One of the first memories of an aquarium I have comes from my aunt’s wedding. I’m sure they were amazing, but I don’t really remember what the decorations at her reception were. That is, except for the table centerpieces. As I remember it, in the middle of each table was a bowl of water with the most brilliant fish swimming inside. They were just feeder goldfish, but to me they seemed like the most amazing fish I had ever seen. I held them in a bag the whole ride home… cross country.
Chances are, you’ve had an “aquarium” like my first: a dozen goldfish in a five gallon tank or even a bowl. In the time since that memorable road trip I’ve accumulated a lot of experience, both good and bad. I hope that these tips will help you to have an amazing first experience with aquariums
KNOW WHAT YOU’RE SIGNING UP FOR
Fish (and snails, shrimp, and even plants) are living organisms. They’re pets just as much as dogs or cats. They may not take as much space (usually) or require as much food (hopefully), but the maintenance-free aquarium is yet to be invented. When you bring home a fish, you are committing to providing it everything it needs to live: the right foods, the proper water conditions, livable temperatures, good lighting, and a clean environment. Fish can’t provide those things for themselves in our homes. They’re totally dependent upon us for their continued existence. That being said, a well thought out aquarium can be just as rewarding as any artwork and easier than many pets.
Plan on spending about an hour a week cleaning the tank and changing the water. Depending on your fish, you’ll also need to feed them twice a day consistently. If you can commit to that, then you’re ready for an aquarium.
There are hundreds of fish and plants and dozens of shrimp and snails available. They are not all compatible. Finding out what fish get along together, what parameters a species needs, and ESPECIALLY how big a tank you’ll need will save you a lot of frustration in the long run.
DO YOUR RESEARCH
CYCLE YOUR TANK
CREATE A SYSTEM
Check out our cycling post for an more in-depth discussion of the cycle, its importance, and how to use it. For now, just know that aquariums are miniature managed ecosystems. Your fishy friends poop as they swim around, and that waste can’t go anywhere. You’ll need a healthy colony of… bacteria. Yes, bacteria can be good. Cycling your tank will establish a colony of bacteria that will clean up poisonous waste.
I’m a firm believer that aquariums work best when they’re designed with the organisms’ superpowers in mind. Each occupant has incredible abilities to contribute to the well-being of other occupants. For example, plants eat decomposing waste and generate oxygen. Fish fertilize plants and generate carbon dioxide. Snails and shrimp can combat algae. As you’re researching your project, make note of what organisms will benefit each other. The more you know about your tank and the interactions happening in it the better your plan can be, and the better your plan is the better your first aquarium experience will be.
