tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8374821518650495092Thu, 16 Feb 2012 12:02:18 +0000Fish Tank CleaningFish Tank HealthStoreAboutFish Tank SelectionFish Tank Set-UpFish Tank SuppliesMarine Aquarium Set upFish DiseasesBreeding FishWe have owned fish tanks for years. Right now we have four aquariums in our home. This blog is for our fish: What we have in our fish tanks and how we care for them.http://fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com/noreply@blogger.com (The Muse)Blogger21125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8374821518650495092.post-6573500232979772233Sat, 13 Jun 2009 13:21:00 +00002009-06-13T08:49:43.197-05:00Breeding Fish<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">Two weeks ago we transferred our Yellow Lab fry to the 29-gallon tank. The transfer went off without a hitch. I took some pictures and a short video clip to post. I believe we have 25 to 30 in the tank.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><embed type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" src="http://i92.photobucket.com/player.swf?file=http://vid92.photobucket.com/albums/l23/cmuise/fish%20tank%20adventures/fishtankaquariumadventures.flv" width="448" height="361"></embed><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ey31nEGgqUo/SjOpZTv84oI/AAAAAAAAAas/ECvx7MMbXOU/s1600-h/fish+tank+aquarium+yellow+labs.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ey31nEGgqUo/SjOpZTv84oI/AAAAAAAAAas/ECvx7MMbXOU/s400/fish+tank+aquarium+yellow+labs.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5346803434882130562" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ey31nEGgqUo/SjOpZv42VDI/AAAAAAAAAa0/KQdkER-45fE/s1600-h/my+fish+tank+adventures+baby+labs.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ey31nEGgqUo/SjOpZv42VDI/AAAAAAAAAa0/KQdkER-45fE/s400/my+fish+tank+adventures+baby+labs.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5346803442435642418" border="0" /></a><br />The baby fish are doing beautifully. Guess what, Little Momma just added some more to the mix. They are in the breeder net still. I have not got a count on them yet. I will be adding them to the baby aquarium once they get a little bigger.<br /><br />If these fish keep breeding like this, I do not know what we will do. The pet store I used to trade my fry to has closed. I need to check if Petsmart takes fish in trade. We are too far from any other stores we know take trades.<br /><br />Trading baby fish in can be very helpful to maintaining your fish supplies. Yellow Labs can bring $3.00 per fish in store credit. The fish must be healthy and large enough for retail sale. <br /></div><br /></div></div><a href="http://astore.amazon.com/myfistanadv-20" target="_blank"><img src="http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l23/cmuise/animation%20graphics/bFISHred.gif" alt="For Your Fish Tank Adventures" border="0" /><br />Click the fish to shop Your Fish Tank Adventures Amazon Store!</a></div><br /><br /><a href="http://fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com/2009/03/privacy-policy.html">View Privacy Policy</a><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for subscribing!<img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8374821518650495092-6573500232979772233?l=fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/KvR0DSR1EQMTYvQhI_soNbia77k/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/KvR0DSR1EQMTYvQhI_soNbia77k/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/KvR0DSR1EQMTYvQhI_soNbia77k/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/KvR0DSR1EQMTYvQhI_soNbia77k/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/fish-tank-aquarium-care/~4/4QO6osthpSo" height="1" width="1"/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/fish-tank-aquarium-care/~3/4QO6osthpSo/baby-yellow-labs-have-been-transferred.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (The Muse)0http://fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com/2009/06/baby-yellow-labs-have-been-transferred.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8374821518650495092.post-706319126514074928Thu, 28 May 2009 13:43:00 +00002009-05-28T10:05:58.977-05:00Fish Tank CleaningBreeding Fish<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ey31nEGgqUo/Sh6gJUHRWLI/AAAAAAAAAZ8/vo36X_jQ3wQ/s1600-h/aquarium+yellow+lab+fry.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ey31nEGgqUo/Sh6gJUHRWLI/AAAAAAAAAZ8/vo36X_jQ3wQ/s400/aquarium+yellow+lab+fry.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340882289986459826" border="0" /></a>The fry is very shy and scatters to the bush every time I approach the tank<br /></div><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">I have been busy getting a tank ready for all the Yellow Lab babies we now have. Not only did Little Momma have a fry of 10, Lilly our other Yellow Lab decided to give us a fry (we think there are 15-20 from her).<br /><br />Having two sets of babies to house has us on our toes. Little Momma's fry is about 1/4 to 1/2 inch in length. Lilly's fry is only a tad smaller. Soon they will all be too big for the breeder net and there is too many of them to add to the community tank.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ey31nEGgqUo/Sh6gJCcICGI/AAAAAAAAAZ0/kWscLW-mQJE/s1600-h/marineland+aquarium.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ey31nEGgqUo/Sh6gJCcICGI/AAAAAAAAAZ0/kWscLW-mQJE/s400/marineland+aquarium.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340882285242091618" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">The aquarium we will be using for the baby fish is 30-gallons. It has a Marineland hood. The Marineland hoods contain an Eclipse filtration system with a Bio-Wheel.<br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ey31nEGgqUo/Sh6gJOm6O_I/AAAAAAAAAZs/6H8SqJcedHk/s1600-h/eclipse+filtration.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ey31nEGgqUo/Sh6gJOm6O_I/AAAAAAAAAZs/6H8SqJcedHk/s400/eclipse+filtration.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340882288508550130" border="0" /></a><br />This tank has been very successful. We have housed a variety of fish in it over the years. The latest was a very aggressive Cichlid, Bullwinkle (Bully for short); we removed from our community tank. He needed to be separated because he murdered other fish in the community.<br /><br />After living on his own for five years, Bully died. We were not sure what we would do with the empty tank so we disassembled it. We thought about setting up a saltwater tank but having so many baby Cichlids put that idea to rest.<br /><br />One of the first issues we needed to deal with on the tank was a large amount of limescale. We live in an area of very hard water. Our fish love the water but the aquarium equipment does not.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ey31nEGgqUo/Sh6gI6Q10uI/AAAAAAAAAZk/wSNeM7Pph7Q/s1600-h/eclipse+spouts.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ey31nEGgqUo/Sh6gI6Q10uI/AAAAAAAAAZk/wSNeM7Pph7Q/s400/eclipse+spouts.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340882283047277282" border="0" /></a><br />Here you can see I did not get every bit of limescale off the hood<br /></div><br />I prefer not to use any chemicals to clean our tanks. Some aquarists suggest cleaning with a bleach solution. I think this could be harmful to the fish. Anyway, I know from cleaning my own house, bleach does nothing to limescale.<br /><br />What I have found to work pretty well is elbow grease, a razor blade, a stainless steel scrubber (not SOS pads, they have soap in them), and white vinegar for really stubborn limescale.<br /><br />Most limescale will come off the waterline area if you let the tank sit dry for a time. I found I was able to remove this limescale with my aquarium brush. However, the limescale on the tank trim and hood was the absolute worst. I had to put a lot of effort into cleaning them.<br /><br />For the hood, I let it dry out for a day. Then I took the hood apart. I tackled each piece with a combination of the razor blade and steel scrubber. I found some pieces of limescale would come off in large chunks if I tapped the surface of it lightly with a hammer. For the stuff that was really on there, I soaked it in a bit of vinegar.<br /><br />For the aquarium trim, I scraped as much off as I could and left what would not come off alone. The hood covers this part so it will never be seen by anyone.<br /><br />At this point, we are cycling the tank. It has been running for a week and we hope to put the babies in it next weekend.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><a href="http://astore.amazon.com/myfistanadv-20" target="_blank"><img src="http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l23/cmuise/animation%20graphics/bFISHred.gif" alt="For Your Fish Tank Adventures" border="0" /><br />Click the fish to shop Your Fish Tank Adventures Amazon Store!</a></div><br /><br /><a href="http://fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com/2009/03/privacy-policy.html">View Privacy Policy</a><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for subscribing!<img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8374821518650495092-706319126514074928?l=fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/ocrwmiWB-vd_9pm_AybrpRPs-zg/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/ocrwmiWB-vd_9pm_AybrpRPs-zg/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/ocrwmiWB-vd_9pm_AybrpRPs-zg/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/ocrwmiWB-vd_9pm_AybrpRPs-zg/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/fish-tank-aquarium-care/~4/AWGIqq7fEo8" height="1" width="1"/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/fish-tank-aquarium-care/~3/AWGIqq7fEo8/preparing-our-tank-for-fry-limescale.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (The Muse)0http://fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com/2009/05/preparing-our-tank-for-fry-limescale.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8374821518650495092.post-3522133473897362448Thu, 07 May 2009 16:18:00 +00002009-05-13T10:21:34.569-05:00Fish Tank HealthFish Tank Set-UpAll of my life I have been told <span style="font-style: italic;">Prevention is the best medicine</span>. This applies to just about every aspect of life. It also applies to your fish tank health. For every aquarium your first defense is water quality. Water quality is easily maintained and easily improved with specific additives and water changes.<br /><br />We are in the process of setting up an aquarium for our new <a href="http://fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com/2009/04/we-have-baby-yellow-labs.html">cichlid fry</a>. The aquarium equipment is not new, however we will be treating it as new because we are replacing bio-wheel in the filtration system. Over the next several weeks I will be posting about what we are working on with the aquarium.<br /><br />In <a href="http://fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com/2009/03/setting-up-your-new-tropical-fish-tank.html">Setting up Your New Tropical Fish Tank</a> I mentioned for any new aquarium you should allow a period of time for cycling prior to adding fish. If you start out right, your fish will be healthy and happy.<br /><br />Allowing at least one week of cycling will give your aquarium time to build up beneficial bacteria, let you check temperature and equipment stability, and it you can ensure the tank water quality is satisfactory.<br /><br /><ul><li>Beneficial bacteria helps keep ammonia at bay. Ammonia is converted to nitrite and nitrite to nitrate. Once your fish tank has sufficient beneficial bacteria to process this, you can add fish to your aquarium.</li></ul>To determine if your fish tank is doing its job you will need a water test kit. These kits are essential for checking water quality and maintaining fish health. Your main concern during cycling is to check for ammonia and nitrite. Good water quality is had when you have zero ammonia and nitrite, low nitrate (below 20), and a stable pH.<br /><br /><ul><li>Water temperature is another important factor in fish health and is related to water quality. Different fish require different temperatures. Once you decide what type of fish you will be keeping, you should ensure your fish tank is set to the proper temperature for your species.</li></ul>Monitor your water temperature with a good thermometer designed for an aquarium. There should not be any major fluctuations in water temperature as this will stress or kill your fish.<br /><br />During cycling you should observe your equipment to ensure it is functioning properly. Filtration should be observed for water movement, water clarity, and checked for any blockages, binding, or bogging. A malfunctioning filtration system will affect water quality.<br /><br />This week we are getting our aquarium ready. The aquarium is 29-gallons with an Eclipse filtration system in the hood. We are addressing some limescale issues now and should start cycling the tank this weekend.<br /><br /><object classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://fpdownload.macromedia.com/get/flashplayer/current/swflash.cab" id="Player_18f55f66-c9c7-469e-8a34-517e9948b51b" width="430" height="324"> <param name="movie" value="http://ws.amazon.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&amp;MarketPlace=US&amp;ID=V20070822%2FUS%2Fmyfistanadv-20%2F8003%2F18f55f66-c9c7-469e-8a34-517e9948b51b&amp;Operation=GetDisplayTemplate"><param name="quality" value="high"><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></object><div style="text-align: center;"><object classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://fpdownload.macromedia.com/get/flashplayer/current/swflash.cab" id="Player_18f55f66-c9c7-469e-8a34-517e9948b51b" width="430" height="324"><embed src="http://ws.amazon.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&amp;MarketPlace=US&amp;ID=V20070822%2FUS%2Fmyfistanadv-20%2F8003%2F18f55f66-c9c7-469e-8a34-517e9948b51b&amp;Operation=GetDisplayTemplate" id="Player_18f55f66-c9c7-469e-8a34-517e9948b51b" quality="high" bgcolor="#ffffff" name="Player_18f55f66-c9c7-469e-8a34-517e9948b51b" allowscriptaccess="always" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" align="middle" width="430" height="324"></embed></object> <noscript><a href="http://ws.amazon.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&MarketPlace=US&ID=V20070822%2FUS%2Fmyfistanadv-20%2F8003%2F18f55f66-c9c7-469e-8a34-517e9948b51b&Operation=NoScript">Amazon.com Widgets</a></noscript><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://astore.amazon.com/myfistanadv-20" target="_blank"><img src="http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l23/cmuise/animation%20graphics/bFISHred.gif" alt="For Your Fish Tank Adventures" border="0" /><br />Click the fish to shop Your Fish Tank Adventures Amazon Store!</a></div><br /><br /><a href="http://fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com/2009/03/privacy-policy.html">View Privacy Policy</a><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for subscribing!<img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8374821518650495092-3522133473897362448?l=fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/CbNwTva6aavezalE91NaElyznn8/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/CbNwTva6aavezalE91NaElyznn8/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/CbNwTva6aavezalE91NaElyznn8/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/CbNwTva6aavezalE91NaElyznn8/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/fish-tank-aquarium-care/~4/dp2L6kGcaqc" height="1" width="1"/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/fish-tank-aquarium-care/~3/dp2L6kGcaqc/fish-tank-health-101-water-quality-is.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (The Muse)0http://fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com/2009/05/fish-tank-health-101-water-quality-is.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8374821518650495092.post-360336858484271032Thu, 07 May 2009 15:13:00 +00002009-05-07T11:05:14.179-05:00Fish Tank HealthFish Diseases<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ey31nEGgqUo/SgMBRypVmpI/AAAAAAAAAXE/eEe5VBJ3EJM/s1600-h/800px-Ichthyophthiriose.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ey31nEGgqUo/SgMBRypVmpI/AAAAAAAAAXE/eEe5VBJ3EJM/s400/800px-Ichthyophthiriose.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333107788901358226" border="0" /></a>Ich on a Cichlid<br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">Image from Wikimedia Commons by Thomas Kaczmarczyk (www.djpalme.de.vu)</span></div><br />Does your tropical fish have ich?<br /><br />Here are a few symptoms of ich:<br /><ul><li>white spots<br /></li><li>lack of appetite</li><li>lethargy: inactive, hiding, or laying on bottom of tank</li><li>scratching against decorations, rocks, or gravel</li></ul>Fortunately, we have never had a problem with ich, which can be deadly for your fish. The best medicine is prevention. However, if your fish gets ich this wikiHow article may help you get the ich out.<br /><br />Good luck!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.wikihow.com/Main-Page"><img src="http://www.wikihow.com/skins/WikiHow/wikiHow.gif" border="0" /></a><br /><h1 style="margin-bottom: 0px;"><a href="http://www.wikihow.com/Treat-Tropical-Fish-With-White-Spot-Disease-%28ich%29">How to Treat Tropical Fish With White Spot Disease (ich)</a></h1><br /><b><i>from <a href="http://www.wikihow.com/Main-Page">wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit</a></i></b><br /><br />White spot disease, <b>Ichthyophthirius </b><i><b>multifiliis</b></i> also known as Ich, is a parasite that most Tropical Fish enthusiast will at one time or another have to deal with. These parasites can be fatal to a fish and getting rid of them takes persistence. The following steps should be taken to treat and cure a tank infected by this parasite,<br /><a name="Steps"></a><h2> Steps </h2><br /><ol><li>Once you see the white spots on the body of your fish, take action quickly, Ich will quickly multiply spreading to other fish in the tank. Using ich medications will stop this from happening for the most part.<br /></li><li>You will have to treat the entire tank even if only one fish is affected. It may be wise to set up a separate quarantine tank if only one fish has it, but treat both tanks. You may ask why but if you change the water daily in the second aquarium you can help to stop the ich from being as bad. This may also be achieved by doing daily water changes in the main aquarium but this is stressful on fish without ich so isolating the fish that has it.<br /></li><li>The water temperature of a tropical fish tank normally should be kept at between 68 and 78 degrees. SLOWLY increase the temperature of the tank to a maximum of 86 degrees. Increase by a degree every few hours until you reach the desired temperature. This depends on the type of fish because some fish can handle higher temperatures than others.<br /></li><li>Vacuum the gravel daily if possible and replace with fresh water. Do this every day until your fish are no longer showing signs of the parasite. Be sure you treat the water for chlorine BEFORE putting it in your tank.<br /></li><li>Add aquarium salt to the tank. While this does have any direct effect on the parasite and it does aid in gill function, but it is a specific dosage as specified on the box. This can be beneficial with species with high oxygen requirements and aid the fishes osmotic function to replace electrolytes lost during stress. Do not use where scaleless species (eels, loaches, catfish) are present. One dose per entire tank is all you will need until you change the entire tank's water.<br /></li><li>Remove any charcoal filters being used in the tank. You will replace with new ones after treating your tank. It is a good idea to sterilize all things that came in contact with tank during treatments. Such things as nets, filters, and artificial plants should be run through boiling water.<br /></li><li> Add the measured dose of a recommended brand of commercial whitespot/ICH treatment. Follow the directions on the back of the bottle carefully making sure not to overdose or miss any part of the course. Because most tanks are not always filled to the brim, take off a drop the recommended dose. Repeat the course if the spots are still visible 4 days after the last dose. Most treatments require you to do daily medications, this is Exactly what you should do to help your fish.<br /></li><li>Continue the treatment every day until 6 days <b>after</b> the spots have disappeared and the fish are acting normally. The ich parasite goes through a life cycle and another outbreak can occur within a few days if the parasite infestation isn’t completely eradicated. After an outbreak be proactive. Check your fish daily for those dreaded white spots. It is very common for the ich to make a comeback.<br /></li></ol><br />The best way is to feed the fish a vitamin enriched diet- ie. soak food in selcon or zoe. This special diet will boost the fishes immune system and help them fight the disease off. NONE of the brand name medications will be effective. Don't move the infected fish, the excess stress can kill them. if you need to isolate the fish, move all the other tank inhabitants.<br /><br /><a name="Tips"></a><h2> Tips </h2><br /><ul><li>Aquarium Salt is available in many stores that sell pet fish.<br /></li><li>These parasites go through a life cycle that averages about 2 weeks in duration. There is usually a factor which brings on an outbreak of ich. Also the temperature will determine the lifetime of ich. It can be as short as a few days or possibly a few weeks. Possible sources include poor water quality, the introduction of water carrying the parasites and stress to fish causing their immunity levels to drop. Temperature fluctuations may also cause a whitespot outbreak in species such as loaches.<br /></li><li>Newly purchased fish should always be placed in a quarantine tank for at least 2 weeks where they can be observed for any possible parasites or disease that could be passed on to your healthy fish in the main tank.<br /></li><li>It is believed that fish that survive an attack of Ich have an increased immunity against future attacks.<br /></li><li>Do some research into the overall care of tropical fish and the various problems that can happen when caring for fish.<br /></li><li>Medications used for Ich are: Malachite green, Formalin, Copper sulphate. These ingredients are found in Quick Cure, Coppersafe and Super Ich Cure. Always read the directions carefully. For pleco and loaches Ickguard 2 is a safe solution using formalin.<br /></li></ul><br /><br /><a name="Warnings"></a><h2> Warnings </h2><br /><ul><li><b>Do not</b> use table salt, iodized or non! Only use aquarium salt.<br /></li><li>Do not add salt to an aquarium with salt-intolerant inhabitants, which may include corydoras, loaches and snails. Research whether your fish can handle salt or the medication you plan to use first.<br /></li><li>Always treat water you are putting in your tank to get rid of chlorine and other toxic substances in water. Chlorine will quickly kill tropical fish.<br /></li><li>When it comes to medicating your fish, more is NOT better! Strictly adhere to the doses recommended on the directions.<br /></li></ul><br /><br /><a name="Related_wikiHows"></a><h2> Related wikiHows </h2><br /><ul><li><a href="http://www.blogger.com/Treat-a-Cat-With-Asthma" title="Treat a Cat With Asthma">How to Treat a Cat With Asthma</a><br /></li><li><a href="http://www.blogger.com/Treat-Dog-Diarrhea" title="Treat Dog Diarrhea">How to Treat Dog Diarrhea</a><br /></li><li><a href="http://www.blogger.com/Medicate-Your-Cat" title="Medicate Your Cat">How to Medicate Your Cat</a><br /></li><li><a href="http://www.blogger.com/Prevent-Fish-From-Getting-Sick" title="Prevent Fish From Getting Sick">How to Prevent Fish From Getting Sick</a><br /></li><li><a href="http://www.blogger.com/Set-up-a-Marine-Reef-Aquarium" title="Set up a Marine Reef Aquarium">How to Set up a Marine Reef Aquarium</a><br /></li></ul><br /><br /><p><br /><i>Article provided by <a href="http://www.wikihow.com/Main-Page">wikiHow</a>, a wiki how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on <a href="http://www.wikihow.com/Treat-Tropical-Fish-With-White-Spot-Disease-%28ich%29">How to Treat Tropical Fish With White Spot Disease (ich)</a>. 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We've had a lot of luck with <a href="http://fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com/2009/04/we-have-baby-yellow-labs.html">Yellow Labs</a> and Convicts over the years. We have also managed to get our Red Zebras to produce a fry or two. These are three of our favorites, however most cichlid breeds can be very prolific.<br /><br />For us, success in breeding cichlids has come from a few basic factors we implement.<br /><ul><li>We have plenty of hiding spots and decoration for cover</li><li>We add protein to our carnivorous cichlid's diet (Krill)<br /></li><li>Use a separate tank for breeding pairs whenever possible</li><li>We also keep the tank temperature on the high end of the spectrum</li></ul>If you plan to breed Cichlids, or any fish, you should pick the best of the bunch to maintain breed quality. You should look for color, behavior, and health.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Try to observe a fish for a time before you purchase</span></span><br /></div><br />Some cichlid breeds are quite expensive. Higher end pet shops will allow you to put a fish on hold for observation. Check the fish daily if you can.<br /><ul><li>Note any color changes</li><li>Look for health issues<br /></li><li>Ensure this fish is active but not overly aggressive </li></ul>Breeding cichlids is a rewarding hobby for the home aquarist. But it is a hobby you should take seriously.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"></span></span><br /><br /></div></div><a href="http://astore.amazon.com/myfistanadv-20" target="_blank"><img src="http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l23/cmuise/animation%20graphics/bFISHred.gif" alt="For Your Fish Tank Adventures" border="0" /><br />Click the fish to shop Your Fish Tank Adventures Amazon Store!</a></div><br /><br /><a href="http://fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com/2009/03/privacy-policy.html">View Privacy Policy</a><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for subscribing!<img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8374821518650495092-6237780699335380184?l=fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/zfa-0Q1ctgPR-T7O1DRPHE8Bt9w/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/zfa-0Q1ctgPR-T7O1DRPHE8Bt9w/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/zfa-0Q1ctgPR-T7O1DRPHE8Bt9w/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/zfa-0Q1ctgPR-T7O1DRPHE8Bt9w/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/fish-tank-aquarium-care/~4/V4nI_Crw_IM" height="1" width="1"/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/fish-tank-aquarium-care/~3/V4nI_Crw_IM/tips-for-breeding-cichlids.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (The Muse)1http://fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com/2009/05/tips-for-breeding-cichlids.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8374821518650495092.post-9167749348565961054Tue, 21 Apr 2009 14:18:00 +00002009-04-28T15:25:32.511-05:00Breeding FishIn the post <a href="http://fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com/2009/04/mouth-breeding-fish.html">Mouth Breeding Fish</a>, I told you our Yellow Labs were having a baby fish fry. Well, the fry is here!<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ey31nEGgqUo/Se3V9dkpSJI/AAAAAAAAAVE/MLrM3cQ5MfU/s1600-h/Breeder+Net.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ey31nEGgqUo/Se3V9dkpSJI/AAAAAAAAAVE/MLrM3cQ5MfU/s400/Breeder+Net.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327149186136230034" border="0" /></a><br />I moved little Momma into a larger breeder net. I felt the breeder box was too confining and keeping her from spitting out her babies. The trick worked. She started spitting the babies out on Sunday and finished Monday night. She has been separated from the community for a little over two weeks now.<br /><br />From what I can count we have 7-8 babies in the fry. Some are very dark in color. I jokingly told my husband, she probably bred partially with Larry (our <span class="caption">Dwarf Tanganyikan)</span>:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ey31nEGgqUo/Se3b05eq7cI/AAAAAAAAAVM/9TpBBsMRq4k/s1600-h/my+fish+tank+adventures+dubosi+2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ey31nEGgqUo/Se3b05eq7cI/AAAAAAAAAVM/9TpBBsMRq4k/s400/my+fish+tank+adventures+dubosi+2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327155636078308802" border="0" /></a><blockquote>You can see here Larry is starting to lose his spots. This is the same dark spotted fish I have pictured in the sidebar of the blog. Soon all of the spots will be gone. This fish will be a dark blue fish with a yellowish white stripe. </blockquote>In reality, I'm sure the <span class="caption">Labidochromis Caeruleus did not cross breed with the </span><span class="caption">Duboisi, but it would be interesting to see what would come of it, if they did.</span><br /><br />When I saw little Momma eating food I fed to the newborns, I examined her mouth and jaws closely. She did not appear to have any more swelling so I decided it was time for her to leave the nest before she ate her babies.<br /><br />Given that mouth breeding fish do not eat for the time they have babies in their mouth. I put her in a "recovery room" net. Cichlids are aggressive fish. I do not want her chased, nipped at, or stressed by other fish in the community. Once she gets her strength back I'll release her.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ey31nEGgqUo/Se3fxu54xnI/AAAAAAAAAVU/2I6cIKmcbOM/s1600-h/breeder+nets+breeding+fish.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ey31nEGgqUo/Se3fxu54xnI/AAAAAAAAAVU/2I6cIKmcbOM/s400/breeder+nets+breeding+fish.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327159979746575986" border="0" /></a>The baby Yellow Labs are really small and hard to capture on camera. If you look closely you can see a few yellow blobs at the bottom of this image and mixed in the breeding bush. Those blobs are the babies!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ey31nEGgqUo/Se3fx6M5sEI/AAAAAAAAAVc/eaejI0Iwb0c/s1600-h/breeding+fish.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ey31nEGgqUo/Se3fx6M5sEI/AAAAAAAAAVc/eaejI0Iwb0c/s400/breeding+fish.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327159982779117634" border="0" /></a><br />When they get a little bigger, I'll take more pictures. 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Yes, the Yellow Labs are breeding! Last weekend I was doing some tank maintenance and I noticed one of the labs mouth was swollen. Having bred cichlids before, I recognized the familiar puff in her cheeks.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">What an exciting event!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Fish can be live bearers, mouth breeders, keep fertilized eggs in nests, or some just let the eggs go, get fertilized, and hope for the best.<br /><br /><ul><li>Live bearing fish are similar to humans in they give birth to live fish after a gestational period.</li><li>Mouth breeders release their eggs for fertilization and the female retrieves them to keep in her mouth until they are ready for the world.</li><li>Nest breeders build a nest to house their fertilized eggs in until they hatch.</li><li>Scatterers go for broke and let the fertilized eggs fend for themselves.<br /></li></ul><br />I believe the easiest one to determine and breed is the mouth breeder. If you suspect you have a fish that's going to have babies, you should separate them as soon as possible. You do not want the fry (baby fish) to be born in the community as they will eminently become food.<br /><br />Optimally, if you want to breed fish, you will have a separate aquarium. This is my preference. However, my breeder tank is housing a murderous fish that had to be removed from the community tank. So I have little momma separated in a breeder box.<br /><br />Breeder boxes or nets will keep the female from being harassed or stressed by the other fish. It will protect the fry from harm once they are born. They also provide you with an easy means of catching them for transfer to a separate fish tank or to market.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Breeder Net<br /><br /><iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=myfistanadv-20&amp;o=1&amp;p=8&amp;l=as1&amp;asins=B0002565MA&amp;fc1=000000&amp;IS2=1&amp;lt1=_blank&amp;m=amazon&amp;lc1=0000FF&amp;bc1=000000&amp;bg1=FFFFFF&amp;f=ifr" style="width: 120px; height: 240px;" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe><br /><br /><br /><br /></div></div></div></div><a href="http://astore.amazon.com/myfistanadv-20" target="_blank"><img src="http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l23/cmuise/animation%20graphics/bFISHred.gif" alt="For Your Fish Tank Adventures" border="0" /><br />Click the fish to shop Your Fish Tank Adventures Amazon Store!</a></div><br /><br /><a href="http://fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com/2009/03/privacy-policy.html">View Privacy Policy</a><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for subscribing!<img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8374821518650495092-81711306741978605?l=fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/kRhLYxOLDAZL2Q6LOLx3RoXv1Do/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/kRhLYxOLDAZL2Q6LOLx3RoXv1Do/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/kRhLYxOLDAZL2Q6LOLx3RoXv1Do/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/kRhLYxOLDAZL2Q6LOLx3RoXv1Do/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/fish-tank-aquarium-care/~4/kJKO2mzGT38" height="1" width="1"/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/fish-tank-aquarium-care/~3/kJKO2mzGT38/mouth-breeding-fish.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (The Muse)2http://fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com/2009/04/mouth-breeding-fish.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8374821518650495092.post-2037731235722842330Thu, 02 Apr 2009 16:50:00 +00002009-04-28T10:36:14.220-05:00Store<iframe src="http://astore.amazon.com/myfistanadv-20" scrolling="no" width="90%" frameborder="0" height="1200"></iframe><br /><br /><a href="http://fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com/2009/03/privacy-policy.html">View Privacy Policy</a><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for subscribing!<img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8374821518650495092-2037731235722842330?l=fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/omBY8icsgTv4bLx-BH2EaE7UdQs/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/omBY8icsgTv4bLx-BH2EaE7UdQs/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/omBY8icsgTv4bLx-BH2EaE7UdQs/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/omBY8icsgTv4bLx-BH2EaE7UdQs/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/fish-tank-aquarium-care/~4/6YCCsyQ3NFM" height="1" width="1"/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/fish-tank-aquarium-care/~3/6YCCsyQ3NFM/for-your-fish-tank-adventures-store.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (The Muse)0http://fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com/2009/04/for-your-fish-tank-adventures-store.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8374821518650495092.post-3403544067907617326Thu, 19 Mar 2009 12:51:00 +00002009-05-07T11:29:00.016-05:00Fish Tank HealthFish Diseases<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">Maintaining a healthy environment for your fish is essential. You should develop a routine as I have outlined in <a href="http://fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com/2009/03/fresh-water-tropical-fish-tank.html">Fish Tank Maintenance Schedule</a>. Once you have a good schedule, keeping your fish happy and healthy will be easy.<br /><br />I like to think of my fish tank as a flowing river. Consider this, a river is a self-sustaining ecosystem. What makes up the basic health of a river? You have flow, which promotes aeration and filtration. You have a cycle of light and dark, which encourages growth and sustains life. And you have fish, the life of the river.<br /><br />Your fish tank is comprised of the same components of a river. Yet you are in charge of keeping things going instead of nature.<br /><br />Your filter system circulation will provide some aeration and flow. You should consider a power head for providing a current.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=myfistanadv-20&amp;o=1&amp;p=8&amp;l=as1&amp;asins=B0002567A0&amp;fc1=000000&amp;IS2=1&amp;lt1=_blank&amp;m=amazon&amp;lc1=0000FF&amp;bc1=000000&amp;bg1=FFFFFF&amp;f=ifr" style="width: 120px; height: 240px;" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe><br /></div><br />You can add additional aeration with an air pump, or bubbler as some like to call them.<br /><br /><script id="searchDataHolder" type="text/javascript">var pjn_sb_affid = "12059";var pjn_sb_results_per_page = "2";var pjn_sb_categories = "";var pjn_sb_program_ids = "1509";var pjn_sb_default_search = "air pump";var pjn_sb_border_color_main = "#00FFFF";var pjn_sb_border_color_product = "#33FFFF";var pjn_sb_border_color_search = "#33FFFF";var pjn_sb_main_background_color = "#00CCFF";var pjn_sb_search_background_color = "#FFFFFF";var pjn_sb_results_text_color = "#666666";var pjn_sb_page_links_color = "#FFFFFF";var pjn_sb_product_background_color = "#FFFFFF";var pjn_sb_product_title_color = "#7878a1";var pjn_sb_product_text_color = "#000000";var pjn_sb_product_price_color = "#000000";var pjn_sb_product_buy_color = "#009900";var pjn_sb_search_box_toggle = "true";</script><script src="http://widgets.pepperjamnetwork.com/js/pjn_storeloader.js" type="text/javascript"></script><br /><br /><br />To keep your fish tank healthy you must provide your fish a cycle of light and dark. Remember your household and natural lighting will do some of this for you. But this is not enough, you must also have an aquarium light. You should not keep your aquarium light on at all times. Think like nature and provide your fish with a similar light cycle.<br /><br /><script id="searchDataHolder" type="text/javascript">var pjn_sb_affid = "12059";var pjn_sb_results_per_page = "2";var pjn_sb_categories = "";var pjn_sb_program_ids = "1509";var pjn_sb_default_search = "light";var pjn_sb_border_color_main = "#00FFFF";var pjn_sb_border_color_product = "#33FFFF";var pjn_sb_border_color_search = "#33FFFF";var pjn_sb_main_background_color = "#00CCFF";var pjn_sb_search_background_color = "#FFFFFF";var pjn_sb_results_text_color = "#666666";var pjn_sb_page_links_color = "#FFFFFF";var pjn_sb_product_background_color = "#FFFFFF";var pjn_sb_product_title_color = "#7878a1";var pjn_sb_product_text_color = "#000000";var pjn_sb_product_price_color = "#000000";var pjn_sb_product_buy_color = "#009900";var pjn_sb_search_box_toggle = "true";</script><script src="http://widgets.pepperjamnetwork.com/js/pjn_storeloader.js" type="text/javascript"></script><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><br /><a href="http://astore.amazon.com/myfistanadv-20" target="_blank"><img src="http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l23/cmuise/animation%20graphics/bFISHred.gif" alt="For Your Fish Tank Adventures" border="0" /><br />Click the fish to shop Your Fish Tank Adventures Amazon Store!</a></div><br /><br /><a href="http://fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com/2009/03/privacy-policy.html">View Privacy Policy</a><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for subscribing!<img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8374821518650495092-3403544067907617326?l=fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/XRk2EE-RbbucV4oB1FI2vabZksM/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/XRk2EE-RbbucV4oB1FI2vabZksM/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/XRk2EE-RbbucV4oB1FI2vabZksM/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/XRk2EE-RbbucV4oB1FI2vabZksM/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/fish-tank-aquarium-care/~4/LhE5G3vwGSY" height="1" width="1"/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/fish-tank-aquarium-care/~3/LhE5G3vwGSY/keeping-your-fish-tank-healthy.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (The Muse)0http://fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com/2009/03/keeping-your-fish-tank-healthy.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8374821518650495092.post-6262172338452291947Wed, 18 Mar 2009 15:17:00 +00002009-03-19T07:49:46.805-05:00Fish Tank Cleaning<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">Maintaining your fish tank is a process. You should develop a schedule that suits your lifestyle. Though some of the processes for fish tanks vary between Tropical and Marine, your maintenance schedule is very similar. I want to take a moment to share my fish tank cleaning schedule with you.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">Daily Fish Tank Chores</span></span><br /></div><br /><ul><li>Feed the fish</li><li>Observe for ill, injured, or dead fish-remove, treat, or separate from community</li><li>Note if there are any filtration issues and attend to them<br /></li><li>Look at the thermometer to check for water temperature changes<br /></li></ul><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">Weekly Fish Tank Chores</span></span><br /></div><br /><ul><li>Scrape aquarium walls to remove algae</li><li>Wipe exterior of fish tank to remove smudges, dust, or build up<br /></li><li>Replant any decorations the fish may have up-rooted</li><li>Check decorations for algae, remove and brush if necessary<br /></li><li>Add treated water to replenish from evaporation</li><li>Observe filters for excessive build up or debris clean as necessary<br /></li></ul><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">Monthly Fish Tank Chores</span></span><br /></div><br /><ul><li>Vacuum gravel and perform a 1/3 water change</li><li>Rinse filter cartridge, I only replace my cartridges once every 4 to 6 months and I alternate that: There are 4 cartridges I replace one a month, never all at the same time. We also have two types of filtration on the fish tanks with replaceable filters.<br /></li><li>Brush out filter tubing and housing<br /></li><li>Check filter motor for free movement, clean as needed</li></ul>You should never perform all your fish tank maintenance on the same day. If you vacuumed the gravel one day, give the water several days to replenish bacteria before you rinse the filters. Wait at least a week if you intend to change the filter.<br /><br />Aquariums 10 to 20 gallons and under need more frequent vacuuming and water changes. This maintenance schedule is for your average size fish tank (30 to 55 gallon). Larger aquariums, 65 plus gallon, owners can get away with less frequent water changes, say once every six weeks to two months. However, your daily and weekly maintenance remains constant.<br /><br />Remember any time you add water to your fish tank you must add water conditioner!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ey31nEGgqUo/ScEiNbi-h_I/AAAAAAAAAQI/quTy2FSXGDM/s1600-h/21M0oeYouVL._SL160_.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 160px; height: 160px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ey31nEGgqUo/ScEiNbi-h_I/AAAAAAAAAQI/quTy2FSXGDM/s320/21M0oeYouVL._SL160_.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5314566649402001394" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0002563HM?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=myfistanadv-20&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;creativeASIN=B0002563HM">Tetra AquaSafe Water Conditioner w/BioExtract, 8.45 Ounces</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=myfistanadv-20&amp;l=as2&amp;o=1&amp;a=B0002563HM" alt="" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important;" width="1" border="0" height="1" /><br /></div></div></div><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for subscribing!<img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8374821518650495092-6262172338452291947?l=fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/_lU0lltZmBpKcCB_U9UA_iq5e0U/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/_lU0lltZmBpKcCB_U9UA_iq5e0U/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/_lU0lltZmBpKcCB_U9UA_iq5e0U/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/_lU0lltZmBpKcCB_U9UA_iq5e0U/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/fish-tank-aquarium-care/~4/BIqXPZo9PRQ" height="1" width="1"/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/fish-tank-aquarium-care/~3/BIqXPZo9PRQ/fresh-water-tropical-fish-tank.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (The Muse)0http://fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com/2009/03/fresh-water-tropical-fish-tank.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8374821518650495092.post-6659111120243321956Wed, 18 Mar 2009 13:17:00 +00002009-03-18T12:11:07.971-05:00Fish Tank Cleaning<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">Cleaning your aquarium does not need to take an entire afternoon of your time. I've had friends ask us if we would like to take over their fish tank because they were tired of all the time cleaning takes. I'm here to tell you, with the proper equipment, fish tank cleaning time can be cut in half and made fun.<br /><br />Featured here is the Python No-Spill Clean and Fill system. This little gem has been a true time saver for us.<br /></div><br /><iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=myfistanadv-20&amp;o=1&amp;p=8&amp;l=as1&amp;asins=B000255NXC&amp;fc1=DAEBEB&amp;IS2=1&amp;lt1=_blank&amp;m=amazon&amp;lc1=00FFED&amp;bc1=000000&amp;bg1=140202&amp;f=ifr" style="width: 120px; height: 240px;" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Before we purchased ours, I dealt with the siphon tube and buckets. I would haul buckets of fish tank water back and forth from the tub and hated every minute of my cleaning duties. Not one person in the house wanted to help me either.<br /><br />Frustrated with my dilemma, I too thought of getting rid of our fish tank. My thought was, "if no one wants to help, and I hate doing this, why should I endure the torture?" Then I saw the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000255NXC?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=myfistanadv-20&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;creativeASIN=B000255NXC">Python No Spill Clean and Fill</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=myfistanadv-20&amp;l=as2&amp;o=1&amp;a=B000255NXC" alt="" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important;" border="0" width="1" height="1" /> and thought, "this is the solution to my problem!"<br /><br />The system hooks to your sink faucet and you use it to vacuum and fill your fish tank. No bucket hauling, no effort, no mess. I especially love the vacuuming power you get. You can adjust it with the amount of water you run when the valve is on the vacuum setting. I've been using my <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000255NXC?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=myfistanadv-20&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;creativeASIN=B000255NXC">Python No Spill Clean and Fill</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=myfistanadv-20&amp;l=as2&amp;o=1&amp;a=B000255NXC" alt="" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important;" border="0" width="1" height="1" /> for so long now I can have my faucet set to full on.<br /><br /><blockquote style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"><span style="font-size:130%;">When using the fill setting you must ensure the water temperature you are filling with is close to the fish tank water. You don't want to shock your fish with water that's too hot or cold. Feeling the tubing is not enough. You must feel the water output to determine the temperature.</span></blockquote><br />This <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000255NXC?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=myfistanadv-20&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;creativeASIN=B000255NXC">Python No Spill Clean and Fill</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=myfistanadv-20&amp;l=as2&amp;o=1&amp;a=B000255NXC" alt="" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important;" border="0" width="1" height="1" /> is the basic model. You can view the 75 and 100 foot models in the Amazon product widget on the right column of the blog. There, I have also featured a few other time saving aquarium cleaning equipment products I use.<br /><br />Since we purchased our Python, I get more help than I need (or want) from everyone in the house when it's time to clean the aquariums.<br /><script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/s/link-enhancer?tag=myfistanadv-20&amp;o=1"></script><br /></div></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://astore.amazon.com/myfistanadv-20" target="_blank"><img src="http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l23/cmuise/animation%20graphics/bFISHred.gif" alt="For Your Fish Tank Adventures" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://astore.amazon.com/myfistanadv-20" target="_blank">Click the fish to shop Your Fish Tank Adventures Amazon Store!</a><br /></div><br /><a href="http://fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com/2009/03/privacy-policy.html">View Privacy Policy</a><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for subscribing!<img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8374821518650495092-6659111120243321956?l=fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/5ArbsOvW3Ft-cooy6UH3vK5gJ_M/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/5ArbsOvW3Ft-cooy6UH3vK5gJ_M/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/5ArbsOvW3Ft-cooy6UH3vK5gJ_M/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/5ArbsOvW3Ft-cooy6UH3vK5gJ_M/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/fish-tank-aquarium-care/~4/xZQTU6dxKmM" height="1" width="1"/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/fish-tank-aquarium-care/~3/xZQTU6dxKmM/aquarium-cleaning-time-saving-equipment.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (The Muse)0http://fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com/2009/03/aquarium-cleaning-time-saving-equipment.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8374821518650495092.post-4720246034973944517Sun, 15 Mar 2009 14:48:00 +00002009-05-07T11:13:20.523-05:00Marine Aquarium Set upHere's another Marine Aquarium set-up guide from <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">wikiHow</span>. The information provided is for a small Marine aquarium. This article has a lot of great information regarding set-up and links to a few great forum resources. For a supply list, see <a href="http://fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com/2009/03/fish-tank-supplies-saltwater-aquarium.html">Marine Aquariums: Supplies for Your Saltwater Fish Tank</a>. Enjoy!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.wikihow.com/Main-Page"><img src="http://www.wikihow.com/skins/WikiHow/wikiHow.gif" border="0" /></a><br /><h1 style="margin-bottom: 0px;"><a href="http://www.wikihow.com/Set-up-a-Small-Reef-Aquarium">How to Set up a Small Reef Aquarium</a></h1><br /><b><i>from <a href="http://www.wikihow.com/Main-Page"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">wikiHow</span> - The How to Manual That You Can Edit</a></i></b><br /><br />This is a guide to setting up small reef tanks. It will guide the reader from initial set up to a completely cycled tank. This tank setup can run successfully for over 5 years.<br /><a name="Steps"></a><h2> Steps </h2><br /><ol><li> Acquire an aquarium. This guide is for tanks less than 30 gallons. Decide on the location of the aquarium in your home. This place should have lots of circulation and have zero exposure to direct sunlight. Tanks of this size can frequently be placed on a sturdy piece of furniture. You can also purchase a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">pre</span>-manufactured stand which may increase the warranty on an aquarium. Also be sure to get the items in the "Things You'll Need" section.<br /></li><li> Fill the tank with water. Use <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">RO</span> water if available. City water works as long as you have a detoxify it. Otherwise get distilled water from the store. Be sure to leave about two to four inches at the top of the tank.<br /></li><li> Add salt in small amount while checking with the hydrometer. Continue adding salt and stirring and checking salinity until the hydrometer reads 1.022 - 1.025. With a new hydrometer you will frequently get air bubbles stuck to the needle, these will seriously throw off a reading. Tap it up and down and left and right until they float off. Once you have an appropriate salinity take a break and let the water clear up. Check it again and proceed to the next step.<br /></li><li> Put the entire unopened bag of sand into the water. Slice open one side of the bag and slide it out very gently. It is similar to the magician pulling out the table cloth, but a lot slower. If you do this properly the tank will hardly cloud at all. If you don't, you will have to wait longer for the water to clear so you can see through the aquarium. (You may use sand bought at the pet store or live sand bought from a local reef store)<br /></li><li> Test the alkalinity and calcium levels. Read the directions for the test kit they vary in methods. Alkalinity reading should be 8-12 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">dKH</span>. Calcium should be at 400-500 ppm. If either tests low, add an appropriate amount of alkalinity <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">increaser</span> or calcium <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">increaser</span>.<br /></li><li> Place your rock in a way that is visually appealing to you. Keep in mind that you will need to clean the glass so leave enough room on any sides you will be cleaning, really important on the front pane. It is also advisable to stack the rock in an arch formation with many open holes and few touching regions.<br /></li><li> Assemble the filter. Place the filter in a place where it will maximize the flow in the aquarium. The middle works better than the sides. If you are using two filters place them on opposite sides but not on the edges. Read the directions thoroughly before you plug them in. Make sure the filters are running properly.<br /></li><li> Put on the glass top, but leave the back plastic piece that comes with it off for now. Leaving this off allows a ventilation in the tank and keeps the temperature lower.<br /></li><li> Cycle the tank and wait around a month to a month or two for ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels to zero out and the biological filters to establish.<br /></li></ol><br /><br /><a name="Tips"></a><h2> Tips </h2><br /><ul><li>Research! research! research! The more you know the better you will know how to deal with problems. Assuming that you have access to the Internet; become a member on reef forums such as [www.reefcentral.com] or <a href="http://forums.about.com/n/pfx/forum.aspx?nav=start&amp;lgnF=y&amp;webtag=ab-saltaquarium" class="external autonumber" title="http://forums.about.com/n/pfx/forum.aspx?nav=start&amp;lgnF=y&amp;webtag=ab-saltaquarium" rel="nofollow">[1]</a><br /></li><li>Fellow hobbyists are usually kind and will be glad to try and help you. However, keep in mind that some things on the Internet have to be taken with a grain of salt (no pun intended).<br /></li><li>You must have patience. Everything will be more stable if you are patient. Don't rush into the pet store and start buying things (or fish). Plan ahead, price things, don't take a blind dive.<br /></li><li>Perform a monthly 25% water change, or several small 5% changes.<br /></li><li>Clean salt creep away from the aquarium to make it look presentable.<br /></li><li>Clean glass bi-weekly with a damp towel.<br /></li><li>NEVER USE ANY TYPE OF CLEANING PRODUCT ON OR INSIDE THE AQUARIUM.<br /></li><li>Look for a reputable local fish store (<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">LFS</span>). Some may be small hole in the wall stores or large warehouses. Either way, determine: if the livestock is healthy, if the tanks look clean, are the workers knowledgeable, are the prices reasonable, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">ect</span>. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">ect</span>.<br /></li><li>A larger tank is more costly, however, it is more stable. In other words, do not start out on a five gallon tank. (I would recommend a thirty gallon tank.)<br /></li><li>Many dry goods can be purchased through online stores cheaper than at the pet store.<br /></li><li>Do not let the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">LFS</span> talk you into buying damsel fish to cycle the aquarium. This technique is cruel and you will be stuck with a mean, territorial fish.<br /></li><li>Along those lines, don't let the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">LFS</span> talk you into buying anything you don't need or want (especially if you know it is unnecessary).<br /></li><li>Coral fragments (frags) can be bought cheaper than a whole colony. They are ecologically friendly, cheaper, and if you are not sure you can take care of the coral it is better to try on a small piece.<br /></li><li>You don't actually have to wait a month for bio levels,and nitrate,phosphate,and all the levels to get to were there supposed to be. You can purchase a packet of bio(bacteria,and other chemicals that support your tank)and put it in your tank. If you do, test to make sure everything is going well, and add chemicals when necessary. It will only take about a week before your tank is ready for fish. It takes about a week for a 55 gallon to be ready for fish, so it would probably take less time for anything less.<br /></li></ul><br /><br /><a name="Things_You.27ll_Need"></a><h2> Things You'll Need </h2><br /><ul><li>1 lb of live sand per gallon. Live sand is available in 10-20 pound bags, putting 20 pounds in a 10 gallon tank is acceptable. This will produce a one to two inch deep sand bed.<br /></li><li>a hang on back filter that pushes 10 times your tank capacity per hour. For a ten gallon tank a filter that does 100 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">gph</span> will be suitable. For 20-30 gallon tanks it is frequently better to get two smaller filters as it will create better flow in the water. It is crucial that the filters have a biological element. Some have special wheels or sponges designed to be biological filters and this is the most important type of filtration in your new tank.<br /></li><li>A protein skimmer may also be utilized for larger tanks (over 12 gallons). There are many styles and designs; some better than others. Protein skimmers are very efficient filters and are often the only type of mechanical filtration employed. Allow two weeks as a break-in period.<br /></li><li>a power compact or metal halide lamp that fits your tank. This will be the most expensive single item you buy. If you come across a used one it would be desirable to replace the bulbs. A power compact must have two types of bulbs, white ones and blue ones. Metal halide fixtures will have one or two bulbs and one or two blue power compact or florescent bulbs.<br /></li><li>A glass top that fits your aquarium.<br /></li><li>Salt. Salt is sold by how many gallons it makes. Get an appropriate amount.<br /></li><li>A Hydrometer. This device measures the salt content of your water and is crucial for maintaining a proper salinity. Some hydrometers do not tell the salinity. Here is a chart to help determine the salinity <a href="http://www.reefs.org/library/salinity.html/" class="external autonumber" title="http://www.reefs.org/library/salinity.html/" rel="nofollow">[2]</a><br /></li><li>Some type of water detoxifying agent. If you have a source of Reverse Osmosis (<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">RO</span>) water then you can skip this one. If you have well water it is suggested to not use it as it tends to have minerals that are not desirable in the aquarium. Most city water can be detoxified with an appropriate amount of water treatment.<br /></li><li>A test kit is essential to the initial setup of your tank.<br /></li><li>One pound of Live Rock per gallon of tank. Your local reef supply store will have live rock on display. Select rock that looks interesting to you as you are going to be looking at this initial rock for the rest of your tanks days. Try and get live rock that is 'clean' looking with a good growth of coralline algae. You don't want any unwelcome guests like brown anemones. They look nice, but they will kill more desirable tenants. Also, keep in mind that you can use a few pounds of base rock (coralline free) to create the bottom of the reef structure.<br /></li><li>Reef additives. Several major manufacturers of reef supplies have products for the smaller reef tank. It is crucial that you can increase the calcium and alkalinity levels of the water.<br /></li><li>Add one or two frozen shrimp, Test for the ammonia to spike, once it spikes take them out and let the cycle go(4-6 weeks) After this add 2 fish per month until all fish are bought<br /></li><li><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">Powerheads</span> to create adequate flow. These may not be necessary depending on the flow created by the filters.<br /></li><li>A heater to maintain the temperature at a steady 80 degrees Fahrenheit.<br /></li></ul><br /><br /><a name="Related_wikiHows"></a><h2> Related <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">wikiHows</span> </h2><br /><ul><li><a href="http://www.wikihow.com/Set-up-a-Freshwater-Aquarium" title="Set up a Freshwater Aquarium">How to Set up a Freshwater Aquarium</a><br /></li><li><a href="http://www.wikihow.com/Breed-Betta-Fish" title="Breed Betta Fish">How to Breed Betta Fish</a><br /></li><li><a href="http://www.wikihow.com/Convert-an-Old-TV-Into-a-Fish-Tank" title="Convert an Old TV Into a Fish Tank">How to Convert an Old TV Into a Fish Tank</a><br /></li><li><a href="http://www.wikihow.com/Know-Which-Fish-to-Put-Together-in-a-Tank" title="Know Which Fish to Put Together in a Tank">How to Know Which Fish to Put Together in a Tank</a><br /></li><li><a href="http://www.wikihow.com/Put-a-Sucker-Fish-in-a-Tank-With-a-Turtle" title="Put a Sucker Fish in a Tank With a Turtle">How to Put a Sucker Fish in a Tank With a Turtle</a><br /></li><li><a href="http://www.wikihow.com/Make-Your-Fish-Tank-Look-Professionally-Designed" title="Make Your Fish Tank Look Professionally Designed">How to Make Your Fish Tank Look Professionally Designed</a><br /></li><li><a href="http://www.wikihow.com/Create-Aquariums-So-Lizards-and-Fish-Can-Coexist" title="Create Aquariums So Lizards and Fish Can Coexist">How to Create Aquariums So Lizards and Fish Can Coexist</a><br /></li></ul><br /><i>Article provided by <a href="http://www.wikihow.com/Main-Page"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">wikiHow</span></a>, a wiki how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">wikiHow</span> article on <a href="http://www.wikihow.com/Set-up-a-Small-Reef-Aquarium">How to Set up a Small Reef Aquarium</a>. All content on <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">wikiHow</span> can be shared under a <a href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/2.5/">Creative Commons license</a>.</i><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://astore.amazon.com/myfistanadv-20" target="_blank"><img src="http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l23/cmuise/animation%20graphics/bFISHred.gif" alt="For Your Fish Tank Adventures" border="0" /><br />Click the fish to shop Your Fish Tank Adventures Amazon Store!</a></div><br /><br /><a href="http://fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com/2009/03/privacy-policy.html">View Privacy Policy</a><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for subscribing!<img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8374821518650495092-4720246034973944517?l=fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/kN80M68WWXQYDXYdIz9LgDewmyU/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/kN80M68WWXQYDXYdIz9LgDewmyU/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/kN80M68WWXQYDXYdIz9LgDewmyU/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/kN80M68WWXQYDXYdIz9LgDewmyU/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/fish-tank-aquarium-care/~4/2Ltjw7Z2q8Q" height="1" width="1"/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/fish-tank-aquarium-care/~3/2Ltjw7Z2q8Q/small-reef-aquarium-guide.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (The Muse)0http://fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com/2009/03/small-reef-aquarium-guide.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8374821518650495092.post-9141558304358994732Fri, 13 Mar 2009 16:02:00 +00002009-03-19T07:37:46.367-05:00<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">My Fish Tank Adventures uses third-party advertising companies to serve ads when you visit our website. 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Preparation is key. You should lay out all of your <u><a href="http://fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com/2009/03/fish-tank-supplies-freshwater-aquarium.html">supplies</a></u>, read through any instructions, and ensure your stand is secure, stable, and level.<br /><br />You will need to rinse your fish tank, gravel, decorations, filtration tubing, intake, filter, and box. Basically any part of the aquarium and supplies that touches or holds water will need to be rinsed with fresh water. <span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"><br /><br /></span><blockquote><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);font-size:130%;" >Do not ever wash any fish tank equipment with soap or chemicals</span><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">.</span></span></blockquote><br />Set up and center your fish tank on the stand. Ensure that everything is level.<br /><br />If you have chosen under gravel filtration, you should place the filter plates in your fish tank first and attach any tubing. Then you may begin adding your gravel and decorations. Once you have your aquarium aesthetically pleasing, you can add water.<br /><br />Fill your aquarium to the water level indicated. Remember you may need to add water as things settle and as water evaporates. Add your <span style="font-weight: bold;">water conditioner</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">biological supplement</span>.<br /><br /><blockquote style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"><span style="font-size:130%;">Water conditioner should be added each time you add or change water.</span></blockquote><br />Attach your heater and filtration power equipment to your fish tank per the manufacturer's instructions. Ensure all electrical lines are dry.<br /><br />At this point you may plug in your filter system cords. Depending upon the type of filter you chose, you may need to prime the pump. Have some water handy for priming if necessary.<br /><br />As for your water heater, you should follow the manufacture's instructions prior to plugging it in. Essentially, you will need to give your fish tank heater thermostat some time to acclimate to the water temperature.<br /><br />Once your fish tank is circulating you may notice some cloudiness. This is normal and will clear as the water filters.<br /><br />You may now install your hood and lighting equipment.<br /><br /><blockquote><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);font-size:130%;" >Take some time to bundle and mark your electrical cords. Labeling your power cords will help you easily identify which cord goes to what during cleaning-a real time saver.</span><br /></blockquote><br />Now your fish tank is operational. You should wait at least 24 hours before you add any fish. I really suggest you wait several days to a week before adding fish.<br /><br />Why? This will give your aquarium some time to settle, you can ensure the water temperature is stable, and biology will have some time to build.<br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://astore.amazon.com/myfistanadv-20" target="_blank"><img src="http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l23/cmuise/animation%20graphics/bFISHred.gif" alt="For Your Fish Tank Adventures" border="0" /><br />Click the fish to shop Your Fish Tank Adventures Amazon Store!</a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com/2009/03/privacy-policy.html">View Privacy Policy</a></div></div><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for subscribing!<img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8374821518650495092-9015375232324465268?l=fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/fmBzXZy01svFEziOJ5pmUGikzeM/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/fmBzXZy01svFEziOJ5pmUGikzeM/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/fmBzXZy01svFEziOJ5pmUGikzeM/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/fmBzXZy01svFEziOJ5pmUGikzeM/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/fish-tank-aquarium-care/~4/hpJeX8mQ5jE" height="1" width="1"/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/fish-tank-aquarium-care/~3/hpJeX8mQ5jE/setting-up-your-new-tropical-fish-tank.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (The Muse)0http://fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com/2009/03/setting-up-your-new-tropical-fish-tank.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8374821518650495092.post-3286777409609305355Tue, 10 Mar 2009 20:26:00 +00002009-04-28T10:01:48.532-05:00Marine Aquarium Set up<blockquote>In an effort to make My Fish Tank Adventures as complete as possible, I have opted to include some articles from other sources. At this point we do not have a Marine Aquarium in our home. Though I know a lot of the basics, I feel this article presents a good overview for you. For a supply list see <a href="http://fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com/2009/03/fish-tank-supplies-saltwater-aquarium.html">Marine Aquarium: Supplies for Your Saltwater Fish Tank</a>. Enjoy!<br /></blockquote><br /><br /><a href="http://www.wikihow.com/Main-Page"><img src="http://www.wikihow.com/skins/WikiHow/wikiHow.gif" border="0" /></a><br /><h1 style="margin-bottom: 0px;"><a href="http://www.wikihow.com/Set-up-a-Marine-Reef-Aquarium">How to Set up a Marine Reef Aquarium</a></h1><br /><b><i>from <a href="http://www.wikihow.com/Main-Page">wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit</a></i></b><br /><br />Setting up a marine reef aquarium may seem like a daunting task, but is fairly easily achievable provided you follow a few steps.<br /><a name="Steps"></a><h2> Steps </h2><br /><ol><li>Select the area of the house where you want the tank to be.<br /></li><li>Buy the largest aquarium that will fit in your space, or the largest aquarium your budget will allow. Larger aquariums provide a much more stable environment, because the water chemistry will be easier to maintain over time. A good rule of thumb is that a reef aquarium will end up costing twice what you think it will. Choose between acrylic or glass, knowing that acrylic will scratch easily but is easier to drill and is much lighter. Make sure to get a tank that is pre-drilled with an internal "overflow", sometimes described as "reef-ready" tank. It is better to choose a tank that is not too deep(e.g. 24 to 30") so you can reach the bottom easily; a tank that is wider will provide a better depth of view for a more natural look. A second smaller tank (a sump) is placed under the main aquarium and will hold all the equipment out of sight.<br /></li><li>Choose lighting: Metal halide lamps provide the best lighting for most of the corals commonly kept, other forms of lighting are also obtainable and offer varying degrees of success. 250 watts bulbs will suit most common aquariums except for the deeper ones where 400 w bulbs provide more light penetration.The color spectrum of the bulbs (expressed in color temperature in Kelvins) is a matter of personal preference. Bulbs between 6500 kelvin and 20000 kelvin are the most popular, and the higher the kelvin rating the 'bluer' the color. Some claim coral growth is affected by the color, but corals grow fast and successfully on either end of bulb 'spectrum'. One halide bulb for every 2-3 feet of tank length is usually recommended. Other types of lights to consider are florescent lighting, specifically high intensity fluorescents. Two popular kinds are Power Compact and T5. These can be found in many of the same color ratings as metal halide bulbs, and are much cheaper. A popular choice is to use both florescent and metal halide. An aquarist will use a single color of metal halide, like 10000k, and will use a few blue (or Actinic) fluorescents to make the color more pleasing.<br /></li><li> Set up the filtration: Get a good quality protein skimmer and place it in your sump. Do not skimp on this. Often protein skimmers are under-rated for the size of tank, so in practice a skimmer rated for a 100 gallon tank is barely adequate for a 50 gallon reef tank (especially one with many fish that get fed a lot). Needle wheel skimmers are a popular choice, and can be very effective for their size/cost. Don't rely on 'venturi' skimmers, unless they are high end models with very strong pumps. Buy a filter. Don't bother buying 'canister' filters, often used on freshwater aquariums. Not only are they fairly useless in a marine aquarium environment, they can even cause a buildup of Nitrates on their internal media that can negatively effect the aquarium. Bottom line is they are a waste of money.<br /></li><li>Adjust the flow. Now is time to get a saltwater rated pump to return the water from your sump to the main tank. Additional powerhead pumps in the tank or external pump(s) should be installed to provide additional vigorous turbulent flow, which is crucial to the survival of your future corals.<br /></li><li>Place a heater(s) in your sump, or the rear chambers of your tank.<br /></li><li>Consider using an aquarium chiller. The high intensity lighting used in reef aquariums adds a surprising amount of heat to the aquarium, making it harder to keep a reef aquarium 'cool' enough. Even in San Francisco, where the avg. temp is around 68 degrees, its easy to overheat an aquarium on a warm day. If you have hot summers where the temp in your home goes above 80 degrees F, you will overheat your aquarium.<br /></li><li>Fill the tank with tap water partially then totally to test for leaks. Run all your pumps.<br /></li><li>Prepare enough artificial seawater for the volume needed. Use only a good aquarium sea salt brand and purified water with a Reverse Osmosis or R0/DeIonization Filter. Another option is to fill the tank with RO/DI water and then add the salt. The importance of RO/DI system cannot be understated. Tap water is simply not suitable for reef aquariums. A good RO/DI system is not too expensive, and should be considered a necessity. A 100 gallon per day model is a good choice, because you won't have to wait too long to make purified water which is a nice convenience.<br /></li><li> Once you mix your saltwater and fill your aquarium, turn on all your pumps and let the water 'rest' for a day. It takes a little time for your salt to dissolve and your water chemistry to stabilize, and the action of the pumps will drive out excess carbon dioxide (which initially causes a low pH).<br /></li><li>Add 'live rock' and arrange to your liking, approximately 20% of your volume. The rock can be placed on an aragonite sand bed but the substrate will tend to accumulate detritus overtime. A sanded depth of 4 to 5" is recommended for maximal detritus biological processing. Live rock can be obtained online or at your local marine aquarium store. The sand bed has to be placed before the seawater is slowly added.<br /></li><li>Let the tank "cycle". This means you will need to wait until the water tests negative for ammonia or nitrite. Inserting bits of frozen fish foods in the sand bed can speed the cycle. (This is un-necessary if you added live rock. There are plenty of dead crustaceans and worms already inside due to shipping). This may take 1 to 2 weeks. Algae blooms can be a natural part of the cycle. Check and make sure the salinity is stable at 1.023 to 1.026. Compensate for evaporated water losses with RO/DI water. Keep the temperature, Calcium and Alkalinity levels stable. Do not use commercial "supplements" other than water changes. Algae blooms are common for probably the first 6 months of your aquarium, so don't be alarmed to find new algae growing.<br /></li><li>Add cleaning creatures such as snails, small hermit crabs and finally reef fishes.<br /></li><li>Many aquarists feel its not proper to being adding corals and anemones until the tank is a few months old. A 'mature' tank is much more suitable for growing coral. A good rule of thumb is to watch your live rock. At some point, you will notice the rock 'growing', and not just green algae. You will seen new crustaceans, worms, feather dusters, coralline algae, and more. When the algae blooms subside, and the live rock is growing nicely, its finally time to add your coral.<br /></li></ol><br /><br /><a name="Tips"></a><h2> Tips </h2><br /><ul><li>Read books, join online reef keeper boards and ask lots of questions. Buying a refractometer and quality test kits is a good investment.<br /></li></ul><br /><br /><a name="Warnings"></a><h2> Warnings </h2><br /><ul><li>Long term commitment required. Some fishes will live more than 20 years with good care. Many corals will outlive their owners.<br /></li></ul><br /><br /><a name="Related_wikiHows"></a><h2> Related wikiHows </h2><br /><br /><ul><li><a href="http://www.wikihow.com/Take-Care-of-Gerbils" class="mw-redirect" title="Take Care of Gerbils">How to Take Care of Gerbils</a><br /></li><li><a href="http://www.wikihow.com/Build-a-Homemade-Hydroponics-System" title="Build a Homemade Hydroponics System">How to Build a Homemade Hydroponics System</a><br /></li><li><a href="http://www.wikihow.com/Convert-an-Old-TV-Into-a-Fish-Tank" title="Convert an Old TV Into a Fish Tank">How to Convert an Old TV Into a Fish Tank</a><br /></li><li><a href="http://www.wikihow.com/Start-Your-Own-Aquarium-Shop-in-Your-House" class="mw-redirect" title="Start Your Own Aquarium Shop in Your House">How to Start Your Own Aquarium Shop in Your House</a><br /></li><li><a href="http://www.wikihow.com/Tell-if-Your-Goldfish-Is-an-Adult" title="Tell if Your Goldfish Is an Adult">How to Tell if Your Goldfish Is an Adult</a><br /></li><li><a href="http://www.wikihow.com/Take-Care-of-Goldfish" title="Take Care of Goldfish">How to Take Care of Goldfish</a><br /></li></ul><br /><br /><p><br /><i>Article provided by <a href="http://www.wikihow.com/Main-Page">wikiHow</a>, a wiki how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on <a href="http://www.wikihow.com/Set-up-a-Marine-Reef-Aquarium">How to Set up a Marine Reef Aquarium</a>. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a <a href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/2.5/">Creative Commons license</a>.</i><br /></p><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://astore.amazon.com/myfistanadv-20" target="_blank"><img src="http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l23/cmuise/animation%20graphics/bFISHred.gif" alt="For Your Fish Tank Adventures" border="0" /><br />Click the fish to shop Your Fish Tank Adventures Amazon Store!</a></div><br /><br /><a href="http://fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com/2009/03/privacy-policy.html">View Privacy Policy</a><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for subscribing!<img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8374821518650495092-3286777409609305355?l=fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/vxiwLQISvxn0d0oi2kYLAjUVKoc/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/vxiwLQISvxn0d0oi2kYLAjUVKoc/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/vxiwLQISvxn0d0oi2kYLAjUVKoc/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/vxiwLQISvxn0d0oi2kYLAjUVKoc/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/fish-tank-aquarium-care/~4/FJdFggWTI6I" height="1" width="1"/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/fish-tank-aquarium-care/~3/FJdFggWTI6I/how-to-set-up-marine-reef-aquarium.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (The Muse)0http://fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com/2009/03/how-to-set-up-marine-reef-aquarium.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8374821518650495092.post-2149853939756293782Tue, 10 Mar 2009 15:17:00 +00002009-03-13T11:26:54.913-05:00Fish Tank Set-UpLocation is everything; so, where should I put my new fish tank? To get the most out of your new fish tank, your aquarium should be placed in a highly visible location, indoors, out of direct sunlight, and not in a draft.<br /><br />You should stand in the middle the room you will display your fish tank in. Take into consideration any focal points such as a fireplace, large work of art, or entertainment center. Your best option would be to balance your room by placing your aquarium opposite of the main focal point. You should choose wisely if you opted for a large fish tank because once it's set up, it's there for the long haul.<br /><ul><li>Placing your aquarium in a highly visible location will give you the opportunity to enjoy your pet fish. You will also be aware of any fish tank changes or conditions that must be addressed.</li></ul><ul><li>Ensure you do not place the fish tank in direct sunlight. This will cause excessive heat and algae growth to occur. Too much of a good thing is not good for your fish.</li></ul><ul><li>Choose a spot that is not in line with your air conditioner or heater vents, under a ceiling fan, or near a drafty wall. Drafts may cause drastic temperature changes. </li></ul>Test out your area selection by standing there for a moment. Are all of the above conditions met? Place your empty fish tank there to get a feel for it. If you like it, then begin your fish tank set-up procedures.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://astore.amazon.com/myfistanadv-20" target="_blank"><img src="http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l23/cmuise/animation%20graphics/bFISHred.gif" alt="For Your Fish Tank Adventures" border="0" /><br />Click the fish to shop Your Fish Tank Adventures Amazon Store!</a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com/2009/03/privacy-policy.html">View Privacy Policy</a></div></div><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for subscribing!<img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8374821518650495092-2149853939756293782?l=fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/LTEguccUdri8JESVXizS6DbLzE8/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/LTEguccUdri8JESVXizS6DbLzE8/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/LTEguccUdri8JESVXizS6DbLzE8/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/LTEguccUdri8JESVXizS6DbLzE8/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/fish-tank-aquarium-care/~4/R_OrUryMKkA" height="1" width="1"/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/fish-tank-aquarium-care/~3/R_OrUryMKkA/fish-tank-placement-select-best.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (The Muse)0http://fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com/2009/03/fish-tank-placement-select-best.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8374821518650495092.post-8368817134911775637Sat, 07 Mar 2009 15:30:00 +00002009-05-07T11:12:54.862-05:00Marine Aquarium Set upFish Tank SuppliesSo, you've decided to set up a saltwater fish tank. Congratulations! A Marine aquarium will bring you many years of enjoyment. This post is to give you a basic list of supplies you will need for your Marine aquarium.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />Supplies for a Saltwater Aquarium</span>:<br /><blockquote>Fish tank and stand (Shoot for 55 gallons or more)<br />Filtration and required filters (Under Gravel or Wet/Dry plus a Protein Skimmer and Power head)<br />Sea Salt mixture<br />Water (tap water should not be used)<br />Heater and thermometer<br />Hydrometer<br />Water conditioner<br />Lighting<br />Decoration<br />Substrate Marine Gravel (depending on Filtration choice)<br />Cleaning siphon for vacuuming/water changes<br />Algae scraper/brush<br />A designated fish tank bucket<br />Water test kit<br />Determine if you need a power strip for your cords<br /></blockquote> You will need fish and fish food. You should allow your tank at least a 24 hour period to cycle before you add any animals. I suggest waiting at least a week so you can check and double-check a few important details.<br /><br /><blockquote>Water temperature should maintain at 72-78 degrees Fahrenheit (22-26 Celsius)<br />Water should have movement but not tornado or hurricane like<br />Water gravity should be 1.020-1.025 (checked with Hydrometer)</blockquote><br />Good marine species to begin your saltwater fish tank adventures with are Crabs or Damsels.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://astore.amazon.com/myfistanadv-20" target="_blank"><img src="http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l23/cmuise/animation%20graphics/bFISHred.gif" alt="For Your Fish Tank Adventures" border="0" /><br />Click the fish to shop Your Fish Tank Adventures Amazon Store!</a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com/2009/03/privacy-policy.html">View Privacy Policy</a><br /></div></div><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for subscribing!<img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8374821518650495092-8368817134911775637?l=fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/fsxIRQpULOhWCYGT9Oitdz2Ef44/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/fsxIRQpULOhWCYGT9Oitdz2Ef44/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/fsxIRQpULOhWCYGT9Oitdz2Ef44/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/fsxIRQpULOhWCYGT9Oitdz2Ef44/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/fish-tank-aquarium-care/~4/UudXpGhUvow" height="1" width="1"/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/fish-tank-aquarium-care/~3/UudXpGhUvow/fish-tank-supplies-saltwater-aquarium.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (The Muse)0http://fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com/2009/03/fish-tank-supplies-saltwater-aquarium.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8374821518650495092.post-5968370287950372045Fri, 06 Mar 2009 11:30:00 +00002009-03-13T11:28:23.429-05:00Fish Tank SuppliesSo, you've decided to set up a freshwater fish tank. Congratulations! An aquarium will bring you many years of enjoyment. This post is to give you a basic list of supplies you will need for your tropical aquarium.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Supplies For a Freshwater Aquarium</span>:<br /><blockquote>Fish tank and stand<br />Filtration and required filters<br />Heater and thermometer<br />Lighting<br />Gravel<br />Decoration<br />Fish net<br />Cleaning siphon for vacuuming/water changes<br />Algae scraper/brush<br />A designated fish tank bucket<br />Water conditioner<br />Biological Aquarium Supplement<br />Water testing kit (some pet stores offer this service free)<br />Determine if you need a power strip for your cords<br /></blockquote><blockquote></blockquote><blockquote></blockquote>Of course, you will need fish and fish food. You should purchase the fish and food after you have given your new fish tank a period of time to cycle. Some say to allow your tank at least a 24 hour period of time for cycling. I recommend you wait at least a week before introducing fish.<blockquote></blockquote>If you give your fish tank a week to cycle, you will have plenty of opportunity to ensure it is maintaining a stable temperature, the filtration system is working properly, and a bit of biology can build up.<br /><br /><blockquote>A note about water temperature: Most fish can live comfortably in water that is between 72 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit (22 and 27 Celsius). Once you have decided what species of fish you desire, you should determine what temperature your fish tank should be set.</blockquote><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://astore.amazon.com/myfistanadv-20" target="_blank"><img src="http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l23/cmuise/animation%20graphics/bFISHred.gif" alt="For Your Fish Tank Adventures" border="0" /><br />Click the fish to shop Your Fish Tank Adventures Amazon Store!</a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com/2009/03/privacy-policy.html">View Privacy Policy</a><br /></div></div><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for subscribing!<img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8374821518650495092-5968370287950372045?l=fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/HyBQ93XjkQ2WweIb9vTp39E6UWU/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/HyBQ93XjkQ2WweIb9vTp39E6UWU/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/HyBQ93XjkQ2WweIb9vTp39E6UWU/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/HyBQ93XjkQ2WweIb9vTp39E6UWU/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/fish-tank-aquarium-care/~4/vo-hcqSggfA" height="1" width="1"/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/fish-tank-aquarium-care/~3/vo-hcqSggfA/fish-tank-supplies-freshwater-aquarium.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (The Muse)0http://fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com/2009/03/fish-tank-supplies-freshwater-aquarium.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8374821518650495092.post-7236343944895090261Wed, 04 Mar 2009 16:44:00 +00002009-03-13T11:28:48.013-05:00Fish Tank SelectionGenerally your fish tank should be the largest size you can afford. Think of buying a fish tank as a long-term investment for you fish. Like your home, your aquarium is your fish's home.<br /><br /><blockquote>If you are starting out with a Betta or a small fish that does not mind confined spaces, you can go small, 1-2 gallons. Check out this handy free <a href="http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/365165/buying_a_betta_a_guide_for_the_novice.html?cat=53">Betta guide</a>.<br /></blockquote>You also need to consider how many fish you want to keep in your aquarium. As far as fish number goes:<br /><br /><blockquote>1:1, 1-inch fish per 1-gallon of water for freshwater fish<br />4:10 for marine aquariums (4-inch fish per 10-gallons) if fish are slow growing<br />2:10 for marine aquariums (2-inch fish per 10-gallons) if you select fast growers </blockquote><br />If you are gearing up for something like neon tetras, you could get a 10-gallon fish tank and keep ten fish in it.<br /><br />However, many species grow large over time. A good example here would be Cichlids, my personal favorite. You may get a 2 inch juvenile and end up with a 8-inch whopper in a few years. Yes, these fish will live for years.<br /><br />Larger aquariums are also more stable than smaller fish tanks: Your water quality tends to hold better. With a larger fish tank, you can also get away with less frequent cleaning as opposed to a small fish tank.<br /><br />So, what size fish tank should I buy? Bigger is better.<br /><br /><script id="searchDataHolder" type="text/javascript">var pjn_sb_affid = "12059";var pjn_sb_results_per_page = "3";var pjn_sb_categories = "";var pjn_sb_program_ids = "1509";var pjn_sb_default_search = "tank ";var pjn_sb_border_color_main = "#CC3366";var pjn_sb_border_color_product = "#a19d78";var pjn_sb_border_color_search = "#a19d78";var pjn_sb_main_background_color = "#CC6666";var pjn_sb_search_background_color = "#FFFFFF";var pjn_sb_results_text_color = "#666666";var pjn_sb_page_links_color = "#FFFFFF";var pjn_sb_product_background_color = "#FFFFFF";var pjn_sb_product_title_color = "#7878a1";var pjn_sb_product_text_color = "#000000";var pjn_sb_product_price_color = "#CC6666";var pjn_sb_product_buy_color = "#009900";var pjn_sb_search_box_toggle = "true";</script><script src="http://widgets.pepperjamnetwork.com/js/pjn_storeloader.js" type="text/javascript"></script><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://astore.amazon.com/myfistanadv-20" target="_blank"><img src="http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l23/cmuise/animation%20graphics/bFISHred.gif" alt="For Your Fish Tank Adventures" border="0" /><br />Click the fish to shop Your Fish Tank Adventures Amazon Store!</a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com/2009/03/privacy-policy.html">View Privacy Policy</a><br /></div></div><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for subscribing!<img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8374821518650495092-7236343944895090261?l=fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/Z5g2_Xv1rx2sqCnKok8UNWy3TFk/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/Z5g2_Xv1rx2sqCnKok8UNWy3TFk/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/Z5g2_Xv1rx2sqCnKok8UNWy3TFk/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/Z5g2_Xv1rx2sqCnKok8UNWy3TFk/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/fish-tank-aquarium-care/~4/pMjpd918-Nc" height="1" width="1"/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/fish-tank-aquarium-care/~3/pMjpd918-Nc/what-size-fish-tank-should-i-buy.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (The Muse)2http://fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com/2009/03/what-size-fish-tank-should-i-buy.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8374821518650495092.post-7810204949424366684Mon, 02 Mar 2009 14:55:00 +00002009-03-13T11:29:12.799-05:00Fish Tank SelectionWhen you are looking for a fish tank or aquarium for your home you must first decide what type of fish you want. Your best bet is to research fish types. You have two basic fish to choose from: Tropical or Marine.<br /><br />Take some time to think about what you really want. Visit your local pet shop to check out different species of fish. Once you've decided what type fish you like, research that species to determine what it needs regarding care.<br /><br />A tropical fish tank set up uses fresh water. Freshwater fish tanks are easy to set up and maintain for a beginner.<br /><br /><blockquote>If you have no prior aquarium experience, you should start with a freshwater fish tank. Tropical fish are easy to care for. Tropical fish are easy on your initial fish budget. Also, if you have issues pop up, you can easily bring your tank health back. </blockquote><br />Marine fish tanks use salt water. Marine aquariums are beautiful and allow you a colorful array of fish to display and care for. Marine tanks are slightly more involved regarding care and filtration.<br /><br /><blockquote></blockquote><blockquote>I'm not saying you can't start your fish tank adventures with a marine tank, you can. I would just be aware the cost of marine fish is higher on average. There is a lot more involved in tank maintenance. Also, once a marine aquarium crashes you are pretty much left to start all over again.</blockquote>Once you've decided what type of fish you want in you aquarium you need to decide what type of fish tank you want. Today there are many styles and sizes to choose from. Ask yourself a few simple questions.<br /><br /><ul style="font-weight: bold;"><li>How much space do I have for a fish tank?</li></ul><blockquote>You can purchase bookshelf size fish tanks all the way to super sized wall length aquariums. It all depends on what kind of room you have for your fish tank. </blockquote><ul style="font-weight: bold;"><li>How much time do I have for a fish tank?</li></ul><blockquote>Your time is important. Your fish need to be fed daily which takes a few seconds. Aquariums must be cleaned regularly, which can take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours. I usually do a major tank cleaning once every week to every 6 months.<br /><br />Remember, I have four aquariums. Small fish tanks, let's say 1 to 10-gallon, need more frequent water changes, every week or so. Large aquariums, say 60 plus gallons can survive well with less frequent water changes. A lot also depends on the type of filtration you choose.<br /><br />Cleaning your fish tank usually involves brushing the walls, changing filters, and changing about 1/3 of the water. Don't forget your exterior surfaces either. All of this is easily done if you have the proper tools.</blockquote><ul style="font-weight: bold;"><li>How much fish tank can I get for my money?</li></ul><blockquote>Budget is a big thing on everyone's mind these days. Fish tanks are luxury items. However the amount of enjoyment you get out of them is priceless!<br /><br />You should buy as much tank as you can get for your money. Look for complete systems, which will include most of what you need to get started, aside from the fish and water. Take some time and browse and excellent online aquarium store: <a href="http://www.pntra.com/t/RD9JR0lFP0NEQkdLP0NGQ0ZF">AquariumsDirect.com</a><img src="http://www.pntra.com/i/RD9JR0lFP0NEQkdLP0NGQ0ZF" width="1" border="0" height="1" /> </blockquote><br /><br /><br />Recommended Reading:<br /><br /><ul><li><a href="http://cnt24.seanlemay.hop.clickbank.net/" target="_top">Tropical Fish Secrets</a></li></ul><ul><li><a href="http://cnt24.brummer.hop.clickbank.net/" target="_top">Ultimate Secrets to Saltwater Fish and Invertebrates</a><br /></li></ul><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://astore.amazon.com/myfistanadv-20" target="_blank"><img src="http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l23/cmuise/animation%20graphics/bFISHred.gif" alt="For Your Fish Tank Adventures" border="0" /><br />Click the fish to shop Your Fish Tank Adventures Amazon Store!</a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com/2009/03/privacy-policy.html">View Privacy Policy</a><br /></div></div><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for subscribing!<img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8374821518650495092-7810204949424366684?l=fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/Sj4aAd0NYQBQCMzjcFcHX6bdejw/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/Sj4aAd0NYQBQCMzjcFcHX6bdejw/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/Sj4aAd0NYQBQCMzjcFcHX6bdejw/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/Sj4aAd0NYQBQCMzjcFcHX6bdejw/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/fish-tank-aquarium-care/~4/cksmh8e6FwQ" height="1" width="1"/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/fish-tank-aquarium-care/~3/cksmh8e6FwQ/choosing-fish-tank.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (The Muse)0http://fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com/2009/03/choosing-fish-tank.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8374821518650495092.post-2375914029391400072Thu, 26 Feb 2009 16:51:00 +00002009-04-28T10:35:50.508-05:00AboutWelcome to My Fish Tank Adventures! I have to admit I am a fish lover. Right now we have four fish tanks in our home. These aquariums are a big part of our life. You may be wondering how we became fish enthusiasts?<br /><br />Well, it all started when I was a little girl. I love animals, all animals. On a visit to the pet shop to get our family dog groomed I ventured over to the aquarium displays. Of course the displays were empty, but on the other side of the aisle there were fish tanks with an abundance of species swimming about.<br /><br />I moved from tank to tank mesmerized by the graceful movements of the fish. My father walked up and saw my enthusiasm. He bought me a goldfish bowl, some accessories, and a spunky little goldfish. He said if I could take care of this fish, Santa might surprise me with a real aquarium and more fish.<br /><br />We took our fish and wares home and set everything up on my bedroom dresser. Every day I talked to my goldfish, fed him, and hoped Santa was watching so I could get my fish tank.<br /><br />Of course, the goldfish did not live very long. But I proved to be a very good caregiver. Santa brought me my first aquarium, your basic 10 gallon rectangular set up. I was thrilled.<br /><br />That fish tank is long gone. Now, I'm grown with kids of my own who share in my love of fish. We have a 65-gallon, a 29-gallon, a 20-gallon, and a 2-gallon. In this blog I will be sharing some fish tales, fish tips, and fish struggles.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://astore.amazon.com/myfistanadv-20" target="_blank"><img src="http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l23/cmuise/animation%20graphics/bFISHred.gif" alt="For Your Fish Tank Adventures" border="0" /><br />Click the fish to shop Your Fish Tank Adventures Amazon Store!</a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com/2009/03/privacy-policy.html">View Privacy Policy</a><br /></div></div><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for subscribing!<img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8374821518650495092-2375914029391400072?l=fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/9Gc42wLkMK09KTQnfU95o2VrKp4/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/9Gc42wLkMK09KTQnfU95o2VrKp4/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/9Gc42wLkMK09KTQnfU95o2VrKp4/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/9Gc42wLkMK09KTQnfU95o2VrKp4/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/fish-tank-aquarium-care/~4/m1eugavEX8Y" height="1" width="1"/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/fish-tank-aquarium-care/~3/m1eugavEX8Y/welcome.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (The Muse)0http://fish-tank-aquarium-care.blogspot.com/2009/02/welcome.html