood alter pH, How to keep driftwood at bottom of tank, How to attach plants to aquarium driftwood, What if I boil aquarium driftwood, What does driftwood do, How to make driftwood aquarium safe, What is driftwood, How to put driftwood in an aquarium. Much like adding aquatic plants to your aquarium, adding driftwood to your aquarium can certainly add to that eye-popping effect you are looking for. Driftwood is basically a piece of wood, that has been dried. Unli...

• Published: January 21, 2010, 5:59 pm
• Displayed: 127 times
• Preview: Aquarium Equipment The basic supplies you need for keeping fish an article submitted by pluspets.com Owning quality aquarium equipment is a necessary part of caring for fish - and it can add up fast, especially if you keep salt water fish. Walking the fine line between cost and quality can be difficult since choosing inferior equipment could lead to the sickness or death of the fish that you care for. Spending a few extra dollars may be worth it if it brings the added peace of mind of knowing that your fish will remain happy and healthy. Basic Aquarium Equipment Whether you have a tropical fish aquarium or a temperate aquarium you’re going to need at least some basic aquarium supplies to ensure your fish have the right environment in which to thrive. These include: A fish tankA quality air pumpA protein skimmerA filtration systemFresh gravelAlgae scraperWater heater or chillerFish net The first decision to make is what kind of tank you’re going to buy and will depend both on your budget and the total number or type of fish that you wish to own. Smaller tanks are not only mo...

• Published: June 30, 2008, 2:17 pm
• Displayed: 381 times
• Preview: Aquarium Filter Pads One of the most important aspects of running a successful filtration system is knowing which media to add to your filters. One component that is found in all powered filters is the filter sponge pad. As any experienced fish keeper can tell you, there are three areas that your filter has to cover. Mechanical filtration is the first step in the process; this is then followed by the biological filtration, and finally chemical filtration. Mechanical and biological filtration are a must at all times, chemical filtration is often only applied when it is required to do a specific job as in removing medications from the water, or for removing unwanted substances that have been found in the water. When the water is pulled from the tank into the filter it should be pulled through the sponges that are placed inside. The mechanical filtration will now take place. As the name suggests the sponges will sieve the water, pulling out any solid particles that are present, and them letting the water pass through to the next stage. The solid particles are mostly composed of fis...

• Published: June 7, 2008, 11:31 am
• Displayed: 440 times
• Preview: Aquarium Filter Systems To a novice fish keeper, choosing which filtration system to purchase for their tank can sometimes be a bit confusing. There are several types to choose from so which will be the most efficient for their tank. There is no point paying out for a large canister filter when running a small tank, researching what is required can save money but still maintain high water quality. The two main factors in choosing which system are, the volume of the tank, and what stock are you going to keep in it. In some cases a secondary filter may be required; if this is the case then it doesn’t always mean paying out for two identical ones, a smaller one will often be used for a back up. Planning your filtration system at the start will save a lot of time and hassle in the future. So why do I need a filter? An aquarium has closed parameters; this means that when your fish foul the water it is trapped in the tank unless pulled out by other means. In nature the seas, lakes or rivers will remove their pollutants, debris on their own, this cannot happen in an aquarium, we must su...

• Published: March 19, 2006, 3:41 pm
• Displayed: 3122 times
• Preview: Aquarium fish forum Join our aquarium fish forum at aqua-fish.net! It`s an easy way to exchange your experiences of keeping freshwater aquarium fish and plants, as well to discuss your problems related to freshwater aquariums. We have released our aquarium fish forum in late 2005 and after several updates, it is now completely ready for posting. What do you need to do if you want to join aqua-fish.net? 1) Register for free. You can find a registration form under Project->Registration. 2) Fill in the registration form. 3) When you`re registered, just click on Project->Our forums. 4) Every new post (except your own) since your last visit will be marked with a blue smiley. Of course, this smiley may vary, but you will see what`s new in our aquarium fish forum. Our website will inform you how many times each topic has been viewed and how many repliesit has had. The same smileys and information will appear in each topic and forum threads. You will see who started each thread and when. 5) Of course, our aquarium fish forum supp...

• Published: March 28, 2009, 5:39 am
• Displayed: 262 times
• Preview: Things to know about aquarium heaters - FAQ Brief description This article is a collection of answered questions that fish keepers ask the most in regards of heaters and heating fish tanks. You're welcome to ask questions in case you can't find answer on your question below; Also visit our most popular article about heaters: A guide on using Fish Tank Heaters with FAQ, Forum and Online suppliers (the link will open in new window). One of the most vital pieces of equipment in an aquarium has to be the heater. This is often neglected and forgotten about when placed in the tank but it plays a vital role in the fish’s welfare. Misplacing a heater in the aquarium can often mean cold spots in the tank or the heater cannot run as efficiently as it should be doing, hopefully this article will help give everyone a good understanding of how a heart should be used. When should a heater be placed in a tank and why are there some tanks without them? Many species of fish are classed as coldwater fish. When keeping a coldwater tank, there is no need to add an aquarium heater as the fish pref...

• Published: March 26, 2009, 1:11 am
• Displayed: 268 times
• Preview: Common questions and answers about aquarium hoods and lighting Many aquariums nowadays are run open topped but there are cases where a tight fitting hood and built in lighting are necessary. Most bought aquariums will come with a hood and lighting but sometimes fish keepers will resort to making their own. This may sound complicated but it isn’t! Even the smallest of tanks come complete with a hood and some form of basic lighting. Hoods are normally made from wood, plastic or metal, deciding which one is used is purely personal preference. Why do I need a hood? Aquarium hoods serve a few purposes. They will reduce the amount of evaporation from the tank water as well as preventing contaminants entering the tank from outside sources. Hoods also act as a base for attaching the lighting equipment to and with built in flaps give access to all areas. If the aquarium is bought as a complete package, the hood will be a perfect fit and will do its job well. If making your own hood, measure carefully to ensure a tight fit. Should I choose wooden or plastic for my hood? As mentioned...

• Published: September 23, 2006, 1:30 pm
• Displayed: 4198 times
• Preview: Choosing an Aquarium Hood That’s Right for You Unless you purchased your aquarium as a pre-selected complete kit, then you’ll also need to acquire an aquarium hood. Aquarium hoods are not only an attractive topper to finish the look of your aquarium, but they also serve practical purposes as well. They add protection from foreign objects falling in the tank which could kill your fish, and they hold the upper lighting for the aquarium. Aquarium hoods also keep wayward pets such as ferrets and cats from making an afternoon munchie of your aquarium denizens. Dust, smoke, pet dander and other airborne pollutants are also held at bay, helping to keep the tank water cleaner for a longer period of time. Of course, hoods help prevent your fish from leaping out of the tank and onto the floor to their death. We can’t always be there to scoop them up immediately and return them to the tank, therefore an aquarium hood is not a luxury, it’s a necessity. You will find that aquarium hoods come in all standard sizes and that custom sizes can be found at some retailers. Generally you will find that w...

• Published: September 25, 2008, 7:18 am
• Displayed: 370 times
• Preview: Ideas to build an aquarium Aquarium ideas? A brief description If you're looking for ideas on building a fish tank, this is the right place! Ensure that you go through this article first, and also consider viewing aquarium biotopes which are linked to at our list of aquarium biotopes (the link will open in new window). You're welcome to browse our aquarium fish records and plants records too! If there's anything that you don't understand or need help with, simply use the form that can be found at the bottom of this page - and we will help you! One of the joys of the fish keeping hobby has to be designing an eye catching and pleasing tank set up with all the décor involved. This can take many hours to get the desired effect or it may work straight away with instant success. Pre-planning your aquarium can save a lot of time when you actually get to the physical side of putting items into the tank. The planning should also involve researching which types of fish you intend to keep in your tank, this will then give you a good idea of the size of tank required and the décor that needs to be adde...

• Published: March 27, 2009, 7:22 am
• Displayed: 257 times
• Preview: Aquarium lighting fixtures FAQ Aquarium lighting if used correctly can create an outstanding effect and show off everything in your tank. Most aquariums nowadays are supplied with the lighting already fitted but when buying a second hand tank this may not always be the case. A lighting system is not all that complicated and is very easy to fit into the hood of the aquarium. Basically there are three main components to a lighting system. BallastLighting TubesWaterproof connecters Once these three items are matched together and fitted correctly you will have a great display in your aquarium and in the case of planted tanks, the lighting will encourage the plant growth. How do I create an aquarium light? As mentioned above you will need to purchase the three main items to set up your lighting fixture. The first thing that you need to do is measure the length of your tank to ensure that you are getting the correct length of tubes for your lighting. The tubes sold will be slightly smaller than the tank length and will be rated in watts. They are attached to the hood by the means of br...

• Published: October 30, 2008, 9:52 pm
• Displayed: 342 times
• Preview: Aquarium Lighting Guide; including bulbs and light timers In order to answer more and more questions of Aqua-Fish.Net`s visitors, this guide is devoted to information about aquarium lighting, bulbs, fixtures and timers. All questions have been compiled from previous statistics. If you`re looking for answer that isn`t answered here (or on this website), feel free to leave your question at the bottom of this page and we'll answer it. Which lighting is suitable (best) for a freshwater aquarium? For plants I recommend AquaGlo bulbs (I have had very good experience with these). In past I recommended 0.625 Watt per 1 litre for very fast growth. However, nowadays I am using 0.308 Watt per 1 litre. It is enough to grow plants such as Vallisneria Gigantea, Vallisneria Spiralis, Anubias Nana. Some plants (especially the floating ones) can do better under ordinary sunlight than under special aquarium lighting. Pistia Stratiotes is a nice example of such a plant. Never buy bulbs which heat the tank too much. In Summer this can cause serious overheating. How long should an aquarium light ...

• Published: September 4, 2006, 3:48 pm
• Displayed: 9766 times
• Preview: Aquarium lighting FAQ and tipsa guide to lights for freshwater aquariums Brief description This page is devoted to fish tank lighting, answers FAQ, and offers forum for asking and sharing ideas. If you came here looking for online suppliers of aquarium lighting, simply click this link! Bear in mind you're welcome to submit story of your aquarium at the bottom of this page! Simply scroll down and you'll find answers on your questions! Before you decide to buy an aquarium lighting system there are a few facts you should know. Always focus on more aspects than only price, given discount or cheap offers. It's necessary to understand the purpose of a lighting system in a fish tank, and only then one should go ahead and buy. This guide is here to help you and it has been written by experienced fish keepers for everyone who needs advice regarding aquarium light. Imagine, you are a colourful tropical fish. You swim in warm water, with lot of plants, in which you can hide and of course you know where you are swimming to. Do you know how this paradise may exist? It is because of the sun. Sun...

• Published: March 12, 2008, 8:51 pm
• Displayed: 632 times
• Preview: What to perform when maintaining an aquarium Regular aquarium maintenance keeps a tank healthy allowing its inhabitants comfort and longevity. It is a lot easier to prevent trouble rather than having to fix it. Maintaining your aquarium is easy when all of the components in the tank are in proper working order. There are specific guidelines to what works best when maintaining your aquatic environment. The most important thing to check on a daily basis is your fish. Take a good look at them for a few minutes each day and check to see that there are no diseases present such as skin irritations or fin rot. See that they are eating properly because a sick fish might not present any symptoms other than lack of appetite and diminished physique. Also be sure that there are no casualties because dead fish can cause water contamination levels to spike if not removed right away. Catching the problem early and taking swift action will help to keep maintenance down to a minimum. Be sure that your aquarium equipment is also running properly. Check daily to see that filters are filtering, air pump...

• Published: February 26, 2008, 4:07 pm
• Displayed: 684 times
• Preview: Types of aquarium medications - Guide with Forum Brief description If you came here searching for online suppliers of aquarium fish medications, then click this link! If you need knowledge continue reading the article, it contains tips and forum in case something isn't clear or answered yet on this page. You're welcome to share knowledge and tips too! For aquarists who have invested a considerable amount of money and time in establishing an aquarium, there is nothing more daunting than seeing their fish become ill and possibly dying. Anyone who has maintains an aquarium either for work of for pleasure should take the trouble to learn what is involved in maintaining their fish’s general health, how to recognize the common diseases that can affect the fish, and more importantly, have on hand the relevant aquarium medications to apply to the water to nurse their cares back to perfect health. The first thing to understand is that healthy water means healthy fish. DropsyFungal infectionPopeyepicture source - fishtankforum.co.uk, reprinted with permission One of the major causes o...

• Published: March 10, 2008, 4:22 pm
• Displayed: 766 times
• Preview: What to use as Aquarium Ornaments Interesting under water scenes are created by using the right combination of aquarium ornaments. By choosing the right décor an aquarist can create the perfect environment to raise happy and healthy fish. Sure, aquarium ornaments are wonderful to look at, but they also serve a bigger purpose. There are many pieces that also function as important survival tools for aquatic pets. When choosing ornaments for an aquarium you’ll have to assess the needs of your fish, pick features that accommodate those needs and use them to create and eye-pleasing scene. There are so many different aspects of decoration to think about when building an underwater scene. Keep in mind you are creating a whole world for your fish to live in. It is a three-dimensional space where your pets will eat, breath, sleep and hide, so where do you start? The best place to begin is at the bottom. The first thing to decide is what to put at the bottom of the aquarium. There are so many substances to choose from. Gravel is most commonly used to decorate the bottom of tropic...

• Published: July 7, 2006, 2:56 am
• Displayed: 10577 times
• Preview: Aquarium Plants - Nutrition, Care and Lighting Requirements Guide by Susan, aquarist since 1996 Quick links - Answers »Planting aquarium plants »How much light do aquarium plants need »Aquarium plants turning brown »Foreground aquarium plants »Background aquarium plants »Aquarium plants not growing »Surface aquarium plants »Profiles of Aquarium plants »Aquarium plants database »Plants for Angelfish »Plants for Discus fish »Driftwood and aquarium plants »Plants for Tiger barbs Brief Description This article is a guide with FAQ, tips and forum - all about aquarium plants and we have a database of aquarium plants - click this link to show all records as pictures (clickable links) - the link will open in new window/tab. Or click this link to show the list of plants with requirements and characteristics (will open in new tab/window too). If you'd like to ask or share experiences regarding growing aquarium plants, use a f...

• Published: March 26, 2008, 2:06 pm
• Displayed: 497 times
• Preview: Aquarium refugiumsby Mick As the name suggest a refugium is basically a refuge for macro algae, copepods, amphipods, shrimps & fish species that require quiet surroundings away from predation, bullying etc. They are normally connected to the main display tank or in close vicinity as they need to benefit from the high water quality that is maintained in a reef tank. And this can only be achieved by the water being pumped directly into them which is then allowed to drain back at a steady, constant pace. Some fish keepers keep refugiums purposely to breed their shrimps & copepods. They also provide ideal conditions for seahorses, mandarins, pipefish & all fish that require calmer water flow. SETTING UP A REFUGIUM: Any small tank can be used to create a refugium; in fact on the market nowadays it is possible to purchase a hang on variety which is just as suitable.I have used a 10 gallon tank for this purpose in the past. Now we need to supply a water supply to fill the tank. This is done by means of a small water pump or even better a direct feed from t...

• Published: June 3, 2008, 9:03 am
• Displayed: 620 times
• Preview: Benefits of adding rocks to aquariums along with pictures & links to online suppliers of aquarium rocks Brief description This article answers questions about rocks in aquariums and offers tips on decorating your tank with rocks. There is a form at the bottom of this page and we'd love to hear about rocks in your aquarium - Types, what species of fish you raise and if there's anything you'd like to ask, we'll gladly answer. There is also another page that you should visit: Varieties of River Rocks. If you'd like to purchase aquarium rocks online, simply follow this link, you'll be taken to a list of online suppliers. Rocks can be used as decorative elements in an aquarium while providing hide-outs and homes for the fish that reside there. Aquarium rocks provide caves and territories, a surface to lay eggs on, and a place for algae eaters to graze upon. Rocks come in all different shapes and sizes and are made out of all sorts of different materials. Pay special attention to the type of rocks you use in your aquarium because not all rocks are safe for fish. Rocks that a...

• Published: August 22, 2008, 11:11 pm
• Displayed: 365 times
• Preview: Aquarium silicone(the purpose and usage) Aquarium silicone is used to glue the glass together in a glass aquarium and seal the joints. Learning how to use silicone is not only necessary for those interested in building an aquarium for scratch; it is also very helpful for anyone with an older aquarium in need of some repair. It is very important to only use aquarium safe silicone, because other types of silicone can include harmful compounds that may leech into the water and harm the inhabitants of your fish tank. Silicone sold for bathroom use can for instance contain arsenic to prevent fungi growth in damp rooms. When using aquarium silicone, it is important to work on a very level surface. It is also important to keep the room well ventilated, because the fumes aren’t exactly healthy to inhale. Different aquarists use slightly different methods when applying silicone and you may have to practise and experiment a bit before you find which method that suits you best. A commonly used technique is to run a continuous 0.25 inch bead over the glass and never apply more silicone ...

• Published: September 8, 2006, 2:11 am
• Displayed: 12957 times
• Preview: Aquarium Substrate - Suppliers, Calculator, FAQ, Tips & Forum Introduction This page contains information about types of aquarium gravel, calculator for calculating amount of substrate, FAQ and links to online suppliers of aquarium substrate. You're also welcome to share your experiences with us - a form that is available at the bottom of this page should be used for sharing knowledge and asking questions! If you'd like to purchase aquarium gravel simply follow this link and you'll be taken to a place with links to suppliers. You should also visit the following pages as they're related to substrates for fish tanks: Aquarium sand with forum, Aquarium rocks with FAQ and forum and Types of aquarium gravel with pictures and discussion! When you think of aquariums, the first things that probably pop into your mind are beautiful fish, green submersed plants, and the little plastic diver guy that finds himself stranded in many fish tanks. Then of course there are the bubbles which permeate the water with their gentle flow upward through the seascape. Little or no attention is given to...

• Published: September 8, 2006, 1:52 am
• Displayed: 3580 times
• Preview: Selecting the Correct Aquarium Supplies There are many different types of aquariums, but the one thing they all have in common is that they all require aquarium supplies. Which supplies your aquarium will need will be determined by the particular type of fish and plants you have. It is a good idea to research this information before you begin to set up your aquarium, so that you will be well prepared with all needed supplies readily available. One thing that you will need pretty much regardless of the type of aquarium you have is a high quality air pump. Making sure that you have a well aerated aquarium will help you to maintain the proper ph level so that your fish have the oxygen they need in order to survive. You can also purchase air pumps that are powered by battery, so that you will have a backup if for any reason your power should fail. There are many different pumps on the market, including some which are able to maintain other equipment, such as protein skimmers, or ozonizers. Which particular unit you purchase will depend on what you intend its main purpose to be, and what best...

• Published: March 2, 2010, 4:45 am
• Displayed: 117 times
• Preview: Ultraviolet Sterilizers - Purpose, Advantages and Disadvantages What is an Ultraviolet Sterilizer and how does it work? Ultraviolet sterilizers have been around for many years but were mostly used for outdoors ponds, nowadays they are becoming more popular with aquarium keepers and can serve a useful purpose for them. They work basically by pumping the water over a tube that produces Ultraviolet rays, this will remove from the water any unwanted microscopic bacteria, parasites,fungal cells and even pathogens. It will also prevent a lot of algal growth in the tank as the rays will destroy a high percentage of algal spores that are present in the water. The Ultraviolet rays actually penetrate the living cells of these microscopic creatures and destroys their DNA making them lifeless and they quickly die off. There is a mixed consensus of opinion as to whether these are a worthwhile investment in the aquarium, some keepers swear by them while others shy away from them and prefer to control the water quality by other means. The most common Ultraviolet Sterilizer available to purchase nowa...

• Published: April 3, 2008, 6:16 pm
• Displayed: 527 times
• Preview: Conversions, Calculator, Number of fish in a tank and Aquarium volumes One of the most important things we need to know about our aquariums is the size of it, plus we need to know the volume of water that it contains. Why do we need to know these things, I have done this myself in the past, found a perfect enclosed corner for a new tank, found what I have been looking for, checked the measurements given in metric – worked out in my head a conversion to imperial, given myself the wrong answer & you’ve guessed it the tank didn’t fit. On the internet there are now several sites that will do instant conversions (cm-inches, feet – metres & vice versa) that take all of the guess work out of this. There is a link provided below to a calculator that can be used just key in the measurements & hey presto instant results. aqua-fish.net/index.php?cur_lang=2&count=no&secured=&section=51 A few of us from the old school were educated in imperial measurements and as most aquariums are advertised using metric, calculators like these are...

• Published: March 16, 2008, 11:06 pm
• Displayed: 1046 times
• Preview: Aquariums and Ammonia, Nitrates, Nitrites - Guide, Testing & Forum Brief description and introduction to the article This page is devoted to problems with ammonia and other related substances in fish tanks, it also contains forum with real questions and answers. Since we have other pages that are closely related to ammonia, nitrates and nitrites problems in aquariums, you should visit the following pages too (they will open in new tab/window): Cycling an aquarium with FAQ, Purpose of aquarium bacteria, Ammonia test kits with FAQ and example test, Detailed information about filtration media with FAQ and pH adjustment and testing with FAQ. All these articles are worth visiting and if there's anything that we can help you with, leave your question at the bottom of this page! Your experiences about facing ammonia problems are also welcome, share them with other aquarists! The nitrogen cycle is the process in which ammonia is converted to nitrite which is then converted to nitrate. This progression is made possible with the presence of ammonia and nitrite converting bacteria with t...

• Published: June 4, 2008, 10:51 pm
• Displayed: 458 times
• Preview: Aquariums And Types of CO2 Systems Overview: In planted freshwater aquariums, one must use multiple techniques to promote healthy and thriving plant growth. This includes proper substrate, adding CO2, lighting, and fertilizers. I will now explain the use of CO2 systems and how they work and benefit your aquarium. First off, for those of you who do not understand the basics, plants need energy, as do we as humans. They get this from water, sunlight, nutrients in the ground (or water in the case of aquariums), and CO2. In aquariums, adding CO2 to the water helps promote healthy growth of the plants, and differences can easily be seen. Plant in general will grow larger, and taller with the added CO2. And yes it is true that fish take in Oxygen and give of CO2 as a waste, but this is not enough for you tank. Adding a CO2 system to your set up will be beneficial. A planted tank will show significant differences when a CO2 system is added. Yeast CO2 reactor system: This is a very common inexpensive CO2 system. Basically, yeast, a type of fungus used in baking, consumes sugar and rele...

• Published: January 22, 2006, 4:21 pm
• Displayed: 2191 times
• Preview: Aquariums in my life Hello, my name is Susan and I thought, that I could post here an article about aquariums. I'm my life. When I was child, about 10 years old, I had my first aquarium. It was a ball aquarium. Even me or my parents or anybody whom I knew, had known nothing about aquarium. It was a disaster! There were no aquatic plants, no filter, nothing. Just gravel from outside. We were changing whole water every week. I don´t remember how many fishes died... But I felt very sorry about all of them. But now, 10 years after, I met a man, who have 2 aquariums. He knows a lot of about aquariums and care about them and I´m amazed by life in these small pieces of nature inside rooms. Now I know a lot about aquariums, biotopes, aquatic fishes and plants. Aquarium is an amazing thing. Maybe because we live on the dry land and those aquariums are a piece of the water life. It is better than watching TV! I feel always relaxed, when I`m watching on a good arranged aquarium. Those fishes are just swimming around quietly and mostly slowly. They don´t care, if somebody is watching them, they...

• Published: May 7, 2008, 11:30 am
• Displayed: 585 times
• Preview: Compatible Aquarium Fish - Species and Forum What's this page about Most likely you came here searching for compatible aquarium fish, you're in the right place! Firstly you should go through the article below. You should also visit the following page (opens in new tab/window): Fish - search function which allows you to find good species for your fish tank! This search result returns all fish that are peaceful and accept pH of 7. You should be more selective though and find fish depending on size, hardness, origin other characteristics! If you're not sure about compatibility anyway, feel free to post your question at the bottom of this page! There are many factors to consider when deciding which livestock you are going to add to your tank. Not only the tanks size, but you need to make sure that the different species you are going to buy will get along with each other. Most aquarists nowadays set up community tanks with a mixed variety of fish so this second point could be crucial in determining which fish to add. Tank size does play a major part; you certainly would not contemplate addi...

• Published: November 30, 2009, 10:37 pm
• Displayed: 139 times
• Preview: Tiger Barbs as Aquarium Fish an article submitted by Exotic Aquariums The tiger barb or Barbus tetrazona are members of the family Cyprinidae commonly referred to as Cyprinids. Their habitat extends through the Malay Peninsula, Sumatra and Borneo. There are also scattered populations in Cambodia. Their name is purely descriptive. Tiger barbs have an orange body with vertical black striping. Tigers are just one of over 70 species of barbs made commercially available by the aquarium industry. Selective breeding has produced a wide variety of color variations. Color morphs are green, gold and albino tiger barbs. The green tiger barb is highly melanistic. Their body reflects green over the black due to a tyndall effect. The tiger barb has an even temperament and makes for a good community fish. They are mid-level swimmers. Barbs do have a tendency to be fin nippers though. This behavior increases in bigger groups. Avoid mixing them with large finned species such as angelfish, bettas and fancy guppies. They are a smaller fish. They only grow to about 2.5 inches long as adults. You’ll wa...

• Published: September 21, 2006, 2:29 am
• Displayed: 6754 times
• Preview: The Convenience of Automatic Aquarium Fish Feeders Note: Aqua-Fish.Net isn`t advertising any product within the article below. Automatic fish feeders help make your life as an aquarium owner much easier. It is often hard to remember whether or not you fed the fish, or if someone else in your house did already, and the automatic fish feeder eliminates missed feedings or over feeding altogether. Too much food in the water can easily clog up important filters, and cause you to have to spend more time cleaning your aquarium tank than enjoying it. There are many different brands and designs on automatic fish feeders on the market, you just have to decide which one is within your means and will best suit your needs. One of the most popular automatic fish feeders is the Eheim 3581 “Feed-Air” Digital Automatic Feeder. This model is capable of using either granule or pellet fish food types. You can set it to feed your fish up to four times per day. This model comes with its own ventilation system which keeps the food dry, preventing spoilage issues. You can choose what portion size you prefer, a...

• Published: August 3, 2007, 10:16 pm
• Displayed: 3229 times
• Preview: How to make a baby brine shrimp hatchery cheaplyBy Tim Gautrey If you came here looking to purchase brine shrimp, visit Artemia USA! To make a hatchery this way is very easy. All you need is an empty 2 litre cola bottle, a polystyrene tile, a piece of air piping that you can connect to a pump via a control valve and a sharp knife. You might need a vacuum to clean up the polystyrene afterwards, but that`s DIY!) Cut the bottle just above the label, so that the bell and screw cap are left. See the image below. Take the polystyrene tile and cut a square just a little bigger than the bottle diameter. Place the cut neck of the bottle onto the centre of the square and press down so that it leaves an indentation in the tile. Using the knife cut out the round shape, leaving you something like the image below. Float the tile in your tank, Fill the bottle with water from the tank to half an inch from the top, Drop it into the centre hole in the tile, Add the air pipe making sure that it goes right to the bottom of the cone and connect to the pump, adjus...

• Published: November 4, 2009, 4:00 am
• Displayed: 162 times
• Preview: Bala Shark an article submitted by Exotic Aquariums The bala shark or Balantiocheilus melanopterus belongs to the familyCyprinidae and is the sole member of the genus Balantiocheilos. The name “shark” refers directly to its torpedo or shark-like shaped body. They have no relation to the shark family. The bala shark is also commonly referred to as a silver shark or tri-color shark. Bala sharks are indigenous to Southeast Asia. They swim the streams and rivers of Thailand, Borneo, Sumatra and the Malay Peninsula. The recent industrialization of these regions is threatening the Bala shark’s natural habitat. Their numbers have diminished greatly in the wild over the past two decades. The bala shark does not normally breed in captivity. Fortunately, for their guaranteed survival as a species, they are commercially raised in Asia with the use of hormone injections. Bala sharks are typically sold is stores when they are young. Despite their size at the time of sale, bala sharks are actually quite large freshwater fish. An adult bala shark can reach up to 14 inches in length. They are ...

• Published: August 19, 2010, 8:29 pm
• Displayed: 117 times
• Preview: Bala Shark - Proper Care, Feeding, Breeding and Diseases Brief introduction This page describes how to care for Bala sharks and we'd love to hear about your experiences with Bala sharks - simply use a form that can be found at the bottom of this page for sharing your experiences, please! Also you should visit the following pages about Bala sharks: A short article with forum and Profile of Bala shark with pictures and forum. Bala Sharks are a very popular fish in this hobby and sadly they are often one of the most abused being kept in aquariums to small for them and with the incorrect tank mates. Hopefully this article will provide you with enough information to keep these beautiful fish happy and allow them to lead a full and stress free life. The Bala Shark belongs to the Cyprinid family and is found naturally in South East Asia, it has the Latin name of Balantiocheilus melanopterus hence its common name Bala Shark. It is also commonly found under the name of Silver Shark, Tri-colour Shark and Shark Minnow. They are an extremely peaceful species of fish; they can be very timid...

• Published: November 3, 2006, 6:34 am
• Displayed: 7170 times
• Preview: Barbus Tetrazona - The Tiger barb Care, Breeding, Feeding, Answers & Forum special thanks to halkor for allowing us to use the pictures Brief description This page explains how to take care of Tiger barb; From aquarium setup through feeding to breeding. We also have forum under the article; feel free to use it in case you cannot find answer on your question or simply if you'd like to share experiences, tips and ideas! Barbus tetrazona is one of the most common barbus fish in aquariums. It comes from Sumatra and Borneo, that`s why you can find it also under the name of “Sumatra Barb”. Another common name of this fish is a “Tiger barb” due it`s colour pattern, golden body with four vertical stripes, the first on the eye and the last at the begin of tail. There are few differences between males and females, usually you are able to recognise them when they`re adults, and their size is near 2 inches. Male is slimmer than the female and has red fins, edges and mouth. Females are bigger and don`t have any red part. Like other barbus, tiger barb lives in shoals. The bes...

• Published: January 27, 2006, 4:58 am
• Displayed: 3924 times
• Preview: What do tropical freshwater aquarium fish need I started keeping aquarium fish 4 years ago. Like every new fan of this hobby, I wasn`t able to set-up a good fish tank and I made some mistakes. In this article, I want to let you know about beginner`s mistakes. I want to buy aquarium, what should I do first? You need to know something about the aquarium fish you want to keep. Normally that people buy fish that eat each other. Your aquarium can be looking very good, but the fish won`t feel good. This is something you should keep in mind when you decide to take up this aquarium hobby: 1) Place your aquarium somewhere where it will stay for a long time. 2) Larger aquarium = Better aquarium. The conditions in a fish tank are more stable in a larger aquarium than a smaller one. 3) Buy a good filtration system. 4) Buy efficient neons that will give good light conditions for your plants to grow. 5) Buy gravel or something else for the bottom of your aquarium. You can find inspiration for your tank in our database. Just click here. The tank is finished, I want to buy a...

• Published: October 18, 2011, 6:07 am
• Displayed: 11 times
• Preview: Bearded Dragon (Pogona vitticeps) - Care, Pictures and Breeding Brief description An article dedicated to housing Bearded Dragon (also known as Pogona vitticeps) , it's another article that belongs to the "exotic pets" category (articles that aren't dedicated to aquarium fish). You're welcome to share your experiences via form at the bottom of this page! Pogona vitticeps are more commonly known as the Central Bearded Dragon, or even just the Bearded Dragon, unfortunately there are many species of lizards that share the same common name but the most easily supplied by the pet stores are indeed Pogona vitticeps. They can grow quite large, specimens of up to 18 inches in length are common but note that this measurement is based on the tail length included as well. These are very agile lizards and can raise their body from the ground when running, the benefits if this are a good air flow underneath which is very important in the arid deserts of Australia where their natural habitat is located. They can also use this ability to raise themselves when regulating their overall body te...

• Published: June 17, 2008, 11:05 am
• Displayed: 511 times
• Preview: Before You Buy a Goldfish - Tips, Pictures, Answers and Forum Brief description This page reveals all facts that one should know before purchasing Goldfish; You'll also find FAQ with answers attached at the end of the article and forum where we'd love to hear about your Goldfish! Share experiences or ask questions - we'll gladly answer! Goldfish have been bred for over a thousand years for the sake of observation enjoyment. The art of breeding the finest specimens of goldfish first started in Asia and was later picked up in Europe. Breeders aimed to produce the highest quality of colors and shapes ever found on a goldfish. Because this type of fish has been bred so rigorously for all those years, you will never find one for sale that has not been born in captive breeding. An amateur aquarist could decide that he or she would like to raise goldfish in a pond or aquarium but there are a lot of factors to consider before getting started in this hobby. The beginner aquarist should first learn about the different types of goldfish to find out which varieties are hardy and easy to care for. ...

• Published: July 21, 2008, 10:21 pm
• Displayed: 431 times
• Preview: What is Spirulina and benefits of Spirulina for fish One of the most eagerly accepted foods that are given to herbivorous and algae eating fish has to be spirulina fish food. Malawi fish, plecs, snails will pounce on this food as soon as it is offered in the tank. It is available as flake, pellet or wafer making it a good choice for any size of fish. Most of the prepared flakes or pellets will have traces of spirulina in the food; it is such a great additive to the food as it is recognized as a health booster as well as being full of protein. It is even being recognized now as a good additive to include in the human diet but what makes spirulina so special. What is Spirulina? Spirulina is actually a cyanobacterium, more commonly known as blue-green algae, and is a very small botanical algae; only growing up to half a millimeter in length. It is a free floating cyanobacterium that can be found in lakes with an extremely high pH and very hard water. These lakes are to be found in Africa, Asia and South America. The name Spirulina derives from the spiral structure of the algae ...

• Published: March 14, 2010, 4:09 am
• Displayed: 170 times
• Preview: Distilled Water in the Aquarium and Quality of Water Brief description This article isn't about benefits of distilled water for aquarium use, it's also about preparation and other ways of purification - we also have a forum under the article, so submit your experiences or questions there! One of the major concerns of many fish keepers is keeping the water quality high for their fish and often we live in areas where the mains water is not to the best of standards. This can be very frustrating for us as no matter what we do by adding water conditioners and performing regular water changes, we seem to be fighting a losing battle as impurities are added to the aquarium each time we top up the tank or by just doing a standard water change. Many keepers have now turned to another method of providing better water for their fish by distilling the mains water. Distilled water can be used for topping up the tank but when initially filling the tank vital minerals need to be replaced using commercial water revitalisers or the fish will not survive for any length of time, a low mineral count will a...

• Published: March 15, 2006, 9:39 am
• Displayed: 57907 times
• Preview: Betta fish - Raising the species in aquariums Pictures by Laura M. Schlögl Brief description This article is a definite guide on raising Betta fish which also contains answers on FAQ that can be found under pictures. However you should visit these pages too (will open in new tab/window): Siamese fighting fish - Betta splendens profile with huge forum, 10 tips for a successful Betta splendens reproduction, How to care for Betta Fish, Betta splendens diseases and proper treatment. Bear in mind we'd love to hear about your Bettas! Feel free to submit your story via the form that is at the bottom of this page! Betta fish (known under scientific name Betta splendens) – also known as Siamese fighting fish – are one of the most beautiful tropical aquarium fish that can be kept in home aquariums, however their demands are often underrated which results in illnesses or compatibility issues. Let's describe all important aspects of raising these fish... Tank setup for Betta fish Ideal setup for Bettas is a heavily planted tank with slow water flow, subdued or medium lighting (0.2 –...

• Published: September 5, 2007, 10:05 am
• Displayed: 2043 times
• Preview: Betta fish bowls; To buy or not to buy? Some stores sell sphere aquariums, or aquariums which look like big glasses. Of course, such fact isn`t bad in it`s basis. What might become bad is that some people use such fish tanks for keeping Siamese Fighting Fish (Bettas) males incorrectly. Bettas are one of the most beautiful freshwater fish around the world and that`s why aquarists (including all ages, sexes, amateurs or professionals) house them. Generally, people want to have an extraordinary aquarium with this extraordinary fish. Bear in mind that a “Betta fish bowl” is usually a small aquarium, with no extra space for filtration device, plants and light. Is it OK? Isn`t it an animal abuse? In my opinion this kind of fish tanks should be used only as an aquarium with plants only. Imagine yourself in a such small room for all your life, would you accept it? But why do people like such aquariums? First, such product is very small and it can be moved at no time. People can have it on the table and maybe they feel that the fish is part of their life much more than fishes in big aquarium ...

• Published: November 9, 2009, 3:21 am
• Displayed: 166 times
• Preview: Betta Fish Care, Feeding and basic information an article submitted by Exotic Aquariums Betta Fish also known as Siamese fighting fish or Betta Splendens are members of the family Anabantids (labyrinth fish). Betta Splendens are endemic to Tailand. This article is a short guide to feeding Betta fish, compatibility, history and also contains links to other pages that inform closer about Betta fish mating and breeding. The Betta earned the nickname “Siamese fighting fish” because of their highly territorial nature toward other male members of their species. Two male betta fish will fight each other, very often to the death, when placed in the same tank together. Males will even flare their gills (in order to make him look bigger and more menacing) at their own reflection. Betta fish with other fish - Compatibility Male bettas have been known to have trouble getting along with Angelfish, gouramis, and fancy guppies (especially the colorful males). Male bettas are vulnerable to fin nippers such as tetras and barbs. You might want to keep all this in mind when deciding whether to pu...

• Published: April 20, 2010, 7:14 pm
• Displayed: 117 times
• Preview: Biological Cycle in the Aquarium The biological cycle in the aquarium is often very confusing for novice fish keepers when they are setting up their first aquarium. This stage of the set up process is crucial and fish will not survive long term if the “cycling” of the tank is not carried out. What is the biological cycle? Although this cycle can be found under many different names they are all referring to the same process. It is often called the nitrogen cycle, new tank syndrome, cycling or nitrification process. Basically the biological cycle is adding beneficial bacteria to your aquarium via the filters, décor, substrate and even the tank glass so that ammonia and nitrites are converted to nitrates which can then be removed by water changes. It is very important that no ammonia or nitrites are present in the water as these are harmful to the fish and will eventually kill them if the fish are faced with them over a period of time. The cycle starts with ammonia being present in the water, this is produced by fish or rotting vegetation and the presence of ammonia in the water is...

• Published: February 5, 2008, 9:37 pm
• Displayed: 955 times
• Preview: BiOrb accessoriesby Albert The BiOrb goldfish bowl has become the center piece of many aquarium lovers’ homes over the last few years. Combining the performance ability of a high tech aquarium, with the looks of a traditional fish bowl, the BiOrb provides all the design features to make life a pleasant experience both for the fish as well as the aquarium owner. Available in a variety of sizes as well as colors, BiOrb aquariums can contain either goldfish in small quantities or tropical fish. For example the more popular 30 liter volume BiOrb aquarium can contain 3 small fantail or 12 tropical fish that are small in size. Its bigger brother, the BiOrb 60 volume aquarium is designed for the more avid aquarium enthusiast, will contain twice that amount of fish within the same permutation. No matter the size or the volume of the BiOrb fish bowl that you choose, you will be entering into a whole new world of aquarium design and performance. Each BiOrb aquarium comes complete with its own filtration system, designed to make life as easy for its owner as it does for its inhabitants, The water ...

• Published: October 21, 2009, 12:14 am
• Displayed: 164 times
• Preview: biOrb Filtration - By Reef-One.Com Reef One and their range of biOrb aquariums have always been recognised as the leaders in style. The original biOrb with its classic globe shape has now become one of the most recognisable aquariums ever created. With the arrival of the biOrb LIFE Collection Reef One now have further show they can create stylish aquariums that offer something different, with its modern variation on the traditional rectangular aquarium. The familiar biOrb filtration with its central bubble tube is still a familiar sight in the new biOrb LIFE Collection. The filtration system which Reef One have employed in their fish tanks is rather unique, this has often caused considerable misunderstandings about how the filtration actually works. It’s time to investigate the biOrb filtration and give you the full picture on how it works and dispel some of the long standing myths. As a quick overview on the biOrb system, it works by water flowing over the highly porous ceramic media that form the biological filter. This biological filter, which is never removed from the aq...

• Published: May 22, 2010, 7:40 pm
• Displayed: 119 times
• Preview: What is Black Brush Algae and how to deal with this type of algae There are many forms of algae that seem to delight in invading our aquariums and giving us headaches as we try to clear them, while a tank is cycling it is quite common for diatomic algae, green algae and suchlike to make a stand against us while the water parameters are settling down , but one form of algae always seems to strike us when the tank has matured and can be very difficult to eradicate. This algae is the Black Brush Algae, sometimes referred to us as Black Beard Algae due to the long filamentous structure and it seems to appear from nowhere but unlike the other forms of algae it does not disappear as quickly as it came. Black brush Algae can quickly take over an aquarium , covering the décor and the tank glass, some keepers seem to like it but there are a larger number that would rather never see it again. This form of algae belongs to the family of Rhytophyta and can be found in many colour forms, there are reds, black and browns but the strange thing is most of this family of algae only inhabit brackish...

• Published: April 26, 2008, 10:49 am
• Displayed: 825 times
• Preview: Black Molly - Care, breeding and tips how to make this fish happy Brief description This page is devoted to raising Black mollies in fish tanks, contains pictures, FAQ, answers on real questions asked by fish keepers and forum. Bear in mind, you're welcome to share your experiences too - use a form at the bottom of this page for this purpose, we'd love to hear about your Mollies! We also have other pages devoted to Mollies, you should visit them too: Mollies - Care, Species and Forum, Short finned molly (Poecilia sphenops), Sailfin molly (Poecilia latipinna), South american molly (Poecilia caucana). The black molly, also known as the midnight molly, is a hybrid species between Poecilia latipina and Poecilia sphenops. This live bearer is named for its very dark, all over black coloration. At times this fish can be found with a yellow streak on the dorsal fin or minor silvering on the flanks, but for the most part this fish lives up to its common name: black molly. The black pigmentation of this fish is a result of a melanistic condition. Melanism, the opposite of albinism; it is a ...

• Published: November 14, 2009, 10:45 pm
• Displayed: 155 times
• Preview: Black Skirt Tetra an article submitted by Exotic Aquariums The black skirt tetra’s scientific name is Gymnocorymbus ternetzi. All tetras belong to the family Characidae more commonly know as Characid. Black skirts are also commonly referred to as black tetras or black widow tetras. The black skirt can be recognized by its characteristic black “skirt”. There is also an albino version or white skirt tetra that is commonly available commercially. These are variations that occur naturally in the wild. White Skirt tetras are often dipped in pastel colors and marketed as fruit tetras. This dying process is counterproductive to the fish’s health. They are much more prone toward illness and have a greatly reduced life span. White skirt tetras have also been made to change color by being fed dyed foods. These tetras are generally healthy and will revert to their natural pigmentation once they start ingesting unaltered food. The black skirt tetra will reach its adult size of about 2.5 inches when it reaches about one year of age. Black skirts display their strongest coloration when...

• Published: July 31, 2007, 6:37 pm
• Displayed: 3048 times
• Preview: Gymnocorymbus Ternetzi – Black Skirt Tetra; Guide on proper care, breeding, with pictures & forum Also called White Skirt Tetra, Black Widow, Black Tetra, Black Widow Tetra Brief description This page covers details of raising and breeding Black skirt tetras, and also contains forum for asking questions, sharing experiences and ideas! We'd love to hear about your experiences regarding raising Black skirt tetras, so once you're finished reading the article, leave a story of your Tetras at the bottom of this page! Also visit the following pages (will open in new tab/window): Black skirt tetra - Gymnocorymbus ternetzi profile with large forum and Pictures of Black skirt tetras. Origin and Tank Suggestions This species comes from the waters of Paraguay, South Brazil, Argentina and Bolivia. The aquarium where you keep Tetra should be about 50 cm high and well planted, so they will have place for hiding, but with free swimming areas as well. The water should have a temperature from 20 to 26°C and the hardness level should be between 5 and 19 dH. pH should be about 7, but the wate...

• Published: November 3, 2009, 4:32 am
• Displayed: 151 times
• Preview: Bleeding Heart Tetra an article submitted by Exotic Aquariums The Hyphessobrycon erythrostigma is more commonly known as the bleeding heart tetra because of the red mark in the center of their body. They are members of the family Characidae more commonluy refer to as Characids. Their natural habitat is the Amazon River. They are members of the Characidae family. Bleeding hearts are a smaller variety of fish. They only reach a length of two or three inches when fully grown. This makes them perfectly suited for smaller desktop or wall mounted aquariums. Tetras are egg laying fish. But the bleeding heart rarely breeds in captivity. Unlike the black skirt tetra, it is easy to tell males from females in the bleeding hearts. The females tend to have smaller dorsal fins than the males. The males’ dorsal fin can become long and flowing in adulthood. The males grow to an adult size slightly larger than females. Both sexes have that eye-catching bright red spot in the region of their heart area. Their color palette becomes more pronounced if they are fed a diet of live or frozen fish brin...

• Published: November 23, 2008, 9:26 pm
• Displayed: 380 times
• Preview: Blue Dolphin Cichlid - How to make the fish happy Brief description This page is devoted to Blue Dolphin Cichlids and caring for these fish when kept in fish tanks - there's a forum under the article too! You should also visit the following page: Malawi blue dolphin profile, it lists requirements in an easy-to-read format. We'd love to hear about your Malawi blue dolphins, so submit your story at the bottom of this page, please! Scientific and Common Names Blue Dolphin Cichlid is a common name for this species that is known by either of two scientific names: Cyrtocara moorii and Haplochromis moorii. This fish earned its common name because it is blue and the shape of its head closely resembles the shape of a dolphin’s head. Other common names include Malawi Blue Dolphin, Dolphin Cichlid, Blue Moorii, and Hap Moorii. This relatively peaceful cichlid is gorgeous to look at due to its bright, shiny blue coloring. Physical Description The Blue Dolphin Cichlid has a nuchal hump protruding from its forehead and it has bulging lips that extend from its face like a bill. Both of these ...

• Published: June 5, 2008, 8:59 am
• Displayed: 501 times
• Preview: Raising Blue Rams in Aquariums - Introduction Brief description This article explains how to care for Blue ram cichlid in fish tanks and contains forum for sharing experiences. We'd like to hear about your Blue rams, so make sure that you tell us your story - via a form that is at the bottom of this page! You should also visit the following pages: Ram cichlid - Mikrogeophagus ramirezi profile with forum and Bolivian ram - Mikrogeophagus altispinosus profile. The Mikrogeophagus ramirezi is a popular fish known by their common names: blue ram, dwarf cichlid, or German ram. This freshwater species is part of the cichlidae family and is considered to be one of the more peaceful cichlid species. Blue rams are originally found in South America in the Orinoco basin around Venezuela and Columbia, though they are now raised and bred in different parts of the world. They are named “blue ram” for their brilliant blue coloration located on each side flank. The wild caught specimens tend to exhibit more dramatic colors than the aquarium bred varieties. Aquarium and feeding M. ramirezi is...

• Published: May 14, 2006, 9:46 am
• Displayed: 7793 times
• Preview: Blue-green algae Blue-green algae are bacteria which grow in warm, shallow, slow moving or still freshwater. There are known as cyanobacteria too, but they are more commonly known as pond scum. They need light for life. That is why they are photosynthetic bacteria. The first known species were blue-green. Now we know of algae from olive-green to red in color. When the conditions are good (hot, calm weather), algae populations can increase dramatically. This can create large blooms which are big numbers of blue-green algae. These blooms can cover the whole surface. Blue-green algae mostly do not live long. Some of these blue-green algal blooms can be toxic or can be poisonous if they are swallowed by wildlife, livestock, pets or people. You should not even swim in these waters, because you can get itchy. And if you drink water with these toxic blue-green alga, you may have symptoms such as sore throat, stomach cramps, diarrhoea , vomiting or fever. The toxins are very dangerous, so if you have any of these symptoms, visit your doctor immediately. Do not even cook with such water, be...

• Published: October 1, 2011, 7:59 pm
• Displayed: 15 times
• Preview: Brazilian Rainbow Boa (Epicrates cenchria cenchria) - Information including care, feeding, housing Brief description This page is devoted to housing Brazilian rainbow boa's, it's another article that belongs to the "exotic pets" category (articles that aren't dedicated to aquarium fish). In case you own one or more of these snakes, you're welcome to share your experiences at the bottom of this page! Epicrates cenchria cenchria are one of the most commonly known snakes and instantly recognisable to many people, using their common name means that almost everyone knows this snake, it is commonly called the Brazilian Rainbow Boa, or much more used is the common name of Boa Constrictor. Often these snakes are depicted hanging from tree branches looking for prey but the truth is that they spend much more time on the surface of hot and humid tropical forests, keeping themselves well camouflaged within the foliage and hidden from prey and predators alike. They are mostly found in the central regions of South America, they are found in a widespread area, humidity and heat are...

• Published: November 15, 2009, 3:11 am
• Displayed: 186 times
• Preview: Breeding and Guppy fish care an article submitted by Exotic Aquariums Guppies or Poecilia reticulate belong to the family Poecilidae. They are some of the most colorfully decorated freshwater fish available on the market. Robert John Lechmere is accredited with "discovering" this tiny fish in Trinidad in 1866. Guppies are native to Barbados, Brazil, Guyana, Netherlands Antilles, Trinidad, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Venezuela. Just like goldfish and betta fish, guppies have been selectively bred to increase their coloration and exaggerated their dorsal fins. There are guppy societies devoted to breeding the next generation of show guppies. Some of these show class guppies can fetch a rather high price. The more generic fancy guppies found in fish stores are quite stunning in appearance and not that expensive. Ordinary Guppy shouldn't cost more than $3 per specimen, although some sellers try to raise the price to even $5+ per single specimen. Guppy fish care Guppies are docile fish and make the perfect addition to community tanks. To insure their safety only keep them ...

• Published: April 9, 2006, 2:39 am
• Displayed: 2232 times
• Preview: Breeding Corydoras gossei by Bud and Cathy White First published in "Tank Topics", Greater Akron Aquarium Society, April/May 2001 (this article was taken from aquarticles.com - free aquarium articles) Corydoras gossei is fairly new to the hobby, being described by Nijssen in 1972. They come from a creek near Guajara Mirim, in Rondonia, Brazil. They reach over two inches in length. Both male and female are darkly colored in the top half of the body and head, with yellow/white in the lower half. They have orange/yellow markings, and the front spine of the dorsal and pectoral fire are the same orange/yellow. The rest of the fins are mostly clear, with wavy vertical stripes on the tail. Since we have always enjoyed the different types of corys, we try to pick up new ones when we can! And from where else better to get corys than Eric Bodrock of Pennsylvania. Eric`s been breeding a lot of different corys for quite a while now, and has been very successful with them, as the local auctions prove when he brings them in! Eric has been a friend of ours for more years than he wants ...

• Published: October 20, 2007, 7:55 pm
• Displayed: 1527 times
• Preview: How to Breed Freshwater Angelfish(reprinted from forums, originally posted by Tim) Angelfish are quite easy to breed, once you can find a pair. It is near impossible to sex angels, so you have to buy about six young angels and let them pair off themselves. Put the six into a 55 gallon tank and you will soon see when a pair is forming by the aggression towards the others. Once two angels pair, they stay together for life, and will not re-pair if one of them dies. They become mature at around 9 months old. Once a pair has been formed, move them to a tank of their own. This needs to be 20 Gallons minimum and at least 18" high. Once paired they do not work well in community tanks, because they become very territorial and are real bullies to even the smallest of fish! Feed the angels well on both flake and live foods for a couple of weeks and you will soon see the female start to swell with eggs. At the same time the egg tube will start to show. This is the easiest way to sex angels. If it is a female the tube will be quite large and round, males tubes are much smaller and conicle. ...

• Published: April 3, 2008, 5:21 pm
• Displayed: 571 times
• Preview: Freshwater Angelfish: Pairing, Spawning, Hatching and Breeding as a Whole Brief description This page is an ultimate guide on breeding freshwater Angelfish. Use a form at the bottom of this page to tell us your experiences or ask questions in case they aren't answered on this page! Pterophyllum Scalare is a cichlid fish that is in high demand in the aquarium industry due to their unique beauty and unusual personalities. This fish is more commonly known as the “Angelfish” and it is known to come from rivers in Peru, Columbia, and Brazil. Angelfish are unusually shaped for cichlids because they are laterally compressed with round bodies and elongated triangular-shaped dorsal and anal fins. These egg-layers form monogamous pairs and are wonderful parents in the wild as most cichlids are. Although, it has been observed through captive breeding that angels are loosing their parenting instincts and tend not to care for their young as diligently as do the wild versions of themselves. Pairing Angelfish It is difficult to determine the sex of immature angelfish. To improve the odds of...

• Published: March 17, 2010, 10:10 pm
• Displayed: 123 times
• Preview: How to successfully breed Goldfish in home fish tanks Overview:- Goldfish must be one of the most popular fish ever to be kept in the aquariums, they are quite hardy, easy to get hold off and very attractive when in full health. They originated from Asia, there direct descendants are the Carassius auratus species and were originally kept in terracotta pots in Ancient China. In their natural habitat the Carassius auratus inhabit lakes, streams, ditches or ponds and they can even survive in stagnant water. The goldfish was so popular in China that they appear in thousands of Chinese art pieces including pottery as well as traditional paintings. The fish that we see today has been bred through the generations selecting fish with certain dominant genes, this process allows for diversification and nowadays not only is the common goldfish available but there are fancy goldfish, single tailed and double tailed fish. These are not difficult fish to breed but preparing the fish for spawning needs to be done months in advance if breeding in the aquarium. I have kept lots of goldfish in my ponds and...

• Published: October 7, 2006, 3:26 pm
• Displayed: 12727 times
• Preview: Breeding Betta Fish in Fish Tanks Thanks to Laura M. Schlögl for allowing us to use the pictures! Brief description This page is an easy-to-follow guide on breeding Betta fish and raising the fry. There is a forum under the article and we'd love to hear about your Bettas! You should also visit following pages (will open in new window/tab): Siamese fighting fish - Betta splendens profile with HUGE forum and 10 tips for a successful Betta splendens reproduction too! After live bearing fishes, betta splendens is one of the easiest fish to breed in captivity even for newbies. Following some easy rules you`ll be able to have a successful breeding. There`s not the best method to breed bettas, most of breeders due to personal experience have found the best ways for them. Spawning is not difficult, and the hardest part is fry growing, at least the first days. Surely the first time you may experience a high mortality due to water pollution depending by overfeeding. Remember, bettas can be bred various times if they`re young so you can have various chances to improve your abilities. ...

• Published: April 14, 2006, 7:55 am
• Displayed: 12279 times
• Preview: How to make Jaguar cichlids happy, How to breed these cichlids & Forum Brief Description This page is devoted to Jaguar cichlids and to raising these cichlids in fish tanks. We'd love to hear about your Jaguar cichlids, use the form at the bottom of this page to share your experiences or ask questions, please! You should also visit the following page: Jaguar cichlid profile with forum! The updated article about Jaguar cichlids (updated on November 3th 2010) now contains more information about care and also answers more questions such as (feel free to skip to the following paragraph in case you'd like to start reading) Jaguar cichlid care, Sexing jaguar cichlid, Jaguar cichlid tank mates, Breeding jaguar cichlids, Jaguar cichlid life span, Jaguar cichlid food, Jaguar cichlid fry, Jaguar cichlid tank size, Jaguar cichlid temperament, Jaguar cichlid tank setup and care, Jaguar cichlid info. The Jaguar Cichlid has its origins in Eastern Honduras, Lake Managua, Lake Nicaragua and Costa Rica. The common name `Jaguar Cichlid` comes from all the dark spots like on the jaguar cat. I...

• Published: March 21, 2010, 4:24 am
• Displayed: 114 times
• Preview: Breeding Platies in Aquariums One of the most popular fish in the aquarium hobby is the Platy, they are often the first choice for novice fish keepers as they have a great reputation for being hardy fish and they are very undemanding. They do have needs however and the most important need is to keep the water quality high in the tank, this applies to all species of fish not just the more delicate species. Often 1 or 2 specimens are added to the tank but they are in fact a social fish and do better in small groups of 5 to 6 specimens, they do not shoal like tetras for example but they do enjoy each others company. They are an excellent community fish and will do well with most other species that require the same water parameters and they are available in a variety of colour variations. The most popular varieties available are Mickey Mouse, High Fin, Gold Comet. Platys are live bearers and as such are often the first species of fish that novice keepers will attempt to breed but they are also bred by many experienced keepers as well due to their high popularity and wide market around th...

• Published: August 27, 2010, 5:42 am
• Displayed: 124 times
• Preview: L333 Pleco - The Tank and Proper Care & Forum Brief description The article below describes how to take care of Pleco L333 in a fish tank including breeding, feeding and tank setup. You're welcome to share experiences with us at the bottom of this page, and you're welcome to ask in case some of your questions aren't yet answered here. The L333 Pleco belongs to the Loricariidae family and is fast becoming one of the most popular species of this family to be kept by many keepers. It is more commonly known as the King Tiger Pleco and closely resembles other members of the Loricariidae family but if observed closely it soon becomes obvious that they have their own well defined markings that make this fish stand out. They originate from the Rio Xingu where they were quite prominent but to conserve their present stocks the Brazilian government has now banned exportation of this species. All is not lost though as once settled into the tank they can be quite prolific breeders so most specimens sold nowadays are in fact tank bred. Their natural habitat consists of fast flowing wat...

• Published: April 23, 2006, 4:37 am
• Displayed: 4887 times
• Preview: Caring for Panda Cory (Corydoras panda), Breeding, Diet & Forum Brief Description The updated Panda Cory article now answers questions asked by keepers of this beautiful Corydoras species. You should also visit the following page: Panda cory - Corydoras panda profile which also links to similar fish. Also try this search result just in case you're interested in looking at other Corydoras in our database! Everyone who wants to share experiences, check the bottom of this page where you can find a form designed for this purpose. Apart from other information, these questions are answered below; How many panda cory should I keep, How big are panda cories, How do panda cory breed, How much does cory panda eat, How to sex panda cories. Basic requirements, tank setup and ideal conditions for Panda cory These small and inoffensive Corydoras coming from Rio Pachitea in Peru love planted tanks with fine substrate. They’re best kept in a biotope aquarium with temperature of 22 - 28 °C (71.6 - 82.4 °F), general water hardness (dGH) of 4 - 18 °N, and pH of 5.8 - 7.8 which must not vary as...

• Published: March 7, 2006, 10:26 am
• Displayed: 13991 times
• Preview: Bristlenose catfish - Care, Breeding, Diet & Forum Expert Advice by Jan, keeping fish since 1995 Quick links - Answers »Breeding Bristlenose catfish »Bristlenose catfish size »What do bristlenose catfish eat »Temperature for Bristlenose catfish »Bristlenose pleco sexing »How often do Bristlenose catfish breed »Bristlenose catfish pH »Bristlenose catfish compatibility »Bristlenose fighting »Breeding size for Bristlenose catfish »Bristlenose breeding age »Bristlenose and carrot »Bristlenose catfish and water hardness »How many Bristlenose catfish can I keep »Will bristlenose eat fry »Do bristlenose catfish eat algae Brief Description This is a page for all Bristlenose catfish-lovers. It describes raising this species including breeding, contains FAQ, pictures and forum with questions and answers. We'd love to hear about your Bristlenose catfish, so ensure that after reading t...

• Published: October 7, 2011, 10:02 pm
• Displayed: 13 times
• Preview: Bufo peltocephalus - Cuban Toad Care and Information Brief description This page is devoted to housing Cuban Toad's (known under the scientific name of Bufo peltocephalus) , it's another article that belongs to the "exotic pets" category (articles that aren't dedicated to aquarium fish). In case you own one or more of these creatures, you're welcome to share your experiences at the bottom of this page! Bufo peltocephalus is a variety of toad that shares the common name of “Cuban Toad” with a few close relatives due to their natural habitat being mainly located in Cuba, one of the larger Caribbean islands. They belong to the family of Bufonidae and can be found in the tropical forests, some specimens are also found in sub-tropical forests of Cuba. They can also be found in swamps and farming regions around this area. They are not classified as an endangered species but there populations are shrinking due to loss of natural habitat as more land is converted to agriculture etc. Their body colouration is mainly brown but they do display cream banding on their limbs and cream areas...

• Published: September 10, 2007, 2:03 pm
• Displayed: 2338 times
• Preview: Build your own aquariumby Tim Gautrey Here is a project for the beginner to tackle that will test your DIY skills, stretch your abilities a little and get you used to doing basic things like cutting straight lines, square corners and making inset joints! The project I am going to outline here is to build your own aquarium and stand. It will be split into two parts, first the stand and next month, the tank itself. For those of you who might want to cheat and buy a tank, the sizes are not going to be standard on purpose, so if you follow this project to the letter, (and it would be a good idea if you are not fully confident about what you doing), you’ll have to wait till next month to get it finished! I would anticipate that the stand will take around a week to complete anyway, so you won’t have to wait too long to complete the project anyway! You will end up with a fantastic aquarium, large enough to be easily maintained and one that you can be proud of. Here’s the outline The stand will be constructed of timber and contain a cupboard under the shelf to store all ...

• Published: October 20, 2007, 12:48 am
• Displayed: 2089 times
• Preview: Building your own aquarium(Part 2) (Part 1 is here) I wonder how many stands are out there waiting for this month’s issue. If you have followed my directions in part one, by now there should be a wonderful empty stand just begging for a tank to grace it! So, let’s get down to the easy part! Building a fish tank isn’t as daunting as you might think. It’s all down to simple assembly techniques, and if you follow a few basic rules, the tank will take you no longer than a couple of hours to put together. Ok, here’s what you need to build the tank: Tools: A silicon gun A sharp blade/craft knife Paint scraper Emery cloth or similar abrasive sheet. (Not sandpaper) A teaspoon with a rounded handle Materials: All the measurements below need to be exact, so I would recommend that unless you are proficient at glass cutting, you take the list to the professionals. All glass referred to here is float or plate glass, (standard window glass), not toughened! 1 off x 7/16” (10mm x 48” (1220mm) x ...

• Published: August 2, 2007, 11:01 am
• Displayed: 3177 times
• Preview: Building your own fish tanks - Guide & ForumBy Tim Gautrey Brief Description & Short Note This page explains how to make a DIY fish tank and contains forum in case you'd like to ask a question. Note: The Building your own fish tanks article has been updated on February 2th 2011 due to inaccurate information present in the previous version of the article. The inaccurate parts were modified in order to be precise and in order to make sense. All other parts stay "as is". Important note This article was reprinted with permissions given by the original article`s author. Bear in mind that information here is "as is" and potential references to "will be added in future" (or similar) might not be done by aqua-fish.net. However, we may update the article later. Introduction This guide is suitable for making any rectangular or square glass fish tank. It is not suited to shaped tank construction. When I build my tanks, I always use clear float glass and have it cut to the correct size, the edges of the glass should also be bevelled so t...

• Published: August 25, 2007, 6:51 pm
• Displayed: 9141 times
• Preview: Cheap fish tanks; Quality vs. price of such aquariums How to buy an aquarium with discount? The gold rule still says: Ask for a discount no matter if you're buying an aquarium, a car or a house! If you are looking for a new aquarium you can choose an expensive one, such as a big aquarium installed into some cabinet. These aquariums are usually sold with everything what you may need for keeping all fish alive; sometimes with a discount, sometimes not (if there is no mention about discount, ask for better price!). The cabinet emphasizes the aquarium and it really looks nice especially if you know what and how put decoration, equipment, substrate, plants and fish specimens into the fish bowl, so that it may behave like a piece of nature cut somewhere from a rain forest or African creek. However, not everyone is able to buy such an expensive tank and there are various solutions how to obtain relatively cheap fish tanks as well. Buying a second hand tank One way how to buy a cheap aquarium tank is to buy second hand aquarium (or buy it from a wholesale dealer, it is mentioned a few paragrap...

• Published: November 3, 2009, 4:46 am
• Displayed: 158 times
• Preview: Cardinal Tetra an article submitted by Exotic Aquariums The cardinal tetra or Paracheirodon axelrodi is native to the Amazon River. Cardinals are among some of the most colorful freshwater fish varieties available commercially. They are a member of the family Characidae more commonly known as Characids. Black skirts are also commonly referred to as black tetras or black widow tetras. Cardinal tetras and neon tetras look very similar in appearance. There are, however, subtle differences in body markings that can be used to distinguish them from one another. Cardinals have a red stripe or band that extends from their head to the base of their tails. Neon tetras have the same band but it starts mid-body and runs back to the tail rather than extending the entire length of the body. The cardinal tetras color palette tends to be a little more vibrant than that of neon tetras. Adult cardinals are a little larger than neons. Cardinals reach approximately 2 inches in length. Even though they are a smaller variety of fish, cardinals need ample room to swim. They are not well suited for cr...

• Published: March 23, 2010, 8:19 pm
• Displayed: 139 times
• Preview: Arowana fish - Care, Breeding and Tips Brief description This page explains how to care for Arowanas when kept in fish tanks. It also contains forum for sharing experiences, however you should also visit the following pages(will open in new window/tab): Silver arowana - Osteoglossum bicirrhosum profile with forum and Black arowana - Osteoglossum ferreirai profile. We'd love to hear about your Arowana fish, so once you're finished reading this article leave a message at the bottom of this page, please! Arowana fish are regarded my many fish keepers as the ultimate fish to add to their aquarium. They display beautiful markings, become very tame in the tank and can become a very close pet for many people. Often these fish are kept in unsuitable conditions due to the lack of knowledge available so hopefully this article will enlighten anyone who wishes to keep these fish and ensure that the fish leads a long and happy life. The Asian Arowana originates from South East Asia where it inhabits slow moving waters ,they have collected several common names including Asian bony-tongue, Chinese d...

• Published: August 8, 2006, 4:43 pm
• Displayed: 10467 times
• Preview: The Blue Gourami - Proper Care, FAQ & Forum Advice by Jan, Breeder since 1995 Quick links - Answers »Do gouramis lay eggs »Do blue gouramis turn dark when spawning »Breeding Blue gourami »Blue gourami spawning age »How big does a Blue gourami grow »Are Blue gouramis aggressive »Can I keep a Blue gourami in a 10 gallon aquarium »Can I keep 2 Blue gouramis together in a single tank »Are angelfish and blue gouramis compatible »Are Blue gouramis territorial »Average lifespan of a Blue gourami »Can be a blue gourami kept alone »Keeping Blue gouramis and Guppies together »Blue gourami chases the other one »Will Blue gourami eat the other fish »Filters and Blue gouramis »My Blue gourami has fungus - What to do Brief Description This article explains how to raise Blue gouramis and answers FAQ; It also contains forum devoted to this species. You should also visit the following pages sinc...

• Published: June 18, 2008, 1:04 pm
• Displayed: 500 times
• Preview: Goldfish Aquarium Setup, Requirements and Forum Brief description This article explains how to setup a Goldfish tank properly and we'd love to hear how you raise Goldfish too! Once you're finished reading, share your experiences at the bottom of this page, please. You should also visit following pages (they will open in new tab/window): Diseases of Goldfish, Goldfish and water quality, Types of Goldfish with forum, Goldfish profile with forum. Establishing a happy, healthy goldfish aquarium can seem like quite a challenge, but if you have the right information and all the proper tools you can be on your way to creating a wonderful underwater scene in which your goldfish will thrive. Creating a Vision Deciding to create a goldfish aquarium is the first step. Once you decide to create a goldfish aquarium you will need to envision what you would like this waterscape to look like. Do you want to incorporate a lot of different decorations and water features, or would you rather keep it simple and let the beauty of the fish decorate the aquarium? Would you like a lot of fish to ma...

• Published: November 24, 2006, 2:09 am
• Displayed: 26573 times
• Preview: Care of Koi Carps, types of Koi's & forum Brief description This article explains how to care for Koi's, offers forum for sharing experiences, and contains pictures of Koi carps. You should also visit the following page: Koi Carp profile which contains comments by fish keepers and briefly summarizes recommended care. We'd love to hear about your Koi's, so leave a message at the bottom of this page once you're done reading! Koi carp is an ornamental mutation of the common carp (Cyprinus carpio), native from Asia, especially China and Japan. Koi carp may look like a big goldfish, anyway you can distinguish it for it`s barbels at the sides of the mouth and for it`s size, an adult Koi can reach 30 inches (75cm). Japanese breeders have selected a great number of colour varieties during years. The most common in shops are: - Kohaku: white Koi with red spots. Red and white colours are uniform, without shadings; Red spots should cover the half of the body. - Sanke: red and black spotted white Koi. Red and black colours do not have shadings. The head must have only red spo...

• Published: May 25, 2008, 11:14 pm
• Displayed: 486 times
• Preview: Tilapia Fish - Care in aquarium & Breeding Tilapia is the Tswana word for fish. There are many varieties of fish called tilapia but the 4 main categories are Tilapia, Oreochromis, Sarotherodon, and Danakilia. The name Tilapia is the common name for almost 100 species of cichlids from the “Tilapiine Cichlid Tribe”. Most tilapia cichlids are freshwater fish and some are brackish water species. Tilapia cichlids are native to waters throughout Africa and the Middle East. The water chemistry and quality in these areas are not always suitable for many species but tilapia have the ability to survive even where conditions are very poor. Most types of tilapia are omnivorous, preferring to eat soft vegetation and detritus, which can be anything from dead animals and organisms to fecal matter. Originally they were introduced into several different countries to help control pesky plant populations or mosquitoes. It turns out the tilapia became a worse pest in many areas of the world than the pests they were meant to eliminate. This species is considered a pest because they can take over...

• Published: November 20, 2008, 5:03 pm
• Displayed: 324 times
• Preview: Bushy Nose Pleco - Raising Tips, Diet, Behaviour and other details & Forum Brief description This page explains how to care for Bushy Nose Pleco properly; With description of all aspects including diet, sexing and breeding. You're welcome to submit questions or experiences at the bottom of this page! The Bushy Nose Pleco is a peaceful species that is popular among hobby aquarists. The common name “Bushy Nose” was developed because of the fleshy bristles that stick out of the male’s nose like branches from a tree. Females tend to have virtually no bristles at all. At times a male’s bristles can be small and barely noticeable but there are certain times of the year when the same fish’s nose bristles will be very long and bushy. The reason for the periodic change is yet to be explained but there are theories that it has something to do with their reproductive season. Other common names for this fish are Bushy Nose Catfish, Bristle Nose Catfish, and Bristle Nose Pleco. Bushy Nose Plecos are members of the Loricariidae family of the Ancistrus genus. There are many different...

• Published: July 3, 2008, 9:58 am
• Displayed: 473 times
• Preview: Cherry barb - Proper care, feeding, breeding & forum Brief description This page contains information required for taking proper care of Cherry barbs; Simply scroll down and in case you haven't found answer on your question, use a form at the bottom to ask us! Sharing experiences is welcome too! The Puntius titteya or Capoeta titteya is a freshwater fish known more commonly as the Cherry Barb. The Cherry Barb is a cyprinid fish that is well known and very important in the aquarium industry because of the attractive, deep red coloration often displayed by the males as well as their ease of keeping. Origin and Habitat: The Cherry Barb is originally from Sri Lanka but they were also found in Mexico and Columbia. They are a warm freshwater species that would often be found in bodies of water with calm, shallow waters. Cherry Barbs are nearly extinct in the wild these days but are easy enough to breed in captivity to the point where maintaining the species is not of dire concern. In fact, they are so easy to breed that it is a great species for beginner aquarists who are ...

• Published: November 27, 2011, 4:44 am
• Displayed: 9 times
• Preview: Housing Cyclosternum fasciatum - Costa Rican Tiger Rump Tarantula Brief description This page belongs to our "exotic pets series" articles which are not dedicated to fish, but to Costa Rican Tiger Rump Tarantula! We'd love you to share your experiences at the bottom of this page! Cyclosternum fasciatum are a medium sized tarantula that are found naturally in the tropical rain forests of Costa Rica and Guatemala. They are commonly referred to as the Costa Rican Tiger Rump Tarantula and this is based on their unusual marking that are found on the sternum. Adult specimens can grow up to a size of 3.5 - 4 inches (8.9 – 10.2 cm) meaning that they can live in smaller enclosures compared to the larger species of tarantula that are available in this hobby. They have an average leg span of approximately 4.5 inches and their sternum and legs will be covered with hairs that they can eject if they feel threatened plus they can pack a nasty bite with their fangs when attacking prey or would be attackers. Their average life span is 10 years, this is probably slightly longer ...

• Published: August 11, 2008, 10:14 pm
• Displayed: 425 times
• Preview: Electric Blue Hap - Care, Breeding, Behaviour, Feeding & Forum Brief description This page is devoted to taking care of Electric blue haps; We tried to cover every aspect of raising this fish, however feel free to use a form at the bottom of this page in case you cannot find answer on your question here. Sharing experiences is welcome too! Electric Blue Hap is the common name for the Sciaenochromis fryeri, Sciaenochromis ahli, Cyrtocara ahli, or the Haplochromis ahli. All of those names are used to represent the same cichlid because of some discrepancies in the naming process. The proper scientific name for this fish is Sciaenochromis ahli, but other names are still used today out of habit and familiarity. This fish is nicknamed “Electric Blue” because of the rich, metallic blue of the males once they reach maturity. This cichlid was mistaken for a Haplochromine because they prefer to swim in areas where the rocks surrounding the shoreline meet the sandy bottoms of the deep. Natural Habitat: The Electric Blue Hap is native to the waters of Lake Malawi where the rocky c...

• Published: December 17, 2011, 2:07 am
• Displayed: 8 times
• Preview: Caring for Chilean Rose Tarantula - Grammostola rosea Brief description This page belongs to our "exotic pets series" articles which are not dedicated to fish, but to Grammostola rosea - Chilean Rose Tarantula! Feel free to share your experiences at the bottom of this page! Grammostola rosea is a species of tarantula that is extremely popular in the hobby of caring for this genus of spiders and they are relatively cheap to purchase compared to other species that are also available. We probably recognise this tarantula by its more common name of the Chilean Rose Tarantula but it is also known by other common names that you may come across such as the Chilean Flame Tarantula or the Chilean Fire Tarantula. One of the reasons for the popularity of this spider is it`s extremely docile nature that allows the keeper to handle this species more than with the other more aggressive species and due to the ease of its care, this species of Tarantula is often the first choice for beginners to the hobby. http://www.exotic-pets.co.uk/chile-rose-tarantula.html Grammostola...

• Published: July 12, 2008, 2:42 pm
• Displayed: 448 times
• Preview: Proper care of Plecostomus Catfish - Introduction Brief description This page is a guide on keeping Plecostomus fish including diet, tank setup and FAQ with answers. There's a forum under the article so no matter whether you'd like to share experiences or ask a question - you're welcome! There are many species of catfish throughout the world, several of the species are also classed as armoured catfish and these all belong to the family of Loricariidae. Loricariidae is the largest of the catfish family containing 700 species with several new species being discovered all the time. These species originate in fresh water locations of Costa Rica, Panama and tropical areas of South America. They are classed as armoured catfish due to the bony plates situated around the body and head and they have this wonderful sucker mouth for grazing on algae. Plecostomus now seems to be used with a variety of catfish that actually belong to a different gender. It is normally shortened down to “plec” and added to the end of many catfish’s names. The name “pleco” originated from one of the fir...

• Published: September 26, 2008, 6:51 pm
• Displayed: 346 times
• Preview: Neon Tetra Disease One of the darker aspects of fish keeping has to be identifying and treat successfully diseased fish. One of the worst diseases that can strike your tank is Neon Tetra disease. As of yet I can think of no-one that has manages to treat this disease and cure their fish as it spreads rapidly through the tank. This disease is quite common but often cases are not reported as symptoms are not diagnosed correctly and it will also affect other species of fish, not just the Neon Tetras. It received its name as it was first reported in the Neon tetra but there have been countless cases where it has infected nearly all members of the tetra family, cichlids like Angelfish, Rasboras and barbs have all fallen victim to it. Goldfish are also prone to this disease yet Cardinal Tetras seem to be resistant to it. Angelfish and Goldfish may take longer to show the symptoms than the smaller tetras but this does not mean that they will beat the disease; they should still be removed from the tank as soon as possible. What causes this disease? Neon Tetra disease is caused by a ...

• Published: July 25, 2008, 10:05 am
• Displayed: 399 times
• Preview: Why are some aquarium filters cheap and what makes them inexpensive When planning a new set up it is advisable to work out a budget which will include your tank, stand and all of the required hardware for running your tank. More often than not the budget will fall short of expectations so a little maneuvering of the available cash has to be sorted. There are ways to obtain the required gear with out too much hunting around, on the internet there are always suppliers offering reductions on the equipment they sell. In this article I will try to show you the options available for saving a few pennies on your filtration system. We must remember though that the filtration is a vital part of your tank, by trying to save money, a fish keeper must not buy a filter that is not capable of keeping your water parameters to the accepted levels. With the larger tanks external filters are normally used as internal filters are just not capable of handling the water volumes, in some cases it is even necessary to run two of these, my own display tank is running two externals as I have always be...

• Published: July 22, 2008, 11:42 pm
• Displayed: 409 times
• Preview: Cheap Aquarium Stands - Saving Wherever Possible With every aquarium set up there is normally an impressive cabinet to match. Style and looks do not come cheap and this aspect can put off many potential buyers when it comes to purchasing a full set up with everything thrown in. In many cases the aquarium cabinet can work out dearer than the price of the actual tank so shopping around can certainly pay dividends. There are other options when it comes to buying your cabinet, some of them will be explained here, but at the end of the day there are some rules that cannot be ignored just to save a few pennies. When buying a cabinet separately from the tank, measure the tank size and then measure again, your tank must sit on the cabinet flush. If any of the tank is overhanging the cabinet it will cause excessive stress to the tank glass, the final result can only be a lot of tears as the tank will crack and then shatter.Always make sure that the cabinet is capable of supporting the weight of the filled tank-water is heavy, do not underestimate it!I always look at tank stands or cabinets as...

• Published: November 26, 2007, 6:34 pm
• Displayed: 1696 times
• Preview: How to get a fish tank cheap(New tank, old tank, second-hand or used, what’s the best option? And how to get a discount?) At some time in everyone’s life, there comes a point when you want something so bad, but just can’t afford it. Fish-keeping is no different. Many aquarists start out with a small tank or bowl, but very soon realise that it’s just not good enough! So this is when they start to count their savings and work out what they can afford to do next. Are you there yet? Most of us are always looking for bigger and better and are prepared to struggle to the point of broke to get it. But do we need to? If you love the hobby as most do, then the answer is yes. For the love of our pets, and the desire to give them the best in life, for the wish to have more fish, and more tanks, we need to! It’s an addiction for many, and one that you can’t get away from. Fish are relaxing, peaceful, company, friends, fascinating and much more for the devoted aquarist. When I come into the room, the first thing I look at is the tanks, all 18 of them! Yes, I’m a fanatic about fish, I just can’t help ...

• Published: October 19, 2007, 9:14 pm
• Displayed: 1528 times
• Preview: Water Chemistry: What about it and why should we worry?by Tim The chemistry of the water in a fish tank is very important. A fish tank is a closed environment, where everything that goes into it affects the chemistry in one way or another. Imagine you are sealed into a room with no toilet, no windows and fed only when the keeper saw fit. What would the air be like in a week? This is essentially what happens in a fish tank. The fish are trapped in an environment that you control. They get fed when you give them food, the water gets changed when you remember to do it. Filters help a lot, by controlling the levels of toxins, removing large bits of debris and un-eaten food and aerating the water, either by disturbing the surface or by adding air internally in the filter. You can add air stones, plants and ornaments, but the fish are still trapped. The décor makes it a little more comfortable for the fish, but they are still trapped. So, where does the water chemistry come into the frame? Without knowing what the conditions are inside the tank, you cannot tell whether the fish are comf...

• Published: November 14, 2009, 10:55 pm
• Displayed: 141 times
• Preview: Cherry Barb Breeding and Care an article submitted by Exotic Aquariums The Cherry barb or Puntius titteya is a small, colorful freshwater fish named for its red color palette. The barb is a member of family Cyprinidae generally referred to as carp. Cherry barbs only reach one and three quarters to two inches fully grown. Cherry barbs are elongated fish. Typically, the upper part of their bodies leans toward a greenish shade with a slight sheen. A racing stripe that varies from a brownish to a bluish black runs from the tip of their snouts down the entire length of their bodies. Above the stripe is an iridescent band that is generally gold at the front part of their bodies and fades toward blue or green towards the tail. The males are redder than the females. But they do not develop the bright, cherry red coloration they are named for until they are about to mate. The cherry color is not found among the females of the species. Females are lighter in color and have yellow fins. The female’s body tends to be a lot plumper than the males. Caring for Cherry barbs and tank mates for Che...

• Published: April 16, 2008, 8:42 am
• Displayed: 646 times
• Preview: Chinese Algae Eaters - Proper care & Tank setup Brief description This page is a guide on raising Chinese algae eaters; Use a form at the bottom of this page to share your experiences or ask questions in case they aren't covered here yet. Also visit this page: Chinese algae eater - Gyrinocheilus aymonieri profile with forum which contains plenty of user contributions! “Chinese Algae Eater” is the most common name for the Gyrinocheilus aymonieri which is also less commonly known as the “Indian Algae Eater” and the “sucking loach”. This fish is often mistaken for the Siamese algae eater which is a similar species yet quite different. Saying that G. aymonieri are Chinese is misleading because this fish does not come from China, in fact in comes from northern India and central Thailand. Additionally, this fish is not a loach so the name “sucking loach” is an inaccurate use of terms, although some of its characteristics are quite similar to that of a loach. Regardless of where it comes from, this algae eater, in its youth is very useful in clearing aquarium surfaces of al...

• Published: March 7, 2008, 9:23 am
• Displayed: 740 times
• Preview: Tips for selecting aquarium wood and types of aquarium wood Wood pieces act as creative and decorative sculptures in many aquariums but they serve as more than just ornaments in these underwater structures. They help to anchor various plants and lower pH levels in the water. Aquarium wood also functions as a mimic to the natural environment where fish originally come from. It provides a place for fish to hide, breed and spawn. What to look for: When looking for a new piece of wood for your aquarium you’ll want to know what you are looking for. You want a very hard, dense wood. Soft wood decays too quickly and is not very practical for keeping a clean tank.Look for unique shapes that you can set up alone or together with other pieces and plants. If you have several pieces you can lean them against each other to create more crevices and places to hide in the aquarium. The right layout can maximize your aquarium’s visual appeal. I like to place one or two larger pieces in my tank and create the rest of the décor around it.While looking for your wooden structure keep in mind the size...

• Published: July 25, 2006, 3:40 am
• Displayed: 6663 times
• Preview: Cleaning the aquarium FAQ Why do people decide to clean their aquariums? Generally, there are three basic reasons to clean the fish tank. Firstly, the tank smells. The reason for the smell varies depending on the fish; excrement fails to be filtered, pieces of old food gather on the bottom resulting in dead fish somewhere in the tank. It is important to install a strong enough filtration system in order to keep good conditions in the tank. Still water naturally smells and there are even aquariums without filters which contain many plants, which bring stable chemistry. The next reason to clean the aquarium is that it is overgrown with algae. You should bear in mind that algae usually grow in tanks where there are not enough plants, nitrification bacteria, or there is very bright lighting. In this case, you should buy some algae eater, pleco fish, cory fish, etc. The algae is a natural part of aquariums and it helps to keep good water conditions and chemistry. Fish excrement falls to the bottom of the tank and it becomes the part of substrate. If the substrate is of good quality, it elimi...

• Published: November 10, 2009, 3:16 am
• Displayed: 153 times
• Preview: About Clown Loach an article submitted by Exotic Aquariums Clown loaches or Botia macracantha belong to the familyCobitidae. They are native to the rivers and streams of Borneo, Sumatra, and Indonesia. Their vertically striped bodies make them a favorite among freshwater aquarium owners. The striping consists of three wide, black vertical bands on an orange body. This configuration has also earned them the nickname of tiger loaches. Their mouths have three downward pointed pairs of maxillary barbels. A barbel is a slender, whisker-like tactile organ. Maxillary refers to the barbel’s location near the mouth. These tentacle-like organs house taste buds and are used to search for food in murky water. Barbels are a bottom dwelling species of scavenger fish like catfish and carp. Barbles and downward pointed mouth are what distinguish bottom dweller from other fish. The clown loach is one such bottom dweller. Bottom dwellers in general make a good addition to any community fish tank. The scavenging of food from the aquarium substrate helps prevent harmful chemical build up in the wate...

• Published: March 12, 2010, 6:56 pm
• Displayed: 127 times
• Preview: Community Fish for the Aquarium Many keepers that set up their tanks wish to keep more than one species of fish and as such they create a community tank that is suitable for their needs, the word community actually means a population of interacting species that live together in one place and as such socialise within the tank. A lot of planning is required to create a successful community tank, you can`t just add species that appeal to you without checking out if they are peaceful and willing to share the tank space with other fish without becoming aggressive to them. As a keeper it is your responsibility to create an environment that is healthy and stress free for your fish as well as being pleasing to the eye with the décor or plant life that the aquarium contains. Research the fish species that you wish to keep thoroughly so that you know you will not encounter problems when the tank is up and running, also check out the correct order for adding the fish, some species may become territorial if added to the tank first or may not be as hardy as other fish species so will require the tank ...

• Published: March 14, 2008, 9:22 pm
• Displayed: 641 times
• Preview: The Convict Cichlid - Proper Care, Breeding, Tips & Forum Brief description This page offers article about raising Convict cichlids, FAQ, pictures and forum devoted to this cichlid species. You're welcome to share your own experiences, this is why you can use a form at the bottom of this page - whether you'd like to ask or share tips, tell us about your Convicts, please! Also visit the following page too: Profile of Convict cichlid which also contains user comments! The Archocentrus Nigrofasciatus is a cichlid fish that is nicknamed “convict” or “zebra” both names for its similarity to the black stripes on a British prison uniform. This fish is native to the Central American waters of Guatemala, El Salvador, Costa Rica, Honduras and Panama with temperatures ranging from 69-84ºF. They are not very particular about the conditions of the water as long as you keep a certain amount of consistency. Convicts are omnivorous and they are not picky eaters. They will eat anything small enough to fit in their mouths including flake and pellet foods, small fish, crustaceans and b...

• Published: June 21, 2006, 4:21 pm
• Displayed: 6245 times
• Preview: Corydoras catfish - Origin, Breeding, Sexing, Diet & Forum Pictures of Corydoras panda Brief description This page is introduction to Corydoras species and points at most popular cory's. We'd love to hear about your Corydoras at the bottom of this page! Also visit the following page: a list of cory fish with profiles which contains links to cory's in our database - each described in terms of care in home fish tanks. Short introduction Corydoras, small fish known as Cory catfish, Cory cats or simply Cories, come from South America and can be found in freshwater environments. Their name Corydoras is derived from the Greek language, and it consists of “kory” (means helmet) and “doras” which means skin. There are more than a few varieties of these fish, they can be differentiated by colours and sizes, most Cory’s reach between 4 and 6 cm (1.57 to 2.36 inch). This article summarizes what they have in common, but we also link to particular species at the bottom of this article. Recommended tank setup for Corydoras – Along with ideal parameters Corydoras will love sand...

• Published: August 19, 2007, 10:34 pm
• Displayed: 3947 times
• Preview: Instructions how to create a stunning fish tank display for your homeby Tim Gautrey This instruction is not for the faint-hearted and definitely for the more skilled DIY enthusiast. The object is to build a display tank unlike any other, where your fish can be displayed in all their beautiful colours with plenty of room to move around. This build involves a 48” x 18” x 12” standard fish tank as a base unit. This needs to be either built onto a custom stand or use a stand capable of being placed 6” away from the wall and strong enough to carry a lot more weight than the tank itself. I opted to build the stand myself out of 4” x 2” timber and flooring grade chipboard, fixed to the wall along the back. The stand was constructed 12’3” long (since it also took an 8’ tank), and 18” front to back, at 30” from the floor to the top surface. The whole thing had to be perfectly level in all directions. Cross bars were placed every 24” along the length to avoid distortion of the chipboard. It has to be very strong because it isn’t just supporting one tank, but two! Once the...

• Published: January 12, 2007, 5:49 am
• Displayed: 3196 times
• Preview: How to grow Cryptocoryne in fish tanks and types of Cryptocoryne Brief description This page explains how to grow various Cryptocoryne in fish tanks, however we'd like you to visit a list of all Cryptocoryne plants in our database: search result which points at different species - and you're welcome to share your experiences or ask questions there (as well as on this page at the bottom)! Cryptocoryne are one of the most common plant species used in aquarium, they belong to the Araceae family like other famous aquarium plants, Anubias and Pistia. Their name derives from “krypto” which means “hidden” and “koryne” which means “stick”, and it refers to the shape and position of their flowers. There are about 60 known crypto varieties at the moment, all coming from Asia, specially from New Guinea, Indonesia, and Malaysia; all of them are characterized by a strong root system that grows fast and generates new plants in every side of the tank. The easier crypto, more common to find in shops, come from Sri Lanka, and are C. Wendtii, C. Becketii, and C. Walkerii. In nature, they...

• Published: October 31, 2007, 2:22 pm
• Displayed: 2241 times
• Preview: The Dropsy Disease - Development, Cure, Prevention & Forum Brief description This page covers dropsy disease in fish. We also have forum under the article so in case your question isn't answered on this page yet, we'll gladly answer. Sharing experiences and tips is welcome too! picture source - fishtankforum.co.uk, reprinted with permission Dropsy is caused by bacteria which live in contaminated, but also in slightly contaminated water. The probability of getting this disease is higher if fish live in stressful conditions. This is because the stress negatively affects the immune system and fishes succumb this disease easier. What`s bad is the fact that this disease chooses it`s target slowly; Your fish will be attacked one by one, not all at one time. Naturally, the fist victims will be the weakest specimens. The development of the dropsy disease The disease opens itself as a bacterial infection of guts. You can spot it as fish` excrements are covered by mucus. The gut mucous slowly dies, the fish accepts less food than usual and there are long, transparent, mucus-loo...

• Published: January 1, 2007, 6:22 pm
• Displayed: 4524 times
• Preview: Staghorn algae In this article I want to write about my experience with Staghorn algae; scientific name "Compsopogon sp.". However, this is not a scientific article. I¹m not writing a definitive guide to how to eliminate this algae from your aquarium. I'm going to write how I defeat it. Let's start from the very beginning. I established my aquarium in April 2006. I keep a few plants and fish there. Feel free to read about my tank at my blog called Aquarium fish and plants. Step by step, I planted my aquarium successfully. Basically, I was introducing new plants as well as Staghorn algae into my tank. I cannot say exactly when I first got the algae, but I noticed some algae in my aquarium. I didn't know what a catastrophe was waiting for me. In the beginning, I saw only a few spots. Immediately, only a week after the first spot was noticed, the algae had grown on every piece of my tank. It usually grows about 5-10 cm during a night, so I had to cut a lot of algae from my tank every morning. I couldn't believe how fast it was growing. Please, check the photo gallery ...

• Published: March 9, 2007, 12:55 pm
• Displayed: 2282 times
• Preview: Nothobranchius rachovii - Care, Pictures & Forum Brief description This page explains how to take care of Nothobranchius rachovii including feeding and breeding demands along with tank requirements. You're welcome to ask questions or share experiences - use a form at the bottom of this page for this purpose, please! Nothobranchius rachovii, which originates from the Mosambic and South Africa regions, is definitely one of the most beautiful fish species around the world. Usually living in drying swamps, sometimes with other fish species, they grow up to 5.5 cm and it’s nearly impossible to the difference between females and other fish of the Nothobranchius species. Becoming a water birds’ food, their role in the food chain differentiates in home-kept aquariums and the wild nature. Naturally, you probably don’t keep your fish in order to make them a dinner for birds, or even other pets/animals. Despite their eye-catching look, they’re not seen in tanks a lot; I would say they’re rare as pets. Description and tank requirements...

• Published: February 10, 2008, 11:33 am
• Displayed: 983 times
• Preview: About T5 aquarium lights To buy a T5 aquarium lighting, simply follow this link. If you need information firstly, then go through this page... To get the best from your aquarium, you need to make sure that the lighting you install provides the maximum results. Lighting which does not suit the application or is insufficient in strength will in time depress the growth of the fish in the tank and will affect their health. What an experienced aquarium owner is constantly aware of is the need to provide 12 hours of effective and appropriate lighting in their aquarium in order to provide an atmosphere as close as possible to the occupant’s natural surroundings. For this reason, a conscientious aquarium owner will always be on the look out for the best combination of lighting that they can provide for the fish their care. And they may well find it if they opt for T5 aquarium lights. What is a T5 aquarium light? Many people get quite excited when they hear the term, T5 because the human brain works in such a way that they automatically assort the number five with the connotation that thes...

• Published: April 28, 2008, 9:46 am
• Displayed: 641 times
• Preview: Tetra Whisper Filter - Description The Whisper Filter is an aquarium filter that is as quiet as the name describes. This filter is manufactured by Tetra and comes in a variety of sizes for both internal and external filtration. Priced between $12 and $65, these filters are relatively inexpensive compared to many other brands. It is a widely available product that is sold in most aquatic retail stores and many different aquarium supply websites. The Tetra Whisper Filter will provide clean water in tanks from 2 gallons up to 60 gallons. The filters canisters have one or two chambers for cycling water, depending on the volume of water it is meant for. You will need one filter for each chamber in your filter canister. The cartridges come in small, medium, large and X-large to suit your filtering needs. Tetra makes their filters easy to clean and maintain. They are comprised of a number of parts that are easy to remove for cleaning purposes. The external filter hangs on the back of your aquarium. The motor, located on the bottom of the canister, sucks water up through a tube and fo...

• Published: March 21, 2008, 9:48 pm
• Displayed: 595 times
• Preview: How Undergravel Filters Work Old, familiar, outdated, problematic, simple, reliable, they have been called all of these and more, depending on who you ask. Please note: During this guide, I am attempting to give a balanced view and not condemning any specific filter or manufacturer. I have chosen Eheim in this guide purely because they are a well-known brand with a good reputation. Under Gravel Filters, (UGF), were the first type of filter made available for aquarists. Although they have a long and proven record, many aquarists have turned their backs on these in favour of more powerful, and more expensive filters. The undergravel filter is a simple biological filter, using a shaped plastic plate which lays on the bottom of the tank with slots cut into it to allow water through into the gullies of the moulding, and a riser tube to draw the water back to the surface with the aid of an airstone or powerhead. The plate is covered with gravel and that`s it! It works very effectively by pulling water down through the gravel, where the solid debris is trapped close to the surface, ...

• Published: February 29, 2008, 11:51 am
• Displayed: 618 times
• Preview: Why to use an aquarium glass cleaner Anyone involved in any way in keeping fish, is well aware of the dilemma faced every few months as the amount of foreign bodies that fish and plants generate begins to mount up. The dilemma is whether to empty the tank completely, place the fish in a quarantine tank, and give the main tank a thorough cleaning inside and out. This seems like the easy way, yet an experienced aquarist will do just about everything possible to avoid doing it. Why? Not because they are lazy, but because if they do so they will more or less lose all the colonies of beneficial bacteria that has accumulated in the tank water. Another reason is that for the fish themselves, it is traumatic and cause fairly significant health problems, no matter the short their stay in their temporary accommodation. So the dedicated aquarium operator or owner every now and then, as part of an annual maintenance program, will roll up their sleeves and give the aquarium a thorough cleaning both outside and inside. Cleaning the tank on the outside, as you can imagine, is fairly straightforward. Wh...

• Published: July 4, 2008, 10:30 am
• Displayed: 408 times
• Preview: Wall Mounted Fish Tanks from the Point of Advantages and Disadvantages Many fish keepers say that looking at their fish tank is far more entertaining than watching their television. This inspired many companies to take the next step in aquariums and produce a tank that actually sits on the wall. The wall mounted aquariums are also known as portrait aquariums; they were first produced in Korea and were actually made with a picture frame surround, hence the “portrait” in the name. These are not to everyone’s taste, some keepers think they are cruel, some fish keepers think that they are an excellent addition to the room, a showpiece to give visitors something to talk about. I personally would not use one purely for the thought of the limited swimming space, but that is my opinion. They are mounted on the wall by means of studs or brackets, and these need to be strong to support the weight of the aquarium, nobody wants to go into a room to see the tank lying on the floor. Originally they were only sold in smaller sizes, but as they have become more popular the sizes have increased to me...

• Published: May 23, 2006, 2:17 pm
• Displayed: 69643 times
• Preview: Discus Aquarium Fish - Care, Breeding, Forum & Everything for happy Discus Brief Description This page is an ultimate guide on raising Discus fish with pictures, forum and answers - Just scroll down and you'll find answers on most of your questions. Also visit other pages devoted to Discus fish (links will open in new window/tab): Discus fish - revision of this page (but with smaller forum), Discus FAQ, Red discus profile, Blue discus profile, Discus profile. We'd love to hear how you keep your Discus and thus you're welcome to post your experiences at the bottom of this page! By Stokes; 19/05/2008: this article has been revised, the new version is here; see copyright information here Introduction and general information The Discus is a large cichlid from the Amazon River, its tributaries and flood planes, in South America. Discus and its variants were first described in 1840 by Dr. Heckel as Symphysodon discus, this name is now in use for the Heckel discus variant. The three "original" colour variants received their own name, the Green Discus Symphysodon ae...

• Published: May 19, 2008, 2:03 pm
• Displayed: 1003 times
• Preview: Discus fish - An ultimate guide with forum How to care for them - Pictures, Breeding, Raising the fry, Filtration, Tank set-up & Forum Brief description This page is an ultimate guide on raising Discus fish and covers almost everything regarding Discus; Unlike most websites about Discus, you're welcome to post your experiences and questions at the bottom of this page and we'll answer them. You should also visit the following pages: Red discus profile with pictures and forum, Raising Discus with FAQ, Discus profile, Zebra discus profile, Blue discus profile. If you're raising Blue, Zebra, Green or Red discus, make sure that you leave messages describing your experiences on the previously linked profiles! Discus fish online Feel free to visit the Discus USA to purchase Discus fish online! The origins of the discus fish Discus fish are now a common sight in all of the aquatic stores bit this is a fairly recent happening in fish keeping terms, 20 years ago they were mainly kept by expert fish keepers who had learned the art of keeping them alive for extensive peri...

• Published: August 22, 2008, 10:47 pm
• Displayed: 417 times
• Preview: Aquarium fish diseasescommon diseases, symptoms, treatments, and prevention Preventing disease Quite a few aquarists routinely treat their fish against various health problems or even retort to constantly keeping the salinity level high in their freshwater aquarium just to prevent outbreaks of certain contagious diseases. The problem with such an approach is that keeping a fish in a suboptimal salinity level and exposing it to various treatments will weaken it in the long run. If you want to keep thriving fish instead of barely surviving fish, prevention is a much better solution than continuous use of salt and disorganized emergency treatments. DropsyFungal infectionPopeyepicture source - fishtankforum.co.uk, reprinted with permission Here are a few suggestions that can decrease the risk of disease in your aquarium. 1.)Keep your fish in an optimal environment, i.e. optimal water temperature, optimal salinity, optimal pH-value, low levels of organic waste, and so on. Always read up on all species you plan on keeping and do not combine species with dissimilar preferences.2...

• Published: October 8, 2006, 8:37 am
• Displayed: 9397 times
• Preview: Diseases of Betta splendens and proper treatment All pictures were provided by Laura M. Schlögl. Brief description This page covers common diseases of Bettas, explains reasons and also contains ideas on treatment. If you cannot find answer on your question, feel free to use a form at the bottom of this page to ask us directly! Sharing experiences and tips on curing sick Bettas is welcome too! Betta splendens is a strong fish, and if kept in good condition, it won`t get sick. No matter what the disease is, when you notice a behaviour change, or some symptoms, remove the betta from other fish to avoid contagions. Remember also to have an “aid kit” always ready: 1) A small tank for quarantine 2) A water heater 3) A small filter or water oxygenator 4) A dedicated net 5) Products like malachite green and methylene blue. There are a lot of diseases that can develop in aquarium, betta splendens usually are subjected to these: 1. Injuries 2. Swim Bladder diseases 3. White spot diseases 4. Ammonia poisoning 5. Fins and tail rot Injuries Even...

• Published: July 10, 2008, 3:05 pm
• Displayed: 500 times
• Preview: Diseases of Goldfish Goldfish are known to be highly susceptible to various diseases because of all the selective breeding that takes place. Common and comet goldfish are the hardier variations of all the goldfish varieties available in the aquarium industry. The fancier, more selectively bred varieties of goldfish are more apt to contracting the various diseases that can ail goldfish. Books and internet websites on fish diseases can be your best source of information to finding out all about goldfish diseases. It is highly recommended to have access to either or both of these sources of information when owning goldfish, especially the fancy varieties of goldfish. Prevention: Disease prevention is the best solution to any type of fish disease. Although prevention does not always work 100% of the time it definitely improves the odds of having healthier goldfish. 1.The first step in disease prevention is choosing only the highest quality fish for purchase. When looking to purchase a new goldfish approach the task with high standards in mind. If the aquarium retail store has dirty f...

• Published: April 7, 2008, 9:35 pm
• Displayed: 545 times
• Preview: DIY Aquarium Cabinets When purchasing a tank, we also have to take into consideration the cabinet; would it look right in our house etc., indeed in some cases does it actually match the tank that is sat on top of it. A lot of money can also be saved if we bought the tank alone and created our own cabinet. This is not such a daunting task as it seems, even a basic cabinet can be made with the most basic of wood working skills. I have created a couple of cabinets in the past that were very pleasing to the eye and believe me I am no carpenter. There are a few options that can be used, one of the most basic stands can be achieved using breeze blocks (cinder blocks) or even using house bricks for the stand columns and lengths of wood across the top for the actual tank support. In this case for quickness and strength I have used breeze blocks stacked and cemented 3 or 4 high, (depending on the finished height you require), and I laid 3 strips of 4” x 2” wood across the top for support. Please bear in mind that wherever you are going to house the finished set up the floor underneath must b...

• Published: January 9, 2007, 2:24 am
• Displayed: 5204 times
• Preview: Aquarium Light Fixture Advice I'm writing this article in order to give some guidance regarding aquarium light fixtures and the precise construction of the aquarium light fixtures of my social aquarium. A joiner created the case for my tank to order. The dimensions are 120 cm x 55 cm x 100 cm. The cover's dimensions are 120 cm x 55 cm x 20 cm. I chose 4x39W 850 mm T5 lighting fluorescent tubes as the lighting. All in all, it is 156 W for 220 litres of water. I like to have a planted tank and 0.7 W/l is enough in my experience. In order to boost the intensity of the aquarium lighting I attached mirror foil to it. To use T5 lighting fluorescent tubes you need to plug them into the electronic ballasts. I use two pieces of Helvar electronic ballast "El 2x39s". If you have the aquarium light fixture made of wood or any flammable material, you must embed the asbestos bearing between the ballast and fixture. The ballast has a temperature of 80 degrees Celsius when working. To connect electronic ballast with T5 tubes I used cable CY 1.5mm2. Finally, you have to connect the ballast with...

• Published: November 6, 2009, 11:58 pm
• Displayed: 142 times
• Preview: Dwarf gourami care, tank mates and breeding an article submitted by Exotic Aquariums The gourami or Colisa lalia is a member of the family Belontiidae. It is native to India. The Indian Gourani is often referred to as the dwarf gourami because because there is a larger gourami endemic to Thailand that grows twice the size of the Indian variety. The Gourami is part of the Anabantoidei suborder. This suborder evolved a lung-like organ known as a labyrinth to help them survive in low oxygenated environments. The labyrinth allows them to breathe atmospheric oxygen. Gouramis will frequently rise to the surface to take in atmospheric oxygen. Members of the Anabantoidei Suborder need a combination of both airborne and dissolved oxygen to survive. In nature male dwarf gouramis have diagonal stripes alternating in blue and red. Females are silver. However selective breeding has yielded red, neon, and rainbow variations. Both sexes have tread-like touch sensitive cells extending from their pelvic fins. Adults reach about two inches in length. Dwarf gourami tank mates Gouramis are ...

• Published: August 8, 2008, 7:00 am
• Displayed: 421 times
• Preview: What is aquarium carbon and it's advantages Brief description This is a guide on using aquarium carbon with answers and FAQ. However you should also visit our second article too: Activated carbon - The purpose in a fish tank and we'd love to hear your experiences with aquarium carbon! If you'd like to ask a question that hasn't been answered in the article below, feel free to use a form at the bottom of this page and we'll answer! Carbon is an element that is largely used in the aquarium industry for filtering chemicals out of the water making it safe for both fresh and salt water fish to live in. Materials such as charcoal, coconut shells and wood are often used for carbon filtering because of the amount of elemental carbon it contains. When these materials are introduced to high pressured steam impurities are released and the elemental carbon contained within creates pores. This forms the substance we call activated carbon which acts like a sponge that is highly effective against organic chemicals. Active carbon has millions of pores which gives it a substantially large surface area of up...

• Published: November 26, 2008, 11:23 pm
• Displayed: 342 times
• Preview: Raising Electric Yellow Labs in Aquariums Brief description This page describes how to take care of Electric yellow cichlid properly including feeding, breeding and in case you'd like to ask questions or share experiences we have forum under the article! The Electric Yellow Lab earned its common name because of the striking yellow color of its body. Also known as the Labidochromis caeruleus, this shy and peaceful species is very popular among hobby aquarists. Any beginner aquarist can successfully keep this fish because they are undemanding of water conditions, they will accept a wide variety of foods, and they are very easy to breed. Other names for this mbuna cichlid are Lemon Drop Cichlid, Lemon Yellow Cichlid, Electric Yellow, and Yellow Lab. Physical Description The bold yellow color of the Electric Yellow Lab stands out making it a lively addition in any cichlid tank. This fish will get to be as long as 6 inches which makes it a great candidate for the aquarium since it is not a very large species. A black stripe running through the dorsal fin may be either bold or faded ...

• Published: May 8, 2008, 1:24 pm
• Displayed: 503 times
• Preview: Aquarium Canopy - Purpose and Examples An aquarium canopy can do so much for the aesthetics of an aquarium. The purpose of the canopy is to finish the look of the aquarium by covering the filters, lights and electrical cords. The canopy can allow an aquarium to look like a piece of furniture or a decorative centerpiece in any room of the house. A canopy needs to be able to allow the aquarist to easily and conveniently access the inside of the tank for the sake of routine maintenance. What good is a tank topper that will not allow you to get into it? Most aquarium canopies come with one or more access points to get in and out, but for those really big jobs, the canopy is removable. The aquarium canopy is different from the aquarium hood even though they serve the same purpose. They both cover the aquarium to prevent fish from jumping out and they both house the lighting fixtures over the tank. The difference is the canopy will give the aquarium a nicer, more finished look as if it is something that is meant to decorate the room. Canopies usually come as a set with the aquarium...

• Published: November 3, 2006, 6:56 am
• Displayed: 8438 times
• Preview: External filter for a 26 gallon or bigger aquarium - Instructions, Diagram and Forum Brief description This page is a guide on making your own external filter; You're welcome to ask questions or share tips at the bottom of this page! If you came here searching for other information regarding filtration simply click this link to be forwarded to a list of filters-related articles on our website! Doing yourself an external filter is not really difficult, but needs a bit of patience. Building a filter by yourself is a good solution for those people who need a higher filtering (for big fish, turtles etc.) and do not want to spend a lot of money. Materials - 13mm garden poly pipe. It`s is usually cheap so take a good measure: think it has to start inside the aquarium go down on the floor and come back. - 13mm tap. You need 2 taps, one for the way in pipe, and one for the way out. These are extremely useful to isolate the filter in case you need to move it. - 2 or 3 gallon polycarbonate water bottle with large neck (the pump has to pass in it). You need just one bottle, the size depend...

• Published: November 2, 2008, 5:49 am
• Displayed: 414 times
• Preview: Facts about Paradise Fish Introduction This article was written in order to help fish keepers with raising Paradise fish; We tried to cover all important aspects of raising Paradise fish on this page. From raising the fry to sexing and breeding, including feeding and FAQ. All with links to related articles. However we'd love to hear about your Paradise fish, so make sure you use a form at the bottom of this page once you're finished reading the article and the forum under the article! Paradise fish are very beautiful fish, therefore many fish keepers raise them in home aquariums or ponds. However, there are still some questions which need answers in order to keep these fish healthier and happier. All questions shown below have been compiled from the past statistics of what people wanted to know. If you feel that your question isn`t answered yet on this website, feel free to use the contact us form. Also here are an other pages devoted to the Paradise fish:aqua-fish.net/show.php?h=paradiseaqua-fish.net/show.php?h=paradisefish Paradise fish care When I kept this species I focused ...

• Published: February 21, 2006, 3:18 pm
• Displayed: 3397 times
• Preview: Feeding Fish (this article was taken from aquarticles.com - free aquarium articles) “How much do I feed my fish?” - this is a question we get asked every day, and there is no hard and fast rule for feeding fish. It’s all a matter of trial and error, but one thing is for sure - over feeding does more harm than under feeding. Bear in mind that in the wild fish don’t get fed on a regular basis, and in certain seasons food is very scarce. Start by sprinkling a little food over the water surface. If all this food is consumed within 3 to 5 minutes the amount of food is enough. If all the food is consumed in less time add a little more the next time you feed, and if it takes longer don’t put so much in the next time. One way to gauge the amount of food to use is to remember that most fish`s stomachs are about the same size as their eyes. Fish do not require as much food as is often thought, and it is very tempting to feed every time they look hungry or when you want to view a timid species. As a result fish are often over fed. This creates several problems in the aquarium: firstly, unea...

• Published: January 4, 2006, 3:28 pm
• Displayed: 3181 times
• Preview: Fish Acclimatization - Detailed Guide & Forum Brief description This page explains all details of proper acclimatization of aquarium fish. If you still need help, use a forum that's under the article for asking questions or sharing experiences, please! (this article was taken from aquarticles.com - free aquarium articles) by Peter McKane The acclimatization of fish is an incredibly important process. Without it, fish that you introduce to your tank, whether it is a new setup or not, will become severely stressed and as a result may die or suffer severely reduced life expectancy. The process itself is incredibly simple, and if more people stuck to it, then many stress related deaths could be avoided. Transport Acclimatization begins where you first pick up the fish. From the moment they leave their tank, whether it is from a private supplier, a local fish store or even out of the box that they were delivered in, the fish must be kept as still as possible. If you are driving home with your fish, then hold the fish in its box or bag in the air between your legs. This ...

• Published: August 22, 2008, 11:24 pm
• Displayed: 364 times
• Preview: Brackish aquarium water and suitable species(what is different between brackish and freshwater, which species are suitable for such an aquarium, and so on) What is brackish water? Brackish water, also known as brack water, is less salty than seawater but more salty than freshwater. As long as the water salinity (based on dissolved salts) is 0.5 ppt or less, the water is considered freshwater. If the salinity is 30 ppt or more, the water is considered saline. Brackish water falls in between; from 0.5 ppt to 29 ppt. Brackish species There are many species of fish, invertebrates and plants suitable for brackish aquariums since brackish water occur in many different habitats and climate zones all over the world. Brackish water can for instance be the result of a freshwater river emptying itself into the ocean, and there are also brackish seas and lakes, e.g. the Baltic Sea and the Caspian Sea. Some species live their entire life in brackish water, while others spend their youth in brackish water before migrating into the ocean. This means that you have to research the species ...

• Published: July 2, 2007, 3:15 am
• Displayed: 2347 times
• Preview: The purpose of a fish pond aerator(For aerators from Living Water Aeration click here, for others click here - you will be forwarded to the bottom of this page) Pond aeration equipment is a vital part of any pond set up; these are mostly supplied as pond aeration kits which will comprise of a pond aerator pump, with special pond aeration tubing and a pond aeration diffuser. A pond will deteriorate if it does not have enough pond aeration with proper pond aerators to raise the dissolved oxygen level to meet the demand of the plants, fishes, and other organisms in the pond especially those located on the bottom. As soon as the pond deteriorates, stratification will occur and sludge and debris will start to settle on the bottom of the pond which will produce toxic gases. These gases make it difficult for the organisms in the pond to survive especially the fishes and other bottom dwelling organisms that help keep the pond clean. The fishes as well as the bottom dwellers will be prone to diseases or even death. This loss greatly reduces the ability of the pond to clean itself. In order to o...

• Published: March 21, 2008, 9:21 pm
• Displayed: 543 times
• Preview: Fish Pond Filters with Answered Questions and Pictures Brief Description The Fish Pond Filters article answers more questions again; Popular questions have been collected and answered. They include How to set up pond filter, How to set up a pond pump and filter, Gravity fed pond filters, Biological filter for ponds, How do set up my pond pump and UV filter, Adding bacteria to pond filters, Can charcoal be used in filter medium for aquarium or pond, Can fish live in a small pond without filter, Can I use a pond filter in a fish tank, Can I put my pond pump inside a filter, Can goldfish in a pond live without a filter, Do pond filters use power. If you cannot find answer on your question here, use a form at the bottom of this article to ask! (diagrams are about to be added by October 31th 2010!!!) In order to be forwarded to a list of fish pond filters, click on this link (you will be taken to the bottom of this page)... Of course, if you don't wish to buy yet, feel free to read all information available on this page... Fish ponds are very similar to your aquarium in as much as they are a c...

• Published: December 22, 2006, 3:47 pm
• Displayed: 8575 times
• Preview: Set up and filtration of a fish pond Brief description If you came here looking for fish pond filters, simply follow this link to be forwarded to a list of online suppliers! This page is dedicated to fish pond filters and also answers questions. We'd love to hear about your pond and type of filter that you use, because sharing the knowledge help other people who visit this page. So once you're finished reading this page, leave a message at the bottom of this page and describe your pond as best as possible. You should also visit the following articles: Fish ponds FAQ and Fish pond filtration FAQ. When a fish pond is first designed, it is often a common mistake to incorrectly add the wrong pond filtration systems with incorrect media inserted. The design of this part of the fish pond has to be right for it to be effective. Drawing a diagram of the filtration system and how it fits into the pond often helps research which media is the most effective and the material that is used for the filtration system casing is also important. It is easy to think that to keep high the water quality ...

• Published: May 10, 2008, 11:57 am
• Displayed: 496 times
• Preview: Types of fish pond liners with answers Brief Description The upgraded Pond Liners article now contains more information and answers on mostly asked questions! These include What else can I use for line in fish pond, 8 foot by 5 foot liner - what size pond will it make, Building a pond with a formed liner, Calculating butyl rubber liner for a rectangular garden pond, Can I put in a skimmer in the pond without cutting the liner, Cheap pond liner (suppliers), How much pond liner would I need to create a 10 foot x 10 foot pond, How to secure liner into cinder block, Is carpet underlay toxic as pond liner, Painting preformed pond liners, Used pond liners. You're welcome to post your questions, check the bottom part of this page! One decision we all have to make when we decide that we are going to construct a pond is which type of liner I should go for. Things have certainly changed in recent years with the development of stronger liners with longer guarantees, new types of underlay for the liner etc... Research should be done to make sure that the correct choice has been made for your requirem...

• Published: July 2, 2007, 3:21 am
• Displayed: 1715 times
• Preview: Information about Fish Pond Pumps Hold it! Before you have that hole dug for a fish pond, take a look at the features of a pond pump. Will it be just the right pump for the pond you have in mind? This is something you have to bear in mind when you are going to have a pond or a water garden. Are you going for moving water in your pond? Then here are some tips in selecting just the right pond pump for you. Before you go shopping remember that there are two types of water pumps—submersible and out of water models. Ask for a chart and other information from the supplier before settling on a choice. If you have a small fish pond in mind, get a submersible pump—aside from being economical, it will be efficient. A bigger pond will need an external water pump. A submersible pump is placed in the pond. This can drain the water from the pond without a distracting noise that can irritate the neighborhood. The magnetic drive pump is a smart choice, although expensive it is economical to operate and will last longer. A magnetic drive pump has no shaft seal to leak power. Even wh...

• Published: March 23, 2009, 7:56 pm
• Displayed: 266 times
• Preview: Fish ponds FAQ & Forum Brief description This page answers all important questions about fish ponds; You're welcome to share your experiences or ask questions at the bottom of this page in case you cannot find answer in the article below! One of the most satisfying aspects of fish keeping to me has to be the addition of a garden pond to view in the evenings while relaxing and the joy of seeing healthy fish swimming to me at feeding times. Building and maintaining a pond can be a daunting task if not planned properly but there is always an answer to any question and hopefully most of theses questions will be answered in this article. Where do I start? The best way of starting your preparation is to sketch a plan of how you want the pond to look when you have finished the project. Walk around your garden to pick the best spot for your pond, this will also give you a rough idea of how much space you actually have to contain the pond in. Draw up a budget that you know you can afford, this may affect a few decisions you will need to make later on as regards which materials ...

• Published: August 22, 2008, 11:53 pm
• Displayed: 330 times
• Preview: Fish species (how we divide fish) Within the aquarium hobby, we use many different systems to divide fish into practical groups. Scientists use the taxonomic system created by Carolus Linnaeus in the 18th century, and understanding the basics of this system is very helpful for hobby aquarists as well since it makes it easy to see which fish species that are closely related to each other. Using the scientific names of fish instead of common names can also prevent a lot of misunderstandings since many popular aquarium species have been given a long row of different common names and the exact same common name can also be attributed to several different species. In addition to Linnaeus taxonomy system, you can encounter a lot of other ways of grouping fish within the hobby. In this article, we will take a brief look at some of these other divisions as well. Taxonomic division of fish Living organisms are divided into Domains, Kingdoms, Phylums or Divisions, Classes, Orders, Families, Genera and Species. In some cases, Subphylums/Subdivisions, Subclasses, Suborders and Subfamilies ...

• Published: November 29, 2008, 1:15 am
• Displayed: 343 times
• Preview: What is a Fish Tank Divider and what's it's Purpose Fish tank dividers are used to separate areas of the aquarium where defined spaces are required. The ability to break up sections in the fish tank can come in handy for breeding purposes, segregating feuding fish, and conserving aquarium resources. Different materials used for fish tank dividers Glass is used for dividers that are meant to permanently separate one space from the next. Aquarium silicone sealant which is also used to secure the exterior walls of glass fish tanks can be used to secure the dividing walls in place. When creating your own dividers be sure to a silicone sealant that clearly states that it is non-toxic and safe to use on aquariums.Acrylic fish tank dividers, much like glass, are more durable than plastic. This is a less permanent solution than glass and silicone sealant so it leaves you with the option to change your mind about the divided aquarium. Acrylic dividers can be held in place by hooks hanging on the rim of the aquarium or suction cups secured to the inside of the glass or acrylic fish tank. Acrylic...

• Published: July 5, 2008, 11:15 pm
• Displayed: 510 times
• Preview: Fish tank temperature monitoring, FAQ and Forum Brief description Most people visit this page in order to find ideal temperature for a tropical freshwater fish tank – In most cases the answer is 24°C, which is approximately 75°F, however there’s more to do than just setting up a heater – go through the rest of this page to find out more, we even list fish species with recommended temperature, and you’re welcome to ask questions via form that is located at the bottom of this page in case something isn’t clear! Bear in mind that there are hundreds of fish and plant species that can be housed in aquariums, therefore not all of them are compatible in terms of temperature; Some species may require different conditions!!! We also list FAQ under the article, make sure you check that paragraph. Additionally you’re welcome to visit the following pages, they're closely related to temperature in fish tanks: Aquarium thermometers with FAQ, Digital aquarium thermometers, Fish tank heaters - FAQ, large forum, pictures and tips, Aquarium chillers. Lastly, consider using our search func...

• Published: November 26, 2007, 12:47 pm
• Displayed: 1152 times
• Preview: Fish Tanks: Which one do I choose? The fish-keeping hobby has taken enormous strides over the last ten years, from simple and plain metal-frames fish tanks in black plastic covered frames to the very attractive bow-fronted acrylic aquariums and wood-effect cabinets of today. This guide is aimed at setting up a medium or large aquarium and the considerations that need to be addressed. It aims to help the inexperienced or beginner at fish-keeping, but will also contain valuable information for the more experienced. So, with the huge range available, which one should I choose? This is a question that can lead to big mistakes and huge costs if you get it wrong! Firstly, what do you want in the way of an aquarium? Things to consider are: * how much you can afford to spend, * The space available, * The type of fish you want to keep, * The eventual size of those fish, * Whether the aquarium will be on it’s own stand or on that favourite unit in the corner, * Availability of power outlets, * The type of floor, * How much time you can devote to the hobby. ...

• Published: January 18, 2007, 12:39 pm
• Displayed: 17999 times
• Preview: The Flowerhorn fish - Proper care, Breeding, Pictures & Forum Brief description This page is an ultimate guide on raising Flowerhorns with plenty of information from fish keepers, forum, pictures and answers including how to enhance hump growth! However we also have another page devoted to the Flowerhorn fish and you should visit it too (the link will open in new tab/window) : Flowerhorn profile with forum. Both, this page and the link are worth reading especially when you want to learn from others. We'd love to hear about your Flowerhorn too, so use a form at the bottom of this page once you're finished reading this article, please! The Flowerhorn fish is also known with the Chinese common name Hua Luo Han; this fish does not exist in nature but it is a hybrid result of various cross-breeding of South America cichlids, in fact it can be listed under the Cichlasoma genus, even if the starting breeders are unknown, the most of people think about Cichlasoma Trimaculatus, C. Festae, Red Parrot cichlid, Jingang and other fish. Information about care Flowerhorn cichlid is a...

• Published: March 6, 2008, 10:39 pm
• Displayed: 489 times
• Preview: Types of Fluval External Canister Filters Fluval External Canister Filters have been around for some time, with the series five being the latest model from the Hagen Corporation who manufacture this heavy duty range of aquarium filters. The interesting thing about these filters as any veteran aquarist will tell you are that each model that is introduced is mechanically better than its predecessor. Hagen is a company that obviously listens to feed back from their customers and acts on them. The model five series has had all the “glitches” ironed out of what were relatively minor problems with the series four filters, and the same rule appears to apply with series three models. Nowadays the Fluval series five canister filters are mostly widely marketed, online as well as in the pet shops and aquarium suppliers worldwide. What has always made this series of filters heads up amongst their competitors was their solid feel, The series five are square and even bulkier than their predecessors and their ease of operation has increased the satisfaction levels of aquarium owners and operators, esp...

• Published: November 14, 2008, 3:56 am
• Displayed: 317 times
• Preview: Food and feeding aquarium fish FAQ with links to profiles Brief description This article answers the most common questions regarding feeding your aquarium fish, and also offers answers about food for particular species. All questions have been asked by visitors of Aqua-Fish.Net. If your questions aren't answered on this website yet, then simply use a form at the bottom of this page to ask! Sharing experiences is welcome too! How much should I feed my fish? In various guides you can find something like “the amount of given food should be eaten in 1-5 minutes”. The number which replaces 1-5 is usually different for each guide. Anyway, I feed my fish differently... Firstly I put flakes into the aquarium in order to feed fish which swim in the top or middle levels. As flakes sink (they float for a few seconds – up to one minute, depending on water flow), they get to the bottom levels where bottom-dwellers start eating them. At this time usually all fish except bottom-dwellers are full. Now it`s time to put some granules and tablets into the tank (foods which fall down immediately). S...

• Published: April 27, 2010, 7:17 pm
• Displayed: 116 times
• Preview: Freshwater Aquarium Set Up Many novice keepers are under the impression that setting up a freshwater aquarium only means going to an aquarium supplier, filling the tank with water and then place the fish inside straight away. Unfortunately this is not the case but preparing beforehand ensures that your aquarium will run successfully and with a small amount of maintenance will remain looking fresh and clean. Planning is the key to success so never enter this hobby without doing any research and ensure that you have the time and inclination to keep your fish happy and healthy. There are several key steps that need to be followed and these will be covered below. Work out a budget, this should include the initial costs of purchasing the aquarium as well as running costs, remember that you will have to buy food for the fish, filter media will need replacing at certain time intervals and there is also the cost of the electricity required to run your tank. There is no point setting up a large aquarium just to find out that you cannot afford to run it so it is sometimes best to start of with a...

• Published: June 17, 2010, 1:38 am
• Displayed: 114 times
• Preview: Freshwater Natural Aquariums Nowadays more and more fish keepers are changing their views on the look that their aquariums should have and are shifting away from aquariums with strange and artificial ornamental décor such as castles and barrels, now they are after recreating natural looks in the aquarium using natural décor such as rocks, wood and natural substrates, to compliment these the aquariums have live plants added and arranged in such a fashion that a piece of nature is appearing in the room where the tank is housed. Creating this look may seem a bit daunting to some keepers especially if they are beginners to the hobby but it is not as difficult as it seems and making the correct choice of plants and décor will soon become second nature. Planning is the key to success, you need a picture in your head of how the finished aquarium will look , putting this plan onto paper or on your computer will keep that image fresh and gives you a plan to work to as building up the look is performed over several key stages and these need to be stuck to to stand any chance of success. Look at ...

• Published: August 5, 2010, 1:11 am
• Displayed: 107 times
• Preview: Types and Description of Freshwater Snails Freshwater snails are often given a hard time, they are mostly considered as a pest in the aquariums and eradicated before the keepers have had the chance to take a close look at them and take in their own natural beauty. They are a creature that can be beneficial in the aquarium and also in outdoor ponds, they can keep algae levels down and also sift through the substrate releasing any gas pockets. If allowed to get out of control some species do tend to breed quicker than the keeper wishes but this is mostly down to excess food being added to the tank, the snail is an opportunist so over breeding has to be blamed on the keeper themselves. They are very peaceful creatures, going about their business all day without bothering other tank mates, cleaning the tank which means less tank maintenance is required, this has to be a good thing! If you do intend to keep snails in your aquarium it must be remembered that they should never be kept with aggressive tank mates and certainly never kept with fish species renowned for making a meal of them ...

• Published: April 10, 2008, 9:30 am
• Displayed: 557 times
• Preview: Frontosa Cichlid - Aquarium care, diet, sexing, breeding & more Brief description This page covers every aspect of raising Frontosa cichlids in fish tanks; From aquarium set-up to variations of this specie. Use a form at the bottom of this page in case you can't find answer on your question, sharing experiences is welcome too - we'd love to hear about your Frontosa's! The Cyphotilapia frontosa is named Cypho- meaning “hump” in Greek, -tilapia meaning “fish” in Tswana (the language spoken around lake Ngami), and frontosa based on the Latin word Frontis meaning “with big forehead.” Nicknamed frontosa, this very distinguishable fish is a highly prized and highly priced cichlid in the aquarium industry. The more common variation in retail is from Burundi which can run anywhere from $12 to $15 for juveniles. Other variations can be considerably more expensive because of their vibrant blue coloration and the fact that they are not as easy to breed. They can cost around $250 for the juveniles. Despite the high price, these fish are definitely worth the investment because they are a...

• Published: October 13, 2011, 6:19 am
• Displayed: 12 times
• Preview: A guide on housing, feeding and breeding Indian Star Tortoise - Geochelone elegans Brief description This page is devoted to housing Indian Star Tortoise (also known as Geochelone elegans) , it's another article that belongs to the "exotic pets" category (articles that aren't dedicated to aquarium fish). In case you own one or more of these beautiful creatures, you're welcome to share your experiences at the bottom of this page! Geochelone elegans is a very unique tortoise with a distinctive shell that displays prominent markings, these markings have earned this tortoise the common name of the “Indian Star Tortoise” as they originate from the countries of India and Sri Lanka. The star markings on their carapace are very noticeable in the open but these same markings are used as a camouflage in their natural habitat where they blend in with the grassy lowlands, hiding them from predators and humans alike. The shells of each specimen can vary greatly, some specimens will have a smoother shell surface while others have raised areas on their shells giving them a very bumpy a...

• Published: November 4, 2009, 1:09 am
• Displayed: 154 times
• Preview: Glass Catfish an article submitted by Exotic Aquariums The glass catfish or Kryptopterus bicirrhisand its smaller relative the ghost catfish are native to Indonesia. They inhabit the large rivers and turbid waters of Borneo, Sumatra, the Malay Peninsula and the Chao Phrayaa and Mekongg drainage basins. They live near the shorelines in water with strong currents. They are diurnal predators (active in daylight) whose diet consists mainly of true water bugs in the wild. Glass catfish are some of the most unusual fish you can buy for a freshwater aquarium. Their bodies are totally devoid of scales and their skin and meaty tissue is completely transparent. You can see right trough to its bones and internal organs and out the other side of their bodies. As with all Catfish, they have barbells on either side of their mouths. Glass catfish have a docile temperament. They make good community fish as long as they are in the company of similarly mild mannered fish. Glass catfish are a medium sized fish. They grow to about four inches in length. They are mid-tank swimmers. The sh...

• Published: November 6, 2009, 11:45 pm
• Displayed: 166 times
• Preview: Glofish or Zebra Danios? an article submitted by Exotic Aquariums Glofish do not exist in nature. They were created in a laboratory. Glofish are genetically modified zebra danios or Brachydanio reri. Geneticists in Singapore added the fluorescent gene from sea coral to zebra danio eggs. The result was the glofish. Aside from their genetically altered neon color palette they are identical to zebra danios. These fish are vibrant under any circumstances. But they fluoresce or light up when they encounter environmental toxins. They were first created to do precisely that, detect environmental toxins. They were made available for sale to the general public in 2003. Environmentalists have expressed concern about what might happen if these genetically altered fish made their way into natural rivers and streams. The creators of glofish state emphatically that these genetically engineered fish are not an ecological threat. Glofish, like regular zebra danios, can only survive in tropical waters. Aquarium water temperature should be between 64-74 °F. In the six years since their release for...

• Published: November 8, 2009, 4:33 am
• Displayed: 147 times
• Preview: Glowlight tetra an article submitted by Exotic Aquariums Glowlight tetras or Hemigrammus erythrozonus are native to the Essiquibo basin in South America. Glowlights like all tetra are a member of family Characidae. They received the name glowlight tetra because of the highly reflective red stripe that runs from their mid-body to their tails. This stripe appears to glow under aquarium lighting. Tetras are shoaling fish. Shoaling fish are extremely social fish that instinctively travel in a group. They tend not to fare well in an aquarium devoid of other members of their species. Depending on how strong the instinct runs in an individual species, some shoaling fish can not survive at all in an isolated environment. It is always advisable to have at least four of any given shoaling fish in a community fish tank. The glowlight tetra is a small freshwater fish variety, reaching an adult length of only about an inch and a half. They have a mild disposition and make wonderful additions to community tanks provide they are in the presence of similarly natured fish whose size is not big en...

• Published: July 30, 2008, 10:11 pm
• Displayed: 471 times
• Preview: Goldfish and how to keep water at high quality level Brief description This page is devoted to water quality in a Goldfish tank. You're welcome to share your experiences or ask questions in case they haven't been answered on this page! Use a form at the bottom of this page for this purpose, please. You should also visit these pages: Goldfish - Care, Types and Pond Fife with FORUM, Carassius auratus auratus profile with FORUM, Goldfish FAQ, Goldfish diseases. The quality of the water in a goldfish aquarium determines the health of the goldfish in it. To start with, it is important to set up an aquarium with fresh, clean water, and then the challenge is to maintain the quality of the water. Setting Up an Aquarium with High Quality Water: When setting up a new aquarium it is important to first start with a large, clean aquarium. Goldfish have the potential to grow very large for aquarium fish and will thrive in a pond or very large aquarium of no less than 75 gallons of water. Never use detergents or any type of cleanser to get the inside of your fish tank clean. Scrubbing an...

• Published: December 28, 2006, 10:28 am
• Displayed: 75199 times
• Preview: Types of Goldfish, Care in aquariums and fish ponds & Forum Brief description This page is devoted to Goldfish in aquariums and ponds, proper care, and also contains forum where you're welcome to share your Goldfish stories with us! You should also visit the following pages, they're dedicated to Goldfish too: Goldfish and water quality, Before buying a Goldfish with FAQ and pictures, Profile of Goldfish with discussion forum, Goldfish diseases, Breeding goldfish and Goldfish care tips! Carassius Auratus, widely known as “Goldfish”, is an ornamental ciprinidae, native from China, where it has been bred for long time. Being one of the first ornamental fish bred, goldfish has a great number of colour and shape mutations. Mutations can be divided in two categories: “long body” looking similar to the wild-type, and “short body” that usually have a egg shaped body much different from the common goldfish. “Long body” goldfish are the stronger ones and can live also in ponds; They usually reach 6-8 inches or more. Long finned are usually faster than short finned but can still li...

• Published: January 9, 2006, 2:03 am
• Displayed: 2839 times
• Preview: Good Shop / Bad Shop by Andy Gordon of England, and Michelle Stuart of Ontario Canada (this article was taken from aquarticles.com - free aquarium articles) If you have never kept fish or you are planning to buy your first fish tank and you have never set foot in an aquatic shop before how can you judge what makes a good shop or a bad one? Because fish are living things and because being transported and moved around is very stressful to them good careful handling at the shop can make a lot of difference to their future prospects. In a good shop you should find: Helpful Staff If you explain that this will be your first aquarium the staff should be prepared to guide you through a list of essential equipment and explain how to set it all up. And answer your questions about anything you aren`t sure of. They should also explain about the need to properly mature a tank and how important it is not to add the fish until it is fully mature. A really good shop will refuse to sell you the fish on the same day as the tank. This may seem rude but they have a lot of experience and they kno...

• Published: June 22, 2008, 10:19 pm
• Displayed: 447 times
• Preview: Anacharis - Requirements in aquariums Brief description This page is a detailed guide on growing Anacharis in fish tanks; In case you cannot find answer on your question below, use a form at the bottom of this page to ask and we'll gladly answer! Sharing experiences and tips is also welcome! Anacharis must be one of the most popular aquatic plants available on the market. There is a lot of debate as to the name of this plant; there are various common names such as Brazilian waterweed, elodea, and recently is has been classified as being Egeria Densa. This must be one of the most versatile plants available to buy on the market, and definitely one of the most popular for new fish keepers to have their first attempt at keeping live plants. However, if it is not given the right conditions, it can just as easily melt down, like all other plant life. Anacharis is native to North and South America, where it can grow abundantly, in some areas it is even classed as an invasive plant. As it is so abundant, this reflects on the price, it is one of the cheapest plants to buy, another good r...

• Published: August 22, 2008, 11:42 pm
• Displayed: 322 times
• Preview: Buying an aquarium - Things to pay attention to(how to find the best aquarium, which aspects to pay attention to) Aquarium size Many beginner aquarists start out with small aquariums, but a large aquarium is actually easier to maintain than a small one. When shopping for an aquarium for the first time it is therefore a good idea to look for fairly large ones and leave the small ones for more advanced aquarists. In a large aquarium, the larger water mass will create a more stable environment for the inhabitants and there will also be more water to dilute organic waste and other pollutants. If you as a beginner find yourself in a situation where you have to choose between filling a large aquarium with inexpensive fish or filling a small aquarium with expensive fish, you should definitely chose the first alternative. It is unfortunately quite common for beginner aquarists to stock small aquariums with costly fish only to be forced to watch them die one after another due to improper water conditions. Volume is not the only interesting figure when purchasing an aquarium. If you plan on ...

• Published: September 8, 2006, 2:04 am
• Displayed: 5808 times
• Preview: Things You Should Know Before You Purchase an Aquarium Stand Nothing sets fish owners apart more than the manner in which they display their aquarium. You can always tell a proud fish owner by the materials and quality of the aquarium stand which holds their aquatic investment. Aquarium stands are available in many sizes, shapes and price ranges. Although most aquarium stands are for fish tanks that are 20 gallons or more in size, there are stands available to hold aquariums from 10 gallons on up. There are several styles of aquarium stands, from the simple rack style, to the more robust cabinetry style. Materials are also varied, as the bigger the fish tank, the sturdier the stand materials must be. Rack style stands are usually for the lower gallon sized tanks, and are made of light metals such as aluminum. The racks for larger fish tanks or for double tank display are made from sturdier steel construction with welded joints. Next up the line in stands is what is sometimes referred to as aquarium furniture. These stands can house the aquarium, or have it placed atop the stan...

• Published: April 2, 2010, 2:42 am
• Displayed: 127 times
• Preview: Guide to Aquarium Starter Kits, Sets and Bacteria Brief Description This guide will help you understand the purpose of aquarium starter kits since proper ratio and existence of beneficial bacteria are crucial for every fish tank no matter whether it's a newly setup one, being cleaned after curing diseases or a fully running a couple of years. Aquarium starter sets are widely available in local pet stores, are relatively inexpensive and should be used whenever the colonies of nitrification bacteria in your filtration system or gravel have been reduced dramatically or even killed (never use tap water when cleaning filtration media!!!). Fish keeping has been a large hobby for many years but in the early days it was not fully understood, fish were placed in aquariums because they looked nice and unusually marked fish were sought after, but their needs and acceptable water parameters were never considered. Inevitably this led to many early mortalities in the fish and a lot of potential keepers simply gave up the hobby due their inexperience and inability to keep fish for long periods of time. Th...

• Published: April 15, 2008, 9:43 am
• Displayed: 747 times
• Preview: Origin of Guppies, Aquarium care and FAQ Brief description This article is a simple guide on raising Guppies with FAQ attached at the end of the article. You're welcome to ask questions or share experiences at the bottom of this page! Poecilia reticulata also known as guppies, are among the most commonly kept fish in the aquarium industry today. Nicknamed, the “million-fish” the guppy is known to be a highly reproductive species that readily spawns in any given environment. Guppies are in the Poecilia family and are a live-bearers which means the females birth to live fry after being inseminated by a male. This fish is selectively bred for the purpose of developing a unique array of color combinations and finnage displays. The excitement of breeding these interesting little live bearers is to see what kinds of combinations will be produced next. The guppy comes from various freshwater regions in South and Central Americas as well as the Caribbean, and is easily adaptable to a wide range of temperatures between 66-82ºF. They thrive in soft or hard waters of neutral to alk...

• Published: October 24, 2011, 3:22 am
• Displayed: 9 times
• Preview: Housing Achatina fulica - East African land snail Brief description Here below is an article dedicated to housing East African land snail (known as Achatina fulica), another article that belongs to the "exotic pets" category (articles that aren't dedicated to aquarium fish). You're welcome to share your experiences via form at the bottom of this page! Achatina fulica are commonly referred to as the East African land snail or the Giant African land snail, the reasons for this are quite obvious as they grow very large in comparison to other snails when they mature plus there original habitat is based in Eastern Africa, populations have now been introduced into Asia but unfortunately they are also a very invasive species, in fact they are listed in the top 100 invasive species, this has resulted in some countries taking controls to reduce their populations. Unfortunately if you live in the United States, they have been barred from import and it is also illegal to transport them from one state to another, a population was introduced to the United States which quickly took ove...

• Published: December 17, 2011, 3:32 am
• Displayed: 6 times
• Preview: Housing Iguana iguana (Common Iguana) - Care, Pictures, Breeding Brief description This page belongs to our "exotic pets series" articles which are not dedicated to fish, but to Iguana iguana - Common Iguana! You're welcome to share your experiences at the bottom of this page! Iguana iguana are lizards that have evolved over millions of years to become what they are today and make for a fascinating creature not only to keepers but to visitors to zoos etc. as they are one of the largest lizards that inhabit our planet and can display varying colours with each specimen that is observed. They are commonly referred to as the Common Iguana or even more commonly referred to as the Green Iguana due to the intense green colouration of the juvenile specimens, adult specimens will undergo colour changes to develop their own individual markings. The Iguana are arboreal (tree dwellers) in their natural habitat which ranges from Brazil right up to Mexico and they have even found a way to form populations on the Caribbean Islands. In more recent years native populations are start...

• Published: December 3, 2011, 2:32 am
• Displayed: 6 times
• Preview: Housing Platymeris biguttatus - Assassin Bugs Brief description Here below you can read about Platymeris biguttatus - Assassin Bugs. The article belongs to of our "exotic pets series" articles which are not dedicated to fish, but to Platymeris biguttatus - Assassin Bugs this time! Feel free to share your experiences at the bottom of this page! Platymeris biguttatus are an intriguing little creature that have become very popular over recent years although to many people they may seem a strange choice of pet, keepers of these beetles will disagree strongly as they are fascinating to their owners and can be quite a talking piece to visitors to the house. They are commonly referred to as Assassin Bugs and for a good reason which will be explained shortly. Platymeris biguttatus belong to the order of Hemiptera which contains thousands of different species which are found all over the planet but this particular species are to be found on the continent of Africa in the tropical forest regions where they prefer to live in rotting tree stumps or general decaying wood. The...

• Published: April 8, 2010, 3:42 am
• Displayed: 126 times
• Preview: Prevention and Cleaning a Diseased Fish Tank At some time or another all fish keepers will experience some form of disease in their tanks , this is the downside to this wonderful hobby. Most medications are designed to deal with this problem and remove the disease from the fish and hopefully remove it from the tank altogether. Sadly this is not always the case especially when the disease is actually a viral infection or parasitic infection that has attacked the tank inhabitants, lowering their immune system which then results in the fish contracting diseases as a side effect. Effective tank maintenance should lower the possibility of this occurring by a large margin but there is always the chance that your tank that has been lovingly looked after will fall victim to this situation. The good news is that there is no situation that cannot be resolved, the key to dealing with this is not to panic but attack the problem even though it can mean a time consuming process to eradicate the disease and infections completely. Basically a full tank clean is required to remove the problem and to get ...

• Published: April 4, 2010, 11:46 pm
• Displayed: 140 times
• Preview: Ways how to Cycle an Aquarium The key aspect of fish keeping has to be cycling your aquarium ready for the arrival of your first fish. If you have researched you will know that the water parameters need to be perfect for your fish and that the filters need to be capable of handling the bio-load created by the fish expelling their waste into the aquarium and from rotting plants decaying. It is crucial that your water is tested on a regular basis so investing in a quality testing kit is a good investment especially in the early days of your aquarium running. Nowadays most keepers will perform the aquarium cycling without using hardy fish to build up the filters but some still do so both methods will be explained in this article. Aquarium cycling with fish This method is used for keepers who are adding fish to their aquariums straight away, the fish used must be very hardy as sensitive fish will suffer during this cycling method. If possible try to get hold of some filter media from an established aquarium and add it to your filter, this will kick off the cycling process straight away. If...

• Published: April 11, 2008, 8:20 am
• Displayed: 549 times
• Preview: DIATOM FILTERS FOR AQUARIUMS Brief description If you came here searching for online suppliers of diatom aquarium filters, simply click this link. The article below explains how diatom filters work, lists advantages and offers forum for sharing experiences. Diatom filters are used in the aquarium hobby mainly for polishing the water to almost perfect clarity, plus they are unsurpassed for filtering out the smallest debris & even parasites from the aquarium which in turn leads to healthier fish. Using these filters has also increased the variety of fish that some of the large public aquariums can now keep on display. How many of us at some stage have been plagued with green algae and needed to find an efficient way of eradicating it, well these certainly do the job. So what is a diatom & how do the filters work Diatoms are basically a single celled organism that feed on silicates in the water which they use to create a protective hydrous silica cell wall. When the diatoms die off they leave behind a shell that is full of minute pores, (some of the pores are as smal...

• Published: February 26, 2007, 7:29 am
• Displayed: 3989 times
• Preview: Breeding Fish in Aquariums - Tips and Types of Breeding People mostly don`t have fish tanks for breeding purposes, since they like to watch them acting like in the wild. However, a natural part of life in nature is breeding. Of course, some aquarists breed fish for money too. Taking care of any fish could be relatively expensive and breeding is one way to get invested money back. Naturally, there are specialized fish keepers who breed various fish species for a living. Moreover, some of professional fish breeders are very specialist and they try to `create` new species or new colour variants, and some of them try to keep species in danger alive for next generations. Anyhow, even if it might look easy, fish breeding is not as easy as it seems. Nearly all fish species require special conditions for breeding, otherwise they eat their eggs, newborns, or other fish will eat them this is the most common reason why newborns die. There are numerous factors affecting readiness for breeding. The best way to breed your fish is to copy the conditions which they need to breed exactly (usually l...

• Published: August 2, 2007, 1:04 pm
• Displayed: 3960 times
• Preview: Custom Tank Stand - Instructions Important note This article was reprinted with permissions given by the original article`s author. Bear in mind that information here is "as is" and potential references to "will be added in future" (or similar) might not be done by aqua-fish.net. However, we may update the article later. How to build a custom aquarium stand Forget the pro`s! If you have basic skills you can build the stand yourself, make it look good and have something to admire! Can you imagine how much it would have cost me to get this lot built by professionals? The first run of tanks was estimated at over £1500, it cost me two weeks and £135 to do the complete job, including lighting! Regular lumber, as you call it works fine! Make the framework from 4"x2" planed timber, fixed to a wall at the back if you can. Make sure you have vertical supports every 2` and make the tank support base with cross-members every 12". Use a good grade flooring chipboard or 6"x1" planking to build the tabletop. Finish it with anyt...

• Published: May 21, 2008, 10:17 pm
• Displayed: 521 times
• Preview: Simple steps how to build a pond Brief description This article is a step by step guide on building fish ponds; You're welcome to share your experiences or ask questions regarding fish ponds at the bottom of this page! A major project that many people undertake nowadays is to create a pond in their garden. One of the key aspects to this is to draw up a plan initially. Take into consideration whether the pond will be used for goldfish only, or for koi. Look around your garden to find the best situation, remember too much sunlight on your pond can cause outbreaks of algae, and observe the site over the day to find out the position of the sun at different times. Take into consideration how big you want the pond to be, are there small children that will be in the area, if so think safety into your design. Work out a budget remembering to allow for all the extra equipment that you will need i.e. filters, lighting, and fountains. If designing a square or rectangular pond peg out the corners, then mark out the area with line. If your design involves an irregular shape t...

• Published: August 22, 2008, 11:47 pm
• Displayed: 321 times
• Preview: Aquarium fish care guide(basic and advanced care - from water to automatic fish feeders) In this article we will take a look at three very important aspects of successful fish keeping: water quality, water chemistry and feeding. If you manage to get these three things right, you are well on your way towards a well functioning aquarium with thriving inhabitants. Water quality When aquarists talk about water quality they are normally referring to the amount of organic waste products in the water, particularly ammonia, nitrite and nitrate. Keeping the water quality high is the same thing as keeping the level of organic waste low. There are many things that you can do to prevent the water quality from dropping, such as: Always cycle a new aquarium properly. During cycling, beneficial colonies of bacteria will colonise suitable environments, such as gravel and sponge filters. I strongly recommend reading a more detailed article about cycling and cycling methods before you set up an aquarium, because it can save you a lot of money and trouble in the long run. Unfortunately, quite a...

• Published: October 10, 2006, 3:26 pm
• Displayed: 11961 times
• Preview: How to care for Betta Fish Betta splendens is a small siamese freshwater fish, really common in aquariums for it`s colours, easy care and peculiar behaviour, sadly they don`t have a long life, usually they reach two years old. Betta is also known as a siamese fighting fish for it`s intra specific aggressiveness, for this reason it`s impossible to house two males together in the same tank, since they`ll end up fighting to death; males can be aggressive towards females and females can attack each other as well, so keeping one male with two or three females is the best solution to avoid continuous attacks on the weaker fish. Males can be easily distinguished by females for their long fins and bright colours. In nature male bettas are brown-grey with iridescent green-blue fins and tail, while females are dark brown-grey with light coloured fins. Years of captive breeding has created new colours and fins shape both of males and females. New colours can be divided into: 1) Solid colour, where all the body and fins are of the same colour: cellophane (almost transparent without colou...

• Published: November 7, 2011, 5:30 am
• Displayed: 7 times
• Preview: Sinaloan milk snake - Lampropeltis triangulum sinaloe - Care, Feeding and Breeding Brief description This page is a part of our "exotic pets series", not dedicated to fish, but to Sinaloan milk snake's instead! You're more than welcome to share your experiences at the bottom of this page! Lampropeltis triangulum sinaloe are more commonly known as the Sinaloan milk snake are one of the most popular species of milk snake kept by many keepers. Their popularity is mainly due to their placid nature, they can easily be handled and grow tame, recognising their owner after a period of time. They are a non-venomous species and belong to the family of Colubridae which contains over two thirds of all snake species that are found on our planet. They are to be found in the arid regions of Central America, especially around Mexico and they can be found in or around developed areas, resting in out buildings, away from the urban areas they can be found under rock-piles during the day to escape the intense heat after warming their bodies in the mornings. They have very distinct body ...

• Published: August 28, 2007, 10:38 pm
• Displayed: 1844 times
• Preview: The principle and usage of an aquarium cleaner Basic knowledge Aquarium cleaner is a simple and cheap tool with price about $3. It is designed for pumping the water out/into the tank while the water is moved from one container to another container. From time to time you should pump out some water from the aquarium and replace it with some new water (you shouldn`t use any water taken from the duct without leaving it 1-2 days in some bucket). Water changes I recommend you to change from about 10% up to 20% of entire water. Depending on your tank`s capacity, this number might vary from 5% (for very large aquariums) up to 40% (small fish bowls). Water changes are necessary when there are too many excrements at the bottom of the tank or if you want to simulate tropical rain for fish which originate from tropical forests. However, this process sometimes happens for no apparent reason; just because you want to clean the environment. There applies a simple principle saying “less is more” in this case because you shouldn`t do water changes everyday. Do it and your fish will be stressed. Ge...

• Published: March 20, 2008, 10:20 pm
• Displayed: 478 times
• Preview: Control Algae in a Fish Pond - FAQ Now, this is a challenge! How can you control the algae that grows naturally in your pond? First of all, you need to know what it is, how it gets there and why it grows. What is algae? “Algae are photosynthetic organisms that occur in most habitats. They vary from small, single-celled forms to complex multicellular forms, such as the giant kelps that grow to 65 meters in length.. The US Algal Collection is represented by almost 300,000 accessioned and inventoried herbarium specimens.” Quote taken from the National Museum of Natural History website: nmnh.si.edu What are the common types of algae that occur in your pond? Most ponds have several species of algae. They include green algae, (which is such a large group I will not bore you with the details, just point you to berkeley.edu where you can spend the next 10 hours reading!), brown algae, and blue/green algae. Advertisement: Get a 10% discount on pond products (except for pond liners) at graystonecreations.com! Enter Aquafish10% in the coupon code section of the order form when yo...

• Published: August 1, 2007, 10:43 pm
• Displayed: 2175 times
• Preview: Instructions regarding construction of breeding tanksBy Tim Gautrey Important note This article was reprinted with permissions given by the original article`s author. Bear in mind that information here is "as is" and potential references to "will be added in future" (or similar) might not be done by aqua-fish.net. However, we may update the article later. Introduction I have just completed a little project in between the others on the go to build some breeding tanks. This has been very successful and so I thought it would be helpful to share the method of construction with you all, hopefully saving you money! The method is simple, cheap and effective. The object is to build 4 breeding tanks as a single unit, which can sit on a shelf, mount on a wall or almost anywhere you have space. Over the next few days, I will be building another one, and will keep a record of the progress for you to see how it is done. Materials: 1 sheet of 12mm polycarbonate sheeting (3m x 1m) 2 tubes of aquarium safe silicon 1 roll of masking tape 2 pieces of glas...

• Published: April 1, 2008, 4:33 pm
• Displayed: 552 times
• Preview: Cloudy water in an aquarium - Causes and how to deal with cloudy water One of the most common problems aquarists have to deal with is cloudy water. Whether we are talking brand new set ups, tanks cycled tanks running for a few weeks or established mature tanks at some time or another I have keepers asking me why this has happened. Hopefully this article will explain a few of the reasons, how to combat the problem, and how to prevent future occurrences of this problem. New set ups: We have just arrived home with our brand new tank, gravel or sand, and some nice shiny ornaments. Everything has been put in the tank and the water has clouded up. One cause of the cloudiness could be part of the cycling process as the tank water will be unbalanced, but when the cycling is complete it should clear itself, but more of that later. A must when setting up the tank is to rinse thoroughly the gravel or sand being added as if this isn’t done it will create cloudiness when the water is added. Not the nicest of jobs, but necessary. Add the substrate to a bucket, cover with c...

• Published: August 11, 2008, 10:57 pm
• Displayed: 427 times
• Preview: Aquarium lighting - a "must" for fish tanks Nowadays there are many complete aquarium packages to be bought from the high street retailers, but these all come at a price. Many fish keepers find that they can build up their systems by purchasing second hand tanks and running equipment far cheaper than just going for the complete package. Included in the running equipment has to be a good reliable lighting system but reliability doesn’t always mean that the price will strain the fish keeper’s pocket. Adequate lighting has to be provided especially if running a planted tank or a reef system but shopping around can pay its dividends when trying to save pennies. Is lighting a necessity - the answer to that is yes!!! For your aquarium to be successful then lighting will have to be added. There are several reasons for this, when feeding your fish it will help them locate the food that you have just added to the tank, never add food when the lighting has gone off, it will foul your water as it decomposes at the bottom of the tank. If you are growing live plants in your tank ...

• Published: June 20, 2008, 2:14 pm
• Displayed: 490 times
• Preview: Growing Java Moss - Conditions, Maintenance, Description Brief description This page contains all information that are necessary for proper growth of Java Moss. You might be interested in this page too: Vesicularia dubyana profile (it will open in new tab/window) and we'd love to hear your experiences with this plant specie at the bottom of this page - questions will be answered too! Vesicularia dubyana is an aquatic plant belonging to the Hypnaceae family and it is most commonly known as Java Moss. There is some talk about the naming of this aquatic plant because there are other classifications under which this plant can be placed. There is a debate whether or not the name of the V. dubyana is the proper name for this aquarium plant. Taxiphyllum barbieri is the other name that may eventually become the scientific name for Java Moss. This plant will grow anywhere on anything and it does not need very much care in order to do so. Wherever Java Moss is concerned, less is more because no matter how much you plant, more is sure to grow in no time at all. Java Moss grows as a tight entan...

• Published: August 30, 2010, 4:15 am
• Displayed: 113 times
• Preview: How to Hatch Brine Shrimp Eggs This article has been reprinted with permission given by David of Artemia USA who is the legitimate author of this article (the article is only reprinted at aqua-fish.net). Minor changes within HTML code in comparison to the original article may exist. The original version of the article can be found here: artemiausa.com/shopcontent.asp?type=hatching. How to Hatch Brine Shrimp Eggs using our Hatchery 1. Connect the big air tube to the bottom of the cone and connect the L-type Air Valve to an air pump. 2. Suspend the cone from something sturdy using the attached rope. Turn air pump on and fill the cone with 2L of water. You can see the bubbles coming up from the bottom of hatching cone. You can adjust the Aeration by turning the L-type air valve. 3. Using the larger of the enclosed spoons, measure one spoon of salt and drop into the hatching cone, do not make this a heaping spoonful, level or slightly less is best. Do not use salt with iodine in it (most table salts) it`s best to use a marine salt. 4. Usin...

• Published: August 3, 2007, 5:47 pm
• Displayed: 1655 times
• Preview: How to increase the capacity of your tankBy Tim Gautrey Important Aqua-Fish.Net has got rights to reprint this article from original author. Information here is "as is" and potential references to "will be added in future" (or similar) might not be done by aqua-fish.net. However, we may update the article later. Article Simplicity is the best way! I just tested a theory I had, using an old whisper air pump and a spare 10 gallon tank. Here`s what I did: The pump: I connected a small bore tube to the air intake of the whisper. (Luckily, the one I have has a rubber base with a single air intake hole.) I sealed the pump with silicone, all round the mains cable and air outlet nozzles as well, so that the air only had one way in. The air intake was then connected to a length of 6mm air tubing, with a check valve inline, long enough to go from the pump to the bottom of the tank. Another piece of small bore pipe was then pushed into a suction cup and the tube attached. This was then placed as close to the bottom of the tank as I could get it. I connecte...

• Published: August 13, 2008, 2:26 am
• Displayed: 489 times
• Preview: DIY Aquarium Backgrounds When setting up your new aquarium one of the most popular items to purchase is a nice tank background to set off the look of the tank. But why do we feel the need to add a background to our tanks? Personally speaking I have a few reasons for always adding a nice background. I find all of the wiring and piping from filters, heaters and such like look very unsightly hanging down from the back of the tank. A background will hide all of these instantly and give your tank a nice, neat finish. I have known from the past that sometimes certain fish will be spooked by seeing their reflection in the glass and it can cause them to go into hiding or even stop eating. A nice background is very pleasing to the eye for me and any visitors that may wish to view the tank. When I am setting up a specific biotope the right background ensures that the tank looks as it should depending on which fish I am keeping, a typical example of this is for a Malawi tank where a rocky background falls right into place. Purchasing a background for your tank can sometimes prove to be q...

• Published: April 14, 2006, 8:08 am
• Displayed: 14732 times
• Preview: The Jack Dempsey Cichlid Origin, Care, Behaviour and Tips Guide by Mick, keeping fish since 1976 Quick links - Answers »Sexing Jack dempsey cichlid »Breeding Jack dempsey cichlids »Jack dempsey cichlid lifespan »Jack dempsey cichlid food »How often do Jack dempseys breed »Jack dempsey cichlid tank size »What do Jack dempsey eggs look like »Best light for Jack dempsey cichlid »Jack dempsey tank setup »Raising Jack dempsey fry »Jack dempsey pH level »Jack dempsey cichlid compatibility Brief Description This page is dedicated to raising Jack dempsey cichlids in fish tanks; With answers, FAQ, pictures and forum. We would like you to share your experiences at the bottom of this page, because your experiences may help other fish keepers. Also ask questions if you have any, and make sure you visit the following page too: Jack dempsey cichlid profile with forum which contains plenty of information from other fish keepers. The article about Jack D...

• Published: August 24, 2007, 11:19 am
• Displayed: 3589 times
• Preview: Online suppliers of aquarium air stones, Usage, Forum & FAQ Brief description This page offers information about air stones for aquariums, lists FAQ and answers them, and contains forum with questions asked by visitors of aqua-fish.net. However we also list websites that sell air stones online! In order to be forwarded to the list of online suppliers simply click this link. Additionally you’re welcome to visit the following pages of aqua-fish.net since they're closely related to the purpose and usage of air stones: Aquarium air pump article with FAQ and The purpose of an aquarium filter with questions, answers, FAQ, pictures and forum. How to use an air stone, purpose of this device and how do air stones work Air stones can be placed anywhere in a fish tank, there are almost no limitations as to position and numbers of used devices. The device is connected to the air pump via airline which makes it possible to pump air from outside through pump to the air stone. There’s a motor which drives propeller that sucks air which is then pumped to an air stone. As an aquarium air s...

• Published: April 16, 2008, 9:52 pm
• Displayed: 626 times
• Preview: Ich; The White Spot Disease Cure and Phases Ichthyophthirius multifiliis is one of the most common diseases encountered by freshwater aquarists. It is a parasite that attaches itself to the skin and gills of fish, forming white spots that look like grains of salt. You may or may not notice an infected fish “flashing”; a behavior that is characterized by quick rubbing or scratching up against logs or rocks. This parasite digs into the victims’ epidermis while feeding on the blood and cells of the host. Some of the common names of this parasite are ich, ick or white spot disease. In addition to feasting on a fish’s mass, this parasite will also add stress and lower immunity. As if things aren’t bad enough with just having to deal with a parasite, this opens up the infected fish to bacterial infections and respiratory dysfunction. Rarely will Ich go unnoticed, but the earlier you catch it the better. Without proper action taken it will be deadly, especially if the fish are not already in a healthy state of being. Ich is highly contagious, so if you see one fish has been infected, you can b...

• Published: May 30, 2008, 12:07 am
• Displayed: 428 times
• Preview: Why are fish pond skimmers useful Having a beautiful, clean pond is the aim of all pond keepers. Just doing regular water changes will not keep your water crystal clear, there are many external factors that can downgrade the quality. Most ponds are situated in back gardens, surrounded by shrubbery and trees. When autumn falls the trees will disperse their leaves onto the pond water, this in time will make the pond look quite untidy. Not only that if the leaves and debris are allowed to fall to the bottom of the pond, they will decay, this in turn will start to pollute the water as toxic gases are released. So how can this problem be overcome, quite simply by installing a pond skimmer. There are three types of water filtration – mechanical, biological, and chemical. All good pond systems will have a decent filter fitted into the chain, but without a skimmer the life of the filter can be reduced as debris and large particles pass through the pump. Clogging it up which in turn will slow the efficiency of the flow rate right down. Pond skimmers are used as a pre filter, removing t...

• Published: June 17, 2008, 10:58 pm
• Displayed: 524 times
• Preview: AFRICAN DWARF FROGS - Care, demands and forum Brief description This page is devoted to raising Afircan dwarf frogs in fish tanks, their diet, sexing and breeding, and FAQ. We'd love to hear about your frogs, so submit your story via the form that can be found at the bottom of this page. You're also welcome to share your experiences or ask questions! African dwarf frogs (Hymenochirus Boettgeri) are a very popular choice of aquarium addition as they are so easy to keep, no more difficult than keeping a goldfish. One of the biggest problems with these is when you actually go to purchase them from the pet stores. Some of clawed frogs may be labelled as dwarfs but they are not. Clawed frogs will grow quite large in comparison and are not so hardy. Two ways of spotting the difference are, if they are albino then they are not a dwarf species, also the dwarfs will have smaller eyes compared to the clawed frogs. Pictures of African clawed frogs (click to enlarge) They originally came from the Congo region in Africa, but unfortunately due to land clearing and the change i...

• Published: November 1, 2008, 4:23 am
• Displayed: 367 times
• Preview: Information about Aquarium Driftwood with Answers Brief description If you came here searching for online suppliers of aquarium driftwood, simply click this link (it will open in a new window). The article below answers questions about aquarium driftwood and in case your questions aren't answered here yet, use a form at the bottom to ask! Sharing ideas, experiences and tips is also welcome. You might be interested in this article too: Landscape Your Aquarium with Aquarium Driftwood! Since many aquarists aren`t sure regarding some aspects of having a driftwood in the aquarium, I decided to answer some commonly asked questions. If you want to get answer to something what hasn`t been answered on Aqua-Fish.Net yet, feel free to leave your question in the forum, or eventually use the contact us form. Is driftwood safe for an aquarium? Yes; usually. I recommend you to buy driftwood in aquatic shops, although it`s possible to make your own too. The driftwood is basically wood that has been dried for some time. This is also the reason why many driftwoods float when put into a fish ta...

• Published: October 30, 2011, 12:08 am
• Displayed: 12 times
• Preview: Tokay Gecko - Gekko gecko - Care, Feeding and Breeding Brief description This article is a part of our "exotic pets series", thus not dedicated to fish, but to Gekko gecko's instead! You're welcome to share your experiences at the bottom of this page! Gecko lizards are numerous in their own natural habitats and they have also learnt to mingle with our lifestyles and can often be seen around human dwellings on a regular basis. They are found in almost all countries with warm climates around the world and there are over 2000 different species that all belong to the family of Gekkonidae, each species displaying different markings and colourations, indeed there can be a large size difference between the species as well. Many dwellers encourage their presence around the home as they act as a natural predator of insects and flies, thus easing the irritation that these can cause to humans, this also has its disadvantages as many races believe that the Gecko lizard have healing properties which has led to a lot of them being used in the medicinal trade. One big difference t...

• Published: April 22, 2008, 8:11 am
• Displayed: 574 times
• Preview: How to raise Brine Shrimp step by step Visit Artemia USA if you want to buy brine shrimp! There are a wide variety of feeds on the market available for fish - flake, pellets, frozen, etc., but one of the most nourishment enriched foods has to be freshly hatched. One of the easiest ways of harvesting this food has to be by hatching and raising brine shrimp. These creatures can also make fascinating pets to grow onto adults. But what are brine shrimp? Basically they are a small crustacean from the Artemia family and these creatures have been around since the Triassic period, having changed very little since then. They are found all over the world in salt lakes but never found in the oceans. Fish love them as a treat when they are newly hatched but beware, they should not be fed on a regular basis as this can lead to digestive problems, plus if there is a build up of uneaten shrimp it can start to foul the tank water. As stated above they live in salt lakes that luckily for the brine shrimp, do not provide the correct conditions for predators, so they spend most of their l...

• Published: December 24, 2006, 6:51 am
• Displayed: 13912 times
• Preview: Differences between internal and external aquarium filters and diagrams, FAQ and Forum Brief description This page is an ultimate guide that answers questions regarding internal and external aquarium filters. However if you'd like to purchase fish tank filters online, simply follow this link (it will open in new window/tab). This article contains FAQ with answers, pictures and forum with personal experiences of aquarists from all over the world. We'd love to hear what filter you're using, so submit your story at the bottom of this page, please! Both internal and external filters are good solutions to keep clean water and good chemical values, there is not a better one, it depends on different factors connected to the aquarium. Internal filters Internal filters usually are rectangular boxes attached with suckers on a side glass of the tank. They may have two or three sections inside, thought to divide filter materials, pump and sometimes also the water heater. Often you can find in shop really small internal filters meant for 10 gallons aquariums, even if they claim to use ...

• Published: November 14, 2009, 11:23 pm
• Displayed: 150 times
• Preview: Corydoras Catfish an article submitted by Exotic Aquariums The Corydoras catfish is a member of the family Callichthyidae. They are the sole genus in the tribe Corydoradini. There are several different species of Corydoras. They all share similar traits such as body size, shape and behavioral habits. The distinguishing feature between the various species is their color palette, some of which are quite striking. Catfish are bottom dwelling scavengers. Scavenger fish generally have two traits in common. Their mouths are usually pointed downward. And the mouth has barbels on either side. A barbell is a tentacle-like organ that contains taste buds. They are used to find food and to feel their way around on riverbed floors in the wild. The Corydoras catfish has two barbells, one on either side of its mouth. Corydoras catfish are often referred to as armored catfish. This is because they have two rows of bony plates on each side of their body. Unlike most scavenger fish, the Corydoras catfish is not strictly a bottom dweller. The Corydoras is part of the Anabantoidei suborder. Th...

• Published: November 7, 2009, 6:19 pm
• Displayed: 152 times
• Preview: Discus fish an article submitted by Exotic Aquariums The discus is quite possibly the most popular fish among large freshwater aquarium owners in the world today. They belong to the genus Symphysodon. They are members of the family Cichlidae more commonly known as cichlids. This family also includes another extremely popular species the angelfish. Both are native to the Amazon River system. There are two individual species collectively referred to as Discus; S. aequiafasciata and S. discus. These two species are further divided into five different subspecies. But this in not a science lecture. Suffice it to say that these wonderfully exotic species are distinguished by their color palettes. They are available in brown, green, blue, red and yellow. Both species have been selectively bred to further enhance their natural coloration. The end result is some of the most beautiful fish you will ever see in a home aquarium. The Discus is a rather expensive fish as far as freshwater varieties go. You can expect to pay anywhere form $35 to upwards of $200. The price is determined by the s...

• Published: November 15, 2009, 10:07 pm
• Displayed: 132 times
• Preview: Kuhli Loaches an article submitted by Exotic Aquariums Kuhli loaches have elongated eel-like, scale-less bodies. They commonly have alternating light and dark color bands circling the length of their bodies. The combination of shape and color bands make them resemble a snake more than a fish. They slither along the bottom of an aquarium much like a snake or an eel would. They are definitely one of the more interesting additions you can make to your aquarium. The Kuhli loach is a bottom dwelling scavenger fish. Scavenger fish can always be distinguished from other fish by their downward facing mouth with the protruding barbles on either side. Barbles are tentacle-like organ that contain taste buds. They serve the duel purpose of helping the scavenger find food and to help him feel his way along the bottom of a riverbed in murky water or at night. Kuhli loaches are nocturnal. They scavenge at night and spend most of their day hiding under plants and rocks. They are also burrowers. They often burrow into the substrate to hide or rest. Sand works best if you are planning on raising ku...

• Published: November 25, 2009, 11:36 pm
• Displayed: 156 times
• Preview: Ram Cichlid an article submitted by Exotic Aquariums The Ram cichlid or Microgeophagus ramirezi belongs to the family Cichlidae more commonly referred to as cichlids. They are endemic to Orinoco River basin in Venezuela and Columbia. The aquarium industry markets rams under several trade names including; Ram, Blue ram, German blue ram, Asian ram, butterfly cichlid, dwarf butterfly and Ramirez`s dwarf cichlid. The Ramirez`s dwarf cichlid is a hybrid originally bred by fish enthusiast Manuel Ramirez. Rams are arguably the most peace loving of the entire cichlid family. This makes them very popular with aquarium owners. They make wonderful community tank fish provided they are surrounded by equally docile tank-mates. They mix exceedingly well with tetras. Another aspect of their popularity is their size. They only grow to about 2.5 inches unlike their cousin the angelfish that can grow to up to 6 inches in diameter. This makes them perfect for smaller aquariums such as desktop models. They are most at home in well planted aquariums. Ram cichlid thrive in slightly acidic water. A pH of...

• Published: December 11, 2009, 10:15 pm
• Displayed: 166 times
• Preview: It is About Dogs Too (Not Only About Fish) by Jan Hvizdak; owner of aqua-fish.net This article is not going to talk about fish or aquariums, but about dogs instead. Also, it reflects a personal point of view, and is that exception which happens sometimes. Aqua-Fish.Net is purely about fish keeping and there won`t be many articles devoted to other topics than aquariums here. In my personal life I`ve spent more time with dogs than with fish, and I want to share my experiences. From adopting a dog to basic steps how to stay dominant. I`m writing this article to tell you how great it`s to adopt a dog, how cool it`s to help a stray dog because if you love fish, you will most likely love many animals including dogs. Why adopt a dog? Instead of buying a pure blood dog, adopting some from your local animal shelter is a gesture of humanism. It`s a gesture of how you treat animals and live beings. I adopted a dog because I wanted to help, and I wanted some to be happy. In the streets there are many starving animals and it`s not their fault. Their previous owners were tired of them, in many ...

• Published: March 31, 2010, 12:21 am
• Displayed: 156 times
• Preview: Keeping Guppies in Fish Tanks - Feeding, Conditions, Forum and more Brief description This page contains all information that are necessary for taking proper care of Guppies. Use a form at the bottom of this page in case your question isn't answered here yet! Sharing experiences, ideas and tips is welcome too! The Guppy fish is often overlooked by many keepers despite its wonderful colouration that is displayed by the males, the fish are that small that they do not appeal to many people but keepers that take these fish seriously have aquariums that provide plenty of movement and colour, this has to be a reward in itself. The Guppy originates from most countries in South America, nowadays it can be found on all of the continents apart from Antarctica. They have been introduced to many countries for the same reason, the juvenile Guppy loves to feed on mosquito larva, this is a great natural way of controlling the mosquito swarms that plague us. It gets its common name from Robert Guppy who first discovered this fish in Trinidad in the year of 1866 and it was first classified as Gi...

• Published: May 8, 2008, 9:39 pm
• Displayed: 495 times
• Preview: How to Care for Killifish Species in Fish Tanks The name killifish is actually derived from the Dutch word “kilde”, meaning puddle or small creek. These fish are so varied with hundreds of different species and they are very popular with aquarium keepers because of their bright coloration and markings, plus the ease with which some of the species can breed, requiring very little in special needs. Obviously I cannot go into great detail with all of the species, so I will try to give you a general guide to keeping these beautiful fish. They are to be found all over the world apart from Australia, Antarctica, and the Arctic. These fish are excellent jumpers so they must be kept in a tank with a tight fitting lid. Filter intakes should be covered over with a sponge as they are the perfect escape artists of the fish world. In most cases no form of heating is required; all they need is clean water with no ammonia levels, and just the usual aquarium maintenance. In fact these fish are so hardy; they can survive in the most adverse conditions in the wild. There are two main group...

• Published: September 13, 2011, 12:07 am
• Displayed: 19 times
• Preview: Knight Anole (Anolis equestris) - Care and Pictures Brief description Although aqua-fish.net is devoted to fishkeeping, this page is dedicated to taking care of Knight Anole's as many aquarists keep other pets - not only fish. You're welcome to share your experiences with these creatures at the bottom of this page! Anolis equestris are becoming a very popular pet in recent years but don`t expect them to be very user friendly as they are renowned for their low tolerance of handling levels and can deliver a nasty bite if allowed to. These are best kept by experienced keepers as they can be more demanding than other lizards with their special requirements but looking at them they are indeed well marked and display a good colouration which is pleasing to the eye. Their common name is the Knight Anole or more often used is the Cuban Knight Anole which refers to their original habitat which is based in Cuba. In recent years they have been smuggled over to Florida which has resulted in a population being established there, this in turn has made the smuggling senseless so it is now on a...

• Published: November 10, 2009, 3:36 am
• Displayed: 143 times
• Preview: Labidochromis an article submitted by Exotic Aquariums Labidochromis caeruleus is a member of the family Cichlidae more commonly known as a cichlid. The Labidochromis is native to Lake Malawi in Africa. Lake Malawi is situated between Malawi, Mozambique, and Tanzania. It is the third largest lake on the continent of Africa and the eight largest in the world. The Labidochromis is part of a group of fish collectively referred to as African cichlids or Malawi cichlids. The Labidochromis is commonly called an electric yellow cichlid due to it vibrant yellow palette. Its colors are almost as brilliant as that of the saltwater faring yellow tang. Labidochromis are referred to as a mbuna. Mbuna means rockfish in the native tongue of the Tonga people from Malawi. Mbuna refers to a large group of cichlids native to Lake Malawi. These rock-dwellers live in piles of rocks, caves or other openings in the lake. The Labidochromis was unknown to aquarium keepers until 1986. They where “discovered” by Stuart Grant and his divers at Lion’s Cove, Malawi in 1980. Stuart Grant gathered a small...

• Published: May 17, 2010, 7:56 pm
• Displayed: 108 times
• Preview: Laetacara curviceps - Basic Characteristic and Care Details This delightful little fish is one of the dwarf cichlids that is very popular among fish keepers and is often kept for its breeding prowess, they are prolific breeders once a pair is established but unfortunately they can be overlooked in the aquatic stores as they are often sold as juveniles, the young fish can look drab but when they mature their markings and colouration shine through. They are most commonly known as the Flag Cichlid or the Flag Acara, one of their common names which certainly appeals to keepers is the Smiling Flag Cichlid due to the unique development of their mouths giving the impression that they are always smiling. They are found naturally in the Amazonian River Basins and some of its tributaries where the waters are calmer and slow moving. Unlike a lot of the other cichlids, these fish do not require all of the traditional décor associated with a cichlid tank like lots of bog wood or caves, their main requirement is plenty of swimming space as they are a very active fish. Due to their small size th...

• Published: April 3, 2006, 3:30 am
• Displayed: 9368 times
• Preview: Lake Tanganyika Cichlids (this article was taken from aquarticles.com - free aquarium articles) by Andy Gordon of England, and Michelle Stuart of Ontario Canada. With photographs and contributions by Tom Hammond. Lake Tanganyika is situated in the E. African Rift Valley in an area which has active volcanoes. This has affected the whole area and the water of the lake is very rich in minerals and quite alkaline. This must be taken in to account when planning to keep any fish from this lake. There are three main biotopes within the lake itself: - Open water with a sandy substrate. - Rocky, found around parts of the shoreline and underwater reefs. - Shell beds. Piles of empty snail shells found in various bays litter the floor. Each biotope has attracted a different set of fish which has found ways to exploit that particular environment. The water quality remains the same throughout the lake - there may be one or two local variations where a river enters the lake but overall it is a very stable environment and the fish which have evolved there do not cope very well with ...

• Published: April 29, 2008, 9:36 pm
• Displayed: 433 times
• Preview: Lamprologus species Lamprologus is actually a temporary genus used to name some of the cichlids found in Lake Tanganyika. It is believed that the Lamprologus genus is restricted to the Riverine Species and not found in Lake Tanganyika. Currently Caudopunctatus, Ocellatus, Similis, Speciosus and Multifasciatus are among some of the cichlids found in Lake Tanganyika that are temporarily assigned to the Lamprologus genus. Lamprologus Caudopunctatus is an amazing and very intelligent species. They are found in shallow water and they feed on plankton. They live in shells or small caves, and usually in large numbers. L. Caudopunctatus usually have an orange or yellow color to their dorsal fin. When they are stressed they display dark gray vertical stripes through their body, and their eyes have a blue glow. When they breed it is either inside shells or small caves. L. Caudopunctatus do not eat their young, in fact the fry from each spawn will take a roll in the care and hatch of the eggs in the following spawns. They will do fine in a tank as small as a 10 gallon. You should keep a few...

• Published: September 17, 2011, 11:04 pm
• Displayed: 15 times
• Preview: Lampropeltis mexicana (Kingsnakes) - Information and Proper Care Brief description This article is a part of our "exotic pets series", thus not dedicated to fish, but to Kingsnakes instead! You're welcome to share your experiences at the bottom of this page! Lampropeltis mexicana are a small group of snakes, collectively known as King snakes and are often an excellent choice for newcomers to snake keeping as they are one of the easier species to care and look after. They can be generally spit into three main subspecies and these are easily identifiable by their vivid markings and colourations. The three main subspecies are as follows:- Lampropeltis mexicana greeri This snake is commonly known as Greer's Kingsnake or Durango Kingsnake and originates from mountain ranges in the Durango area of Mexico. They are non-aggressive but they can be very shy so will require hiding places in the vivarium to make them feel at ease. Their colouration is fantastic, the body colouration consists of a silvery background colouration, this can be s light brown with some specimens a...

• Published: September 24, 2011, 9:06 pm
• Displayed: 17 times
• Preview: Lampropeltis triangulum hondurensis - Care, Pictures and Tips on Housing these Snakes Brief description Devoted to Milksnakes; Another page that belongs to our latest "exotic pets" category which is focused on different pets than aquarium fish. You're welcome to share your experiences and tips at the bottom of this page! Lampropeltis triangulum hondurensis is commonly called a Honduran Milksnake and is one of the largest of this family, reaching lengths of up to 5 feet. They are non-venomous, evolving to become constrictors and are very popular as they can become very tame once they have spent some time with their keepers. Their natural habitat are the mid slopes of Honduras, Costa Rica and Nicaragua where they dwell in the rain forests making them well camouflaged from would be predators and humans alike. They can be found in slight variations of colours dependant on their locality, the two main wild colourations being tricoloured or the tangerine species. The banding on the tricoloured are black, reddy orange with white or yellow borders, the tangerine specimens h...

• Published: November 12, 2010, 10:22 pm
• Displayed: 117 times
• Preview: Advantages of LED Lighting for Aquariums & Online Supplier Link Brief description This page describes advantages and disadvantages of using LED aquarium lighting; Use a form at the bottom in case you'd like to ask or share experiences! Over recent years there has been a lot of research carried out to help keen aquarists maintain their aquariums to the highest standard and as a result of this, there is now a lot more equipment available for us to use giving us more control on the daily running of the aquarium and therefore less mortalities in the tank and a wider diversity if fish and other aquatic creatures that we are now able to keep at home. One area that has not been left behind is aquarium lighting, originally the only choice we had for the aquariums were bulky fluorescent tubes that required a separate ballast box for transforming the power source to the correct output and inevitably this lead to a bulk of wires trailing from the back of the tank. As the lighting systems evolved to meet demand from the customer, the fluorescent tubes became slimmer and more compact a...

• Published: May 26, 2010, 7:19 pm
• Displayed: 112 times
• Preview: Life Cycle of the Ich Fish Disease (Ichthyophthirius multifiliis) One of the most common problems that nearly all fish keepers have to contend with is dealing with White spot in the aquarium, nearly all of us have had to deal with this problem at some time and no doubt it will keep cropping up as a regular visitor in the future. It can be deadly at times, in other cases it can disappear as quickly as it came without harming the livestock in the aquarium. There are many ways of dealing with this problem but understanding the life cycle of this parasite will help you to understand the easiest way of keeping it under control in your aquarium. Treating the White spot can also cause further problems if any medication or treatment is not administered properly so this article will also explain the most effective methods for treating your fish. Ich are Protozoa called by the scientific world as Ichthyophthirius multifiliis and are capable of multiplying at an alarming rate once they take over the tank. The problem is increased due to the closed environment of an aquarium as the fish are sometim...

• Published: August 2, 2007, 11:31 pm
• Displayed: 1582 times
• Preview: Aquarium Light Canopyby Tim Gautrey Important note This article was reprinted with permissions given by the original article`s author. Bear in mind that information here is "as is" and potential references to "will be added in future" (or similar) might not be done by aqua-fish.net. However, we may update the article later. Introduction Here is a very simple and low-cost lighting canopy suitable for any straight fronted tank. It is designed to use common household materials and takes just a couple of hours to make. Method - Cut the back and front panels 20mm longer than the tank from x 200mm. - Cut the side panels 5mm longer than the tank side x 200mm. - Cut the corner blocks out of 2" x 2" planed timber into 150mm lengths. - Screw/glue the corner blocks flush with the end and top of the side panels. - Screw/glue the corner blocks onto the ends of the front/back panels, so that the side panel is flush with the end. - This forms a basic box that sit over the tank and cover the top 2" of glass. - Cut the top panels 10mm lo...

• Published: April 26, 2008, 10:24 am
• Displayed: 625 times
• Preview: Types and benefits of live food for aquarium fish Live fish foods make a great supplement to the diet of your fish and some of these can be cultivated quite easily therefore providing a free food as well. Aquarists must always remember though, these foods should not be fed as the only items on the diet as they can lead to digestive problems in the fish, a main diet of flake, pellets or similar should also be fed as the vegetable content will keep the digestive tracts clear. Because of the above problems, I will only feed live foods two or three times a week, as a treat for the fish. Live foods can also be disease carriers so always purchase your starter colonies from a reliable supplier. The main live foods come from various types of worms, so I will list these first and try to give tips on how to culture them. Earthworms:- I have an abundance of these in my back garden just waiting to be dug up for fish food, but this is not the case for everyone, so a simple wormer can be made from any kind of box or even an old fish tank. Just fill it with soil or compost medium, add so...

• Published: May 14, 2008, 11:21 am
• Displayed: 394 times
• Preview: What tasks do pond maintenance cover An important part of pond keeping is to work out a regular maintenance program to keep your pond looking at its best, and most importantly, keeping your fish healthy and strong. A yearly calendar of events can help you prioritize which maintenance jobs need doing first and which time of the year is the best time to do them. Much of the maintenance work can seem tedious, but it is necessary to keep your pond on top form. At the start of the year your pond is in a bit of a dormant state, pumps and filters have been turned off, heaters or de-icers have been running to keep the pond ice free. Spring has arrived, now things will change. In spring the weather is starting to warm up, frosts and ice should have been a thing of the past; now is the time to turn off the heaters or de-icer and remove them, they should not be required again till the end of the year. Give your pond filter and feed pump a good clean, ready to start them up again. Once done these can be added back into the pond and started up. I like to do a small water change at t...

• Published: August 23, 2007, 9:18 pm
• Displayed: 1922 times
• Preview: Making a DIY Lighting Canopy(For the beginner) by Tim Gautrey, reprinted with permissions This How-To details a simple way to make a new lighting canopy for any rectangular tank. It is designed with simplicity in mind and easy enough for almost anyone with basic DIY skills to make. Tools: - Hand Saw - Hammer - Screwdriver - Tape Measure - Pencil - Set Square - Electric drill - Selection of drill bits - Fine sanding sheets. Materials: - 9mm Plywood - 25mm x 25mm soft wood batten - Piano Hinge - Wood Glue - 25mm countersunk self-tapping screws - 15mm Panel Pins - White Undercoat - White Gloss paint - Varnish - 10mm wooden edging trim (If you want to trim the edges!) - Lighting unit(s) Size: For this How-To, I am going to detail a canopy to fit a standard 36” (900mm) tank. You can work out the sizes to fit the tank you need from the guide sizes here. The light unit will be 200mm in overall height and square in shape. Measure the length of the tank and add 24mm to get the length of the front and back panels. For this build...

• Published: November 15, 2009, 10:18 pm
• Displayed: 137 times
• Preview: Marbled Hatchetfish an article submitted by Exotic Aquariums Marbled hatchetfish or Carnegiella strigata are a member of the family Gasteropelecidae. They are endemic to the Panama and most of South America. The hatchetfish derives its name from its peculiarly shaped body. Hatchetfish have an enormously enlarged sternal region. They are a smaller variety of fish reaching only about two inches long when fully grown. They have an average life expectancy of five years. Hatchetfish prefer subdued lighting. Hatchets are surface dwellers. Most of their time is spent near the surface of the aquarium. They take readily to a heavily planted terrain. They also have an affinity for floating plants. Hornwort is a good choice if you intend to keep hatchetfish. Beware: hatchet fish are accomplished jumpers. In nature they often jump out of the water to escape predators. They are generally considered the only true flying-fish. Hatchets have extraordinarily powerful pectoral fins. The muscles attached to these fins accounts for ¼ of their entire body weight. They actually flap their ...

• Published: April 4, 2008, 9:17 am
• Displayed: 757 times
• Preview: Aquarium Water Hardness - Measuring, Knowledge & Forum Brief description The article below explains how to measure water hardness, describes the difference and relation between KH, dGH and pH. If you cannot find answer on your question on this page, feel free to ask us via form at the bottom of this page! Sharing experiences regarding water hardness in fish tanks is welcome too! One of the hardest subjects that most aquarists have trouble with is understanding water chemistry and what we are actually testing for in our water parameters. We all know why it is important to check ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates in our tank, but what is pH, KH, and GH. Hopefully from this article things will become clearer. Let’s start with General Hardness (GH) sometimes referred to as Total Hardness. Depending on which type of land areas the water has passed through, varying levels of hardness are reached before it reaches its final destination i.e. if it passes over rocky areas it will have a higher mineral content, if it passes over marshy, forest areas it will normally create a soft water ri...

• Published: May 10, 2010, 11:35 pm
• Displayed: 112 times
• Preview: Culturing and Reproduction of Mosquito Larvae for Aquarium Fish All fish need fresh food every now and again whether it is live or frozen to boost up their intake and often this can be pricey. Looking around for the correct food can be time consuming and often, if a fish keeper lives in a remote area, supplies can be a bit limited. Alternatives to shopping around is to produce your own and in the long run this can save a lot of money over the year. There are many worms etc. available to feed to your fish, white worms, blood worms and so on but one of the all time favourites have to be mosquito larvae. We have all seen these for sale but have you ever wondered where they come from and how are they produced commercially for general sale. Life Cycle of the Mosquito Mosquitoes can be found all over the world and have adapted to all climatic conditions. They are prolific breeders and in most countries are considered to be pests forcing governments to taker measures to control the populations of them. There are four main stages to their life cycle. They all start out as eggs which will hatch...

• Published: March 27, 2008, 2:52 pm
• Displayed: 805 times
• Preview: Mystery Snails - Proper Care, Answers, Pictures & Forum Brief description This page contains all information necessary for raising Mystery snails in fish tanks - from basic care to breeding and compatibility; All with forum and pictures, questions and answers. We'd love to hear about your Mystery snails! Once you're finished reading this article go to the bottom of this page and send us your story, please! On aqua-fish.net there are other pages that you might be interested too: Types of aquarium snails with forum and Ramshorn snails with forum. Snails in the aquarium, not everyone’s cup of tea - they are a pest clogging the filters etc. but this is not always the case. Enter the world of the mystery snails and you will be amazed with the variety of different coloured shells (golds, reds, browns, blues, striped), their strange antics when they are coming up for air is fascinating to watch, keepers soon fall in love with them. So what are mystery snails? There is a lot of debate as to the actual classification of these creatures, they can have various different ...

• Published: June 21, 2010, 7:27 pm
• Displayed: 116 times
• Preview: Natural Planted Aquariums Aquariums come in many shapes and sizes, some are designed using décor with ornaments that are based on castles, cartoon characters and suchlike but for an outstanding look to the finished tank there can be no substitute for a natural planted aquarium that has been designed by the owner with natural décor and live plants. These too can take many forms and everyone that has been set up will look totally different to the next but they all have the same theme, recreating a part of nature in our homes. They make a perfect haven for any livestock added and with general tank maintenance can give hours of pleasure to any one viewing the final result. There are several basic steps that need to be followed to be successful in these sort of projects but they are easy to follow and mostly common sense but none the less getting these right at the start will ensure that the finished project will last without any major problems, once the tank is set up dealing with problems can be difficult so better to get it right initially. Step 1 - Planning your aquarium As ...

• Published: October 28, 2006, 5:16 am
• Displayed: 15886 times
• Preview: The Neon tetra - Forum & Guide on care, feeding, breeding Guide by Jan, breeding fish since 1995 Quick links - Answers »Neon tetra tank size »Neon tetra biotope »What do neon tetras eat »Neon tetra size »Angelfish and neon tetras »How many neon tetras per gallon »Are neon tetras easy to keep »How many neon tetras in a 5 gallon tank »Fish compatible with neon tetras »Neon tetra in fish bowl »Plants for neon tetras »Shy neon tetras »Can I have one neon tetra in a tank »Do neon tetras breed fast »Do neon tetras eat plants »Neon tetra disappeared Brief Description This is an ultimate guide on raising Neon tetras in fish tanks, breeding them, taking care of fry and basically every aspect of keeping this specie. We'd love to hear about your Neon tetras and your experiences with these fish, so submit your story at the bottom of this page, please! You should also visit the following pages:...

• Published: November 15, 2009, 9:16 pm
• Displayed: 146 times
• Preview: Neon tetras an article submitted by Exotic Aquariums Neon tetras or Paracheirodon innesi are members of the family Characidae. Characidae are commonly referred to as Characins. Neons are natives to southeastern Columbia, eastern Peru, and western Brazil, including the tributaries of Solimoes. They can be found in black water or clear water streams. Neons and cardinal tetras look very similar in appearance. Put them in the same aquarium together and most people wouldn’t be aware they are two different species. Both have metallic neon blue upper bodies and a brilliant red stripe in the center of their bodies. This stripe is found mid-body running to back the tail in neons. The stripe runs the entire length of a cardinal’s body. Both neons and cardinals are a favorite among the freshwater aquarist who prefers smaller aquarium set ups because of their intense color palette. They really brighten up a desktop aquarium. Neon tetras make good community fish as long as the other members of the community are all smaller varieties. Neons are slender bodied fish that only reach 1.5 inches...

• Published: April 12, 2006, 8:52 am
• Displayed: 5927 times
• Preview: New to Planted Tank? by Marcus Ng of Singapore Originally published on www.aquaticquotient.com Reprinted by permission. Aquarticles (this article was taken from aquarticles.com - free aquarium articles) A lush planted aquarium is a wonderful sight to behold. But often many people are held back from getting into this hobby as they perceive it to be beyond the technical grasp of a casual hobbyist. Certainly, it may look difficult at first, but as they say, the biggest hurdle in every task is your mind. And any activity that is worthwhile will involve some degree of initial learning and preparation. But it is our hope that you will find aquaticquotient.com a useful resource of information where a community of new and experienced hobbyists exchange their knowledge and learn from each other. Do note that when you are posting a question, e.g. why is my plant turning yellow etc, forummers can only help if you can provide as much information as possible about your tank`s conditions, inhabitants and maintenance. Following is a simple guide on the basic requirements for a successfu...

• Published: July 11, 2008, 11:27 pm
• Displayed: 503 times
• Preview: Types of New World Cichlids and their description On our planet there are at least 1300 species of fish that belong to the family Cichlidae. Yet the amazing thing is that they can only be found in certain areas of the world, these are Central and South America, and Africa. These species of fish are known to everyone as cichlids and they are the most colorful and interesting fish to keep. But why are they only found in certain areas? The answer to this is very simple. Before the continents split to what they are today there was one super continent in the south of the planet, this was called Gondwana. This is where cichlids first evolved and as the Gondwana split 150 million years ago, the cichlids were separated. Old world cichlids are to be found on the African continent, whilst the New World cichlids inhabit Central and South America. It is believed that the lineages have been evolving into the different sub species for the last 90 million years. Cichlids have become one of the most popular species of fish to keep in an aquarium for several reasons:- Most cichlids are quit...

• Published: April 12, 2010, 8:05 am
• Displayed: 126 times
• Preview: Normal pH in the Aquarium - Is there any "recommended pH" value? One of the most common questions asked by fish keepers new to the hobby is what should the pH be in my aquarium. The correct answer to this question is”there is no correct answer”. All aquariums will run at different pH levels and the same species of fish are often kept in different tanks at different pH levels, keepers browsing through the internet or reference books will see the suggested pH in the fish profiles and start panicking if their aquarium doesn`t match this. The key word in the last sentence was “suggested” this does not mean that the species of fish have to be kept at that pH, the pH figures given in profiles are based on the habitat where the wild species are caught from. Different areas of the world have water ways with different pH levels and as such the species of fish that inhabit these areas have developed to suit the water parameters. Nowadays most specimens of fish are tank bred, they too have developed over generations of breeding to adapt to a wider range of water parameters includi...

• Published: August 12, 2006, 2:05 pm
• Displayed: 55815 times
• Preview: Oscar fish - Guide on care, breeding, tankmates & forum Brief Description The article below offers information required for raising and breeding Oscar fish properly, behavioural issues, tank mates, FAQ and forum, answers on questions asked by our visitors, and we also have another page devoted to Oscars, be sure to visit it too as it contains personal experiences of fish keepers: Oscar fish profile (it will open in a new window/tab). Don't forget to tell us about your Oscar fish at the bottom of this page, we'd love to hear your experiences or questions! Basic “must know” information about Oscar fish: Scientific name: Astronotus ocellatus Maximum size (min-max): 30.0 - 40.0 cm (11.8 - 15.7 inches). They’re often sold as small specimens that hardly reach 2.5 cm (approximately 1 inch) in length, however Oscars can grow as fast as 2.5 - 5 cm (1 - 2 inches) per month until they reach 20 cm (roughly 8 inches) when their growth rate slows down by 50%. Recommended temperature: 24.0°C - 30.0°C (75.2°F - 86.0°F) Recommended water hardness (dGH): dGH 4.0 - 18.0 N Recommend...

• Published: June 17, 2008, 11:38 am
• Displayed: 521 times
• Preview: Parrot Cichlid - Description and tips on care with forum Brief description This is an ultimate guide on raising Parrot cichlids; From water conditions through diet to answered FAQ and forum - it's on this page! You're welcome to ask and share experiences at the bottom of this page! The parrot cichlid is not a fish that naturally occurs in the wild. It is essentially a man made fish so it does not have a scientific name. This hybrid cichlid is produced by combining other species of cichlids; some seem to think it is a combination of the red devil and the severum, while others may argue that it is the midas cichlid with the red head cichlid. There are several different varieties of parrot cichlids in existence today so I would not be surprised if both combinations were used to spawn this hybrid fish. The parrot cichlid is named for the shape of its face which has the appearance of a parrot’s face and beak. The common parrot cichlid comes in a deep orange coloration which gave them the name “Blood Parrot Cichlid”. They also come in a whole variety of colors and patterns which will...

• Published: July 16, 2008, 1:02 pm
• Displayed: 496 times
• Preview: Peacock Cichlid - Guide on care, breeding, raising fry & forum Brief description This page is devoted to raising Peacock cichlids and we'd love to hear your experiences or questions at the bottom of this page! The below-shown article describes diet, breeding, feeding, habitat, demands on water chemistry and we also focused on raising the fry. Aulonocara is a genus of African cichlids most commonly known as Peacock Cichlids. They are very popular among the aquarium industry because of their brilliant colors and also because they are peaceful and fairly easy to care for. There are more than 20 known Aulonocara species and subspecies based on their variations of colors and characteristics. This eye catching fish is nicknamed the Peacock Cichlid for its similarity to the bird it is named after because the males are bright and colorful while the females are plain and not quite as attractive. The Aulonocara cichlids were once classified as Haplochromines but were later separated into their own group. Both Aulonocara and Haplochromines are generally peaceful fish that mostly li...

• Published: November 30, 2009, 11:10 pm
• Displayed: 145 times
• Preview: Pearl Danios an article submitted by Exotic Aquariums Pearl danio or Brachydanio albolineatus are members of the family Cyprinidae. Other members of this family include tiger barbs, koi, goldfish and freshwater sharks. Pearl danios are native to Sumatra, Burma and Thailand. They inhabit clear watered rivers and hill streams. Pearl Danio received their name because of their iridescent bodies. They shimmer like a pearl, especially under bright aquarium light. They come in various colors including pink, silver, brownish-yellow and striped. There is also a variety marketed as golden danio. These are actually semi-albinos. Danios are peaceful, schooling fish that make for good community fish. It should be explained that schooling fish are a type of shoaling fish. Shoaling fish live in a community with other members of their species. Schooling fish not only ban together but also swim in the same direction. In either case, you should add a minimum of four to your fish tank. Social fish were not intended to live a solitary existence. Danios swim at all levels of the aquarium. Pearls a...

• Published: June 18, 2008, 10:17 pm
• Displayed: 448 times
• Preview: Peal Gourami (Trichogaster Leeri) - Aquarium care, diet, breeding & forum Brief description This article describes taking care of Pear gouramis and offers forum for sharing experiences. Use a form at the bottom to ask if you can't find answer on your question on this page, please! We will gladly answer! The Pearl Gourami has accumulated several common names, Leeri Gourami, Lace Gourami, Diamond Gourami, Platinum Gourami, Mosaic Gourami, to mention a few, but they are all the same fish, trichogaster leeri. They are one of the most colourful of the Gourami family, and also one of the hardiest, making them an ideal fish for novices at fish keeping. They are a peaceful community fish; however, if you are keeping more than one male in the tank, they may fight with each other, especially at breeding time. They originate from Asia, Thailand, and Indonesia, living to an average lifespan of 5 years, but some have been reported to live for 8 years in captivity. Feeding is not a problem with these; they will accept flake foods, granules, almost everything that is offered. The...

• Published: January 9, 2007, 2:21 am
• Displayed: 4527 times
• Preview: What Does Peat Change in an Aquarium? Brief description This is a guide on using peat in aquarium; with purpose, advantages and disadvantages, place for sharing ideas and asking questions. If you came here searching for online suppliers of aquarium peat, then simply click this link. We'd love to hear your experiences with peat, so before leaving this page submit your story at the bottom of this page! Peat has an ability to reduce pH and water hardness values. It also changes the colour of water from clear to brown. Besides the aforementioned changes, it releases hormones, CO2 and probably some nitrates into the tank too. Some toxic metals are rendered harmless. What causes these changes? Acids are materials with fantastic attributes. Are these attributes fantastic or aren't they? Let's analyze the advantages and disadvantages... Advantages: 1. Brings down pH and hardness. 2. Doesn't change the conductivity. 3. Releases lots of useful materials that are welcomed by fish. Disadvantages: 1. The water must be tested frequently. 2. It is not suitable for fish that need hard w...

• Published: November 14, 2007, 1:22 pm
• Displayed: 1946 times
• Preview: Pet Fish: Are fish pets? Can fish be pets? Yes, of course they can! I have over 1000 pets in my home. When I make that statement I get a lot of strange looks and then the subject is changed very quickly! But why? Is it because I can’t put a fish on a lead and take it for a walk? Or perhaps it’s because it doesn’t talk, bark, meow or chirp. It could be because it doesn’t come and sit on my lap or maybe it’s just because people don’t really understand what a pet is. Here is a quote from Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia: “A pet or companion animal is an animal kept for companionship and enjoyment, as opposed to livestock, laboratory animals, working animals or sport animals, which are kept for economic reasons.” That is fairly descriptive and covers most of the arguments. So do fish make good companions? Well, I spend a lot of time talking to them, but it’s a one way conversation, and I spend a lot of time with them and they calm me, relax me and disperse my bad moods, so I would say that they are companions. As for enjoyment, I am sure that everyone who owns or has owned fish w...

• Published: June 5, 2010, 7:00 am
• Displayed: 117 times
• Preview: Phosphate removal from the Aquarium Most fish keepers have heard of phosphates without really understanding the effect that they can have in our aquariums, they are all a round us in everyday life and go without being noticed but in a closed environment such as an aquarium they can have diverse effects to the tank balance over a period of time and in some cases, if allowed to reach high levels, have an indirect effect on the general well being of the aquarium live stock. “But what are phosphates?”, I have heard this question many times and you don`t need to be a scientist to understand what they are but unless you know where they are coming from you will not understand how to deal with them. Phosphates, seen as PO4 in the scientific tables, are all around us. They are a compound that is present inside all living things as they are one of the building blocks of cells and they are nearly always present in any water that is used by us or is present in lakes and rivers. PO4 is basically a phosphorous atom that has four oxygen atoms attached to it and this is often the dissolved compound tha...

• Published: September 25, 2006, 4:56 am
• Displayed: 6316 times
• Preview: Pictures of the Black Skirt Tetra When I firstly saw the Black Skirt Tetras, I decided to keep them. Of course, I asked about the conditions and requirements for this fish. The Black Skirt is very nice, beautiful and peaceful. Their origin is the South Amercia; Rio Negro. As the name „Rio Negro“ says, the water where they come from, is usually dark. Dark colours are the result of decomposition of wood and relatively slow water current. Your tank should contain at least one driftwood and enough of plants. Good solution is to use Anubias Nana, Vallisneria Spiralis, Vallisneria Gigantea and some kind of Cryptocoryne. Even though these plants don`t come directly from Rio Negro, they are easy to care for. Acid or alkaline water isn`t any problem for the Black Skirt Tetra. The same goes to the question of hard or soft water. Generally, this species adapts easily, but don`t overrate them. Keep the conditions stable, so your fish will be happy. If the water is of good quality, you`ll be a successful breeder of Black Skirt. Generally, males are a little bit darker than females. There are ...

• Published: October 3, 2008, 3:54 am
• Displayed: 438 times
• Preview: Pictus Catfish - Forum & everything about care Brief description This page is an ultimate guide on raising Pictus catfish; It contains information required for proper care and we also answer questions here! There is a form at the bottom of this page and we'd love to hear about your fish tank and your fish, so submit your story once you're finished reading! You should visit the following page too: Pictus catfish profile with large forum! The Pictus Catfish is a very attractive species that is extremely popular in the aquarium industry. The scientific name for this species is Pimelodus pictus. This is the ideal species for aquarists who want to own catfish but do not have the space required to care for the larger varieties. Unlike most catfish, the Pictus Catfish stays quite small. They can be purchased in aquarium retail stores for as little as $6.00 but they can also cost quite a bit more. Origin The Pictus Catfish comes from South American countries such as Venezuela, Peru, Brazil, and Columbia. They are found in both the Amazon and Orinoco River Basins. Life...

• Published: November 25, 2009, 11:03 pm
• Displayed: 158 times
• Preview: Piranha Facts & Fiction an article submitted by Exotic Aquariums Piranha or Serrasalmus nattereri were originally assigned to the family Characidae which includes tetra varieties. They were later reclassified to a subfamily of Characidae, the subfamily Serrasalmidae. Serrasalminae means “serrated salmon family.” This refers not to the piranha’s teeth but to the serrated keel running along the belly of the fish. Piranhas are native to the South American rivers and can be found in the Amazon, Orinoco, Guyana, and Sao Francisco river systems. Piranhas are illegal to own in most the states in the United States for fear that they will make their way into the wild and reek havoc on the ecosystem, not to mention swimmers. This concern is not entirely unwarranted. In the past, irresponsible hobbyists have released piranhas into the wild because they have outgrown their aquarium. When I was young, you could buy baby alligators at the local dime store. Hmmm…, what do you do with them when they get big enough to eat the neighbor’s dog? Vermont is one of the few states that allow the...

• Published: September 13, 2007, 11:16 am
• Displayed: 6296 times
• Preview: The Piranha Fish - Species, Information, Care & Forumby Zuzana Brief description This page describes Piranhas and taking care of these fish when kept in aquariums. We also list FAQ on this page, forum with question and answers, and pictures! Also we have pages with detailed information about various Piranha species, you should visit them too: San Francisco piranha (Pygocentrus piraya), Orinoco piranha (Pygocentrus cariba), Red bellied piranha (Pygocentrus nattereri) with forum, Pinche piranha (Serrasalmus eigenmanni), Red Bellied Piranha article with large forum. We'd love to hear about your Piranhas and your experiences with this species, so make sure that before leaving Aqua-Fish.Net you leave a comment at the bottom of this page! Introduction As everyone knows, the Piranha species is a very noted fish especially from TV. It`s aggression and hunger for everything what moves in the water are well known facts. They are shown as cruel and merciless beasts in the TV. So why do people keep them? Aren`t such people only criminals who drop their victims into the tank with Piran...

• Published: June 18, 2009, 4:03 pm
• Displayed: 242 times
• Preview: Guide on Planting and Growing Aquarium Plants Nowadays many aquarists have decided to take a slightly different route with their tanks, rather than just use the tank to keep fish in with a few ornaments dotted about and the odd plant stuck in the corner, they are getting into the world of dedicating their tanks to a display of foliage where the plants are the main feature and any fish added are placed there for movement, taking second place to the greenery behind them. Some keepers seem a bit daunted by this idea and are very reserved about taking the plunge but once this side hobby is taken on it is very rewarding and not as difficult to keep the plants healthy as many people think. More than often the hardest part is keeping the plants trimmed back when they are established, if this is not done on a regular basis, the tank will soon transform into a jungle unless slow growing species are specifically chosen. If you have decided to set up a planted tank then hopefully reading through this article will answer many of the questions you have yet to answer. Starting off with...

• Published: May 2, 2010, 6:57 pm
• Displayed: 113 times
• Preview: Plants Acclimatisation in an Uncycled Aquarium A common misconception to most novice fish keepers is that plants cannot be added to an uncycled aquarium. The first notion is that the plants will die off causing further problems but this couldn`t be further from the truth. Once a new aquarium set up has been filled with water it should be allowed to stand for 24 hours to monitor the temperature if a freshwater tropical tank is being used, even if a cold water set up is up and running the water should still be left for 24 hours to settle and then plants can be added to the tank. The addition of the plants at an early stage in the aquarium set up will benefit the long term running of the tank and it will also give the plants to establish themselves before any fish are added. If you ask most keepers what do plants feed from in the water column they will reply with the answer “nitrates”, yes this is true but plants are in fact very lazy feeders and they will grab the most readily available food source, in an uncycled aquarium this is initially ammonia and nitrites. This explains ...

• Published: May 20, 2008, 10:40 am
• Displayed: 630 times
• Preview: Platies - Proper care, Pictures, FAQ & Forum Brief description This page is devoted to raising Platies and describes how to take care of this species (we also list FAQ and answers here!). However, we have other pages that focus on specific aspects of raising this species and you should visit them: Platy fish profile with large forum, Breeding platies, Variegated platy - Xiphophorus variatus profile. We'd love to hear about your Platies, so before leaving this page submit your story at the bottom of this page! In case you'd like to ask a question, we'll gladly answer! Platies are part of the Poecilidae family which means they are part of the group of livebearers. Xiphophorus maculatus and Xiphophorus variatus are the two different platy species from which all platy variations are bred for aquarium purposes. Platies are very similar to swordtails, so much that they are even able to mate with one another and produce fertile young. This is one of the reasons why there are so many different variations of platy fish available. There are over 325,000 known varieties of platy fish. T...

• Published: December 1, 2009, 6:22 pm
• Displayed: 145 times
• Preview: Plecostomus fish an article submitted by Exotic Aquariums Plecostomus or Hypostomus plecostomus belong to the family Loricariidae. Loricariidae means armored catfish named so because the armor-like longitudinal rows of scutes that cover the upper parts of their bodies. They are endemic to both Central and South America. They are more commonly known as algae eaters or sucker mouth because of their suction cup like mouth. As a direct result of their dietary habits, the Plecostomus is extremely popular among freshwater aquarists. In addition to the benefit of reducing algae growth, they are a solitary and peaceful creature making them a great addition to any aquarium. They will actively seek out and eat algae at the microscopic level before it has a chance to develop into a cleaning and maintenance problem. Before you buy one, you should be aware that these are not small fish. The ones you see in fish stores are young. In their natural habitat they can reach up to 24 inches. In captivity they will often grow to a foot long. If you have a smaller tank you can still enjoy the benef...

• Published: September 13, 2011, 12:37 am
• Displayed: 16 times
• Preview: Pleurodeles waltl - Proper Care & Pictures Brief description Aqua-fish.net is devoted to fish keeping, however many aquarists keep other pets too; Thus the below-shown article is one of the articles that are devoted to exotic pets. If you keep these creatures, you're welcome to share your experiences at the bottom of this page! Pleurodeles waltl is a member of the newt family, it is more commonly known as the Ribbed newt, Iberian ribbed newt or even the Spanish ribbed newt. The common names are derived from two things, its natural locality which is the Iberian peninsula where it is commonly found to the south of this land mass but it is also found in Morocco. The second reason for its common name is due to a specialised defence mechanism that this newt has evolved over the generations to prevent predation. Along its flanks there are tubercles which allow the ribs to protrude when the newt feels threaten, this is in turn makes it awkward for any predator to devour the newt as well as the sharp edges on the ribs inflicting potential damage to anything willing to tackle this crea...

• Published: July 2, 2007, 3:07 am
• Displayed: 1951 times
• Preview: Deicer: Why Your Pond Needs One Ponds enhance a garden’s aesthetic look. It adds to the natural grandeur of the outdoor design in our backyards (and sometimes in our front yards). The soothing sound of the water exudes a relaxing feeling, and the sight of live fishes busily swimming about never ceases to give a pleasant feeling to whoever drops by to see. Nevertheless, like all the other elements in our exterior decorations such as the plants and trees, the pond (and the fish and plants in it) likewise needs proper maintenance and care—especially during the harsh seasons of winter. Even at the installation phase of their ponds, pond owners are always faced with the question of whether or not a pond deicer is necessary to be installed in their ponds. It is, therefore, significant to note that there are some factors that need to be taken into consideration when one intends to answer that perennial question: “Is it necessary for me to install a deicer or a heater for my pond?” First, pond owners should be knowledgeable about what exactly happens to their ponds during the harsh and cold...

• Published: October 14, 2008, 4:56 pm
• Displayed: 323 times
• Preview: Pond Ideas, Pictures & Forum Brief description This page was created to help with ideas on building and setting up ponds. In case you need help you're welcome to ask us at the bottom of this page! Sharing experiences is welcome too! To me, designing that perfect pond is no different to designing that perfect aquarium; everything is just on a larger scale. With a pond the world really is your oyster, there are so many options available to you. The initial planning stage is probably more important than with an aquarium, equipment may have to be incorporated into the build, landscaping features may also have to be included as well. If you are stuck for ideas there are plenty of websites on the internet offering advice, and hopefully this article will give you a few ideas also. The first thing to be considered with your design is how will the pond blend in with they area that you have put aside for it. It might be that you will look at the site, and then decide to add on some decorative borders around the pond. Always take out a sketchpad with you and start sketching what typ...

• Published: August 22, 2008, 11:01 pm
• Displayed: 338 times
• Preview: Aquarium problems - overcrowding, moving fish and dimensions(problems from weight, overcrowding, ... to moving) Aquarium weight An aquarium filled with water and substrate is really heavy and this must be taken into account when you plan your aquarium. Even small aquariums can be surprisingly heavy and must be supported by a strong enough structure. The exact weight of your filled aquarium will depend on several factors, including aquarium type and substrate. Generally speaking, an empty glass aquarium will weight twice as much as an empty acrylic aquarium. (Even a small 20 gallon glass tank can weigh over 25 lbs.) An acrylic aquarium will, despite its lower weight, call for a more supportive stand since it is more flexible and needs to be supported along the full bottom surface. A glass aquarium is heavier but only requires support along the outside edges. As you begin to fill up your aquarium with water, you will add an extra 8 lbs for each gallon of water. As mentioned above, the weight of the substrate must also be taken into account. A deep sand bed will for instance weigh ...

• Published: June 4, 2008, 10:13 pm
• Displayed: 400 times
• Preview: Types of Aquarium Power Filters with Advantages One of the most important pieces of aquarium equipment, if not “the” most important, has to be a reliable filtration system to keep the water quality at its highest. In the early days of fish keeping the choices of filters to use were basically one design, the under gravel filter (commonly referred to as a UGF). This was basically a plastic plate with holes in that sat under the substrate in the tank. It worked by air being driven into it by means of piping which created a water flow through the gravel, cleansing the water as it travelled. Those days have long gone; there is now a wide variety of powered filters on the market that gives us much more scope to choose which system we wish to use. There are basically 2 types of powered filter, an internal version, or an external one. So how do we know which one to use? A lot of the decision involves the tank size that we have, but in some set ups it can also be influenced by stocking load or even if we want to create extra current for various biotopes. The general rule is t...

• Published: March 26, 2008, 2:19 pm
• Displayed: 554 times
• Preview: DIY Aquarium CO2 systems and why to add CO2 to aquariumsby Mick CO2 systems are added to the aquariums to enhance lush plant growth where the plants use light energy to utilise the CO2 to promote their growth. Several aquarists have success with their planted aquariums with installing these systems but for typical “Dutch Aquariums” these certainly play a major part in their success. How many times have we looked in magazines & wondered how on earth do they get them to look like that well hopefully this article will help to explain how they work & the choices available. Basics of CO2 in the aquarium: Plants need carbon for growth as well as adequate lighting but a balance has to be reached as lighting alone will not provide ideal conditions for the plants, hence the need to bubble in CO2 as this will provide the carbon required. Too much CO2 also can cause problems as this will affect the pH of the water & this will then lead to a pH crash, also bear in mind excessive CO2 will produce carbonic acid (H2CO3) which is toxic, definitely not good so most sy...

• Published: June 6, 2008, 9:02 am
• Displayed: 467 times
• Preview: Aquarium sponge filters - An alternative Brief description If you came here searching for online suppliers of aquarium sponge filters, simply click this link! Along with other related information the article below describes the functionality of sponge filters and how to make DIY filter too. In case your question hasn't been answered on this page yet, use a form at the bottom to ask us! Sharing experiences is welcome too! With the choice of powered filters available to purchase nowadays, many fish keepers seem to neglect a cheap and efficient way to filter the water in their tanks. An excellent alternative to paying a fortune on equipment is to set up your tanks with sponge filters. If used correctly they provide good mechanical and biological filtration, as well as returning oxygen back into the water. If you think about it, the sponges in powered filters are doing the same job as a simple sponge filter, but price wise are a lot more expensive. Sponge filters are ideal for breeding tanks, the fry will not get sucked up the inlet pipes and with some of the more modern sponges that are...

• Published: July 31, 2008, 1:53 pm
• Displayed: 510 times
• Preview: Paradise Fish - Macropodus opercularis Brief description This page is dedicated to raising and caring for Paradise fish; All aspects of housing these beautiful fish are covered here; From sexing, through breeding and habitat to feeding and water conditions. You're welcome to share experiences or ask questions at the bottom of this page! We also have these pages devoted to Paradise fish and you should visit them: Facts about Paradise Fish with plenty of answers and examples and Paradise fish - Macropodus opercularis profile with small forum. Macropodus opercularis is a fish in the anabantid group that is most commonly known as the Paradise Fish. These fish, along with betta and gourami are all characterized by their ability to breathe atmospheric oxygen with the help of an accessory organ known as the labyrinth organ. This organ allows them to be able to live in waters that are murky and depleted of oxygen where most other fish would never survive. Paradise fish have the reputation of being very hardy and easy to care for, all the while being very attractive ornamental pets. They are in...

• Published: June 15, 2008, 10:47 pm
• Displayed: 424 times
• Preview: Rainbowfish in Aquariums - Proper Care and Fish Profiles Brief description This page is devoted to Rainbowfish and taking care of them in fish tanks; Including breeding and feeding. If you cannot find answer on your question here, use a form at the bottom to ask us! Sharing experiences is welcome too! Rainbow fish deservedly earned their name from the amazing variety of colors that the fish display. The colors seem to change as they swim about, giving a beautiful show for the aquarists. These fish were first discovered way back in the mid 1800’s, they are only to be found naturally in Australia, New Guinea, and the surrounding islands, where they inhabit the local rivers, streams and lakes. There are many, many varieties of this fish, but the families that they are classed as belonging to are Atherinidae, Telmatheriidae, Melanotaeniidae, and Pseudomugilidae. They have a good reputation for being peaceful fish, ideal for any community tank, but they are best kept in groups of at least six fish as they are schooling. All of the varieties are top swimmers and feeders so make an i...

• Published: May 9, 2006, 2:27 am
• Displayed: 19925 times
• Preview: Freshwater, Brackish & Saltwater Puffer Fish Care and Information & Forum Marine Puffer Fish Brief description & tips This page is an ultimate guide on raising freshwater/brackish Puffer fish with FAQ, pictures and forum with answers. There are more species that are called "Puffer fish", thus we're not describing each of them on this single page. We also have a marine section dedicated to Puffers, be sure to visit the following pages too (each will open in new tab/window): Dogface Puffer, White-Spotted Puffer, Guineafowl Puffer, Starry Pufferfish, Spotted Toby, Saddle Valentini Puffer, Prickly Puffer, Green Rough-Backed Puffer, Silverstripe Blaasop, Pygmy Puffer. We'd love to hear your experiences with Puffer fish, so leave your comment at the bottom of this page! Freshwater and Brackish Puffer Fish - Introduction Puffer is a very unique fish, actually many people love them because they look very cute, every specimen has its own personality. The name “Pufferfish” is derived from the ability to puff their bodies which occurs if they feel sc...

• Published: March 18, 2008, 2:23 pm
• Displayed: 560 times
• Preview: UV Clarifiers/Sterilizers - Aquariums and ponds use What is a UVC? A UVC (Ultra-Violet Clarifier) is used for the purpose of removing water-bound Algae spores. This is primarily used for ponds where algae is most prevalent because of the still water conditions. It can also be used to clear algae from indoor fish tanks with great effect. A UVS (Ultra-Violet Steriliser) is basically the same as above but is usually more powerful. When do we need them? For pond owners, this next section is a “must read”, for aquarium owners, some of this information will be informative and may raise a few questions in your present methods! Traditionally, ponds are naturally filtered by live plants and poorly maintained. When they are new, they look great, but after a year or so, they tend to get forgotten and allowed to stagnate and silt up. This is a shame, as well maintained ponds are a real pleasure as well as a small pocket of nature in your garden. Do you have a pond? When was the last time you changed the water? Have you cleaned the bottom lately? Most people will answer “No” to thes...

• Published: May 26, 2008, 9:55 pm
• Displayed: 478 times
• Preview: Introduction to Pond Vacuums To buy a particular fish pond vacuum cleaner, click on this text, please. If you wish to get some information firstly, then continue reading... One important part of pond maintenance has to be clearing out the debris from the bottom and the sides with pond vacuum cleaners. Not only is this done for aesthetics, but removing debris, leaves, algae, and string algae will prevent them from adding toxins to your pond as they break down. This used to be done by draining the pond, removing the fish, and then scrubbing out with a sweeping brush. Nowadays this task has been replaced with pond vacuum pumps, the advantage being, they can be used under the water level without disturbing the pond inhabitants. All of the debris is automatically removed by the pond vacuum pump with out having to scoop it out, then doing a large water change. There are companies that will do a cleaning service for ponds and will often offer a pond vacuum hire service, but as expected this usually incurs a monthly charge, basically it means that you will pay out for a job that can be done by ...

• Published: May 16, 2008, 11:25 pm
• Displayed: 411 times
• Preview: Tips on pond fountains and what role fountains play in the fish ponds One of the most popular centerpieces to any pond has to be the addition of a pond fountain. Not only are these a great display piece, but also serve another purpose. They will also oxygenate the water. What could be more relaxing than sitting by the pond on a warm, summer evening listening to the splashing of the water! There are several available to buy, deciding which one has to be based on the size and depth of your pond. There is no point adding a huge fountain to a small pond, it would just send water flying everywhere apart from back into the pond. Fountains are not just restricted to ponds; they can even be created as a water feature for your garden. Simple to do, just sink a plastic reservoir, insert a small water pump attached to a fountain head and switch on. Easy as that!! If money is no object then the fountains can be very creative, making use of statues or something similar for the water to rise out off. These sorts of fountains can be very costly though. For most people’s garden ponds a simple f...

• Published: March 24, 2009, 8:22 pm
• Displayed: 265 times
• Preview: Fish pond filter systems - What filter to use and common questions For every pond that has been set up there has to be a filtration system incorporated into the design to keep the water fresh and free from harmful contaminants. There are many too choose from on the market and all different sizes to suit different ponds. Indeed, many pond keepers have become skilled enough to make their own filters. Hopefully by answering the following questions, it should be clear which filters are required and why they are necessary. Do I need a pond filter and what methods does it use? The answer to this question is “yes” if you are planning to keep fish you need a filter with no exceptions to run a successful pond. If you are looking at a natural wildlife pond, then sometimes it is not required. The plant life in the pond will soak up any nitrates present in the water. As well as filtering the water mechanically (particles are removed as they pass through a set of sponges), it also converts any ammonia that is created by fish waste and rotting vegetation into nitrates by hosting beneficial ba...

• Published: December 2, 2009, 4:18 pm
• Displayed: 143 times
• Preview: Rachow’s nothobranch an article submitted by Exotic Aquariums Rachow`s nothobranch or othobranchius rachovii belongs to the family Aplocheilidae. These fish are natives to regions of Africa where lakes and ponds evaporate and dry up in the dry season. Because of their environmental challenges, the nothobranch has become commonly referred to as a killifish or an annual. If you are familiar with gardening you will know that an annual only lives a single season. They survive in nature by releasing their pollen to insure subsequent generations. Nature has equipped the killifish to adapt to their hostile environmental conditions in much the same manner. This species flourishes during the wet season. As the wet season draws to an end their habitat begins to disappear. They lay their eggs in the mud before the last of the water evaporates. Then they perish for lack of water. Their eggs, however, survive insuring the survival of the species. The eggs baked in dried up lake beds until the rains return. Undergoing this dry period has proven to be essential to the eggs hatching. When the wet ...

• Published: June 25, 2008, 10:27 pm
• Displayed: 517 times
• Preview: Kribensis - Pelvicachromis pulcher - Care, Breeding, Diet & Forum Brief description This page covers all aspects of raising Kribensis; From diet through tankmates to breeding. You're welcome to share your experiences with us, eventually you can ask questions at the bottom of this page - we will gladly answer! Kribensis fish are one of the most popular of the dwarf cichlids that many keepers will use to start out in the world of fish breeding. When the fish form a pair they will become prolific breeders, the problem arises, not getting the fish to breed, but where to pass on all of the fry that they will produce. The name Kribensis actually is the common name for Pelvicachromis Teaniatus, most pet stores have used the common name to sell the Pelvicachromis Pulcher, this is the fish you will normally see in the tanks described as Kribensis. So how did it get this name - Pelva is the Latin for belly, chromis is colour, and Pulcher is Latin for beautiful. This is a very apt name for this beautifully marked fish, especially at spawning times. As this fish only grows to ap...

• Published: September 25, 2008, 10:39 pm
• Displayed: 352 times
• Preview: Marble Pleco - Care, Diet & Forum Brief description This page is devoted to raising Marble pleco in fish tanks; We tried to cover everything including tank setup, diet, compatibility and other aspects too, however you're welcome to ask at the bottom of this page in case you can't find answer on your question on this page. Sharing experiences and ideas is welcome too! The Glyptoperichthys gibbiceps is a species more commonly known as the Marble Pleco. This species is also referred to as the sailfin pleco or the leopard pleco. Diet The Marble Pleco is an herbivore and should be fed a variety of algae and veggies. Aside from the algae already growing in the aquarium, algae wafers or pellets can be used as extra nourishment for this sucker fish. Spirulina, which is blue - green algae, is an excellent source of nutrition with many health benefits. If you want to feed your Marble Pleco veggies, soften some peas, spinach, lettuce or cucumbers by boiling for a few minutes. This species can also be conditioned to accept meaty foods but do not forget to provide them with the muc...

• Published: January 4, 2007, 10:39 am
• Displayed: 4566 times
• Preview: Raising the Discus Fish in your Tank Brief description This is a practical & easy-to-follow guide on raising Discus fish with FAQ and answers. There's a forum under the article, feel free to share your experiences or ask questions! This page is here especially for beginners who ask basic questions and for those who consider buying and later want to keep the Discus species. If you are looking for more comprehensive article about Symphysodon species, simply click here. Introduction In defiance of common judgement, housing the discus species in not very difficult. A newbie or an experienced hobbyist might ask himself why discus species are considered to be difficult-to-keep, why many people think they're not immune enough, why are they suitable for professional fish keepers, etc. Basically the myth about their immunity system or demands has been built by so-called “Discus fish expert-keepers”. First of all, they require a couple of basic things: 1) Aquarium depth should be 50 cm at least, 2) Width of their tank should be not less than 70 cm, 3) Length of their tank s...

• Published: May 15, 2010, 3:27 am
• Displayed: 132 times
• Preview: Galaxy Rasbora Introduction This article offers information about raising and breeding Galaxy rasboras, and we'd love to hear about your fish too! Use a form at the bottom of this page once you're finished reading the below-shown article, please! You might be interested in reading about other Rasbora's in our database: simply click this link (it will open in new window/tab). New species of fish are being discovered all of the time but most are just merged into the aquarium trade without a great impact, one species that has proven to be a massive hit with fish keepers has to be the Galaxy Rasbora. This fish with its amazing colouration has taken the market by storm even though it has only been available in the last 5 years. This beautiful but undemanding fish is so striking that when pictures first appeared of it, many people were sceptical and believed that all of the pictures had been doctored somehow to enhance the true colours of the fish as some form of marketing ploy. The Galaxy Rasbora has proven them wrong and is even more stunning when seen in its aquarium than any picture co...

• Published: June 6, 2010, 11:34 pm
• Displayed: 122 times
• Preview: Otto Fish - Description and requirements in aquariums The “Otto Catfish” is one of the most popular additions to many planted tanks but unfortunately one of the most misunderstood fish that keepers decide to purchase. They never seem to live for long periods and keepers say that this fish is too delicate to be kept but often it is the keeper themselves that are not providing the correct conditions for this wonderful little fish and if housed correctly they can be kept for their full lifespan and be a superb member of your community planted tank. Hopefully this article will explain how to care for these and explain all that you need to know as regards their welfare and suitable tank mates. The most commonly species of “Otto” that is kept by keepers is the Otocinclus macrospilus, these are only found in the upper Amazonian River Basins of Peru where they inhabit the heavily vegetated bank areas of the rivers and creeks. They can also be found under floating vegetation that are common in these river basins where they live together in large groups as they are a very social fish. There is...

• Published: July 19, 2008, 8:53 am
• Displayed: 491 times
• Preview: Ramshorn Snails as Pets and Pests - Guide on care, controlling population, pictures & forum Brief description This page is about raising Ramshorn snails, about ways how they're introduced to tanks and how they become pests, controlling population of Ramshorn snails and there is also a forum under the article! If you're interested in aquarium snails you should also visit the following pages: Aquarium Snails, Mystery snails, Freshwater snail types. We'd love to hear your experiences with Ramshorn snails, so leave your comment after reading this and other articles! Snails in an aquarium are not to everyone’s taste, a lot of fish keepers regard them as a nuisance that gets out of control, other keepers believe that there are good points out weigh the bad points so therefore they should be included in the tank. I have an open mind on this as I have kept them and still do but I can see both sides to the argument. Ramshorn snails can include a variety of species of snails that all get classed as one breed in the aquarium trade, the differences between the snails is negligible so many ...

• Published: November 30, 2009, 10:51 pm
• Displayed: 138 times
• Preview: Rasboras an article submitted by Exotic Aquariums Rasboras or Rasbora heteromorpha are members of the family Cyprinidae. Rasboras are native to Malaysia, Singapore, Sumatra, and southern Thailand. There are several species in the genus Rasbora. We will focus our attention on R. Heteromorpha. The Greek translation of Heteromorpha literally means differently shaped. Rasboras are commonly referred to as harlequin fish or harlequin rasboras. This reference alludes to the black triangular patch on the back half of their bodies which is reminiscent to the patterns found on the costume of a harlequin. Rasboras have a docile temperament. They make a good choice for a community tank provided their tank-mates are equally peace loving and not large enough to view them as a source of nutrition. Rasboras are shoaling fish. Shoaling fish are highly social creatures that function best as a community. They don’t adapt well to a solitary existence. It is recommended that you have at least four of these upper to mid tank swimmers in an aquarium. Rasbora is a small fish. They only grow to an adu...

• Published: February 29, 2008, 8:06 am
• Displayed: 570 times
• Preview: Aquarium light timer as a necessity for fish tanks and lighting Brief Description of the Aquarium Light Timer article The purpose of an aquarium light timer and advantages of using timers for fish tank lights; Not only in terms of inhabitants of your aquarium, but also focusing on plants. Of the many reasons to maintain an aquarium in your home, the office or in a public building, the most popular reason is for therapeutic purposes. People who are easily agitated can calm down and watch fish in an aquarium swinging around in their tank for hours on end with no major worries in life. People, who have worries, and some of them serious, can forget them for just a little while as they watch these fish swirl around in their tank. Light in a Fish Tank For those people outside the tank looking in it is very important that the aquarium have an efficient lighting system, and for this inside the tank but not necessarily looking out it is no less important, but for different reasons. Proper lighting in an aquarium is very important for all forms of life in the tank, especially in a tropical...

• Published: December 1, 2009, 6:55 pm
• Displayed: 145 times
• Preview: Red Phantom Tetra an article submitted by Exotic Aquariums The red phantom tetra or Megalamphodus sweglesi is of the family Characidae more commonly known as characids. They are endemic to South America. There is also a commercially available black phantom tetra native to South America. Red phantoms are docile creatures well suited for community tanks. They only grow to about 1.5 inches as adults so you’ll want to house them with other smaller variety fish. These top to mid-tank dwellers are right at home in a well planted aquarium. If you are considering purchasing one or any other species of tetra, you should be aware that all tetras are shoaling fish. Shoaling fish are extremely social creatures. They are genetically programmed to function in a group comprised of other members of their own species. They do not adapt well to a life of isolation. It is advisable to purchase a minimum of four. Six to eight is considered ideal. Between their red body color and nearly transparent bodies a group of them looks absolutely amazing in any aquarium. You should also realize that even t...

• Published: December 1, 2009, 6:37 pm
• Displayed: 151 times
• Preview: Red-tailed black sharks an article submitted by Exotic Aquariums Red-tailed black sharks or Epalzeorhynchus bicolor belong to the family Cyprinidae. This family of fish is also known as Cyprinids. In laymen’s term the red-tail is a member of the carp family. The red-tailed black shark was native to Thailand. But sadly, they are now extinct in the wild. All the red-tails available in fish stores today are commercially raised products of the aquarium trade industry. Red-tails black sharks of course bear no relation to sharks. Their name is purely descriptive. They have a black, torpedo shaped body with a profile reminiscent to that of a sharks. This includes a sharp triangular shaped dorsal fin. Their bright red caudal fin (tail) completes their visual appearance and name. As with any member of the carp family they are primarily bottom dwelling scavenger fish. Scavenger fish can be identified by their downward pointed mouths with varying sets of barbels on either side. Barbels are whisker-like sensory organs that contain taste buds much like your tongue. Their primary function is for...

• Published: May 25, 2008, 10:49 am
• Displayed: 391 times
• Preview: What is "Reptomin Sticks" and Tips on Feeding Reptomin is a floating stick food manufactured by Tetra, a company that provides a wide variety of aquarium care solutions. Tetra Reptomin floating food sticks provide nourishment for a wide variety of water turtles, newts, frogs and other amphibious reptiles. They set high quality standards to give maximum nutrition to these animals that are used for breeding or keeping as pets. This food is widely accepted by a number of species and is enriched with plenty of vitamins and calcium for strong shells and bones. There is plenty of protein in these Reptomin sticks to promote growth and reproduction. Tetra sells this particular food in a variety of package sizes to meet your feeding needs. It is sold in just about all of the aquatic retail stores at a reasonable price. The size ranges from just under 2 oz. at $3.00 a container to 2.5 lbs. for about $30.00 per container. Tetra Reptomin is reputed to be the best dry food available. It is recommended to feed your pet one to two times a day and only what can be consumed within a few minute...

• Published: April 18, 2008, 9:03 pm
• Displayed: 476 times
• Preview: Why to use reverse osmosis for aquarium water and the principle, advantages of reverse osmosis In the aquarium hobby there are many instances where reverse osmosis water is used but to most people it can be quite baffling, if they have never actually had to invest in a unit. Hopefully this article will explain its uses and also exactly what it is. It is mainly used for water softening which is ideal for discus, angelfish and in fact nearly all of the South American species, also it is now used with almost every marine or reef tank. An RO unit (reverse osmosis unit) is used as a water purifier and in fact it will reduce the pH of the water as it pulls out 99% of all total dissolves solids, leaving the closest thing to pure water that you can get. This is particularly important where water quality has to be at its highest for the more delicate species of fish and where internal or external filter cannot clean the water to reach desired levels. The water is so pure that it has to be re-mineralized before use, as it can become unstable due to the KH potentially dropping, which in...

• Published: February 17, 2008, 8:05 pm
• Displayed: 702 times
• Preview: Magnum and penguin aquarium filter review In order for fish to thrive in an aquarium, the water in the tank must be maintained to the highest level of purity. This requires the investment and maintenance of a high level filtration system. There are several types and choices of filtration on the market. One of the best and most popular amongst aquarium enthusiasts in the know is the canister filter system. Both large and powerful the canister filter is situated underneath the aquarium tank and is used for either biological, mechanical and if the occasion demands it also filtration of harmful chemicals that might enter the tank and cause damage to the fish. Many of the large free standing aquariums have the canister filters placed below the tank, inside of their stand. Canister filters have the appearance of a closed cylinder around fifteen inches high (38 cm) high with a click on lid designed to keep the canister closed under pressure. All the water loaded into the aquarium tank contain tow valves, one for water input and the other for output connected by flexible tubing to the water co...

• Published: August 29, 2006, 4:11 pm
• Displayed: 10912 times
• Preview: A guide on using Fish Tank Heaters with FAQ, Forum and Online suppliers Guide by Jan, Aquarist since 1995 Quick links - Answers »How do I use aquarium heater »How can I heat my fish tank »How to install a fish tank heater »How big aquarium heater do I need »How to install a submersible aquarium heater »How can I tell if my fish tank heater is working »How deep should my aquarium heater go into the water »What fish don't need a heater »Heater overheated my tank, what should I do »What is the wattage of a fish tank heater »What if I buy a larger aquarium heater than I need »What brand of heater is good for fish tank »What fish can go into a room temperature tank Brief Description This page is an ultimate guide to fish tank heaters with pictures, FAQ, forum, and experiences of many fish keepers. It also points at websites that sell heaters online, simply follow this link to be forwarded to the list of online suppliers! We'd love t...

• Published: March 4, 2006, 3:52 pm
• Displayed: 3304 times
• Preview: Rotala macrandra (this article was taken from aquarticles.com - free aquarium articles) by Lynn McMullen When researching the available literature dealing with aquarium plants, often the plants are categorised by growth patterns. Some of those include “roseate” (which defines plants that grow from a common central point, such as Amazon Swords); “opposite leaves” (which includes plants whose leaves grow in pairs on opposite sides of a common stalk, like Hygrophilia polysperma); and plants with “alternate” leaf arrangements (which is when the leaves grow on opposite sides of the stalk, but not exactly at the same point - there is a small space between each leaf). The Rotala macrandra falls into this last category. This plant has a dense bushy growth pattern under optimum conditions, with many branchlets and thick clusters of leaves, so that it can almost look like an impregnable wall of growth. This is a misleading impression, as the plant can be considered very soft and delicate, never in fact becoming woody or tough. A fish would not become injured on this plant, or even tangled up in...

• Published: November 13, 2011, 5:05 am
• Displayed: 9 times
• Preview: Salmon Pink Tarantula (Lasiodora parahybana) – Housing and Care Brief description This page is a part of our "exotic pets series", not dedicated to fish, but to Salmon Pink Tarantula's instead! We'd love you to share your experiences at the bottom of this page! Lasiodora parahybana are to be found in the north eastern regions of Brazil where they inhabit the forest floors. They are not natural climbers, rarely leaving the terrain and are not accomplished burrowers but often they may attempt to make small burrows in the wild. These are one of the largest of the tarantula species and can grow to an average size of 8 inches leg span with some specimens reaching a leg span of up to 10 inches. They are commonly known as the Brazilian Salmon Pink Bird Eating Tarantulas or another well known common name used is just simply the Salmon Pink Tarantula but they are the same species. They are an extremely sought after species by tarantula keepers but these are not ideal for novices to the hobby as they do not always take kindly to handling and with fangs that can reach up to 1 inch ...

• Published: March 19, 2008, 4:45 pm
• Displayed: 591 times
• Preview: Selecting a Water Pump for the task There are many different water pumps around, which are designed to do specific jobs, and a wide variety of prices being asked. Water pumps are an essential part of our lives in many different ways, from the central heating system to the drinking water. If you look around they are everywhere! So, how does this influence our aquarium choices? It may be possible to save a lot of money with a little thought and ingenuity! What do we need pumps for? Here are some of the common reasons we look for pumps: We are setting up a rack of tanks with a sump filter;We are linking several tanks together to increase the total capacity;We want to add a water feature to an aquarium/pond;The type of fish we have demand strong currents;We want to improve the existing filtration; Let`s look at what you want to do and why you are looking for a pump. Most aquariums have powered filters which use a small impeller to force the water through the filter. This is a simple, quiet and cheap form of pump and quite sufficient for its requirements in filtering and creating...

• Published: April 1, 2006, 7:32 am
• Displayed: 4141 times
• Preview: Selecting Discus (this article was taken from aquarticles.com - free aquarium articles) by Beta Mahatvaraj advertisement The King of Aquarium Fishes is an easy fish to keep in the home aquarium if some simple tips are followed. Proper selection is the first step to success with discus. The quality of discus on sale in the Indian LFS is usually not too good. So it’s very important to make the right start to avoid future heartbreaks. Let`s see why this is the case: Firstly, the best discus go where the money is. Japan and Europe are some of the major markets for top quality discus, and then comes North America and so on. Most of the discus offered for sale in the Indian LFS are lower grade discus from farms in South East Asia. If you want good quality discus be prepared to pay for them! The import restrictions on ornamental fishes means that there are fewer options available to the hobbyist. Enough of rambling let me get down to business! Below are some general tips on how to select good discus: - The first step is to observe the discus in your dealer’s tank. Make s...

• Published: April 15, 2010, 8:34 pm
• Displayed: 116 times
• Preview: Tips on Setting Breeder Aquariums One of the greatest sights to most fish keepers is the fish producing young in their aquarium. Seeing the eggs being laid and hatching out, fry being born with live bearer species, has to be the most rewarding moment for most people. The chances of fry surviving in a community set up is unfortunately very low as the same fry also prove to be tasty snacks for the adult residents in the aquarium. This can be upsetting but there are solutions to this problem so that most of the fry will survive and this involves setting up a breeder aquarium. The breeder aquarium can also be used purely for raising the fry if you do not wish to move the parent fish, the set up is exactly the same. Setting up a breeder aquarium:- The main concept to any breeding aquarium is to keep things simple as there is a lot of tank maintenance involved, cluttering your breeding aquarium will make this more difficult and extra décor can become a host to detritus which in turn can lower the water quality. There are a lot of water changes involved in breeding fish so keeping the aquar...

• Published: March 8, 2010, 9:00 pm
• Displayed: 158 times
• Preview: A Guide on Setting up a Tropical Fish Tank Brief description This page fully explains how to set up a fish tank; If your question isn't answered below, you're welcome to ask at the bottom of this page! Similarly, you can share your experiences. However you should also visit following pages: How-to fish tank guide and What Accessories to Purchase for a Fish Tank (they will open in new tab/window) as these are closely related to this page. Keeping fish is now a hobby that is enjoyed by millions of people all over the world and can be one of the most rewarding hobbies that there is. The key to success with keeping aquarium fish is getting it right from the start so the first steps towards setting up your tropical tank are crucial as getting it right before the tank is up and running reduces a lot of stress and heartache at a later date. There is now a wealth of information on the internet and reference books available, most give reliable information about setting up a well presented aquarium but there are some less reliable, it will not take you long to realise the best information to u...

• Published: March 28, 2010, 4:53 am
• Displayed: 131 times
• Preview: Turtle Aquariums - Setting up and Feeding Turtles Turtles are fast becoming a very popular pet and they are being kept indoors in their own turtle aquarium where the outside climate isn`t suitable for them. Due to the fact that they are a relatively new pet to be housed by many people, knowledge of keeping them in the best condition can be limited and there are only a few keepers that have had any length of experience with them so hopefully this article will help to answer any questions that may arise when deciding whether or not to keep these beautiful pets or how to house them properly in a well set up turtle aquarium. As mentioned above it is possible to house turtles outdoors in warmer climates but for the purpose of this article we will concentrate on setting up a turtle aquarium indoors and offer tips on feeding. Setting up your turtle aquarium It is crucial to purchase a suitably sized aquarium for your turtles, they are often sold as young specimens in the aquatic stores but as the mature they do grow in size so be aware of this when selecting your aquarium. To h...

• Published: March 28, 2008, 5:59 pm
• Displayed: 598 times
• Preview: Should I buy Glass or Acrylic Aquarium? At some time or other we have all had to make a decision when it comes to purchasing a new tank, albeit our first investment or an upgrade, do we stick with the traditional glass tank or venture into the world of acrylic tanks. Both tanks have their advantages / disadvantages so hopefully by means of this article some of your questions will be answered. A couple of the main aspects in deciding which tank we buy has to be the shape we require and also how big does the tank need to be to successfully keep the livestock or plants we have planned to involve in the set up. Even a small tank made from glass can be quite weighty, not a major problem with say a two foot one but when we start looking at 50 plus gallon tanks made from glass it would be impossible for one person to move about on their own, help from a friend would be a must. This is one advantage with acrylic the weight is dramatically reduced thus making replacement an easier task (acrylic is at least half the weight of glass). Always remember though whether using glass or a...

• Published: November 13, 2007, 10:30 pm
• Displayed: 7700 times
• Preview: Siamese Fighting Fish (Betta Splendens) - Proper care, mating & forum All pictures were provided by Laura M. Schlögl. Brief description This page offers information and tips on raising Siamese fighting fish - from diet to raising the fry. We'd love to hear about your Bettas, so share your story at the bottom of this page, please! Since we also have other pages devoted to more specific issues related to housing this beautiful species, you should visit the following pages too: Siamese fighting fish - Betta splendens profile with large forum, FAQ on raising Bettas, Diseases of Siamese fighting fish, with recommended treatment and 10 tips for a successful Betta splendens reproduction (VERY POPULAR ARTICLE). Introduction Siamese Fighting Fish are one of the most popular and beautiful aquarium fish available. They come in a wide range of colours and the male of the species have long flowing fins. They are also capable of surviving in many different conditions. Many were once sold in a vase with a lily in the top, and you still see them kept in cups and small jars. This is fa...

• Published: August 11, 2010, 6:43 am
• Displayed: 103 times
• Preview: Simple Aquascaping One of the most enjoyable aspects of setting up a fish tank has to be designing the overall look of the tank with décor etc. positioned for the best effect, to many people this can be a bit confusing as to how the finished look is achieved but it is quite simple if you follow a few simple rules that will be explained in this article. There is a vast variety of décor that you can choose from, you can create a natural looking environment for you fish as well as using ornaments, the choice is entirely yours and at the end of the day, if you are happy with the way the finished tank looks then that should be all that matters. When we see the pictures of the amazing planted tanks that some keepers can create we are often in awe and try to replicate the same tanks in our homes. To create these sort of tanks can be very complicated and requires a lot of experience, if you are just starting out and wish to keep your aquascaping simple then learn the basics first and after a few tank set ups feel free to have a go at the more complicated tanks. When designing your tank lay...

• Published: January 20, 2006, 5:53 am
• Displayed: 4247 times
• Preview: So You Want to Grow Aquatic Plants this article was taken from aquarticles.com - free aquarium articles) by Olga Betts Some aquatic plants will grow under some conditions all of the time. In other words, anyone who wants to can grow aquatic plants. Here is the secret: Grow aquatic plants that suit the conditions of your aquarium. Know your plants. Buy a simple book about aquatic plants such as: Aquarium Plants Manual published by Barron’s. This is a good and inexpensive book to get you started; available in many aquarium stores. Aquatic plants are just the same as those that grow in a garden. Some prefer lots of sun, some prefer shade, some like rich soil, others sandy, poor soil. Of course, all aquatic plants like lots of water but the beauty of that is — you don’t have to water them! Calculate how many watts of light per gallon of water you have. You can grow most aquatic plants with at least 2 watts per gallon. Some will do fine with less; some will do better with more. The typical aquarium comes with one light in the hood (aquarium cover). If you would like t...

• Published: November 22, 2005, 2:50 pm
• Displayed: 4276 times
• Preview: Some tips for beginners (this article was taken from aquarticles.com - free aquarium articles) by Bill "Pegasus NZ" of New Zealand How Long Do You Wait Before Adding Fish? Opinions vary so much on this subject that it is hard to give a reasonable answer. The Americans for instance have what is known as "cycling", which is the period of time a tank has to remain empty of fish until the good bacteria have established themselves and are controlling the conditions of the water in the tank. Most aquarists in the States recommend a six week waiting period using what they call "A Fishless Cycle". In order for the good bacteria to build up (starting the nitrogen cycle), they need a source of ammonia to feed on. When using this fishless cycle they recommend you add daily doses of pure ammonia to the tank for the bacteria to feed on, which is needed to actually start the nitrogen cycle working. I would however like to point out that I personally have never used the "Fishless Cycle" method, and never shall. Having to sit and watch an empty tank for week...

• Published: December 2, 2009, 1:25 am
• Displayed: 148 times
• Preview: South American Leaffish an article submitted by Exotic Aquariums South American Leaffish or Monocirrhus polyacanthus belong to the family Nandidae. The leaffish is obviously indigenous to South America. It is also referred to by the name Amazon leaffish. A commonality to unusual looking fish is that their name typically describes the features that make them unique. The leaffish’s peculiarly shaped body and patchy coloration resembles a leaf in the fall. Their bodies are rather flat and wide which contributes to the resemblance. Even the way that they swim seems to mimic a leaf falling through the air. The Leaffish is an aggressive predator. Their diet consists mainly of other fish. In the wild they will lay among the substrate foliage with their heads pointed down. Their distinctive color palette makes it hard to distinguish them from a dead leaf. The leaffish has the unique ability to change colors to better camouflage itself amid the foliage. It will approach its prey using its transparent pectoral fins which are nearly undetectable to its victim. It will then open its abnormally...

• Published: May 13, 2008, 10:41 am
• Displayed: 513 times
• Preview: Mollies - Care, Species and Forum Different species of Mollies Brief description This article covers all aspects of keeping Mollies in fish tanks; From origin through sexing, breeding to different species. In case you can't find answer on your question below simply use a form at the bottom - no matter whether you're asking questions or sharing experiences, you're welcome! Mollies are interesting and popular fish from the family Poeciliidae. They are freshwater livebearers; which mean they give birth to live young, much like guppies, platies and swordtails. There are several varieties of molly, some of which are readily available to the aquarium industry. Their colors and fin variations make them a highly desirable species for keeping. They are hearty and easy to breed which make them a great pet for novice aquarists. All molly fish are named under the genus Poecilia in reference to their coloration. Each of the molly species has a name that represents what make them different from the other molly species. Some of them are: Poecilia sphenops which means wedge-like appearance, Po...

• Published: November 22, 2005, 2:56 pm
• Displayed: 5360 times
• Preview: Start right with tropical fishkeeping (this article was taken from aquarticles.com - free aquarium articles) Some helpful tips when starting with tropical freshwater fishes First published in leaflet form by Aquarian Fish Foods, of England Aquarticles Introduction Freshwater tropical fish, as their name suggests, originate in freshwater rivers and lakes in the warmer parts of the world, particularly in South America and Central Africa. There are literally tens of thousands of species of freshwater tropical fish, with new ones being discovered almost every day. With such a vast variety of fish, each living in its own particular environment, it`s easy to see why fish keepers are never lost for new areas to study and new challenges to enjoy. Fish Names All fishes are classified by the `binomial system` (two names). First there is the family or generic name -which should always be written with an initial capital letter. This is followed by the species name/s - which should always all be written in lower case letters, (both names ideally all in italics). Thus Barbus ...

• Published: June 11, 2008, 10:59 am
• Displayed: 411 times
• Preview: Types of submersible aquarium heaters and instructions - with forum We all know how important it is to have a good quality filtration system in our aquariums, but one piece of equipment that a lot of fish keepers tend to neglect is the heater that we use in our tanks. To me this is just as important as the filtration and cutting corners by trying to save pennies does not pay in this case. Our livestock depend on us to give them the correct temperatures to live in, they are cold blooded so the only way that they can get any heat into their bodies is through the tank water. In the early days of fish keeping immersible heaters were available, these hung on the back of the tank with the heating probe in the water, and the thermostat was a separate unit that was kept over the tank in the dry. For this reason they are commonly known as hang on heaters, but nowadays these have been replaced with a new range of heating equipment, the fully submersible heater. The whole unit is placed in the water, the heating element and thermostat are built into the unit, and this means that the...

• Published: August 16, 2010, 9:33 pm
• Displayed: 106 times
• Preview: Surface Skimmers - Ponds and Aquariums Surface skimming is often overlooked in the aquarium hobby, many keepers have never been told about it, but it is often a great asset to the aquarium when trying to keep the water in a pristine condition. Often we can look at the surface of the water and see a greasy film appearing or froth at the sides of the tank without ever realising where it has come from or even how to deal with it. The film and scum mainly derives from nutrients and proteins that are in the water column and rest at the water surface, many fish foods add to this problem due to the ingredients in their recipes and it can look very unsightly if not dealt with on a regular basis. One easy way of removing the film is to lay paper towelling on the water surface for a few seconds and then pull it out, this will remove most of the film but it doesn’t solve the problem and it certainly doesn’t keep control of the situation for long periods of time. The easiest solution to nutrient and scum build up in the aquarium is to add a surface skimmer to the equipment which will remove ex...

• Published: March 15, 2010, 9:05 pm
• Displayed: 140 times
• Preview: The Swim Bladder and how to treat Swim Bladder Disease What is a swim bladder? Basically the swim bladder is an organ inside most of the fish species that acts as a buoyancy device so that the fish can maintain its level in the water without having to use up energy swimming. It is a gas filled organ and as it is directly below the dorsal fin of the fish it is very efficient at controlling the central mass of the body weight, this will aid the fish to keep upright. It has several common names including gas bladder, fish maw and air bladder. Some species of fish will even use the swim bladder as a resonating chamber and produce audible noises from it. Normally swim bladders are only found in ray-finned species of fish, many of the bottom dwellers have evolved to live without a swim bladder while other species of fish such as sharks and rays have never possessed one and need to use the fins to maintain a vertical position and to attain different depths in the water. What is interesting is that sharks and rays evolved on a different route from other fish species about 420 million years ago...

• Published: May 6, 2010, 7:03 pm
• Displayed: 113 times
• Preview: Fin Rot Symptoms and Treatment From time to time we all have to face the problems of dealing with various diseases and viruses entering our aquarium. Often these are not caused by mistakes that we have made but there are certain instances where we have contributed to the outset of a disease in the fish. Most diseases and viruses can be spotted early on but some make take some time to show their symptoms and when they are obvious permanent damage may have already been done to the fish. We are their carers and it is our responsibility to check the fish on a regular basis so that we can act promptly before such damage does occur. Sadly one infection that does seem to appear regularly, especially with novice fish keepers is fin rot. This disease can seem to appear overnight but as you get experienced with looking after your fish you can spot the symptoms early and react quicker, thus preventing long term damage to the fish. Fin rot nearly always occurs as a secondary infection, it can happen when the fish has undergone stress or has injured itself on décor or even the tank glass. Often fish...

• Published: May 12, 2008, 10:00 am
• Displayed: 490 times
• Preview: T8 and T12 Aquarium Lighting - What is it, Pictures & Forum Fluorescent aquarium lighting comes in all different colors and sizes. When choosing the right lighting system for your aquarium you should fully understand all of the options before making a decision. One of the most common lighting size options is the T12 light fixture. This fixture is being replaced more and more by a smaller more efficient version called T8 fluorescent lights. This article will explain the differences in cost and efficiency between the T12 and T8 light fixtures. Size T12 fluorescent light bulbs are 1.5” in diameter. These light bulbs are run on magnetic ballasts that are there to limit the amount of electrical current running through the bulb. The magnetic ballasts are not as quiet or as efficient as electrical ballasts. T8 light bulbs are 1” in diameter and run on electrical ballasts. When compared to the T12 bulbs, T8 fluorescent bulbs have an illumination output that is more efficient. The T8’s slimmer design allows the illuminating gasses to run more efficiently while using less wattage. ...

• Published: January 18, 2007, 4:19 pm
• Displayed: 7540 times
• Preview: Taking pictures of your aquarium with digital cameraby Jan Hvizdak Brief description This page explains how to take pictures of your aquarium - and what to avoid. You're welcome to share your experiences at the bottom of this page. Important note This article was updated on 08/16/2007. If you came here looking for information about Black Ghost Knifefish just click here. Introduction When you try to take pictures of your aquarium for the first time, you'll realise that it is not as easy as it looks. Here you can find various examples, so that you'll avoid beginners mistakes. Mistake no.1 – Moving your hands Here you can find pictures taken without tripod. Tripod is necessary in order to produce quality images because it allows you to think before you push the trigger. Solution: Use a tripod. Mistake no.2 – Too much light in the room Beginners usually don't care about noise light which practically disallows you to take a quality picture. Here below is an example. Note that I didn't use any tripod yet. With minimal zoom man can achieve nice pictures w...

• Published: August 23, 2010, 8:02 pm
• Displayed: 99 times
• Preview: About Polypterus, demands on tank size and setup The fish belonging to the Polypterus species are often known as Dinosaur fish as they have evolved very little compared to most of the other species. They also have the common name of Swamp Dragons as they do resemble these creatures with their long sleek bodies and wing like finnage. At one time many people confused these creatures with eels but they are in no way related, they are a species in their own right. They have their own distinctive features that keep them separate from other fish species and it is these features that often attract keepers to have a go at caring for a specimen. They have a serrated dorsal fin, wide eyes and nostrils that are raised, most of the species also have teeth that are always visible, not the sort of fish you would wish to add to the average community tank. If you do wish to have a go at keeping one of these fish it is best to try to replicate their natural surroundings as much as possible. Polypterus originate from Africa and India where they inhabit very slow moving waterways that are heavy in ve...

• Published: October 23, 2008, 5:21 am
• Displayed: 318 times
• Preview: Wolf Cichlid (Parachromis dovii) Care Brief description This page is devoted to raising Wolf cichlids in fish tanks including feeding, breeding and temperament. If the question you're looking to get answer on hasn't been answered on this page yet, feel free to use a form at the bottom of this page and we'll answer! Similarly, sharing experiences is welcome too! Also visit this page: Wolf cichlid - Parachromis dovii profile with forum! The Wolf cichlid is not a fish that should be kept unless you have a good knowledge of them and a large tank to put them in. Adults can grow to over two feet (60cm) in length and have a very aggressive nature. Their natural habitat is the lakes and rivers that are found in the Honduras right down to Costa Rica. They can also be found on the Atlantic side of Central America and it is even believed that populations of Wolf cichlids are to be found in Florida. They do not like fast flowing water so the larger populations are to be found more in Lakes than in rivers, but they do adapt to a slower current. The body of the Wolf cichlid is designed to be the p...

• Published: October 10, 2008, 1:45 am
• Displayed: 365 times
• Preview: What to use when cleaning fish tanks One aspect of the fish keeping hobby that is often neglected has to be the cleaning of the aquarium. I set myself a schedule of routine cleaning that needs doing regularly and stick to it, by doing this, the health of the fish will not be compromised as detritus and algae do not clog up filters etc., because of bad house keeping. There are many aids to help us out with our tank chores, long gone are the days when we had to roll up our sleeves and get our arms wet to clean the glass and substrate. I keep a box purely for my cleaning utensils, buying these handy tools can make cleaning the tank a pleasure rather than a burden. This is a list of my cleaning gear:- Long handled algae scraper with a pad on the reverseLong handled blade scraper (do not use with acrylic tanks)Siphoning tubeA bucket which is only used for cleaning purposesWhite vinegarClean dishclothPaper towelingFilter brushesFilter pipe brushesGravel vacuumAlgae magnetSterilizing tabletsAn old toothbrush This may seem quite a long list but when you start doing the aquarium cleaning...

• Published: May 28, 2010, 11:29 pm
• Displayed: 117 times
• Preview: What is Chloramine and Why to Test Levels of Chloramine in Fish Tanks Brief description This page explains what is chloramine, answers why it's extremely dangerous for fish, and describes simple ways how to get rid of chloramine-related problems in a fish tank. You're welcome to share your experiences at the bottom of this page! Fish keepers are presented with many problems to keep their aquariums healthy and the water quality high, many of these are from diseases and viruses that enter the tank affecting the fish but one problem that constantly needs to be kept in check is man made and its something that every fish keepers has to deal with every time a water change is performed or a tank is filled for the first time. Chloramine is a killer of fish but it is added to our mains water to disinfect the water supply and prevent us from getting diseases and to keep the water pipe work clean. At one time chlorine was added to the mains supply and this is not such a problem to deal with, just filling a bucket and leaving it to stand for a couple of days would guarantee that the chlorine was...

• Published: April 30, 2008, 9:54 pm
• Displayed: 442 times
• Preview: Tetra BettaMin Review BettaMin is a “tropical medley” of nutrition designed by Tetra specifically for betta fish. This high protein mix of flakes mimics the diet they would consume in their natural environment. The purpose of BettaMin is to help enhance fin development and also to improve natural color. Tetra recommends that you feed your betta 2 or 3 times daily and only what he can consume within a few minutes. You may have to crush the flakes before dropping it into the aquarium because a betta’s mouth is not all that large. If used correctly as stated by the instructions on the container, this food will not cause the water to become cloudy or murky. Once you feed your betta watch to see if he is eating the BettaMin before you walk away. It is important to observe your fish because if he is not interested in the food you give him you must remove it from the aquarium or it will pollute the water. One customer stated his fish would not eat BettaMin but instead his betta preferred a betta pellet. You may have to try a few different things before you settle on one type of food to feed your bett...

• Published: May 25, 2008, 11:09 am
• Displayed: 408 times
• Preview: Tetra Pond Koi Sticks Review Tetra Pond Koi Sticks are specially formulated to provide well balanced nutrition for koi as well as other pond fish. Koi Sticks are designed to float on the water’s surface so they can be quickly eaten before sinking to the bottom. This prevents ponds from being overly polluted with uneaten food while allowing you to observe these beautiful fish while eating. These sticks soften when they come in contact with the water which causes them to be digested easily by koi and other types of pond fish. Koi fish do not have stomachs so it is impossible for them to hold food for digestion. When they ingest food, it goes straight into the intestines to be digested until it can be excreted. The digestive tracts of koi fish are not very long so it is more practical to feed less food more times a day in order for them to get all of their daily requirements. It is also very important for them to be able to absorb all of their much needed nutrition as quickly as possible before it gets expelled into their waste. Tetra Pond Koi Sticks are formulated to maximize nutrient absor...

• Published: May 25, 2008, 10:27 pm
• Displayed: 388 times
• Preview: Tetra Pond Sticks Review Tetra Pond Sticks are an easy to digest, and highly nutritional food specially developed for pond fish such as goldfish and koi. The Tetra brand knows what these coldwater fish need as far as diet and nutrition are concerned so over the years they have come up with the perfect formula to meet all the dietary requirements. Tetra Pond Sticks contain all the protein, fat and fiber the coldwater fish need to stay happy and healthy. Tetra Pond Sticks come in a variety of sizes so that you can choose the one that is right for you. A 3.53 oz. container is the smallest one offered and it runs for about $6.99, while the largest container comes in a 3.75 lbs. bucket that runs for $39.99. This mixture of easy to digest floating sticks is a combination of ingredients specially formulated to promote healthy fish and increase energy. This combination of food sticks help to reduce waste by increasing digestibility while lowering waste output. The high fiber content helps to increase digestion efficiency while the amino acids and proteins promote better growth. There is just...

• Published: May 29, 2008, 12:26 pm
• Displayed: 507 times
• Preview: Tetra Whisper Air Pump Review The Tetra Whisper Air Pump boasts to be one of the quietest and most efficient aquarium air pumps manufactured today. The sleek new design has a dome shape and an inner chamber with thick walls and a suspended motor which helps to silence the powerful motor. This air pump has rubber feet which help to keep the structure from vibrating noisily away. The purpose of the Whisper Air Pump is to aerate both marine and freshwater aquariums by powering air stones and various filters. The Tetra Whisper Air Pump comes in models of different size to aerate aquariums from 5 gallons to 100 gallons. The Whisper 10 is the smallest size which retails for as low as $5.49 online and the largest size is the Whisper 100 which retails for as low as $18.29. The prices vary throughout the various websites and aquatic retail stores. In order to find the air pump to suit your aquarium size, simply refer to the model number. The Whisper 10 is meant to aerate up to 10 gallons of water while the Whisper 100 aerates up to 100 gallons of water. All of the Tetra Whisper Air Pump models i...

• Published: May 25, 2008, 11:22 am
• Displayed: 401 times
• Preview: Tetrafin Flakes Review TetraFin Goldfish Flakes are specially designed by the Tetra Company for goldfish and small koi. This particular type of food is formulated to be consumed by these coldwater fish for aiding in digestion and promoting longer life. It is the world’s leading brand in goldfish food. Tetrafin Goldfish Flakes comes in all different sizes from as little as .45 oz. for $1.85 to as large as 4.52 lbs. for $40.00. This formula is packed with much needed vitamins that are necessary for the health of cold water species. A few of the vitamins included are vitamin C, vitamin E and vitamin A. It contains Omega-3 fatty acids which gives fish plenty of energy and helps them grow. When used as directed, TetraFin Flakes will not contribute to clouding the water. Goldfish tend to make plenty of waste so you should still clean the water frequently to keep your aquarium water clean and clear. These fish flakes are specially made to stay firm while the fish are eating, instead of crumbling and falling apart. Although most fish foods contain generally the same ingredients, some co...

• Published: May 25, 2008, 9:26 pm
• Displayed: 400 times
• Preview: TetraMin Flakes Review TetraMin Flakes is a fish food produced by Tetra which is the leading brand for flaked fish food in the aquarium industry today. For over 50 years, Tetra has perfected this product which was the first of its kind; an easy solution to feeding fish in the form of non-perishable flakes. The founder of the Tetra Company, Ulrich Baensch, created TetraMin, this convenient, less messy food to make it easier for aquarists to feed their pet fish. This food source for a wide variety of aquarium fish was supposed to promote health and vibrant coloration. Continual product research has put the Tetra Company on the top with a well known and trusted product. TetraMin is formulated to give aquarium fish maximum nutrition while not clouding the water. This product has been tested again and again to come up with more practical and convenient ways to feed your fish. The container itself is easy to use and it is practical with its sliding dispenser lid. The newest formula of TetraMin Flakes boasts that it provides more protein and less fat allowing the fish to consume a healthier die...

• Published: October 18, 2008, 1:37 am
• Displayed: 327 times
• Preview: Proper Care of Texas Cichlid (Herichthys cyanoguttatus) Thanks to Jan Wirén for allowing us to use his picture. The second picture was sent to us by one of our visitors. Brief description This page describes every aspect of housing Texas cichlids in fish tanks; In case you haven't found answer on your question below, use a form at the bottom to ask us! Also share experiences, please! This cichlid is very unusual as it is the only one that is native to the United States; often it is the game fish for many anglers. It is not a recommended fish for beginners; this is due to the Texas cichlid having a very aggressive nature. It is found in sub tropical areas swimming on the bottom to mid water areas of the lower ROI Grande in Texas and north eastern areas of Mexico. The Texas cichlid mainly inhabits the pools and narrow waterways that lead onto the larger rivers. If kept in optimum conditions, this fish should live up to 15 years of age. There are several color varieties, the main ones being the Red, Green, and Blue. The body of the fish should display white and turquoise dots on ...

• Published: August 15, 2006, 3:15 am
• Displayed: 3046 times
• Preview: Red parrot - The king of monstrosity This article was submitted by one of our users and aqua-fish.net doesn't guarantee it's accuracy! They are sold under the name of Red Parrot or Bloody Parrots, but these fish must not be confounded with parrot Cichlids (Hoplarchus Psittacus) or with marine Parrot fish (Callyodon fasciatus). The real Parrot, Hoplarchus psittacus is an American Cichlid which lives in the Amazon waters and has a green color. This is extremely pretentious specie and it has been successfully spawned only by few American breeders. This article is not a description of this fastidious fish; it is about the baggy hybrid which can be found in pet shops. Maybe some of us are not long time experienced breeders, but certainly we are not blind. Yellow, blue, red, fluorescent green, pink - it is amazing how sublime these parrots, a laboratory fishes, are. We only have to breed them in orange and fluorescent water, given by a cool light, with ultra colored sand and plastic plants and the kitsch is perfect! Anyway, let`s hope that at least for Christmas they will be take...

• Published: December 1, 2007, 9:10 pm
• Displayed: 1579 times
• Preview: The Axolotl: One of natures wonders! Article & Forum It’s not often these days that we come across a rarity in the local pet shop, but this week I found one. (Actually, it was two, a breeding pair no less!) Here is José, the male axolotl, pronounced Ax-oh-lot-ul: As long ago as 1996, these were declared “Critically Endangered” by the IUCN, iucnredlist.org and as such, are in need of help. The natural habitat has all but disappeared, so almost all the ones you find now are captive bred, and then very rarely seen. Here’s a little of their background, for those who don’t know anything about them. It is well worth a little research to find out just what these amazing creatures are capable of. Scientific Name - Ambystoma mexicanum Common names - Axolotl, water-dogs Class: Amphibia Family: Ambystomatidae Genus: Ambystoma Habitat: High altitude lakes in Mexico Life-span: 10 – 15 years, (although there are reports of much older, up to 25 years) Temperament: placid Tank mates: NONE (See below) Feeding: Live, frozen or dr...

• Published: March 10, 2008, 9:08 pm
• Displayed: 505 times
• Preview: Growing the Bacopa Plant in an Aquarium Environment Of the many beautiful plants you can choose to enhance the color of your aquarium, those of the stemmed variety provide the widest variation in colors and leaf shapes as well as ease of care. The Bacopa plant in an aquarium environment is one of the most popular. In need of regular and relatively strong lighting to thrive, the plant will cost from $3.00 to $5.00 at your local garden center, pet stores or even online. When planting the Bacopa in an aquarium environment, it should be taken into account that any stemmed plant will grow to a good height, meaning that regular trimming should take place to prevent the plants from getting out of control, which will considerably reduce its allure and prevent the free flow of light to the bottom of the tank. On the upside these plants are simple and friendly to trim. Once you have a good and healthy growth of Bacopa plants in your aquarium, their continuation is guaranteed because they are one of the easiest plants to propagate. Although Bacopa in an aquarium will give the impression t...

• Published: January 4, 2007, 10:49 am
• Displayed: 9537 times
• Preview: The Blue CrayfishCherax Quadricarinatus (or the Blue Claw Lobster) by Zuzana Brief description This page is devoted to raising Blue crayfish in fish tanks; With forum under the article where we'd love to hear about your Crayfish too! In case you'd like to ask a question that hasn't been answered on this page already, use that form at the bottom too. Previous article notification If you opened this page looking for information about African Clawed Frogs then you should know that Aqua-Fish.Net removed that article because it was stolen and reprinted here without any premission. The person who did so is not able to post articles to Aqua-Fish.Net. Introduction Blue crayfish is the same species as normal coloured crayfish. Sometimes they are called lobsters as well, because everybody knows what lobster is and crayfish is something unknown, but it in not the same. Lobsters have two claws where each is of different size, but crayfish have claws of the same size. The blue colour is caused by gene mutation just like albino form of any animal or human species. However, just like other ar...

• Published: March 6, 2008, 7:12 am
• Displayed: 725 times
• Preview: Proper Care of the Clown Loach Fish - Behaviour, Requirements, Diet & Diseases Brief description This page contains all information that are necessary for having a happy Clown loach; Feel free to use a form at the bottom to share your experiences or ask questions in case you cannot find answer on anything regarding raising Clown loaches on this page! Also visit Clown loach - Chromobotia macracanthus profile page which contains small forum about this fish! The Chromobotia Macracanthis, also known as the clown loach is a commonly kept fish for many tropical freshwater aquarists. They are characterized by their deep orange coloring and black stripes. Their flat bottoms are suitable for bottom dwelling. Habitat This fish originates in the warm (77- 86°F/ 25- 30°C), inland waters of Sumatra, Borneo and the Sunda Islands. Sexing It is hard to tell the sex of this fish although females tend to be bulkier. Rare incidents of breeding in captivity have been known to happen, yet it is not a common occurrence for hobbyists. It is a fact that clown loaches take years to ...

• Published: October 27, 2006, 8:15 am
• Displayed: 6277 times
• Preview: The Dwarf Gourami (Colisa lalia) Care, Breeding and Pictures Colisa lalia is a peaceful freshwater fish, also known as the “Dwarf Gourami”. Gourami is the name used for a big variety of perciform fish coming from Asia, especially India and Pakistan characterized by flat body and two elongated rays of pelvic fins used as sense of touch. Since they reach only 2 inches, they can be housed in small tanks and are a good fish for beginners because of their low aggressiveness, easy care and nice look. Males can be easily distinguished from females for their colours. The dwarf gourami male is a bit bigger than the female and has turquoise and orange-red iridescent vertical bands on the entire body and on fins; you can find also colour mutations with total orange-red body and turquoise dorsal fin, or total turquoise body with just some red at the edges of the fins. The dwarf gourami female is totally silver with pale turquoise vertical stripes. Colisa lalia can live in small groups or couples, both in dedicated or community aquariums. Males have some territorial habits especiall...

• Published: April 16, 2006, 1:58 am
• Displayed: 7185 times
• Preview: The Dwarf Gourami - Aquarium Setup and Proper Care Brief Description This is a guide on raising, feeding and breeding Dwarf gouramis; Simply scroll down and in case you can't find answer on your question, simply use a form at the bottom to ask us! You might be interested in visiting this page too: Dwarf gourami - Colisa lalia profile with forum. We've updated the Dwarf Gourami article and answered more questions below. A short excerpt of answered questions on this page (you might skip to the following paragraph) How much to feed a dwarf gourami, How to breed dwarf gouramis, How often do dwarf gourami breed, How to sex dwarf gouramis, How many dwarf gouramis can you keep together, How big do dwarf gouramis grow, How long do dwarf gouramis live, How to calm down my 2 male dwarf gouramis, How to look after dwarf gourami, How easy are dwarf gourami to keep. The Dwarf Gourami is one of the small members of the Gourami family. Males are a little bit larger than the females, reaching up to 6 cm. In the wild the male is very colorful while the female is less colored. There are several color va...

• Published: October 19, 2007, 9:03 pm
• Displayed: 1623 times
• Preview: The Essential Nitrogen Cycle - In Aquariumsby Tim Any fish tank, large or small, needs some way to control the waste products of your beloved fish. This can be done by several methods, from changing the water every day to expensive canister filters and sumps. Whatever you use in your tank, it is best to have some sort of filtration, purely to help reduce stress on the fish and yourself! Let`s look at the most common method of controlling waste, in the form of a filter. There are several categories of filters available, depending on the size of the tank and the types of fish you keep. But they all have one thing in common: Removal of ammonia and nitrites which can kill your fish. The way this is done is by supporting a bacteria culture in the filter media and pulling water through it. This media can be many different materials, from simple floss to ceramic rings, or even standard aquarium gravel! The material isn`t important, so long as it is there and works! That`s a very basic outline of how a filter works, but this isn`t to discuss the details of filters, but to h...

• Published: July 2, 2007, 4:59 am
• Displayed: 4020 times
• Preview: Raising Glass Bloodfin Tetras - Care & Forum Brief description This article explains how to take care of Glass bloodfin tetras including breeding, sexing, tank set-up and feeding; You're welcome to share your experiences at the bottom of this page, eventually you're welcome to ask question - we will gladly answer! Tank requirements and set-up This Tetra originates in South America, namely the Amazon river - in the inflow Maderia which means the natural environment for these fish is a tropical freshwater aquarium, preferably South American Blackwater Stream biotope. Speaking generally these tetras aren't very demanding, nor hard to keep, however they require stable conditions with general water hardness (dGH) of 10° and a little alkaline water with pH slightly over 7 (7.1 or 7.2 is just fine). I've kept Glass bloodfin tetras in acidid water with very negative results, they started turning white and kept dying slowly. When it comes to temperature, these tetras are very adaptable which means anything between 22 and 28°C is OK (72-82°F). As the note regarding biotope implies, Gla...

• Published: April 16, 2006, 2:06 am
• Displayed: 62271 times
• Preview: The Guppy fish – Guide on Breeding, Diet, Sexing, Care & Forum Guide by Susan, Professional breeder since 1996 Quick links - Answers »How to breed guppy fish »How to look after guppy fish »How to control guppy population »How big are guppies »How do guppy fish breed »How long do guppy fish live »How to feed guppy fish »How long can a guppy live out of water »How long does it take for guppy fry to mature »How much food to give to a guppy fish in a day »How much water does a guppy need »How warm should the tank be (or what is the most suitable temperature) »How does a guppy female look like »How many males per 1 guppy female should I keep Brief Description This is an ultimate guide on raising Guppies! With answers on common problems, pictures and care-related information! If you'd like to share your own experiences regarding keeping Guppies, let's check the bottom of this article where you can find a form fo...

• Published: April 15, 2008, 9:16 am
• Displayed: 636 times
• Preview: The Jewel Cichlid - Proper care, Sexing, Breeding & Forum Brief description This article offers information about raising Jewel cichlids including pictures, forum for sharing experiences and asking questions and links to other interesting webpages devoted to these cichlids. We'd love to hear about your Jewel cichlids; use a form at the bottom of this page to tell us your story, please! Also visit these pages: Jewel cichlid - Hemichromis bimaculatus profile with forum and Banded jewel cichlid - Hemichromis elongatus profile. The Hemichromis genus is the scientific name for the commonly known jewel cichlid of the cichlidae family in the aquarium industry. This name broadly includes common species such as H. peynei, H. lifalili, and H. gutattus all with subtle differences. One species can be easily mistakable for the next to the novice aquarist. The most common of all the jewel cichlid species is the Hemichromis bimaculatus which is characterized by two prominent black spots on each side of the body. There is a red variety and a blue variety of this species. Both colors possess tu...

• Published: January 4, 2007, 8:14 pm
• Displayed: 8255 times
• Preview: The Kissing Gourami (The Kissing fish) - CareBy Tim Gautrey Scientific Name Helostoma temmincki Common Name: Kissing Gourami Size Can grow up to 12 inches long (30 cm) pH 6 - 8 Temperature 72°F - 82°F (22°C - 28°C) Tank 50 gallons at least Origins South East Asia Breeding They require very large tanks, so breeding is rare. Compatibility Best kept in a species tank. Life expectancy In the correct environment, will live up to 7 years Diet Flakes, pellets, freeze dried and especially fond of live food. They can be territorial, especially at breeding times. It is good to get at least two so that when they are feeling aggressive they will chase each other around instead of their tank-mates. Due to their potential size, they need a large tank and would be best kept in at least a 75 gallon tank with plenty of plants and hiding places. If you must mix them, take care to select fish of a comparable size to avoid bullying. Don’t be tempted to put small fish in with them, they will eat them! sponsored li&#...

• Published: January 4, 2007, 7:42 pm
• Displayed: 4588 times
• Preview: Characteristics of the Kuhli Loach Brief description This page contains information necessary for raising Kuhli loaches and also offers forum under the article where we'd love to hear about your Kuhli loaches! Also visit the following page (will open in new tab/window): Kuhli loach - Pangio kuhlii profile! Feel free to ask questions too (via the form at the bottom)! Origin, body and aquarium Pangio Kuhlii (known as the Kuhli loach), a fish that grows up to 10-12 centimetres comes from Java and Borneo. In order to offer them some kind of natural habitat it's recommended to keep them in planted fish tanks. Their bodies are slimmer than bodies of "YoYo loaches, however if you kept YoYo's you would notice that areas without overgrown roots or plants are suitable for them more than jungles. Heavily planted tanks make it difficult to move backwards or to the sides. We would suggest an aquarium with different environment stages, which should include plains, driftwood and caves, and well planted places. If you achieve this set-up, they will be able to hide (which they do through days a lot),...

• Published: November 4, 2009, 5:02 pm
• Displayed: 160 times
• Preview: The Molly Care an article submitted by Exotic Aquariums There are actually two different species of fish that are collectively referred to as mollies; Poecilia sphenops and Poecilia velifera. Mollies are members of the familyPoecilidae which includes southern platyfish (the plati) and swordtails. They are native to the Americas. They can be found in the Southern U.S., Central and South America. Mollies are often found along coastal waters. As costal dwellers, they prefer a small amount of salt in their water. The standard recommendation ranges from one teaspoon to a tablespoon for every five gallons. Split the difference and play it safe. If you only have experience with freshwater fish you should be aware of the fact that salt does not evaporate with the water. You will only need to add more salt during water changes. Iodized table salt can kill your fish. Use only aquarium salt. Interestingly enough, mollies can be found for sale in both the fresh and salt water sections of fish stores. Mollies can survive either or both if acclimated slowly to their new environment. Mollies co...

• Published: April 10, 2008, 10:54 am
• Displayed: 706 times
• Preview: The Pacu Fish - Guide on care, Pictures & Forum(A Red Belly Pacu) Brief description This page is devoted to raising Pacu fish in fish tanks, or garden ponds, and is also a place for sharing experiences and asking questions! We'd love to hear about your Pacu's, so before leaving this page send us your story, please - use a form that is at the bottom of this page for this purpose. You should also visit following pages: Black pacu - Colossoma macropomum profile with forum and Red bellied pacu - Piaractus brachypomus profile and forum. One of the first fish I ever owned was a Red Belly Pacu. I first noticed them because of their natural look and exciting swimming behavior. Especially after a meal, they would chase each other around the tank almost as if they were playing a game of tag. Moving through the water you can really see that they are powerful swimmers and enjoy room to play with other Pacus in the tank. When first introduced into the tank you might notice their skittish behavior when it comes to sudden movements around the tank. Much like their piranha cousins, Pacus l...

• Published: March 1, 2008, 3:48 pm
• Displayed: 774 times
• Preview: About ammonia test kits, What to test for in an aquarium, Test example & Forum Brief Description This article is an easy-to-follow guide on testing aquarium water, and also contains real case of performing NO2 test with results (nitrites are a product of decomposition of ammonia by nitrification bacteria). We also list answers on this page and in case your question isn't covered on this page yet, you're welcome to ask us at the bottom of this page! Sharing experiences is welcome too! Here's a short excerpt of what the Ammonia test kit article contains (feel free to skip to the next paragraph now) ; How long will fish live ammonia-high environment, How long will the bacteria stay alive in my aquarium if there is no source of ammonia, How much will high ammonia levels shorten a fish's life, What will bring ammonia level down in a freshwater fish aquarium, Will .25 ppm ammonia kill my fish, Will algae grow with high ammonia levels, Will ammonia be present while nitrates are high in my tank, Will ammonia levels drop in overstocked aquarium, Will Christmas moss eat ammonia in fish t...

• Published: January 19, 2007, 9:16 am
• Displayed: 28047 times
• Preview: Purpose of aquarium filters, types, media & advantages and disadvantages with forumBy Tim Gautrey Short introduction Most of Aqua-Fish.Net's visitors visit this page because 1) they want to learn how aquarium filters work and they'd like to get an overview on filtration, or 2) they want to purchase aquarium filters. Before you purchase any filter for your fish tank you should know what type of filter is most suitable, this is the reason why this article was published. Once you're finished reading information and want to purchase aquarium filter online, feel free to click this link and you'll be forwarded to a list of websites that sell filters online! You're also welcome to ask about filtration of fish tanks, simply use the form at the bottom of this page! To clean the water of debris and suspended particles, remove ammonia and nitrites and aerate the water. How does it work? Most aquarium filters are divided into three sections: Biological, Mechanical and Chemical. Biological. An aquarium filter is a breeding ground for two main types of bacteria. This is not some...

• Published: September 8, 2006, 2:15 am
• Displayed: 7783 times
• Preview: Aquarium Thermometers - Instructions, Suppliers, FAQ and Forum Brief Description If you came here searching for online suppliers of aquarium thermometers, simply follow this link! The article below is dedicated to using fish tank thermometers and answers questions that have been asked by our visitors. In case you cannot find answer on your question below, use a form at the bottom of this page and we'll answer! A short excerpt of what's covered here (feel free to skip to the next paragraph): How to read aquarium thermometer, Most accurate aquarium thermometer, Strip thermometer placement in a fish tank, How to install aquarium thermometer, Aquarium thermometer accuracy, Aquarium thermometer size, How to use aquarium thermometer, Advantage and the disadvantage of digital thermometer, Aquarium heater and thermometer not the same thing?, Aquarium thermometer is broken, will fish be okay?, Are aquarium thermometers accurate in reptile tanks, Can I put an aquarium thermometer inside the water have been answered already. When it comes to keeping your tropical freshwater aquarium maintained and...

• Published: July 17, 2008, 10:15 am
• Displayed: 592 times
• Preview: Rainbow Shark - Care, Behaviour, Feeding & Forum These pictures were provided by Mihail of Romania. Brief description This page is dedicated to raising Rainbow sharks, the main focus is forum with questions, answers and experiences! We'd love to hear about your Rainbow shark, so before leaving this page tell us your story - a form for this purpose can be found at the bottom of this page. A short summary of requirements of Rainbow sharks can be found here: Labeo frenatus profile with pictures. The Rainbow Shark is a freshwater fish of the cyprinidae family. Rainbow Sharks come in two different varieties: The Epalzeorhynchos frenatum which is gray with orange fins and the Epalzeorhynchos munense or the Albino Rainbow Shark, which is white with orange fins. The E. frenatum was once called Labeo frenatus; the name has since been corrected but some people still use the old name to describe the Rainbow Shark. Physical Description: Rainbow Sharks are long and slender with their mouths turned down-ward for bottom feeding, and two pairs of barbels for feeling their way ...

• Published: April 7, 2008, 2:47 pm
• Displayed: 788 times
• Preview: Red Belly Piranha - Proper Care, Breeding, Feeding & Forum Special thanks to Richard Smith for pictures Brief description This article covers all aspects of raising Red bellied piranhas; From diet to tank size and environment, all with large forum under the article! We'd love to hear about your piranhas, so submit your story at the bottom of this page, please! Also visit these pages (they will open in new window/tab): Piranha Fish - Information and large forum and Red bellied piranha - Pygocentrus nattereri profile. When someone says piranha, the first thing that comes to mind is often the red churning water over prey that has entered the fish’s territory. It is truly astonishing how a large mammal can turn into nothing in the blink of an eye once it hits piranha infested waters. A vicious fish yes, but just as any other aquarium pet, the piranha species demands extreme care and attention. Picture of Red bellied Piranha The most notorious of the species, the Red Belly Piranha (Pygocentrus nattereri) lives in the wild hunting together in schools that can rea...

• Published: January 4, 2007, 10:29 am
• Displayed: 10596 times
• Preview: The Silver Shark (Bala Shark)By Tim Gautrey Brief description This page answers questions about raising Silver sharks in fish tanks - and if you cannot find answer on your question on this page, we'll gladly answer; All you have to do is fill the form at the bottom of this page! You should also visit these pages: Bala shark - Balantiocheilos melanopterus profile with forum and Bala shark care! Characteristic and tank requirements Scientific Name Balantiocheilos melanopterus Common Names Bala Shark, Silver Shark Size Up to 13 inches long (33 cm) pH: 6 - 8 Temperature: 22°C - 28°C, I have known them to be quite happy in much cooler waters. Water Hardness: 5° to 12° dH, Lifespan: 8 - 10 years Origin: South East Asia Temperament, breeding, compatibility, feeding, pictures & final word Temperament Peaceful and can be kept with smaller fish. However, will eat fish if they are small enough to take in their mouths Breeding Breeding is rare in the home aquarium due to their size. Tank 75 gallons minimum. Compatibility Will get o...

• Published: September 21, 2006, 1:57 am
• Displayed: 8177 times
• Preview: The Skinny on Wall Mounted Aquariums, Forum and Suppliers Brief Description Just like many of our articles, on October 13th 2010 we updated the Wall Mounted Aquariums article too! In order to make your experience better, the article about wall mounted aquarium now answers the following questions too; Are wall mounted aquariums cruel, Best fish for a wall mounted aquarium, Cost to install a wall mounted fish tank, Do wall mounted aquariums require a lot of maintenance, How does a wall mounted fish tank work, Pet stores selling wall mounted aquariums. Aquariums can be found in all shapes and sizes. For those of you who think you don’t have room in your home or office for an aquarium, but would love to have one, you should consider purchasing a wall mounted aquarium. Wall mounted aquariums take up no floor space, and are also a good way to keep children’s little fingers out of the tank. Wall mounted aquariums are also known as portrait or wall aquariums. Wall mounted aquariums come in a number of sizes, so you are sure to be able to find one to suit your needs. You can install your wall moun...

• Published: January 16, 2007, 2:47 am
• Displayed: 11708 times
• Preview: The Swordtail fish - Care, Breeding, Feeding & Forum Males Females Brief Description An article explaining how to care for swordtail fish with pictures and friendly forum that contains real questions and answers. Feel free to visit the following page too: Swordtial profile with forum (it will open in new tab/window). We'd love to hear about your experiences regarding raising Swordtails, so once you're finished reading the below-shown article leave us a message at the bottom of this page, please! The questions that have been answered here include (now you might skip to the following paragraph) How much water does a swordtail fish need, How big do swordtails get, How long do swordtail fish live, How to breed swordtail fish, How do swordtail fish mate, How often should you feed a swordtail fish, How a swordtail adapts, but there are more answers of course - almost everything regarding raising Swordtails! Xiphophorus hellerii - Swordtailfish is a favourite aquarium live-bearer fish. Generally, this specie is considered a suitable tropical fish for beginners, but it...

• Published: January 17, 2007, 11:08 am
• Displayed: 10089 times
• Preview: The underrated GoldfishBy Tim Gautrey Profile Scientific Name Carassius auratus Common Names Goldfish, various other names Size 1” to 36” dependant on environment pH 6 - 8 Temperature 4°C - 28°C, I have known them to be quite happy in much cooler waters. Water Hardness dGH 4 - 18 Lifespan 5 - 20 years Origin China Temperament Peaceful. Will tolerate most fish of similar size. Breeding Difficult to breed in an aquarium, as they need temperature changes to trigger sporning. They breed in the spring, when the water warms after a long period of cold. This is very difficult to imitate in aquaria. Tank Anything from 1 gallon upwards Compatibility Will get on well with almost any fish large enough not to be considered as food! Diet Almost any foods, flake, frozen, fresh and live. Other information Goldfish are some of the most underrated fish on the planet. Originally from China, the Chinese have bred them for centuries. They are the most adaptable and hardy fish to ever come into the aquarium. ...

• Published: July 3, 2008, 10:24 am
• Displayed: 426 times
• Preview: Yoyo loach (Botia almorhae) care Brief description This page is an ultimate guide on raising Yoyo loaches with information about diet, behaviour and recommended tank set-up. Also visit this page (will open in new tab/window): YoYo loach - Botia almorhae which is a profile of Yoyo loach. In case your questions aren't answered below, use form at the bottom of this page and we'll answer! Sharing experiences and tips on raising these fish is welcome too. Botia Almorhae has several common names, yoyo loach, Pakistani loach, Almora loach and even its scientific name has changed recently from Botia Lochata to the above. The common name yoyo loach is derived from the fact that on its body, with some individuals the markings actually spells out the word “yoyo”. This strange phenomenon never seems to occur with juvenile fish, the strange markings only develop with the fish maturing. This loach belongs to the family Cobitidae and is found in the slow moving waters of India and Pakistan. This is what gives it the other common name Pakistani loach. They can reach a size of up to 6 inches in the wil...

• Published: October 29, 2008, 3:42 am
• Displayed: 326 times
• Preview: Things to know about Aquarium Chillers In this article I`m going to answer the most common questions regarding aquarium chillers, their usage, purpose, advantages and disadvantages. These questions have been compiled from questions asked by our previous visitors. What is the purpose of an aquarium chiller? To chill the water in an aquarium. Read below why some fish need this. Although I mention fish only, corals or live rocks need stable temperature too. And some freshwater plants are sensible to dramatic temperature changes too. Do I need an aquarium chiller? Well... It depends on the type of your aquarium. If it`s a marine fish tank, then it is very likely that one needs a chiller. This results from the fact that saltwater fish live in waters with very stable temperature (unlike freshwater species). Unless you live in a country where the average yearly temperature stays below 20°C (even in rooms; which is not likely), it is not necessary to buy an aquarium chiller. The second possibility when one needs a cooler is a coldwater fish tank. Some fish species (especially sm...

• Published: December 22, 2006, 7:11 am
• Displayed: 5150 times
• Preview: What to focus on when choosing the first aquarium This article was written in order to help people who would like to buy the first aquarium and need advice. First of all you should decide how big you want your aquarium, the first mistakes people usually do are: choosing a too much small tank and overpopulating it; both big and small aquariums have pro and cons, value them all and then choose your solution. Most of time aquarium shops staff can help you in your choice, but sometimes they tend to suggest you more products than those you really need. Small or big aquarium If you already have in your mind what fish you would like to have, choose the aquarium big enough according to their necessities. Most of time anyway beginners do not have any idea at all, so you can decide the aquarium size thinking about the free room you have to place it, or how much money you want to spend. A too much small aquarium has two major problems: chemical values tend to fluctuate, even dangerously, due the small amount of water, poor filtration and fish overpopulation; moreover beginners usuall...

• Published: March 26, 2008, 4:38 pm
• Displayed: 671 times
• Preview: Tips on Aquarium Backgrounds & Forum Brief description This page describes aquarium backgrounds - options that fish keepers are given along with advantages and disadvantages. If you came here searching for online suppliers of aquarium backgrounds, simply follow this link. You should also visit the following 2 pages: Aquarium Backgrounds Guide and DIY Aquarium Backgrounds. We'd love to hear what background you use in your fish tanks, so before leaving this page share your story - use a form at the bottom of this page, please! What can you do with the back of an aquarium? There are many answers to this question, form cheap to expensive, from plain to very decorative. Let`s look at the options. Firstly, we should start with the cheapest, and very often the best. If the aquarium is against a wall, and most are, you have several options: Leave it as it is, with the wall showing through the tank;Paint the back of the tankStick on one of the many patterned backgrounds that are available in your local fish stores;Build a decorative background inside the tank;Buy a decorative back...

• Published: June 26, 2006, 3:38 pm
• Displayed: 6208 times
• Preview: Feeding your aquarium fish - Types of foods, nutriments, videos and forum Brief description This page describes how to feed aquarium fish properly; With focus on nutriments and types of foods. The article points at video links too. You're welcome to share your experiences or ask questions at the bottom of this page! Buy Artemia from Artemia USA! Fish, like other animals, need balanced food which consists of proteins, fat, vitamins, minerals and carbohydrates. Most aquarium fish are fed onindustrial food, which has the form of flakes or granules. But you shouldfeed them with natural food also. Unbalanced food can cause health problems in the tank. But carefully customized food can play a main role in resistance against infections and illness. The general rule is to feed small amounts frequently. Usually it is an amount which is swallowed in two or three minutes two or three times a day. After few weeks there should be a day, when you don`t feed your fish. It`s always better leave fish a little bit hungry, because some part of the food, which is given to the fish until it is ...

• Published: October 6, 2006, 10:58 am
• Displayed: 7791 times
• Preview: Tips on Freshwater Aquariums - Requirements of Fish Species Nowadays more and more people have aquariums and aquarium fish. It is because fish don`t need much space, they don`t make mess in the house, they don`t destroy the furniture, they are silent, they don`t need any attention and they need only food a few times a day. And aquariums are very nice in the house. There is one thing about the aquarium, that not many people know: aquariums humidify the air and so you will be healthier. And aquariums are not good only for your physical health but for your mental health too. If you are stressed, there is no better thing like watching on those peaceful creatures as they are swimming around. Having an aquarium is like having a piece of underwater world in your living room. But if you want to have a realy good looking aquarium, you have to know about the needs of your fish and plants. People usually get their fish in special stores. But they mostly don`t ask about fish, they are buying, so they don`t know what the fish requires. I know only sellers, who say something about any fish only if ...

• Published: January 14, 2006, 2:20 am
• Displayed: 7340 times
• Preview: To filter or not to filter, that is the question (this article was taken from aquarticles.com - free aquarium articles) By John Fichtl (not Shakespeare) The question of filtering comes up on a daily basis on most forums. Which one is the best, cheapest, most efficient? etc. The answers are very diverse. Some people have nothing but undergravel filters and swear by them. Other couldn`t live without their Eheims. Then comes the DIY person. Mind boggling. Now along comes a fellow who will open the eyes of most. Who?... Me. The Undergravel Filter. Let`s start with the trusty old undergravel filter. They are easy to install - in an empty aquarium that is - cheap to run, and hardly any maintenance...that`s what most people think. All the dirt in your water sinks to the bottom, or is slightly sucked down. The gravel acts as the filter medium. The outcome; seemingly clean water. What happened to the dirt? Where did it go? It is still there inside and underneath the gravel. It is like sweeping the dirt under the carpet. Room looks clean. But is it? - No. The same with undergravel filters. ...

• Published: April 14, 2008, 10:32 pm
• Displayed: 512 times
• Preview: Tropheus species - Aquarium Care The genus “Tropheus” is a very popular cichlid found in Lake Tanganyika. Lake Tanganyika is located in central Africa, and is known to be the second deepest lake in the world. Below the surface of the lake live over 600 species, and among them are Tropheus. Tropheus are not a fish I would recommend for a beginner aquarist. They are very demanding and require a lot of attention not only with the food you feed them, but with the habitat you create for them in your aquarium. Tropheus are very aggressive and should be kept in large numbers. With my personal experience I have found that the aggression is kept to a minimum if you are female heavy and provide lots of rock work for them to seek shelter. In the wild, Tropheus are found throughout rocky habitats, all over Lake Tanganyika. They feed on algae, andother vegetation that may grow on the rocks. They can be seen in schools of more than one Tropheus species feeding together, although it is not recommended that you keep more than one Tropheus species together in the same aquarium because of hybridization. ...

• Published: March 5, 2010, 1:38 am
• Displayed: 164 times
• Preview: Tropical Fish for Beginners Brief description This article lists fish that are easy to keep, however it also contains a list of answered questions that newbies ask the most. You're welcome to share ideas, experiences or ask questions at the bottom of this page! In all of my years of fish keeping there is always one question that I am repeatedly asked, “I am new to fish keeping, which fish should I start with?” This question can be answered easily and if the initial stocking of the tank is correct it will make the hobby enjoyable from the start and a lot of the initial stress can be avoided, it is often the initial tank set up that goes horribly wrong and makes a lot of people leave the hobby before they have really gotten into it. Before we can even consider buying fish we must make sure that we are starting off with a fully cycled tank, even hardy fish will struggle in an tank that hasn`t been cycled. During the cycling period we have time to look at our options of which fish to keep and spend a bit of time going around the aquatic stores looking at the fish and askin...

• Published: July 13, 2006, 4:41 pm
• Displayed: 16290 times
• Preview: Fish and Setup of Tropical Freshwater Community Aquarium The goal of most aquariums is to capture the look of natural environs characteristic for specific parts of the world. Fish and plants in such aquariums are usually the kind that would live in these environs in nature. But the goal of community aquarium is different – it is to create a collection of plants and fish, which get on well together, but they don’t need to be from the same place. Such a tank is attractive because you can mix species from all around the World in it. That is why aquarists do not look further than a really good community aquarium. Before you launch into a community aquarium think carefully about what you want to reach and provide for adequate preparation. The first goal of a community aquarium should be creating stable, healthy and comfortable environs for many species of fish. Arrange the aquarium in an attractive way, so it will give an impressive and original look. The tradition is to situate fish and plants from various environs into the community aquarium, which will probably settle into various parts of ...

• Published: August 22, 2008, 10:38 pm
• Displayed: 359 times
• Preview: Algae in fish tanks(an article that describes types of algae, and how to get rid of them - natural and other ways) Green algae There are over 7,000 species of green algae, most of them being unicellular or filamentous freshwater species. Brackish and marine species also exist, so green algae can live in such aquariums as well. Green algae are often a beneficial part of the ecosystem in the aquarium and should ideally not be vigorously eliminated. It can for instance serve as food for various inhabitants and help you keep the water quality stable by binding organic waste. There is however situations where you need to do something about the green algae, e.g. when it suddenly starts to grow much faster than normally. If you wish to control green algae growth in the aquarium, you need to control light and nutrients. Green algae carry out photosynthesis and will therefore grow much faster when provided with plenty of light. Ideally place your aquarium in a spot where it receives no direct sun-light and do not let the aquarium lighting be on for more than 12 hours per day. When it c...

• Published: February 18, 2008, 3:36 pm
• Displayed: 611 times
• Preview: Aquarium Filter Cartridges - Types, Purpose and Average Lifespan of Filter Cartridges Every lover of keeping fish in an aquarium will know that proper filtration is one of the principal keys to success and enjoyment. Anything less than 100% efficient filtration will lead to unclear and foul smelling water, and will be detrimental to health of the fish in the tank as well as being generally unpleasant for all those in the general vicinity of the aquarium. For this reason any self respecting aquarium owner, either in a domestic or commercial application, should spend the time and the money to ensure that they have the best of filtration equipment available. The smaller and less sophisticated aquariums used a fairly primitive form of water filtration that was housed in a small container that was hung in the corner of the tank. This was the first and at one time the only form of filtration available for aquariums and is still in use today for smaller aquariums. Basically inexpensive and simple to install, the “corner filter” was basically a plastic container filled with a basic f...

• Published: March 30, 2007, 6:05 am
• Displayed: 6973 times
• Preview: Food for Aquarium Fish - Pictures, Types, Tips & Forum Brief description This article explains what to feed various species of fish and also informs about types of fish food; We also attached a long list of FAQ with answers to the article. Feel free to share experiences or ask us in case your question isn't covered here yet! Feeding freshwater tropical fish is obviously very important part of fishkeeping in general. Depending on species which you keep, it`s necessary to find the most suitable food due to following reasons: 1) Prevent diseases in the tank, 2) Help your fish to be active, 3) Make your fish well-coloured, 4) Stimulate breeding, 5) Proper fry growth. Division into groups Generally, fish food can be divided into 2 basic groups; Live-food and „Lifeless“ food. However, this doesn`t mean your fish require one kind of food only. Bear in mind that every species eat differently which is the result of various factors including, but not limiting to it`s locality, momentary season, it`s place in the food chain, size, feeding habits, etc. Even th...

• Published: November 15, 2007, 12:30 pm
• Displayed: 1431 times
• Preview: Aquarium Gravel: Old fashioned, or just overlooked? Brief description In case you'd like to purchase aquarium gravel, simply click this link (it will open in new window)! The article below informs about types of aquarium gravel and answers most asked questions. You're welcome to share your experiences or ask questions at the bottom of this page! Aquarium gravel has been the staple substrate for fish tanks and aquariums for many years, but is it still popular, still needed, or just something that we use because it’s simple? The answer to this is complex. Aquariums have become works of art in the last few years, ranging from simple ornament displays to heavily planted and beautiful aquaria. Because of the change in opinions about fish keeping and the desire to explore new avenues of design and appearance, gravel has been replaced by hi-tech substrates in many aquariums. Products like Flourite, which are enhanced with nutrients to sustain plants have become more common, sand has become a very common substrate in aquaria because of the ease with rooting plants, and substrates like marbles ...

• Published: April 24, 2008, 8:50 am
• Displayed: 884 times
• Preview: Aquarium Snails - Introduction and Types of Aquarium Snails Introduction This article is focused on snails that can be found in fish tanks the most; With FAQ, pictures and forum. You're welcome to share your experiences regarding keeping aquatic snails at the bottom of this page. You should also visit the following articles (they will open in new tab/window): Mystery snails with user experiences and forum, Ramshorn snails with forum! Aquarium snails are animals that are amphibious which means they can live both on land and in water. This kind of snails are mollusks, meaning they are animals that have neither a skeleton nor an exoskeleton, so they have adapted another form of protection for their soft bodies. This protection comes from a single, spiral shaped shell into which they can draw themselves inward at any sign of danger. The fact that aquarium snails have just one single shell classifies them as gastropods. The snail’s shell which is made of calcium carbonate grows as the snail grows. Just as humans need calcium for strong teeth and bones, snails need calcium for a strong o...

• Published: March 19, 2008, 9:07 pm
• Displayed: 535 times
• Preview: Decorations for Fish Tanks - Suppliers & Guide Brief description This article lists types of aquarium decorations and explains the purpose of each of them. However if you'd like to purchase decorations online, simply click this link (it will open in new window)! There's a forum at the bottom in case you'd like to ask questions or share experiences! Aquarium decorations come in many shapes and sizes and vary enormously in price. For the purpose of this guide, I will group them into several categories: Plastic and Silk Plants;Plastic/fibreglass ornamentsCeramic ornamentsNovelty ornamentsDecorative substratesNatural decorative ornamentsReal plants Plastic or Silk Plants: Most of us have bought these type of plants, usually when we first start into the hobby. This is mainly because they are quick, simple and maintenance free. They also give you a finished result immediately. Some fish can be destructive too, and real plants don`t last long in tanks with these fish. Goldfish are very well known for eating live plants and at best, uprooting them, so silk and plastic pla...

• Published: May 13, 2008, 11:40 am
• Displayed: 383 times
• Preview: Species of plants for fish ponds and types of pond plants One of the most pleasing aspects of pond keeping is seeing a well balanced variety of plant life. Not only do they look pleasing to the eye, but they play a major part in water quality, oxygenating and removing nitrates from the water. There is a vast array to choose from, but basically the planting method for them follows the same guidelines. Always check the planting depths that your selection of plants requires. These do vary with each species, so to get the best from them research each plant. For a good balance of plants go for floating leafed ones, as well as submerged species. Your floating leafed plants should cover approx 50% of your water surface; this will prevent too much light reaching the bottom of your pond, which in turn will reduce the chances of algae growing out of control. Water lilies Never use normal compost in your baskets, always use aquatic compost, and never order them until you are ready to plant. Spring is the ideal planting time, and then good growth should be achiev...

• Published: May 11, 2008, 10:10 pm
• Displayed: 472 times
• Preview: Fluorescent Aquarium Lighting - Types and Specifications Aquarium lighting is very important to the basic function of an aquarium and its inhabitants. Originally, aquarists utilized aquarium lighting as accessories with which to observe but lights have proven to be far more useful than that. Plants benefit from specific regions of the light spectrum resulting in enhanced growth. Corals and invertebrates feed on algae that gain support from light for their photosynthetic processes. The colors of fish are enhanced by the warm end of the color spectrum allowing their natural colors to stand out. Fish rely on light to influence their mood and behavior making light a vitally important feature in the maintenance of their health. Different lights sources are available in a wide spectrum of colors and brightness, customizable to fit the needs of your aquarium. Light naturally gives off heat which is one of the things you need to take into consideration when choosing the correct lighting system. Fluorescent lights run coolest and are by far the most efficient to utilize. Fluorescent light bulbs ...

• Published: March 8, 2008, 10:30 am
• Displayed: 537 times
• Preview: Cichlid Food - Facts and Types of Food for Cichlids There are a large number of cichlids sold and bred in the aquarium industry today. Just as these cichlids can be diverse, so are their eating habits and needs. This is why the foods they are fed come in all different shapes and forms. In the aquarium industry it is highly recommended that you feed your cichlids a variety of foods to keep them well balanced and healthy. This helps to promote growth as well as reproduction and it improves the color and quality of your fish. Cichlids all have the same basic needs despite their difference of original habitats. They all need to get the maximum amount of nutrition through the various foods they eat. Facts: There are over 1300 different species of cichlid discovered from freshwater bodies around the globe. Most of these come from the lakes and rivers found in Africa and South America, but others are also found in Asia and Central America. There are some species of cichlids that are herbivores meaning they eat only vegetable matter such as algae and plants. Some cichlids are Carnivore...

• Published: April 29, 2008, 10:15 pm
• Displayed: 541 times
• Preview: Feeding your fish frozen fish food - Types and Tips Brief description This page describes types of frozen food that can be aquarium fish fed, and shares several tips that every fish keeper should know. In case your question or specific problem isn't answered/explained on this page, leave us a message via form that is at the bottom of this page, please! Sharing experiences is welcome too! An important part of satisfying your fish’s diet is variety. Just to feed them flake every meal, not only deprives them of some important vitamins, but can also bore the fish into not eating. Nowadays there are so many options on the market to buy that it makes sense to keep in a stock of flake, frozen, and in some cases live foods. The advantages of feeding frozen are not just the extra vitamins, but it can also make your fish a lot more colorful and energetic, swimming happily around the tank. A lot of digestive problems can occur by just feeding flake or pellet foods, which can then lead onto other problems as the fish will become constipated. The price of frozen food is slightly more th...

• Published: April 8, 2008, 9:43 am
• Displayed: 616 times
• Preview: The Gourami Species Characteristics Brief description This page is devoted to Gouramis, describes their demands and habits. There's a forum under the article where you can ask or share experiences. A very common freshwater fish is the gourami which is diversely represented in the aquarium industry under the belontiidae, osphronemidae and helostomidae families. These fish come from waters through out Asia and Africa including oxygen poor roadside ditches and rice paddies. They all fall under the category of labyrinth fish because of their ability to breathe oxygen from the atmosphere above the water. There are many types of gouramis bred for the aquatic hobby and they range in a wide variety of sizes, colors, and temperament. Despite all the different variations, most gouramis are quite adaptable to different water conditions of temperature, hardness, and pH level. Optimum water conditions are wide ranged from soft to hard, 72-82ºF and a pH range of 5.5-7.5. One very prominent trait that most gouramis possess is their long, skinny pelvic fins. They are used like antennas...

• Published: July 16, 2008, 12:17 pm
• Displayed: 439 times
• Preview: Types and proper lighting for plants grown in aquariums One of the biggest debates that have been going on for years is “what is the correct lighting for my planted tank”. Basically there is no easy answer to this question. It is a proven fact that fish are a lot happier in a planted tank, their coloration will stand out more and they will feel a lot more secure than if they were being kept in an unplanted tank so getting the plants to grow successfully is well worth while. So lets take one step backwards from the original question and ask why plants need the lighting in the first place. Plants grow by a process called photosynthesis, this is a complicated process in itself so let me try to explain how it works. Photosynthesis is the process where plants need to convert carbon dioxide gas and water into cell building glucose and oxygen. In nature the equation for this is:- 6CO2 + 6H2O + sunlight = C6H12O6 + 6O2 Looking at the equation it may still seem baffling but quite simply it means that in daylight the plants soak up the CO2 produced by the fish respiration p...

• Published: January 18, 2007, 12:15 pm
• Displayed: 5097 times
• Preview: Lighting for Freshwater Aquariums - Necessary for Aquarium Plants Brief description This page is devoted to fish tank lighting, answers FAQ, and offers forum for asking and sharing ideas. If you came here looking for online suppliers of aquarium lighting, simply click this link! Bear in mind you're welcome to submit story of your aquarium at the bottom of this page! Simply scroll down and you'll find answers on your questions! There are two main ways to light up an aquarium, using a neon tube system or a HQL (metal halide lamps) system. Illumination is really important for the aquarium, not only for plants but also for every animal that lives inside; lamps do not provide only the simple lighting, but gives the power needed for a lot of biological and chemical operations. Planning the right illumination for your aquarium, you could think that recreating the sun spectrum (that is the same light of the one produced by sun) is the most important goal to reach; however this is not right, because animals and plants living in different waters, receive the sunlight in different ways (think...

• Published: June 27, 2008, 11:40 pm
• Displayed: 424 times
• Preview: Cichlids from lake Malawi - Care, Species, Tips & Forum Brief description This article describes taking care of Malawi cichlids as a whole including breeding, dietary needs and tank set-up. Use a form at the bottom to share experiences regarding keeping Malawi cichlids or simply ask us in case your question isn't answered below yet. Keeping Malawi cichlids is definitely not for the faint hearted fish keeper. They are all aggressive species, but if kept in the correct conditions can provide hours of entertainment watching go about their daily life. All of the Malawi species originate from one place, Lake Malawi in Africa. It is one of three rift lakes in Africa, the other two being Lake Victoria and Lake Tanganyika, but the amazing thing is that Lake Malawi is almost entirely inhabited by cichlids, the other two hosts a variety of fish. There are more than 600 species of cichlids in this lake and they are endemic to it, you will not find them anywhere else in the world. Some keepers will divide the fish into smaller groups, but to me there are only two groups, mbuna...

• Published: May 15, 2008, 9:56 pm
• Displayed: 409 times
• Preview: Pond lighting types Brief Description The updated Pond Lighting article now also contains more information and more answers such as Direct sunlight and ponds, Do fish in a large fish pond need sunlight, Fish for ponds that like bright sunlight, Fish pond and underwater aquarium lights, Is it okay to have fish ponds in direct sunlight. Feel free to ask too if you haven't found answer on your question; Check the bottom part of this page! All pond keepers enjoy relaxing around the pond in the daytime, marveled by their creation, but why not add pond lighting to extend a daytime pond into an evening viewing ponds as well. There are many types of lighting on the market today, the choice is endless but once installed pond lighting can create a wonderful sight in your garden. For all electric systems, we must be aware that they need to be installed safely, and if need be use a qualified electrician for connecting your pond lighting to the power source. Better safe than sorry. Of course there is always natural lighting that hits your pond most days of the year and this is produced by th...

• Published: August 6, 2007, 10:46 pm
• Displayed: 3802 times
• Preview: Under Gravel filter CleaningBy Tim Gautrey (---reprinted with permissions---) Most people complain about the cleaning of UGFs and their effectiveness after a while. It involves taking the tank down, re-locating the fish, plants, ornaments etc., emptying the gravel out and cleaning it, lifting the UGF and washing it off, (holding your nose while doing this), scrubbing the tank itself and rinsing it out and then putting the whole lot back together, re-cycling and then putting the fish back in. I have found a solution to this chore that is simple, easy, quick and completely safe and stress less for the fish and the human. It does not involve pulling the tank apart, unsettling plants or even removing the fish! (You might want to take out small ones though, just to be sure). What you need A wet/dry vacuum, preferably the bottle type with adjustable power; A hose adaptor to fit onto the UGF riser pipe and the cleaner hose; (You may have to make this beforehand); About five minutes of your time! What you do: Remove the cap and air stone or power-head from the UGF riser...

• Published: February 26, 2008, 1:08 pm
• Displayed: 615 times
• Preview: Aquarium airline - What is it and examples A key component in a properly constructed aquarium which may seem totally insignificant but actually plays a vital part is the aquarium airline. As aquarists take fish from rivers, lakes and oceans, and place them in an aquarium tank, part of the object is to create an environment for them that will allow the fish to thrive. It is very difficult to recreate the exact environment that the fish enjoyed when not in “captivity”. It is impossible to recreate the large, even unlimited, surface areas that the fish had to live in, but at least it should be possible to recreate most of the conditions that they enjoyed within a limited area. As we all know, fish need oxygen to be introduced into the water to survive, and they also exhale carbon dioxide which needs to be expelled from the water for the sake of the fish’s health. This means that proper circulation in the tank is highly important, and this needs to be done through the process of aeration. In addition the air that is injected into the tank has to be very evenly distributed and this can on...

• Published: September 23, 2006, 1:26 pm
• Displayed: 4247 times
• Preview: Activated carbon - The purpose in a fish tank & Online suppliers Brief Description Click this link and you'll be forwarded to a list of online suppliers of aquarium activated carbon. The Activated Carbon article has been updated in order to answer more questions, all of them have been asked by our website's visitors. In case you cannot find answer on your question below, use a form at the bottom of this article and ask! We will answer! A short excerpt of already answered questions (you might skip to the following paragraph now): Best activated carbon, Purpose of an aquarium carbon, Too much carbon in a fish tank, Carbon filter vs foam filter, Aquarium filter with no carbon, Do I need carbon in my aquarium, Why do I need carbon in my fish tank, Activated carbon impurities, Carbon filter vs. internal power filter, Is activate carbon bad for fish, Old carbon in a fish tank, Where to put activated carbon in an aquarium, Why does activated carbon need to be in flowing water. How activated carbon media work For many years, carbon has been used as an agent to remove impurities from air ...

• Published: September 2, 2006, 4:03 pm
• Displayed: 5508 times
• Preview: Canister filters and aquarium use - with forum Brief description If you came here searching for online suppliers of canister filters, simply click this link! The article below explains how canister filters work and contains forum. You're welcome to share your experiences or questions at the bottom of this page! As words „canister filter“ say, this equipment is used for filtration in aquariums. But why are they good, what are their advantages and disadvantages? Firstly, let me say that this kind of filters are used for both, biological and mechanical filtration. Canister aquarium filters are very robust and powerful, but you should clean them periodically. You should bear in mind that filters which are installed for aquariums with a lot of waste must be cleaned often, because filthiness in the water flow could cause fish diseases. Some sources say that you should clean canister filters once a week, some sources say that once per 5 months is enough. I strongly recommend you to clean it when it`s needed. For example, I've been using internal filters and I clean them if only they don`t aerate t...

• Published: January 13, 2007, 10:06 pm
• Displayed: 4103 times
• Preview: Growing Vallisneria Spiralis and Anubias Nana in your aquarium and requirements of these aquarium plants Pictures of Anubias nana Previous article notice Original article about Jaguar Cichlid was replaced with article about plants. If you came to this page looking for previous information, simply follow this link. Article People who want to grow aquarium plants are usually excited when they see nicely planted tanks with numerous plants species inside. My personal experiences say that less is sometimes more and that a man may achieve interesting layout with very few species. Currently I am focusing on growing Vallisneria Spiralis, Vallisneria Gigantea and Anubias Nana. Introduction My initial goal was to have two types of tanks; Planted one and rocky one. Nevertheless both of my aquariums look different now. If you're a beginner, you'll end up in a similar way just like me. Dealers will sell you ten or twenty different plants, you'll put them into the tank and as time goes by, 50% or even more will die, or will not reproduce at all. This fast is caused by differ...

• Published: November 24, 2006, 7:12 am
• Displayed: 3415 times
• Preview: Vitamins and essential rules of feeding aquarium fish - With forum Brief description This article describes roles of various vitamins in food for aquarium fish. However we have other pages devoted to: Food for Aquarium Fish - Pictures, Types, Tips & Forum and Feeding your fish frozen fish food - Types and Tips which should be visited too! Feel free to share your experiences, ideas or questions regarding food for aquarium fish at the bottom of this page, please! Introduction Every aquarist is proud if fish in his aquarium are or natural colours and if they are healthy. Fish`s good health heavily depends on diet, since your pets need something similar what they could find in nature. Various fish subsist on various food including worms, maggots, algae, plants or fruits. Some are carnivores, some are omnivores. Maybe you didn`t know what food (besides common foods like flakes, granules or brine shrimp) you can feed your fish with: Daphnia, Bloodworms, Basil (Ocimum basilicum), Angelica root (Archangelica officinalis), Capsicum, Carrot, Wheat, Spinach, Nettle...

• Published: October 8, 2008, 1:44 am
• Displayed: 358 times
• Preview: Fish Tank Decorations FAQ and Tips Brief Description This is a guide on using and choosing decorations - if you can't find answers on your questions within this article, the feel free to use a form at the bottom - we will gladly answer! This page is continuously updated in order to answer more questions of our visitors; A short excerpt of answered ones is as follows (feel free to skip to the next paragraph) Fish tank decoration ideas, Funny aquarium decorations, Aquarium decoration themes, Adding decorations to aquarium, Aquarium decorations - caves, Aquarium stone decorations, How to make aquarium decorations, Adding decorations to established fish tank, Can I paint the inside of the fish tank for decoration, Can I put metal decorations in an aquarium, Can resin statues be used as fish tank decoration, Decoration - discus aquarium. What do I class as a fish tank decoration? To me it’s anything that is added to the outside or the inside of the tank to enhance the overall viewing of the tank. This can be anything that the fish keeper desires but there are some rules that need to ...

• Published: August 22, 2008, 10:54 pm
• Displayed: 324 times
• Preview: Aquarium kits - What to look for & tips(about kits which are available on markets) If you wish to set up and aquarium, an aquarium kit can be a convenient and sometimes cost effective way of getting what you need. The term aquarium kit is used very freely and can refer to anything from a glass tank with a lamp in the hood and a tiny filter in the corner to all-inclusive package deals that include everything from tank and equipment to fish, plants, food and a test kit for water values. In this article, we will take a look at a few things that are important to consider before purchasing an aquarium kit. Size of the tank The size of the aquarium is very important when choosing an aquarium kit. Many beginner aquarists go for small or even tiny aquariums, but the truth is that medium large aquariums are much easier to maintain. In a small aquarium, waste products emitted by the fish will quickly reach harmful levels since there is so little water to dilute them. The small water mass will also be more susceptible to rapid changes in water temperature which can be dangerous for fis...

• Published: June 2, 2008, 10:53 pm
• Displayed: 376 times
• Preview: What pond equipment to use When working out a budget for building a pond, we must always take into consideration the extra equipment that is needed to keep our pond healthy and clean. There is no point in finishing the pond just to realize that we can’t afford the equipment to maintain it. Some items are essential; some are bought purely to make life easier for ourselves in the everyday tasks that have to be performed. Pond filter The most important piece of equipment needed is a good quality filtration system that is capable of mechanical, biological, and chemical filtration. This is the mainstay to keeping your water quality high. Always purchase the best system you can afford, cutting corners will lead to heartache at a later date, never try to use a large external aquarium filter for your pond, they are not safe for outdoor use. Most models of filters work on the same principles, water is pulled in by means of a water pump, the water then flows over filter matting to remove the debris (this is your mechanical filtration), then the water passes through filter media which...

• Published: January 4, 2007, 8:35 pm
• Displayed: 3822 times
• Preview: Fish Tank: How-to Guideby Peter Brief description This is a guide on setting up a fish tank; With plenty of answers and forum. We'd love to hear your experiences, so once you're finished reading submit your knowledge or questions at the bottom of this page, please! The first tip: Decide for a fish tank As we all know, fishkeeping is a hobby and fish are live beings. This is the reason why you must decide wisely following and focusing on a previous research. Fish tanks are usually bought after long solicitous asking by small children. This is not the way how it should be, because your tank crew will be flushed in a toilet sooner or later, usually in a week after starting a tank just for your children or small brother/sister. So before you buy a tank, ask yourself following questions: Am I going to take this hobby seriously? Do I know enough about fish species, plants and aquariums in general? If you`re a beginner and if you answer these questions honestly, you will realise that you don`t know anything or very little about fishkeeping. Basically, this is why I started this p...

• Published: September 24, 2008, 7:11 am
• Displayed: 351 times
• Preview: What to do with your aquarium while on holiday Holidays are booked; everything is packed but what about the aquarium? How will the fish cope without food, water changes? This is a problem that all fish keepers face every time that they go away on vacation, in some cases it becomes such a worry that several keepers will not even consider leaving the tank while they are on vacation. If everything is organized properly it is not a problem keeping the tank in order, feeding the fish etc. so a vacation need not be avoided. While you are away the last thing you need is to be worrying about your aquarium all of the time. The main concern that most keepers have is worrying that the fish will not be fed and will suffer because of this. Let me give you some facts about fish feeding that many people do not realize. Fish do not need to be fed every day, even while keepers are at home tending the tanks themselves, one day of the week is set aside for not giving the fish any food so that it will aid the fish to clear out their digestive systems, this does work, even when we are careful abou...

• Published: May 26, 2008, 9:21 pm
• Displayed: 586 times
• Preview: Silk Aquarium Plants - Advantages, Pricing and Pictures Silk aquarium plants are a wonderful solution to having full and vibrant plants all the time with minimum responsibility and maintenance. Not only do these silk aquarium plants provide realistic beauty but they convey realistic movement unlike plastic plants. Real plants differ from silk plants because they do not alter the chemistry of the water. They do not produce waste or debris that will pollute or cloud the water and they do not need to be trimmed or tended to. Overall silk plants provide a realistic alternative to aquarium gardening without the added work. Unlike the original fake aquarium plants, the silk plants sold in aquatic retail stores today are very much like the real thing. These fake silk plants are so realistic that it is not noticeably unreal unless viewed within a close proximity. For the sake of realism, silk aquatic plants have been fashioned after the real thing right down to the last detail of color, size, shape and proportion. Most of the natural aquatic plants are replicated for use in the aquarium hobby. Yo...

• Published: March 20, 2008, 10:08 pm
• Displayed: 510 times
• Preview: When and Why to Use Metal Halide Aquarium Bulbs Almost all indoor aquariums have lighting of some kind. Most use traditional incandescent or florescent lighting because of the efficiency and convenience of this type of lighting. Under most circumstances these lights are all you will ever need and the majority of planted aquariums can thrive happily using this method. But, if you really want a planted aquarium to thrive, have a deep tank, a marine coral tank or just want to be different, you can use alternatives like the T5 florescent or metal halide bulbs. Mainly used in commercial applications, the metal halide bulb is specially designed to produce maximum light for minimal power. For the techies amongst you it works by throwing an arc of electricity across two electrodes through a mixture of argon, mercury and metal halide gases. The colour of the light is influenced by the mixture of metal halides in the chamber, producing a spectrum of light, and you can choose the effect you require when you purchase the bulb. This is, however, not guaranteed, as the colour of the light from the...

• Published: January 23, 2006, 6:37 am
• Displayed: 6024 times
• Preview: Which aquarium biotope is the best one? Brief description The article below is my personal approach which might be liked or disliked by readers, however before you continue reading it's necessary to visit the following information about various biotopes: Central American Rocky Lake, Lake Tanganyika, Lake Malawi, Northern Australia Rainforest Creek, New Guinea River, African River Rapids, Southeast Asian Mangrove Estuary, Southern Thailand Forest Creek, South American Blackwater Creek, South American Blackwater Stream, South American Whitewater River, South American Clearwater Stream, Northern Madagascar, West or Central African River, Indian/Burmese River, Southern African Swamp, Southeast Asian Blackwater Pool, Southeast Asian River. You're welcome to post your questions or experiences with your fish tanks and setting up biotopes at the bottom of this page! When I got my first aquarium, I didn`t know anything about aquarium biotopes, good water conditions, fish species, plants, heating, etc. I didn`t know which aquatic plants I can buy in order to reach good looking tank. You can easily im...

• Published: May 11, 2006, 8:50 am
• Displayed: 6799 times
• Preview: Ichthyophthirius Multifiliis - White Spot Disease I set up my social tank for fishes. In the first step I give in gravel and plants. 3 weeks I keep aquarium without fishes. Then I enter there first fishes. The first fishes was 2 Brachydanio rerios, 2 Otocinclus affinis and 2 Poecilia sphenops. All was OK, fishes was healthy. Then I waited one week and entered 4 Aphyosemion australe along with 4 Rivulus magdalenae. Two days was all OK but next day I saw a Ichthyophthirius Multifiliis - White spot on some fishes. I started cure. It was in Saturday, aquarium shop was closed and I have only FMC medicine. The first step was change temperature to 27 °C. I don`t enter salt to water when I set up tank. Now I enter 150 g on 250 litres of water. And applied 2,5 ml FMC what is 1 ml on 100 litres of water. I applied FMC in this concentration four days. Second day was Ichthyophthirius Multifiliis - White spot on all fishes expect Rivulus and increase. Third day was Ichthyophthirius Multifiliis - White spot less. Thourth day evening I don`t see any White spot. Next day I change 20 litres of water to d...

• Published: January 6, 2007, 8:09 pm
• Displayed: 7515 times
• Preview: Why have a Planted Tank? Questions and AnswersBy Tim Gautrey There are several reasons for wanting real living plants in your aquarium. To start with, plants can help the environment in the tank by removing the nitrates from the water as well as oxygenation, help to reduce algae growth and they look good as well. Artificial plants have their uses too, but real plants, well tended and arranged well can make an aquarium simply stunning! Before you decide on whether to go for a planted tank, check that it is the right option for you. Are the fish you will have in the tank going to eat or uproot the plants? What type of plants do you want? Is there enough light for the types of plants you want to grow. Is the substrate suitable for plants? Do you have enough time to tend them? What about CO2? Will you need to feed the plants? What about cleaning the tank after it’s planted? Can you get the right plants to make it look good? There are many factors to consider achieving a successful planted aquarium. Let’s look at this subject from the top: What types of fish are best suited to...

• Published: March 4, 2008, 11:55 am
• Displayed: 611 times
• Preview: Pond test kits - What to look for when testing pond water A fish pond in the garden can be an immaculate center piece, capable of adding tremendous character to a home setting. When deciding to build and especially to successfully populate a fish requires a combination of experience and patience, in order to bring the correct professional results. In order for the fish to thrive the water in the pond must be kept in perfect condition, and unlike a hone aquarium, this target is more difficult to achieve due to a combination of “outside“ forces. One of the more important factors in proper pond maintenance is to know the cubic meter capacity the pond, and when introducing chemicals into the water for any reason, to strictly adhere to the levels prescribed. Dosage which is either too low or too high can be very dangerous for the environment. The investment in establishing and maintaining a fish pond can be considerable, and includes the outdoor aquarist investing in the proper pond test kit to ensure that the fish in the pond are enjoying a healthy environment. In the pond’s early days...

• Published: February 7, 2008, 10:14 am
• Displayed: 1104 times
• Preview: The purpose of underwater aquarium lighting with answersby Albert Brief Description The Underwater Aquarium Lighting article has been updated on October 21th 2010 in order to answer most popular questions asked by fish keepers all around the world. The answers also include How to make underwater aquarium light, Color of underwater aquarium lights, Do underwater lights in tank harm fish, How to put underwater light in aquarium, Is underwater lights enough for an aquarium, Suppliers and websites of underwater aquarium light. Humans have always enjoyed a fascination for fish. It may well be that in a strange way we might even envy them their freedom, even those who live in a fish tank don’t seem to have it too bad. Fed and pampered by their owners, and free of the dangers of being way down the food chain. There is something very tranquil about watching a goldfish or a flock of guppies swimming effortlessly around in an aquarium. This is why so many people enjoy having a home aquarium. And there is no doubt that it has become an increasingly more “user friendly” hobby that it was eve...

• Published: September 21, 2006, 11:06 am
• Displayed: 6017 times
• Preview: Why You Should Consider Plastic Aquarium Plants for Your Tank Adding decorations to your aquarium can be almost as much fun as putting the fish in the tank for the first time. Adding plants to your aquarium can be a very cost effective way to spruce things up a bit. Plastic plants are inexpensive, and require very little maintenance or care once they are placed in the aquarium. The idea of adding plastic plants has made many aquarium owners shudder. At one time plastic plants were considered bulky eyesores added by novices to make their aquarium look better. You didn’t have to have a magnifying glass in hand to be able to tell that the plants weren’t real, all you had to do was look at them and there was no doubt. Aquarium plastic plants today are nothing like what they once were. They can look so real, that you have to actually touch them to tell that they are plastic. These plants are made more realistic by the fact that many are made of silk, which allows them to move freely within the water. One benefit that aquarium plastic plants give is that they shine in all their glo...

• Published: December 1, 2009, 5:40 pm
• Displayed: 149 times
• Preview: X-Ray Tetra and Tetras an article submitted by Exotic Aquariums The x-ray tetra or Pristella maxillaries is a wide bodied fish that is popular among aquarium owners because of is translucent body. X-rays have an iridescent sheen to them under aquarium lighting. They are a smaller variety fish reaching only 1.5 to 2 inches in length. Males tend to slimmer than females. Since this is the last article on tetras, we will review them as a family. Tetras are members of the family Characidae more commonly known as characids. They are endemic to the Americas. They inhabit the freshwaters of southwest Texas through Central all the way down to South America. Many are native to the Amazon River. Characids have a life span of approximately five years. Tetras are a peaceful, hardy fish. They make a good choice for novice aquarists. They make suitable community fish but have a tendency to be fin nippers. This behavior is more prominent in larger groupings. Avoid mixing large finned species such as angelfish, bettas and fancy guppies with tetras. Tetras are extremely social. They are shoalin...

• Published: December 2, 2009, 4:26 pm
• Displayed: 162 times
• Preview: Zebra Tilapia an article submitted by Exotic Aquariums The Zebra Tilapia or Tilapia buttikoferi are members of the family Cichlidae more commonly referred to as cichlids. They inhabit the rivers and streams of Liberia in West Africa. Zebra tilapias have a pale yellow or off white body with vertical black striping from the region to their eyes to the base of their tale. They are also referred to by the names of other striped animals such as hornet or tiger tilapia. Their stripes will actually change shade according to their mood. They will vary from very light to nearly black. The vertical markings tend to fade as the fish grows older. The zebra tilapia is a larger species of cichlid. They commonly grow up to 16 inches in length. A similarly sized aquarium will be necessary if you intend to raise them. A 75 gallon tank is the minimum recommendation. These fish are mid-level swimmers. Zebras are one of the most vicious members of the cichlid family. They are best suited for a mono-species tank. They are so territorial that it is not recommended that you attempt to raise them in ...