Setting Up An Aquarium
Creating an aquarium like the one opposite isn't easy but here are some simple step by step instructions on what you will need to do to create your first aquarium in only 10 steps.
What You Will Need
An Aquarium - This is one of the most important items in fishkeeping and should hold at least 60 liters for an average community aquarium.
A Filter - This removes waste particles from the water as well as holds bacteria that break down harmfull chemicals such as ammonia and nitrate. It can be internal or external, the latter more popular for large aquariums.
A Heater - This heats the aquarium water to a sutible temperature for tropical life. About 1 watt per liter is sufficient in an average aquarium.
An Aquarium Light Ballast - This holds and powers flourecent tubes used for lighting up the aquarium. It should be waterproof and designed for aquarium use.
An Aquarium Light Tube - This lights up the aquarium and helps plants grow. More than one should be used for plant growth. Make sure they are designed for aquarium use
A Light Timer - These can be cheaply obtained from a hardware store and stop the fish in your aquarium stressing when the light comes on. This means they know when the lights will come on and go off. If using more than one light tube, make them come on at different times so the fish can ajust.
Gravel - This is used as the base of the aquarium and helps with the filtration as well as providing somewhere for plants to root. It comes in many different sizes and colours to suit all needs.
Aquatic Plants - Although not neccesary, these add beauty to your aquarium. They also help absorb nitrate, meaning your water stays fresher for longer. They are so popular that the keeping of aquatic plants has become a hobby in itself. Some fish are more likely to spawn if there are plants in their aquarium.
Ornaments - Whether real or artificial, ornaments add intrest to your aquarium and provide the fish with somewhere to hide. They range from rocks and wood you collect from freshwater streams to castles and bridges from your local aquatic shop. Anything you collect should be soaked for to weeks and scrubbed regularly to remove any impurites.