Monday, April 30, 2007

What Do You Know About Fish Tank Care

Having an aquarium can be a source of great joy and satisfaction. People who have fish as pet find that they feel calmer and happier when they watch the aquarium. Fish make really great pets, and do not make hardly any demands on your time or any other resource. This is why they are considered favorite pets in millions of houses.

Some Facts and Myths about Fish Tank Care

There are many myths surrounding the setting up and maintaining of the fish tank care. Let us look into some of them:

Myth – you need to remove the fish from the aquarium before washing it or changing the water.
Truth – the fish are actually stressed terribly when displaced from their environment, specifically after being chased and caught in nets.

Myth – Changing the gravel is the best way of having it cleaned or washing it under the tap water.
Truth – changing of gravel will actually harm the fish, as with time the gravel will house friendly bacteria that help in clearing the fish waste, which in the long run will actually poison your fish.

Myth – you need to wash the tank as often as you can;
Truth – you should actually wash as rarely as possible, because the longer you leave the system by itself, the better the system works. You should have good filters attached to it and ensure that the water is oxygenated well.

Myth – you should replace all the water from the tank and replace it fully with new water every time you wash the tank;
Truth – you should actually replace only 20-25% of the water, otherwise you will create an imbalance in the system and harm your fish.

Myth – you should abundantly feed your fish if you will be missing for a few days from the house;
Truth – you should never overfeed your fish; this will not only cloud and pollute the water it will tempt the fish to overeat and kill them.

What Plants Do in a Fish Tank?

Live plants are an essential presence in every aquarium for many reasons. First, they add a natural and attractive look to the aquarium, and secondly, they provide the pet fish with a natural source of food. Presence of live plants reduces the growth of algae in the fish tank, but most importantly, live plants produce oxygen through photosynthesis and continuously add it to the water for the fish to breathe. Also, plants absorb wastes of the fish like exhaled carbon dioxide and ammonia; if allowed to accumulate in the tank water it can be hazardous for the fish’s health.

Keeping a Healthy Aquarium with Plants

Certain considerations need to be taken into account when letting live plants inhabit your home aquarium. The following points are important to consider:

Only select those species of plants for your fish tank that can stay healthy while completely submerged. Make sure the plants you select are able to survive well in the existing lighting conditions and chemical nature of the tank water; most plants are suited to live in pH values 6.5-7.5. Also, check about the suitable temperature range for the plants you select. Certain plant types, like sagittaria, are fast growing and tolerant of even hard water; thus, they are ideal for the first inhabitants of the fish tank. More sensitive plants can be added later for keeping diversity and giving the aquarium a natural lush and attractive look. For visual effects, you can use a combination of plants of varying sizes so as to impart an impression of depth and contrast. Red plants, like ludwigia, bring a beautiful contrast against the natural green of other species. Plants with tall stems and those bearing adventitious roots need regular pruning so as to keep the other plants healthy against their overshadowing effects.

Fish tank care is something you learn with practice. The aquarium will become a proper self-sustaining system, which will need to be nurtured to stay so; in this case, fish tank care will not involve cleaning, as much as maintaining the right balance of this system. With time, and if your fish tank care is okay, you will need to wash and/or maintain the tank very rarely because the system itself will take care of itself, just like in the nature.

By: Michael Saville

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com


For more information about fish tank care visit www.fish-tank.biz

Sunday, April 29, 2007

Efficient Care Requirements For Aquarium Fish

You need not to purchase the most expensive kinds of fish just to set up the best aquarium. This can be luxurious already. What you need to know is the proper way of maintaining your aquarium to make it pleasing to the eyes at all times.

Besides all other aquarium supplies, the fish is the most important. It cannot be called an aquarium without the species that will swim into it. This can come in varying types depending on the aquarium you put up.

Aquarium fish can be purchased in extraordinary color patterns. It comes in red, white, green, purple and even blue. In most cases, the male fish has brighter color and longer fins than the female fish. Typically, the more vibrant is the better because it can add appeal inside the aquarium.

There is a specific lifespan for the fish. However, it can be changed through your maintenance. There are times that fish has longer lifespan but due to your negligence, it can be shorten to months instead of years. This will just be a waste of money so better to take note of this factor.

Below are some reminders for proficient care of your aquarium fish:

1. Have regular check for the unnecessary things that may fall into the aquarium.

Cleanliness is very essential for your maintenance. This will not concern the pleasing appeal of the aquarium alone but most particularly the health of the species residing in the habitat. You can use filtration supply on this matter. Cleaning habit can be done weekly or you can do it gradually if you see some falling food remains at the top of the aquarium.

2. Beware from buying aggressive species.

Peaceful types of fish are more advisable because aggressive specie can affect the entire habitat. One can kill the other. Prevent this scenario to happen because you can probably end up with your aquarium to nothing.

3. Do not overfeed the aquarium fish.

Some fish are only required to be fed once a day although others are for twice. Overfeeding is not helpful nor will it make your fish grow larger instantly. Many cases have shown that it can cause death to your fish.

4. When changing the water, add product that will remove chlorine in the water.

Chlorine can be toxicant for your fish. You can purchase products from pet stores in order to eliminate the amount of chlorine in the water.

If you care for your fish, then better follow the advice that will cater your aquarium fish needs.

By: Low Jeremy -

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com


This content is provided by Low Jeremy. It may be used only in its entirety with all links included. For more information on aquariums, how to maintain, the basics of owning one, please visit aquarium.articlekeep.com

Aquarium and Tropical Freshwater Fish Care

Angelfish include the freshwater Three-Spot. The fish lists under the Holacanthus Trimaculatus category and is a family to the Trimaculatus group. Angelfish are some of the prettiest tropical fish, which have dark blue lips that offset a golden-yellow body. The three-spot angelfish comes from the West Pacific oceans, as well as the Indian oceans. The fish is shaped similar to the butterfly fish, which its gills are covered by his spine. The throat of this fish is also dark blue, which sometimes the body colors are orange-yellow, gold, etc. The specie got its name from its two upper dark patches, and the colors at the edges of his gill-covered flaps. The colors at the top of the Angelfishes head is another reason the fish got his name.


The outer edges of the anal fin spotted on Angelfish are black, while the internal area is white. The fish grows up to 10 inches in size. The Three-Spot Angelfish prefers to live in water conditions compared to that of the butterfly fish. It feeds off plants, larvae, small creatures, and so on. Biologically this fish has a nature that will adapt to social gatherings, yet it is recommended that the angelfish reside in his own habit.

Sphaeramia nematoptera includes the Pajama Cardinal Fish. This fish is a family to the Apogonidae. Pajama Cardinal Fish originated from China Seas, as well as the Indo-Australian seas. Pajama Cardinal Fish prefers to live in shaded areas, which the water temperature should be set at 75 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The water should have pH8 balance. Pajama Cardinal Fish do not prefer brilliant lights, as well the fish prefer to live in furnished housing. Pajama Cardinal Fish enjoys hiding, so set up surpluses of concealment areas. The water density should range at 1.0 25. The Pajama Cardinal Fish prefers to feed on smaller fish, crustaceans, and large planktons. This is a highly predatorily fish. Pajama Cardinal Fish has a variety of colors. The fish is described as short, yet it has a deep body shape. The dorsal fins are widely divided. The fish has distinctive thread like dorsal, which is offset by a large head. The fish has a big mouth and large eyes as well. Pajama Cardinal Fish have yellowish brown features, which various parts of his body have aiding colors, such as orange, or reddish brown.

Here is some photos of cardinal fishes:


Its Pajama Cardinal Fish:


Biologically this fish is natured to dwell in peaceable areas, and has the ability to learn. The fish prefers to dwell in compatible housing as well. You should house the Pajama Cardinal Fish with in school fish.

The Yellow-Tailed Anemone fish come from the Amphiprion Clarkii group, and is family to the Pomacentridae. The fish usually resides near the bottom of tanks, which the fish demands that you house them with compatible kin. His social life demand anemone:

Pajama Cardinal Fish will eat prepared and live foodstuffs. The fish comes from the Eastern areas of Africa and Sumatra. The Pajama Cardinal Fish is a good-looking yellow, white, dark brown, black colored fish. Pajama Cardinal Fish grows up to 5 inches in size.





Frogfish come from the Antennariuus Spp. Group and the family of Anennaridae. The fish resides in warm seawater. His behavior patterns are territorial, which the fish requires compatible company. It is recommended that you keep the fish with larger kin, who have peaceable natures. NOTE: The recommendation mentioned in this article should be considered closely, since this fish will capture and feast on fish, including fishes that are larger than his own size.

Its a frogfish:


About the Author: John Ugoshowa. For more information about Aquariums and fish care see the art aquarium and fish care section of The Free Ad Forum at: http://www.thefreeadforum.com/infowizards/CAT/Aquariums-Fish-Care_83_1.html

Fish Tanks

A fish tank, also known as an aquarium, is a tank, bowl or other water-filled enclosure in which aquatic plants and animals - usually fish, and sometimes invertebrates, as well as amphibians, marine mammals and reptiles - are kept in captivity. Fish tanks are typically made of glass or high-strength plastic.
Fish tanks were common in ancient Rome, Egypt, and Asia. Early Sumerians were known to keep wild-caught fish in pools, before preparing them for meals. In China, selective breeding of carp into today’s popular koi and goldfish is said to have started more than 2,000 years ago. The first fish tank to have been made of glass (dating to 1853) is on display in Regent's Park, London.
Fish tanks usually contain fresh or salt water at tropical or cold temperatures. The conditions and characteristics of the fish and other inhabitants help the owner to decide what sort of water or plants need to be in the tank.
A careful aquarist always tries to maintain a fish tank in a manner that resembles its inhabitant’s natural habitat. The water quality is very important, and this means controlling the inflow and outflow of nutrients. The maintenance of a fish tank also requires the careful regulation of temperature, light, and oxygen, controlling the waste produced by tank inhabitants, suitable species selection, management of biological loading, and good physical design.
Aquarium keeping is now a popular hobby around the world. The fish tanks vary in size from a simple bowl housing a single fish to composite simulated ecosystems with carefully engineered support systems. A typical home aquarium contains a filtration system, an artificial lighting system, air pumps, and a heater. Additionally, some freshwater tanks (and most saltwater tanks) use power heads to increase water circulation.
Many universities, marine stations, and wildlife commissions often maintain large freshwater and saltwater fish tanks for research and breeding purposes.

By: Kevin Stith


Fish Tanks provides detailed information on Tanks, Fish Tanks, Dunk Tanks, Septic Tanks and more. Fish Tanks is affiliated with Tankless Electric Water Heaters.

Aquarium and Fish Care Hemigrammus

How to care for Hemigrammus Species

Hemigrammus include the Erythrozonus, Rhodostomus, Flammeus, and so on. The Flammeus comes from the Hyphessobrycon group. The Hemigrammus Erythrozonus species are commonly known as the Glowlight Tetra. The fish at one time was wrongly characterized as the Hyphessobrycon Gracilis. Hemigrammus Erythrozonus comes from British Guiana, and grows 1 ¾ in size. The fish has a glow to its ruby red body. If the fish is kept in unfavorable waters however the colors was change. Hemigrammus Erythrozonus is a friendly fish that dwells well with other fish, excluding the aggressive fish. In addition, Hemigrammus Erythrozonus will eat most foods. The tetra fish are often small and bright colored, and are a member of the Characin family. The fish do well in tropical tanks.

Here is some photos of Hemigrammus fish:

   
   

Water conditions:
The tank temperature should remain at 78 degrees or 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The tank should have a dark background setting. In addition, you should enrich the tank with thick plants.

How to breed:
The fish may breed best in peaty waters, or acriflavine methods. To learn more about breeding this fish you will need to consult with the pet shop experts. They will have helpful brochures available. The fish lay up to 400 eggs, which the hatchlings are laid in one day.

Hemigrammus Rhodostomus fish are often called Rummy/Red Nosed Tetra. The fish come from the Amazons and grow to be 2 inches in size. The fish has a brilliantly red colored snout, which this specie has a peaceful nature. The hardy fish will eat all sorts of foodstuff.

Water conditions
You should keep the water conditions at 78 degrees Fahrenheit. The water should be slightly acidy, or reasonably soft. This fish is one of the harder fish to breed, therefore if you are purchasing fish for breeding purposes and do not have skills, check out other fish breeds.

  

Hyphessobrycon Flammeus fish are commonly referred to as Flame Tetra, or Tetra Von Rio. The fish come from Rio de Janeiro’s neighboring areas. The fish only reach 1 ½ inches in size and are shorter fish specimen than other fish species. The lower part of the fish has a shimmering red color. This fish has a hardy behavior pattern, which makes a good aquarium fish. The fish has minimal expectations on water conditions, and breeds well. The fish will lay up to 200 eggs, which are hatched in one day.

Other species related to the Hemigrammus Erythrozonus is the Hyphessobrycon Pulchripinnis.

The Amazon fish is sometimes called Lemon Tetra. This is a smaller fish which grows around 1 ¾ inches in size. The fish has a distinctive pale lemony color, which includes a brilliant red patch at the upper region of the eye.

The Lemon Tetra is ideal for social tanks. The fish is peaceful in nature and feeds off most foods. The fish prefers softer water conditions, which the temperature should remain at 80 degrees. The fish will also accept living in slight acidy waters. Male Lemon fish have a better color choice. The fish do not breed easy; therefore, if you are attempting to breed this fish try peaty waters.

Paracheirodon innesi is a Neon Tetra Brazilian fish. The fish grows around 1 ¼ in size and is one of the most popular tank fishes sold on the market. The fish has a greenish-blue and deep red body combined. The hardy fish can care for himself amongst smaller and larger fish. The fish generally rests at the bottom of an aquarium, which he will eat all foods. This is another hard to breed fish.



About the Author: John Ugoshowa. For more information about Aquariums and fish care see the art aquarium and fish care section of The Free Ad Forum at: http://www.thefreeadforum.com/infowizards/CAT/Aquariums-Fish-Care_83_1.html
You are welcome to reproduce this article in your ezine or website as long as you include our link and bio above.


Saturday, April 28, 2007

Fish Aquarium


A fish lovers work is never done, some of us that love and appreciate fish know this for a fact, the never ending search for new kinds of fish to place in our aquariums alone is enough to make some people tired already. The maintenance and energy that one needs to put into having an impressive aquarium in his house is something that easily equals a full time job. Nevertheless it is a passion that has touched many, and many more discover that there is something very special and unique to growing fish and having an aquarium of any size in your home.





Fish are very common pets when you think of it, in almost any pet shop you will find an abundance of fish, someone can foolishly think that this means that most people are familiar with the knowledge of growing them, it is not necessarily true. While most of the fish growers enthusiasm starts at a young age, and in fact most of the lovers of fish start as young boys and girls staring at the pet shop window wishing to get some fish, once you have a couple of fish you start realizing that you will have to do much more than just fill a tank of water and feed the fish every couple of days.

With this realization you would also understand that the sum of money that you have intended for this purpose is probably going to be a little bigger than what you initially planed, and form here the story starts. The passion is to have a unique aquarium that holds many different types of fish, to add as many features to the aquarium and make it as harmonious as possible, even as natural as possible to reflect a true way of living in a sense.

Since the fish market has much to offer a aquarium fish grower can almost never run out of more options to make his aquarium richer and more colorful, but also healthier and stronger. The race in the technology in providing better aquarium equipment that we maintain the aquarium needs better is never ending, the products are not very expensive at first but as you start to grow you aquarium to larger sizes you will need to invest wisely in the maintenance produces you use.

The last part of the article is devoted to the design of the aquarium, we have all seen those movies in which the bad guy has a huge aquarium with sharks swimming round in it, this is somewhat the average dream for the average fish grower, and although it is not probable that many growers will get this, some will, but everyone tries and makes their fish aquarium look better. The design of the aquarium has a lot to do with the person that has it, it is not only the basic design of the aquarium, but of what is in it, what it uses as an aquarium stand and the placing of the whole thing. A lot of effort goes into this part and I hope that when you spot a nice aquarium you let the owner know he is doing something right.

By: Daniel Roshard -

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com


Daniel Roshard is an interior designer fascinated by outdoor architecture, he is currently studying public parks and outdoor design. Daniel is writing articles about landscaping and Aquariums here.