Fish are one of the most popular pets in the U.S. To give you a better idea, it’s said that 12% of households own at least one.
Given how easy they are to care for, it’s not too surprising. Don’t get us wrong; you still have to maintain the tank. But it’s definitely easier than taking care of say, a dog or a cat.
Are you thinking of getting a fish tank? Not sure what to look for when buying your first aquarium?
We’ve got you covered! We’ll be going over everything that you need to know, so be sure to read the rest of the post.
Picking the Right Aquarium
There are several things that you want to consider when you’re buying an aquarium. For starters, you want to pay attention to the size of the tank.
Generally speaking, you want to avoid those under 10 gallons if you’re a first-time aquarium owner. Why? They’re typically harder to manage, as toxins tend to build up quickly.
Another thing to consider is the weight. Given how heavy they can get, you’ll want to make sure that you have a proper space to put the tank.
Last, but not least, you want to be realistic about the type of fish that you want to keep. After all, that’ll determine the amount of space that you’ll need.
4 Things That You’ll Also Need For Your Aquarium
A high quality fish tank won’t be enough; there are other things that you’ll also need to get for your pet fish. Here’s a list of some of them.
1. Filter
Filters are a must-have for aquariums. Not only will they trap debris, but they’ll also remove toxins.
On top of that, they’ll allow for healthy nitrifying bacteria to grow. Basically, their job is to break down waste products so that your tank water will be kept clean.
2. Water Conditioner
Tap water should always be treated with a water conditioner. What does it do? It neutralizes chlorine and ammonia, both of which can harm your fish.
Don’t add too much though, as it is possible to over condition your water. You can find out how much to add by reading the label on the bottle.
3. Aquarium Heater
Assuming that you’re keeping tropical fish, you’ll need a heater. That way, the water will be consistently warm.
While the temperature requirements vary depending on the species, you generally want the water to be between 75-80 degrees Fahrenheit.
4. Substrate
Fish tank substrate isn’t just for looks; it also provides a surface for healthy bacteria to grow. Not only that, but it’s necessary for some aquatic plants.
Which kind should you get? It depends. For example, some fish such as corydoras prefer sand over gravel.
Setting up Your First Aquarium
The bottom line is, there are several things that you have to consider when you’re getting your first aquarium. Given that, you want to make sure to do your research beforehand!
Once you get your tank set up, come back and check out our helpful tips on how to clean your aquarium.
