The Perfect Aquarium

Synopsis

Everything the first time fish-keeper needs to know to set up a tank. Clear, easy-to-follow instructions help you create and develop your aquarium - whether it's coldwater, tropical or marine. Charts and tables show how to deal with ailments and diseases, and there's a guide to the most common fish. There are profiles of over 100 tropical, marine and coldwater fish, as well as plants and invertebrates.

About the Publisher

Hamlyn

Hamlyn, was founded by Paul Hamlyn and is one of the most well known names in illustrated publishing producing practical, informative and inspiring books. It approaches all the books it publishes in an accessible and appealing manner.

Summary

Chapter 1: Planning Your Aquarium

* Define your goals and preferences: Determine the size, type, and theme of the aquarium you want.
* Research fish species: Choose fish that are compatible with each other and your tank's water parameters.
* Example: You decide to create a 50-gallon freshwater community tank for beginner fishkeepers and select guppies, tetras, and a dwarf gourami as suitable species.

Chapter 2: Choosing the Right Equipment

* Select a tank and filter: Determine the appropriate size and type of tank and filter for your fish species.
* Lighting, heating, and aeration: Choose lighting to suit your fish's needs, a heater to maintain a stable temperature, and an air pump or airstone for oxygenation.
* Example: You choose a 50-gallon rectangular tank with a canister filter, LED lighting, a submersible heater set to 78 degrees Fahrenheit, and an air pump with an airstone.

Chapter 3: Setting Up the Aquarium

* Rinse the gravel or substrate: Thoroughly rinse gravel or other substrates to remove dust and impurities.
* Assemble and install equipment: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for assembling and installing the tank, filter, heater, and lighting.
* Add water and cycle the tank: Fill the tank with water and run the filter for several weeks to establish beneficial bacteria and create a stable ecosystem.
* Example: You add dechlorinated tap water to the tank and run the canister filter for 6 weeks, monitoring water parameters regularly.

Chapter 4: Selecting and Introducing Fish

* Quarantine new fish: Isolate new fish in a separate tank for observation before adding them to the main tank.
* Acclimate fish to new water: Gradually expose new fish to the water in the main tank to minimize stress.
* Introduce fish slowly: Add a few fish at a time to prevent overcrowding and population spikes.
* Example: You quarantine a group of guppies for 2 weeks before gradually acclimating them to the main tank over 3 days.

Chapter 5: Feeding and Maintaining Your Aquarium

* Establish a feeding schedule: Determine the frequency and quantity of food for your fish based on their species and activity level.
* Perform regular water changes: Change 20-25% of the tank water weekly to remove waste and replenish minerals.
* Clean the tank and filter: Clean the tank walls, gravel, and filter media regularly to prevent algae buildup and maintain water quality.
* Example: You feed your fish twice a day, perform 25% water changes every Sunday, and clean the filter media and glass surfaces monthly.

Chapter 6: Troubleshooting Aquarium Problems

* Identify the problem: Observe your fish and water parameters to diagnose any issues.
* Treat diseases and parasites: Quarantine and treat any sick fish promptly to prevent the spread of infections.
* Fix water quality problems: Address issues such as high ammonia, nitrite, or nitrate levels by performing water changes and adjusting water parameters.
* Example: You notice your fish have white spots on their fins. You identify it as Ich, a parasitic infection, and separate the affected fish for treatment.