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Aquarium newbie advice2007-11-24 23:09:59

I'm thinking of getting a small aquarium. I'm an experienced pet owner but I've never owned fish before. my wife got me a really pretty betta which i keep on my desk at work and he got me thinking I'd like to get an aquarium.

how do i get started

I'm a beginner so nothing too complicated

Small apartment so nothing too big

My wife likes colourful/pretty fish

I like strange and unusual

suggestions?

I

Answers:

Aquariums are not hard to keep, as long as you know the basics. The easiest to keep is a 55 gallon, but it sounds like you would prefer a smaller version. No matter which tank size you buy, you will need lights and a filter, gravel (usually 1 1/2 pounds per gallon, i.e., a 10 gallon would take 15 lbs). I like backings on my tank (pictures) and there are many natural scenes to choose from at your local pet dealer. If you want tropical fish, you will need a heater, and depending on the fish, I keep my tanks at between 75 and 82 degrees. Make sure that after you set up your tank, you let it cycle for at least two weeks, a month is better, before you add too many fish. Betas are hardy and would do well. You need to get your biological filter up and running; Your biological filter is friendly bacteria that render harmless any fish waste products that will produce the ammonia harmful to fish. Live plants will help 'cycle' the tank more quickly, and they help prevent algae.