By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Marshall_Crum]Marshall Crum
Keeping a pond clean, whether it is a garden pond or fish pond, is a problem that almost every pond owner will consider to make the pond an attractive part of the landscape. There are many reasons to keep a pond clean.
Fish need a clean place to live and the water should be clear to make it easier to see the fish. The more fish we have, the greater the need to keep the water clean. Otherwise, it is just another small body of water with stuff in it that detracts from the value of your property. So it is important to consider how to keep a pond clean and determine the best and most cost effective way to keep it clean.
There are several options:
1. Leave it alone and let Mother Nature take its course. This is what most of us pond owners do. It is easiest, can be effective and the water is usually kept clean enough for fish to live in and sometimes it can be used for recreation. Not a bad choice if the pond is large enough and does not have too many fish in it.
2. If you are considering building a pond or have a small pond, the easiest way to keep it clean is to make the pond as natural as possible. That means having enough water flow so that wastes can be naturally filtered out and debris will not collect on the surface.
Most of us have smallish ponds not big enough to be "natural", and none of us are going to dredge the pond, so we need some other way to clean the pond or modify it to take care of itself. Now that is what I am talking about.
3. Add some filtration systems. There are many systems on the market that will take wastes out of the water, kill algae and add oxygen that is beneficial to your fish. I use a sand filter and have had no problems with it and I use the backwash feature to control the water level.
4. Build some water treatments such as a waterfall or fountain to circulate the water and help put oxygen in the water. This will also make the pond more attractive and inviting. This, of course, will require some planning and out of pocket money, but the end result will be well worth the effort.
Clean water is vitally important to having healthy fish and an attractive addition to your home. I prefer to have water treatments that clean the water, add oxygen and be attention getting. If you have a pond, consider adding a waterfall to your pond. You will be able to enjoy the relaxing sound of running water and have an addition that people can enjoy year round.
Learning how to keep a pond clean is absolutely necessary to get the most enjoyment out of it and to preserve the value it adds to your home. People enjoy it more and your fish and plants will be healthier. [http://www.koifish.marshallcrum.com]CLICK HERE and get more information about how to keep your pond clean and attractive.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?How-To-Keep-a-Pond-Clean&id=6718348] How To Keep a Pond Clean
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
Sunday, January 29, 2012
How To Use Freshwater Aquarium Sand In Your Tank
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Lee_Dobbins]Lee Dobbins
The substrate of a tank, whether it is gravel, sand, pebbles, or plastic chips is an important part of the tank's delicate ecosystem. It is typically the desire of enthusiasts to create an aesthetically pleasing environment which displays the fish to their best ability. Freshwater aquarium sand provides a wider selection of possibilities for the look of the aquarium. It adds to the ease of overall maintenance and makes it much simpler to grow live plants.
What many people do not consider is that the type of substrate used has a direct impact on the health of the fish and the balance within the tank. Bottom feeding fish use the substrate for eating and other purposes. The surface material on the bottom of the aquarium also acts as a guide for fish, providing them with an orientation of their environment. Studies have shown that fish placed into a tank with a reflective or shiny bottom surface become stressed and disoriented.
A great benefit of sand in a freshwater tank is that it can be easier to clean the water. The waste material does not fall beneath the surface as it does with gravel and other forms of substrate, making it a simple matter to siphon off. This material is also a great way to maintain plants. By placing a nutritional dirt beneath a layer of sand, live plants are given what they need to thrive and the ability to develop a root system without the complication of contaminating the tank water.
The choice of material is an important consideration when planning the tank environment. The pH, calcium, and other minerals can be changed with the introduction of the incorrect type of material. For instance, aragonite is high in calcium making the water harder and altering the pH level. This is not necessarily a bad situation if you have the appropriate type of fish, such as cichlids.
This surface material can also cause a rapid growth of algae. It is important to understand and prepare for the possibility of an overgrowth by adding an acceptable algae eater to the tank community. There are a number of snails, fish, and shrimp which can add to the viewing pleasure of the aquarium without harming the ecosystem.
Since it is much finer than gravel or pebbles, the filter capability will have to be considered. A filter capable of handing 2 to 3 times the size of your tank is advisable. With the added filtration, the particulates will be kept to a minimum and provide good quality water to the inhabitants.
While it is tempting to scoop from a beach or river, this is inadvisable. These types of substrates can harbor parasites and other substances that will be detrimental to the residents of the aquarium. Instead, commercial, processed playground or other sand that has been sanitized and sterilized is a better choice.
A beautiful tank can be created which is easily maintained and balanced with a number of different substrates. Freshwater aquarium sand is an excellent selection to diversify the tank environment. Plants and water life both benefit with a good substrate.
Next, get more [http://www.fish-tank-guide.com/tips-for-setting-up-a-freshwater-aquarium]tips for setting up a freshwater aquarium and learn how to maintain and care for your freshwater tropical fish at http://www.fish-tank-guide.com
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?How-To-Use-Freshwater-Aquarium-Sand-In-Your-Tank&id=6721299] How To Use Freshwater Aquarium Sand In Your Tank
The substrate of a tank, whether it is gravel, sand, pebbles, or plastic chips is an important part of the tank's delicate ecosystem. It is typically the desire of enthusiasts to create an aesthetically pleasing environment which displays the fish to their best ability. Freshwater aquarium sand provides a wider selection of possibilities for the look of the aquarium. It adds to the ease of overall maintenance and makes it much simpler to grow live plants.
What many people do not consider is that the type of substrate used has a direct impact on the health of the fish and the balance within the tank. Bottom feeding fish use the substrate for eating and other purposes. The surface material on the bottom of the aquarium also acts as a guide for fish, providing them with an orientation of their environment. Studies have shown that fish placed into a tank with a reflective or shiny bottom surface become stressed and disoriented.
A great benefit of sand in a freshwater tank is that it can be easier to clean the water. The waste material does not fall beneath the surface as it does with gravel and other forms of substrate, making it a simple matter to siphon off. This material is also a great way to maintain plants. By placing a nutritional dirt beneath a layer of sand, live plants are given what they need to thrive and the ability to develop a root system without the complication of contaminating the tank water.
The choice of material is an important consideration when planning the tank environment. The pH, calcium, and other minerals can be changed with the introduction of the incorrect type of material. For instance, aragonite is high in calcium making the water harder and altering the pH level. This is not necessarily a bad situation if you have the appropriate type of fish, such as cichlids.
This surface material can also cause a rapid growth of algae. It is important to understand and prepare for the possibility of an overgrowth by adding an acceptable algae eater to the tank community. There are a number of snails, fish, and shrimp which can add to the viewing pleasure of the aquarium without harming the ecosystem.
Since it is much finer than gravel or pebbles, the filter capability will have to be considered. A filter capable of handing 2 to 3 times the size of your tank is advisable. With the added filtration, the particulates will be kept to a minimum and provide good quality water to the inhabitants.
While it is tempting to scoop from a beach or river, this is inadvisable. These types of substrates can harbor parasites and other substances that will be detrimental to the residents of the aquarium. Instead, commercial, processed playground or other sand that has been sanitized and sterilized is a better choice.
A beautiful tank can be created which is easily maintained and balanced with a number of different substrates. Freshwater aquarium sand is an excellent selection to diversify the tank environment. Plants and water life both benefit with a good substrate.
Next, get more [http://www.fish-tank-guide.com/tips-for-setting-up-a-freshwater-aquarium]tips for setting up a freshwater aquarium and learn how to maintain and care for your freshwater tropical fish at http://www.fish-tank-guide.com
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?How-To-Use-Freshwater-Aquarium-Sand-In-Your-Tank&id=6721299] How To Use Freshwater Aquarium Sand In Your Tank
Friday, January 27, 2012
Types Of Freshwater Aquarium Sharks For Your Fish Tank
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Lee_Dobbins]Lee Dobbins
Aquariums are fantastic pieces to have in the home they can create a sense of peace and calm. There are many types of aquariums that can be maintained from cold water to tropical and each variation has its own set of wonderful fish to discover. There are a number of different types of freshwater aquarium sharks, and which one you choose will depend on the size of the tank you have.
A shark can be a beautiful addition to any home tank, but be sure to do your homework on them first. Some are very territorial and may attack other fish while others require a hiding place. Also it is never a good idea to keep more than one type of shark in the tank and this can cause aggressive behaviour in some species.
One of the best types of shark is the Bala or Silver Shark this is a very peaceful shark which looks a lot like the real deal. They are compatible with most other fish but they can grow to be very large. In some cases they can reach lengths of up to 12 inches. In order to keep this fish you will do best to have a school of around six of them, which means your tank will need to be at least 90 gallon in size.
The rainbow shark is quite striking it has a greenish black body with either bright orange or red fins. This fish has to be to a sole purchase as it will become aggressive with other sharks in its territory. On average they grow to around 5 inches and be sure that the fish you will introduce it to have enough space to hide if it has one of its temper tantrums. A tank of at least 29 gallons is recommended for this fish.
The red tailed shark is similar in most ways to the rainbow, it body is darker in colour and only the tail fin is coloured but it has the same aggressive tendencies as the rainbow.
Another option is the Albino Ruby Shark this one has a cream coloured body with red or orange fins. It is a good community fish and rarely gets aggressive, it can be kept in schools of up to three but if the tank is smaller then only one is recommended. This fish can grown to around 6 inches or more and ensure you have a cave or log for them to hide in. They are also excellent jumpers so make sure the lid fits well and be prepared when it comes to tank cleaning.
There are also sailfin sharks which have larger dorsal fins, they can fight amongst themselves so it is best to keep the as a single fish rather than a school, but in general they are peaceful towards other species. It is not recommended however to keep them with small fish as they may eat them. These fish can grow to around 2.5 inches in length.
When considering fish for any tank you need to seek expert advice, as factors such as the size of the tank and other occupants will have an impact on what you can and cannot put in. Some fish are fin nippers so having them with other fish that have large fins or tails is a bad idea as they will bully and nibble the fins of the other fish.
Similarly you need to understand the maximum size of each type of fish to ensure there is enough room in the aquarium for them to grow and live comfortably. If a fish cannot grow to its natural size and is held back by the room it has it will most likely die younger and have other issues related to stunted growth. They may only be fish but you need to be aware of their needs and do you upmost to respect and carter for them.
Fish are no different from any other pet you may have, each one has its own list of requirements and in order for them to live happy, healthy lives they need to be able to grow and move around freely. If you cannot afford a large tank then make sure you opt for a smaller shark and only have one. It is also a good idea to keep the rest of the inhabitants small too to ensure they all have enough space to move and grow.
If you are in any doubt as to which shark will suit your current set-up speak to a member of staff in any good aquarium store as they have the training and the knowledge to be able to recommend the best shark for you.
Next, find out more about choosing fish, [http://www.fish-tank-guide.com/tips-for-choosing-freshwater-aquarium-plants/]freshwater aquarium plants and setting up and maintaining your tank at the [http://www.fish-tank-guide.com]Fish Tank Guide
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Types-Of-Freshwater-Aquarium-Sharks-For-Your-Fish-Tank&id=6723621] Types Of Freshwater Aquarium Sharks For Your Fish Tank
Aquariums are fantastic pieces to have in the home they can create a sense of peace and calm. There are many types of aquariums that can be maintained from cold water to tropical and each variation has its own set of wonderful fish to discover. There are a number of different types of freshwater aquarium sharks, and which one you choose will depend on the size of the tank you have.
A shark can be a beautiful addition to any home tank, but be sure to do your homework on them first. Some are very territorial and may attack other fish while others require a hiding place. Also it is never a good idea to keep more than one type of shark in the tank and this can cause aggressive behaviour in some species.
One of the best types of shark is the Bala or Silver Shark this is a very peaceful shark which looks a lot like the real deal. They are compatible with most other fish but they can grow to be very large. In some cases they can reach lengths of up to 12 inches. In order to keep this fish you will do best to have a school of around six of them, which means your tank will need to be at least 90 gallon in size.
The rainbow shark is quite striking it has a greenish black body with either bright orange or red fins. This fish has to be to a sole purchase as it will become aggressive with other sharks in its territory. On average they grow to around 5 inches and be sure that the fish you will introduce it to have enough space to hide if it has one of its temper tantrums. A tank of at least 29 gallons is recommended for this fish.
The red tailed shark is similar in most ways to the rainbow, it body is darker in colour and only the tail fin is coloured but it has the same aggressive tendencies as the rainbow.
Another option is the Albino Ruby Shark this one has a cream coloured body with red or orange fins. It is a good community fish and rarely gets aggressive, it can be kept in schools of up to three but if the tank is smaller then only one is recommended. This fish can grown to around 6 inches or more and ensure you have a cave or log for them to hide in. They are also excellent jumpers so make sure the lid fits well and be prepared when it comes to tank cleaning.
There are also sailfin sharks which have larger dorsal fins, they can fight amongst themselves so it is best to keep the as a single fish rather than a school, but in general they are peaceful towards other species. It is not recommended however to keep them with small fish as they may eat them. These fish can grow to around 2.5 inches in length.
When considering fish for any tank you need to seek expert advice, as factors such as the size of the tank and other occupants will have an impact on what you can and cannot put in. Some fish are fin nippers so having them with other fish that have large fins or tails is a bad idea as they will bully and nibble the fins of the other fish.
Similarly you need to understand the maximum size of each type of fish to ensure there is enough room in the aquarium for them to grow and live comfortably. If a fish cannot grow to its natural size and is held back by the room it has it will most likely die younger and have other issues related to stunted growth. They may only be fish but you need to be aware of their needs and do you upmost to respect and carter for them.
Fish are no different from any other pet you may have, each one has its own list of requirements and in order for them to live happy, healthy lives they need to be able to grow and move around freely. If you cannot afford a large tank then make sure you opt for a smaller shark and only have one. It is also a good idea to keep the rest of the inhabitants small too to ensure they all have enough space to move and grow.
If you are in any doubt as to which shark will suit your current set-up speak to a member of staff in any good aquarium store as they have the training and the knowledge to be able to recommend the best shark for you.
Next, find out more about choosing fish, [http://www.fish-tank-guide.com/tips-for-choosing-freshwater-aquarium-plants/]freshwater aquarium plants and setting up and maintaining your tank at the [http://www.fish-tank-guide.com]Fish Tank Guide
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Types-Of-Freshwater-Aquarium-Sharks-For-Your-Fish-Tank&id=6723621] Types Of Freshwater Aquarium Sharks For Your Fish Tank
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
Types Of Freshwater Aquarium Fish For Your Fish Tank
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Lee_Dobbins]Lee Dobbins
The addition of an aquarium to your home is indeed a great one. Watching fish can provide hours of entertainment and relaxation as well. The most beautiful tanks, however, are those best cared for. Choosing the right species means a lot in how healthy the entire aquarium community thrives. Follow these tips for learning the types of freshwater aquarium fish that live together peacefully.
Bettas are popular species and while they have an infamous reputation for being aggressive, beginners should know they are usually only like that towards their own kind. In most cases, two male bettas will fight until one is dead. In community tanks, with the right choices of other species, these beautiful aquatic creatures reside just fine with others. Keep in mind the lone betta should remain in a tank of about six and one half gallons. Heat and oxygen flow should be monitored regularly to provide optimal health.
Adding species that are uniquely colored and different is a great way to enhance the beauty of an aquarium. The Archerfish is a good choice for not only adding beauty, but also interesting personality. Beware, however, because these unusual silver and black fish are terrific jumpers. Take care to only place in aquariums with hoods fitted securely on top of them.
Gouramis are other kinds of colorful choices that can add a lot of flavor to your tank. However, some of them can be aggressive towards one another, especially in the case of the Kissing Gourami. This fish will pester smaller Kissing Gouramis and cause them to be stressed. Placing one Gourami in a tank is the best way to add this species to a community.
Slow moving species can add a peaceful aura to aquariums. One great choice for this effect is the African Butterfly. This is beautiful species whose fins appear to like butterfly wings when you look at it from above. They prefer slow current, spending a lot of their time floating slowly around in the water. You may want to make sure smaller species are not in the community with the African Butterfly because they may get eaten.
The tank with smaller species is a perfect environment for the Ghost Shrimp. These are tiny, unique invertebrates that can add a unique appeal to your tank. Other small species of invertebrates like the Red Cherry Shrimp add a gorgeous splash of color while the Inca Golden Snail does as well. These snails also add the benefit of being an algae cleaning service.
Platies are an excellent choice for beginners. These fish come in many colors and are hardy livebearers. You can choose from a salt and pepper color or even one that is dubbed the Mickey Mouse. These are docile creatures and do well in the community of other gentle species. Platies are some of the most popular choices sold for the freshwater tank.
Most everyone has heard about the infamous and popular Guppy. These are great for adding comical personality to your community tank as well as color and uniqueness. These are some of the reasons these fish are one of the most popular choices. Guppies are easy to care for. However, they are livebearers and have many small fry at a time. Make plans to separate the young fry or they will be eaten by not only their parents, but by other tank inhabitants as well.
Choosing to add an algae eater to your tank carries great benefits. One good choice is the Clown Pleco for not only its love of eating unwanted algae, but for its unique and unusual appearance. These peaceful, non-aggressive fish mostly stay on the bottom and take their time in making in their way around the tank. Another bottom feeder you might consider is the Striped Raphael Catfish. These are indeed beautiful and grow to be up to nine inches long, so you might consider this species for a larger tank. The Raphael Catfish makes an unusual sound while eating that is similar to croaking, making this species a certain conversational point for when you have guests over to your home.
Making your choices from the many types of freshwater aquarium fish can be challenging when they all are so colorful and unusual. Each species has been given its own special look and nature made sure to include many of them. The tank with these fish is certainly one you will be proud of and want to show off. Always remember the care you will need to provide makes all the difference in the world at how awesome your aquarium looks.
Next, find out more about [http://www.fish-tank-guide.com/choosing-your-tropical-freshwater-aquarium-fish/]tropical freshwater aquarium fish like [http://www.fish-tank-guide.com/different-types-of-freshwater-aquarium-sharks]freshwater aquarium sharks that can add interest to your fish tank as well as how to setup and maintain your freshwater aquarium.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Types-Of-Freshwater-Aquarium-Fish-For-Your-Fish-Tank&id=6721671] Types Of Freshwater Aquarium Fish For Your Fish Tank
The addition of an aquarium to your home is indeed a great one. Watching fish can provide hours of entertainment and relaxation as well. The most beautiful tanks, however, are those best cared for. Choosing the right species means a lot in how healthy the entire aquarium community thrives. Follow these tips for learning the types of freshwater aquarium fish that live together peacefully.
Bettas are popular species and while they have an infamous reputation for being aggressive, beginners should know they are usually only like that towards their own kind. In most cases, two male bettas will fight until one is dead. In community tanks, with the right choices of other species, these beautiful aquatic creatures reside just fine with others. Keep in mind the lone betta should remain in a tank of about six and one half gallons. Heat and oxygen flow should be monitored regularly to provide optimal health.
Adding species that are uniquely colored and different is a great way to enhance the beauty of an aquarium. The Archerfish is a good choice for not only adding beauty, but also interesting personality. Beware, however, because these unusual silver and black fish are terrific jumpers. Take care to only place in aquariums with hoods fitted securely on top of them.
Gouramis are other kinds of colorful choices that can add a lot of flavor to your tank. However, some of them can be aggressive towards one another, especially in the case of the Kissing Gourami. This fish will pester smaller Kissing Gouramis and cause them to be stressed. Placing one Gourami in a tank is the best way to add this species to a community.
Slow moving species can add a peaceful aura to aquariums. One great choice for this effect is the African Butterfly. This is beautiful species whose fins appear to like butterfly wings when you look at it from above. They prefer slow current, spending a lot of their time floating slowly around in the water. You may want to make sure smaller species are not in the community with the African Butterfly because they may get eaten.
The tank with smaller species is a perfect environment for the Ghost Shrimp. These are tiny, unique invertebrates that can add a unique appeal to your tank. Other small species of invertebrates like the Red Cherry Shrimp add a gorgeous splash of color while the Inca Golden Snail does as well. These snails also add the benefit of being an algae cleaning service.
Platies are an excellent choice for beginners. These fish come in many colors and are hardy livebearers. You can choose from a salt and pepper color or even one that is dubbed the Mickey Mouse. These are docile creatures and do well in the community of other gentle species. Platies are some of the most popular choices sold for the freshwater tank.
Most everyone has heard about the infamous and popular Guppy. These are great for adding comical personality to your community tank as well as color and uniqueness. These are some of the reasons these fish are one of the most popular choices. Guppies are easy to care for. However, they are livebearers and have many small fry at a time. Make plans to separate the young fry or they will be eaten by not only their parents, but by other tank inhabitants as well.
Choosing to add an algae eater to your tank carries great benefits. One good choice is the Clown Pleco for not only its love of eating unwanted algae, but for its unique and unusual appearance. These peaceful, non-aggressive fish mostly stay on the bottom and take their time in making in their way around the tank. Another bottom feeder you might consider is the Striped Raphael Catfish. These are indeed beautiful and grow to be up to nine inches long, so you might consider this species for a larger tank. The Raphael Catfish makes an unusual sound while eating that is similar to croaking, making this species a certain conversational point for when you have guests over to your home.
Making your choices from the many types of freshwater aquarium fish can be challenging when they all are so colorful and unusual. Each species has been given its own special look and nature made sure to include many of them. The tank with these fish is certainly one you will be proud of and want to show off. Always remember the care you will need to provide makes all the difference in the world at how awesome your aquarium looks.
Next, find out more about [http://www.fish-tank-guide.com/choosing-your-tropical-freshwater-aquarium-fish/]tropical freshwater aquarium fish like [http://www.fish-tank-guide.com/different-types-of-freshwater-aquarium-sharks]freshwater aquarium sharks that can add interest to your fish tank as well as how to setup and maintain your freshwater aquarium.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Types-Of-Freshwater-Aquarium-Fish-For-Your-Fish-Tank&id=6721671] Types Of Freshwater Aquarium Fish For Your Fish Tank
Monday, January 23, 2012
How to Culture Snails for Freshwater Puffers
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=AJ_Houston]AJ Houston
If you're keeping freshwater pufferfish, then you probably already know that you need to feed them a crunchy diet to maintain their beak. However, it isn't always easy to find the right sized snails when you need them - that's why breeding your own colony of Ramshorn snails offers a perfect solution.
Introduction to Ramshorn Snails for Freshwater Puffers
Depending on who you are talking to, ramshorn snails are either considered pest snails, or an excellent cleanup crew that will eat various types of algae and uneaten, rotting food. Many people first discover them after buying live plants - "pest" snails are notorious for hitchhiking into fish tanks via new plant purchases. Typically, those who consider them pests did not intentionally place them in their aquariums, and wake up one morning dismayed to find hundreds of baby snails covering their fish tank glass.
Regardless of what you may consider them, ramshorn snails are an excellent feed snail for freshwater pufferfish. Their shells are not as hard as Malaysian Trumpet Snails, they grow to a decent size, and they are very prolific breeders so long as they have access to adequate space and a reliable food source. There are several different color varieties of ramshorn snails that have been developed by hobbyists, including different shades of red, brown, and blue - there are also some that have a spotted pattern to them.
Starting the Colony of Ramshorn Snails for Freshwater Puffers
Supplies needed:
Starter culture of ramshorn snails
10 gallon fish tank set up
Dark leafy greens, algae wafers
Because Ramshorn snails are hermaphroditic, you technically only need two to get started - I like to start out with at least 10-20 because I am impatient. In order to keep a colony of ramshorn snails continually breeding, you will need to set up at least a 10 gallon fish tank (or equivalent container). This should include a filter big enough to support the bio-load, and ideally an aquarium heater too - you will still be able to breed them without a heater, however, your snails will breed faster if you keep their water warm. Once you have everything set up, toss your snails in, feed them nutritious foods, like zucchini, spinach, and algae wafers, and then sit back and wait!
The best way to ensure that you always have a reliable source of crunchy food available for your small to midsized freshwater pufferfish is to breed your own colony of snails. Make sure that you allow your colony to get established before you start feeding them off to your puffers - if you start too soon, you'll deplete your colony and will need to start from the beginning again. Out of all the snails that I have tried to breed, ramshorn snails have been the easiest for me. I don't consider them a pest snail, and I even occasionally place a few of them in my other fish tank set ups to keep the gravel bed clean in between water changes.
Fortunately, raising Ramshorn snails and other common pond [http://freshwaterpufferfish.org/puffer-diet/how-to-breed-pond-snails-for-your-freshwater-puffer]snails for puffer food isn't very difficult at all - you just have to have enough patience to get the colony started!
However, if you're like me and you're having a hard to making that happen, make sure you check out my in depth guide about raising snails for puffer food at http://www.freshwaterpufferfish.org where I detail all the areas that I went wrong (and of course, what I got right, too!).
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?How-to-Culture-Snails-for-Freshwater-Puffers&id=6723047] How to Culture Snails for Freshwater Puffers
If you're keeping freshwater pufferfish, then you probably already know that you need to feed them a crunchy diet to maintain their beak. However, it isn't always easy to find the right sized snails when you need them - that's why breeding your own colony of Ramshorn snails offers a perfect solution.
Introduction to Ramshorn Snails for Freshwater Puffers
Depending on who you are talking to, ramshorn snails are either considered pest snails, or an excellent cleanup crew that will eat various types of algae and uneaten, rotting food. Many people first discover them after buying live plants - "pest" snails are notorious for hitchhiking into fish tanks via new plant purchases. Typically, those who consider them pests did not intentionally place them in their aquariums, and wake up one morning dismayed to find hundreds of baby snails covering their fish tank glass.
Regardless of what you may consider them, ramshorn snails are an excellent feed snail for freshwater pufferfish. Their shells are not as hard as Malaysian Trumpet Snails, they grow to a decent size, and they are very prolific breeders so long as they have access to adequate space and a reliable food source. There are several different color varieties of ramshorn snails that have been developed by hobbyists, including different shades of red, brown, and blue - there are also some that have a spotted pattern to them.
Starting the Colony of Ramshorn Snails for Freshwater Puffers
Supplies needed:
Starter culture of ramshorn snails
10 gallon fish tank set up
Dark leafy greens, algae wafers
Because Ramshorn snails are hermaphroditic, you technically only need two to get started - I like to start out with at least 10-20 because I am impatient. In order to keep a colony of ramshorn snails continually breeding, you will need to set up at least a 10 gallon fish tank (or equivalent container). This should include a filter big enough to support the bio-load, and ideally an aquarium heater too - you will still be able to breed them without a heater, however, your snails will breed faster if you keep their water warm. Once you have everything set up, toss your snails in, feed them nutritious foods, like zucchini, spinach, and algae wafers, and then sit back and wait!
The best way to ensure that you always have a reliable source of crunchy food available for your small to midsized freshwater pufferfish is to breed your own colony of snails. Make sure that you allow your colony to get established before you start feeding them off to your puffers - if you start too soon, you'll deplete your colony and will need to start from the beginning again. Out of all the snails that I have tried to breed, ramshorn snails have been the easiest for me. I don't consider them a pest snail, and I even occasionally place a few of them in my other fish tank set ups to keep the gravel bed clean in between water changes.
Fortunately, raising Ramshorn snails and other common pond [http://freshwaterpufferfish.org/puffer-diet/how-to-breed-pond-snails-for-your-freshwater-puffer]snails for puffer food isn't very difficult at all - you just have to have enough patience to get the colony started!
However, if you're like me and you're having a hard to making that happen, make sure you check out my in depth guide about raising snails for puffer food at http://www.freshwaterpufferfish.org where I detail all the areas that I went wrong (and of course, what I got right, too!).
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?How-to-Culture-Snails-for-Freshwater-Puffers&id=6723047] How to Culture Snails for Freshwater Puffers
Saturday, January 21, 2012
Feeding Your Freshwater Puffer Goldfish Is a Death Sentence Waiting to Happen
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=AJ_Houston]AJ Houston
While some puffers are truly piscivorous (fish eaters), the majority of freshwater pufferfish are not. Most of the commonly purchased puffers eat a diet rich in crustaceans, like shrimp, mollusks and snails. All puffers require hard foods so that their beaks don't overgrow - similar to the teeth of a pet hamster. Unfortunately, the soft flesh of a feeder fish is not going to do anything when it comes to filing down such a hard surface. However, the softness of the common feeder goldfish is not where the harm really lies.
Live Feeder Fish Transmit Disease to Freshwater Pufferfish
The live feeders that you see at your local pet store are not ordered or kept so that they can be sold as pets. While some people may purchase the common comet goldfish as a pond fish, most use them as a live feeder for another animal. And as such, they are typically housed in overcrowded, disease-ridden conditions - it's nearly impossible to keep more than a thousand fish healthy in such a small space. This means that without proper quarantine procedures, live feeder fish have the potential to wreak all kinds of fish problems on your puffer fish tank - like fungus and different types of parasites.
Feeder Goldfish aren't Nutritious for Freshwater Pufferfish
Aside from carrying a high risk for disease and parasitic infestation, feeder goldfish do not contain the right mix of fats, proteins, and other essential minerals and vitamins that your puffer needs. In fact, they're primarily composed of fatty tissue, which is definitely not healthy for any type of predatory fish on a long term basis - including Oscar's and other cichlid fish.
Live Alternatives to Feed Freshwater Pufferfish
There are plenty of other live feeders that you can use for your puffer, like crabs, snails, and shrimp. In fact, I even throw in a few feeder insects every once in a while to keep my puffers diet varied and interesting for them - I've found that most of my puffs seem to enjoy the second larval stage of the darkling beetle. However, I would still recommend quarantining any type of live aquarium residents before you offer them to your fish - you never know what kinds of pathogens you could transmit, even with something as innocent as a snail. This is especially important to do with live feeder shrimp because they are often housed with unhealthy feeder fish.
If you do need to buy your feeders from a pet store, then you will need to learn how to quarantine and treat them for parasites properly. One of only a few books specifically about [http://freshwaterpufferfish.org/puffer-care/beginner%E2%80%99s-guide-to-keeping-freshwater-puffers-book-review]keeping pufferfish, the Beginner's Guide to Keeping Freshwater Puffers, is an excellent resource for any budding hobbyist, and it includes a chapter teaching you about all the ins and outs of feeding puffers the right way.
You can check it out for completely free at http://www.freshwaterpufferfish.org
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Feeding-Your-Freshwater-Puffer-Goldfish-Is-a-Death-Sentence-Waiting-to-Happen&id=6723065] Feeding Your Freshwater Puffer Goldfish Is a Death Sentence Waiting to Happen
While some puffers are truly piscivorous (fish eaters), the majority of freshwater pufferfish are not. Most of the commonly purchased puffers eat a diet rich in crustaceans, like shrimp, mollusks and snails. All puffers require hard foods so that their beaks don't overgrow - similar to the teeth of a pet hamster. Unfortunately, the soft flesh of a feeder fish is not going to do anything when it comes to filing down such a hard surface. However, the softness of the common feeder goldfish is not where the harm really lies.
Live Feeder Fish Transmit Disease to Freshwater Pufferfish
The live feeders that you see at your local pet store are not ordered or kept so that they can be sold as pets. While some people may purchase the common comet goldfish as a pond fish, most use them as a live feeder for another animal. And as such, they are typically housed in overcrowded, disease-ridden conditions - it's nearly impossible to keep more than a thousand fish healthy in such a small space. This means that without proper quarantine procedures, live feeder fish have the potential to wreak all kinds of fish problems on your puffer fish tank - like fungus and different types of parasites.
Feeder Goldfish aren't Nutritious for Freshwater Pufferfish
Aside from carrying a high risk for disease and parasitic infestation, feeder goldfish do not contain the right mix of fats, proteins, and other essential minerals and vitamins that your puffer needs. In fact, they're primarily composed of fatty tissue, which is definitely not healthy for any type of predatory fish on a long term basis - including Oscar's and other cichlid fish.
Live Alternatives to Feed Freshwater Pufferfish
There are plenty of other live feeders that you can use for your puffer, like crabs, snails, and shrimp. In fact, I even throw in a few feeder insects every once in a while to keep my puffers diet varied and interesting for them - I've found that most of my puffs seem to enjoy the second larval stage of the darkling beetle. However, I would still recommend quarantining any type of live aquarium residents before you offer them to your fish - you never know what kinds of pathogens you could transmit, even with something as innocent as a snail. This is especially important to do with live feeder shrimp because they are often housed with unhealthy feeder fish.
If you do need to buy your feeders from a pet store, then you will need to learn how to quarantine and treat them for parasites properly. One of only a few books specifically about [http://freshwaterpufferfish.org/puffer-care/beginner%E2%80%99s-guide-to-keeping-freshwater-puffers-book-review]keeping pufferfish, the Beginner's Guide to Keeping Freshwater Puffers, is an excellent resource for any budding hobbyist, and it includes a chapter teaching you about all the ins and outs of feeding puffers the right way.
You can check it out for completely free at http://www.freshwaterpufferfish.org
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Feeding-Your-Freshwater-Puffer-Goldfish-Is-a-Death-Sentence-Waiting-to-Happen&id=6723065] Feeding Your Freshwater Puffer Goldfish Is a Death Sentence Waiting to Happen
Thursday, January 19, 2012
How to Keep a Freshwater Puffer As a Pet
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=AJ_Houston]AJ Houston
While the most common puffer people see advertised as a freshwater fish, the Green Spotted Puffer, is falsely labeled, there are actually quite a few true freshwater puffers available. For instance, Dwarf Puffers (Carinotetraodon sp.) and all of the species of Target Puffers (Tetraodon sp.) do not require any kind of aquarium salt in their water. However, none of the available species of freshwater (or brackish, or salt) puffers should be regarded as a beginner fish - their care requirements are just too demanding and specific. But, if you have already tried your hand successfully with other tropical fish species for several years there is no reason why you shouldn't branch into the wonderful world that is Puffer!
Proper Fish Tank Set Up for Freshwater Puffers
Puffers in general excrete a lot of ammonia in their waste because they eat a very meaty diet. Because of this, the minimum tank size that they should be kept in is 30 gallons - this is widely accepted as enough water to properly dilute the toxins between water changes. However, the size of the tank will largely depend on the species of Puffer that you choose - a sub-adult Fahaka Puffer wouldn't even be able to fit its back fin in a 30! To keep one of the giant's you are looking at a minimum of 300 gallons of water - 1000 and above if really want to create an adequate environment for a Mbu (more on why I don't think Mbu's should be sold period coming later).
Aside from having a large enough fish tank set up, you will also need to create a suitable bottom for your Puffer to rest on - you do not want to use gravel or other rough objects because their skin is pretty delicate. Instead, look around for a bag (or two) of fine aquarium sand - it comes in just about as many colors as gravel does so don't worry!
The key to preventing your Puffer from getting bored and constantly "glass surfing" is to create a very interactive environment for them (this isn't nearly as important if you go for a lurker species). You can do this in a variety of ways, like making drift woodcaves, so get creative! Dwarf Puffers appreciate a well planted tank if you want to try your hand at aquascaping.
How to Create a Well-balanced Diet for Freshwater Puffers
As with most Pufferfish, it is very important to offer them foods that will help keep their teeth worn down (if you own any type of rodent you can think of it in terms of their teeth). To do this, you will need to provide a diet that is high in hard, shelled foods. For most people, this means cultivating their own colony of feeder snails. However, if you don't have easy access to snails (or you can no longer find large enough ones...) there are quite a few other types of hard foods that you can offer your Puffer. For example, feeder insects, mollusks/clams and whole shrimp are all good for this.
Please note that your Puffer does not need a diet of live feeder fish - in fact, most species of Pufferfish eat a diet that consists primarily of crustaceans in the wild. So please do not get one if all you care about is watching them eat other fish for sport - I'm not saying this because I'm some crazy, tree-hugging fish fanatic that is trying to save the life of a few feeder fish but because it simply is not healthy for your Puffer!
Most Puffers also enjoy a varied diet of frozen blood worms, krill and brine shrimp. Mine absolutely love red wigglers and cockroaches - they suck them down until they look like their sitting on little marbles!
Some Final Words of Wisdom About Freshwater Puffers
Please keep in mind that all Puffers are considered scaleless fish. Because of this, they are very sensitive to Ammonia, Nitrite, and various fish medications - so always do your research before you add anything to your water. Due to their sensitivity, they are not suitable for non-established fish tank set ups - in other words, make sure you have completely cycled your tank before you bring home a freshwater Pufferfish!
They are also not meant to be community fish - while some, like the Dwarf Puffer, can be maintained in a species tank, they are generally very territorial in nature. So please don't run out and buy one thinking that you will be successful mixing them with your other tropical's, like Mollies and Platys - instead of returning to a peaceful community tank you will come home to find one very fat, happy Puffer!
As a side note, do not catch your Puffer with a net. Instead, scoop them up or shoo them into a cup to transport them. The same applies when you purchase them - do not allow the pet store employee to transfer them into the bag with a net. You never want to pull a stressed Puffer out into the air! Doing so may cause them to puff up, which may result in fatal complications should they suck in air and not water.
Although not a fish for the novice aquarist, freshwater puffers are fascinating to keep as pets. If you're new to the world of puffers, make sure you take the time to check out the Beginner's Guide to [http://forms.aweber.com/form/83/1229430683.htm]Keeping Freshwater Puffers.
It's almost 70 pages long, and it details all the important aspects of puffer care, from quarantine to feeding and proper tank setup. You check it out for completely free at http://www.freshwaterpufferfish.org
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?How-to-Keep-a-Freshwater-Puffer-As-a-Pet&id=6723085] How to Keep a Freshwater Puffer As a Pet
While the most common puffer people see advertised as a freshwater fish, the Green Spotted Puffer, is falsely labeled, there are actually quite a few true freshwater puffers available. For instance, Dwarf Puffers (Carinotetraodon sp.) and all of the species of Target Puffers (Tetraodon sp.) do not require any kind of aquarium salt in their water. However, none of the available species of freshwater (or brackish, or salt) puffers should be regarded as a beginner fish - their care requirements are just too demanding and specific. But, if you have already tried your hand successfully with other tropical fish species for several years there is no reason why you shouldn't branch into the wonderful world that is Puffer!
Proper Fish Tank Set Up for Freshwater Puffers
Puffers in general excrete a lot of ammonia in their waste because they eat a very meaty diet. Because of this, the minimum tank size that they should be kept in is 30 gallons - this is widely accepted as enough water to properly dilute the toxins between water changes. However, the size of the tank will largely depend on the species of Puffer that you choose - a sub-adult Fahaka Puffer wouldn't even be able to fit its back fin in a 30! To keep one of the giant's you are looking at a minimum of 300 gallons of water - 1000 and above if really want to create an adequate environment for a Mbu (more on why I don't think Mbu's should be sold period coming later).
Aside from having a large enough fish tank set up, you will also need to create a suitable bottom for your Puffer to rest on - you do not want to use gravel or other rough objects because their skin is pretty delicate. Instead, look around for a bag (or two) of fine aquarium sand - it comes in just about as many colors as gravel does so don't worry!
The key to preventing your Puffer from getting bored and constantly "glass surfing" is to create a very interactive environment for them (this isn't nearly as important if you go for a lurker species). You can do this in a variety of ways, like making drift woodcaves, so get creative! Dwarf Puffers appreciate a well planted tank if you want to try your hand at aquascaping.
How to Create a Well-balanced Diet for Freshwater Puffers
As with most Pufferfish, it is very important to offer them foods that will help keep their teeth worn down (if you own any type of rodent you can think of it in terms of their teeth). To do this, you will need to provide a diet that is high in hard, shelled foods. For most people, this means cultivating their own colony of feeder snails. However, if you don't have easy access to snails (or you can no longer find large enough ones...) there are quite a few other types of hard foods that you can offer your Puffer. For example, feeder insects, mollusks/clams and whole shrimp are all good for this.
Please note that your Puffer does not need a diet of live feeder fish - in fact, most species of Pufferfish eat a diet that consists primarily of crustaceans in the wild. So please do not get one if all you care about is watching them eat other fish for sport - I'm not saying this because I'm some crazy, tree-hugging fish fanatic that is trying to save the life of a few feeder fish but because it simply is not healthy for your Puffer!
Most Puffers also enjoy a varied diet of frozen blood worms, krill and brine shrimp. Mine absolutely love red wigglers and cockroaches - they suck them down until they look like their sitting on little marbles!
Some Final Words of Wisdom About Freshwater Puffers
Please keep in mind that all Puffers are considered scaleless fish. Because of this, they are very sensitive to Ammonia, Nitrite, and various fish medications - so always do your research before you add anything to your water. Due to their sensitivity, they are not suitable for non-established fish tank set ups - in other words, make sure you have completely cycled your tank before you bring home a freshwater Pufferfish!
They are also not meant to be community fish - while some, like the Dwarf Puffer, can be maintained in a species tank, they are generally very territorial in nature. So please don't run out and buy one thinking that you will be successful mixing them with your other tropical's, like Mollies and Platys - instead of returning to a peaceful community tank you will come home to find one very fat, happy Puffer!
As a side note, do not catch your Puffer with a net. Instead, scoop them up or shoo them into a cup to transport them. The same applies when you purchase them - do not allow the pet store employee to transfer them into the bag with a net. You never want to pull a stressed Puffer out into the air! Doing so may cause them to puff up, which may result in fatal complications should they suck in air and not water.
Although not a fish for the novice aquarist, freshwater puffers are fascinating to keep as pets. If you're new to the world of puffers, make sure you take the time to check out the Beginner's Guide to [http://forms.aweber.com/form/83/1229430683.htm]Keeping Freshwater Puffers.
It's almost 70 pages long, and it details all the important aspects of puffer care, from quarantine to feeding and proper tank setup. You check it out for completely free at http://www.freshwaterpufferfish.org
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?How-to-Keep-a-Freshwater-Puffer-As-a-Pet&id=6723085] How to Keep a Freshwater Puffer As a Pet
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
How to Breed Diamond Tetra Fish
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Leslie_Bogaerts]Leslie Bogaerts
The Diamond Tetra fish, better known to aquarium lovers as the Moenkhausia pittieri, is a member of the family Characidae and was originally found living in the Venezuelan Lake Valencia and a few select Venezuelan rivers. Male species of the fish may grow between two to 12 inches, but females are usually smaller. Though not a brightly colored fish, the Diamond Tetra is a silver color with greenish-colored highlights, and it stands out due to its beautiful reflective scales. In baby Diamond Tetras, the shimmering effect of its scales hasn't developed yet, but it will become evident as it ages.
Aquarium Environment
In terms of aquarium environment, the Moenkhausia pittieri should always be part of a school with a minimum of six fish. These should include others of their own species, and fish of others species should be around the same size. Within this school, one male will always be the dominant one. This male tolerates the others, but is always in control. Diamond Tetras have an ideal pH range of 6.6 to 7.0 and temperature preference of 74-82 degrees Fahrenheit (26-28 degrees Celsius), and if kept outside of this range, might take on a different appearance. Also, these fish like having lots of plants in their aquarium, and are luckily not very picky when it comes to feeding time. Moenkhaussia pittieri will love you for offering living food, but can eat anything from flakes to frozen food. Having learned a bit about this type of fish and its basic requirements, steps towards breeding it can now be taken.
Breeding Diamond Tetra Fish
The most difficult process of breeding Diamond Tetra fish is getting the right pairs together. Mature males have longer fins than females, especially when it comes to dorsal fins. Though females will most likely be smaller than the males, females that are ready for breeding often appear to be of a stockier shape. After selection of a pair of Diamond Tetras is complete, they should be separated and conditioned with good food. During the conditioning phase, they should be fed their preferred live food and also some frozen food. This should last for around 10 days.
While conditioning is going on, a separate spawning tank should be prepared. It doesn't have to a very large tank, but needs to include lots of plants, especially those with dense leaves. The conditions in this tank should be similar to the tank that the other Diamond Tetras live in, though at first, there should be no light in the spawning tank. Soft water should always be used over hard water. Gravel is not required, but some netting should be included towards the bottom of the tank. It should be far down enough to give the breeding pair enough space to swim. The holes in the netting also need to be large enough for the eggs to fall through to the bottom of the tank. The spawning tank should also be placed in a quiet area of the home where there can be no disturbances to the fish.
After the allotted time for conditioning has expired, the selected pair should be placed in the spawning tank in the evening when it is dark, and again, no lights should be used in the vicinity of the tank. In the event that the pair of Diamond Tetras is compatible, spawning might take place immediately upon the fish being placed in the spawning tank or might not take place until a day or two afterwards. Sometimes the lighting that is present in the environment where the tank is situated will help speed up the process. Though the male may spend most of his time following the female, when the time has come for spawning, the female will release the eggs at the same time as the male releases the sperm. The eggs must then become fertilized, in which case it is helpful to have soft water in the tank. The netting is very important here, because Moenkhaussia pittieri tend to eat their eggs, and in order to prevent this, the eggs must fall through the netting, separating the eggs from their parents. After spawning has taken place, the male and female fish should be removed from the spawning tank and returned to their regular aquarium.
Though the eggs may see movement within 36 hours, it can take up to a week before the baby fish are capable of swimming around their spawning tank. The fry will be very hungry, but in an aquarium with lots of plants, will find things to eat in their first few days. After that, fry food is acceptable, and once they are large enough, appropriately sized live food is good for them. Keeping the spawning tank clean while the fry are developing is very important. Because they grow so quickly during their first few weeks, baby Diamond Tetras soon look like the adults, though smaller. Their coloring will be plain at first, with their breathtaking shimmering scales being fully developed around the time the fish are 9 months old. Once they have reached a size that wont put them in danger, they can be moved into the adult tank and the spawning tank can be utizilized again with a new pair of adult fish.
Breeding Diamond Tetras can be a challenge, mainly because it may take several tries to find a compatible pair of male and female fish. It is important to keep the adult Diamond Tetra environment healthy so as not to adversely impact their well-being and ability to spawn at a later time. Likewise, the spawning tank should be kept clean and the temperature, pH, and softness should be checked regularly. Enough time and resources should be spent on the conditioning portion of the breeding process, as it is of great importance. Keep different types of food, including fry food, on hand at all times, even if you are doubtful that spawning could occur. Within several weeks or months, you will be rewarded in all your efforts as you watch the eggs hatch and can see your fry growing up and gaining those beautiful shimmering scales the Diamond Tetra are known for.
Having had fish tanks for over ten years, enjoying [http://freshwatertropicalfish.org]freshwater tropical fish, I now decided to write about my experiences on [http://freshwatertropicalfish.org]FreshwaterTropicalFish.org.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?How-to-Breed-Diamond-Tetra-Fish&id=6731030] How to Breed Diamond Tetra Fish
The Diamond Tetra fish, better known to aquarium lovers as the Moenkhausia pittieri, is a member of the family Characidae and was originally found living in the Venezuelan Lake Valencia and a few select Venezuelan rivers. Male species of the fish may grow between two to 12 inches, but females are usually smaller. Though not a brightly colored fish, the Diamond Tetra is a silver color with greenish-colored highlights, and it stands out due to its beautiful reflective scales. In baby Diamond Tetras, the shimmering effect of its scales hasn't developed yet, but it will become evident as it ages.
Aquarium Environment
In terms of aquarium environment, the Moenkhausia pittieri should always be part of a school with a minimum of six fish. These should include others of their own species, and fish of others species should be around the same size. Within this school, one male will always be the dominant one. This male tolerates the others, but is always in control. Diamond Tetras have an ideal pH range of 6.6 to 7.0 and temperature preference of 74-82 degrees Fahrenheit (26-28 degrees Celsius), and if kept outside of this range, might take on a different appearance. Also, these fish like having lots of plants in their aquarium, and are luckily not very picky when it comes to feeding time. Moenkhaussia pittieri will love you for offering living food, but can eat anything from flakes to frozen food. Having learned a bit about this type of fish and its basic requirements, steps towards breeding it can now be taken.
Breeding Diamond Tetra Fish
The most difficult process of breeding Diamond Tetra fish is getting the right pairs together. Mature males have longer fins than females, especially when it comes to dorsal fins. Though females will most likely be smaller than the males, females that are ready for breeding often appear to be of a stockier shape. After selection of a pair of Diamond Tetras is complete, they should be separated and conditioned with good food. During the conditioning phase, they should be fed their preferred live food and also some frozen food. This should last for around 10 days.
While conditioning is going on, a separate spawning tank should be prepared. It doesn't have to a very large tank, but needs to include lots of plants, especially those with dense leaves. The conditions in this tank should be similar to the tank that the other Diamond Tetras live in, though at first, there should be no light in the spawning tank. Soft water should always be used over hard water. Gravel is not required, but some netting should be included towards the bottom of the tank. It should be far down enough to give the breeding pair enough space to swim. The holes in the netting also need to be large enough for the eggs to fall through to the bottom of the tank. The spawning tank should also be placed in a quiet area of the home where there can be no disturbances to the fish.
After the allotted time for conditioning has expired, the selected pair should be placed in the spawning tank in the evening when it is dark, and again, no lights should be used in the vicinity of the tank. In the event that the pair of Diamond Tetras is compatible, spawning might take place immediately upon the fish being placed in the spawning tank or might not take place until a day or two afterwards. Sometimes the lighting that is present in the environment where the tank is situated will help speed up the process. Though the male may spend most of his time following the female, when the time has come for spawning, the female will release the eggs at the same time as the male releases the sperm. The eggs must then become fertilized, in which case it is helpful to have soft water in the tank. The netting is very important here, because Moenkhaussia pittieri tend to eat their eggs, and in order to prevent this, the eggs must fall through the netting, separating the eggs from their parents. After spawning has taken place, the male and female fish should be removed from the spawning tank and returned to their regular aquarium.
Though the eggs may see movement within 36 hours, it can take up to a week before the baby fish are capable of swimming around their spawning tank. The fry will be very hungry, but in an aquarium with lots of plants, will find things to eat in their first few days. After that, fry food is acceptable, and once they are large enough, appropriately sized live food is good for them. Keeping the spawning tank clean while the fry are developing is very important. Because they grow so quickly during their first few weeks, baby Diamond Tetras soon look like the adults, though smaller. Their coloring will be plain at first, with their breathtaking shimmering scales being fully developed around the time the fish are 9 months old. Once they have reached a size that wont put them in danger, they can be moved into the adult tank and the spawning tank can be utizilized again with a new pair of adult fish.
Breeding Diamond Tetras can be a challenge, mainly because it may take several tries to find a compatible pair of male and female fish. It is important to keep the adult Diamond Tetra environment healthy so as not to adversely impact their well-being and ability to spawn at a later time. Likewise, the spawning tank should be kept clean and the temperature, pH, and softness should be checked regularly. Enough time and resources should be spent on the conditioning portion of the breeding process, as it is of great importance. Keep different types of food, including fry food, on hand at all times, even if you are doubtful that spawning could occur. Within several weeks or months, you will be rewarded in all your efforts as you watch the eggs hatch and can see your fry growing up and gaining those beautiful shimmering scales the Diamond Tetra are known for.
Having had fish tanks for over ten years, enjoying [http://freshwatertropicalfish.org]freshwater tropical fish, I now decided to write about my experiences on [http://freshwatertropicalfish.org]FreshwaterTropicalFish.org.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?How-to-Breed-Diamond-Tetra-Fish&id=6731030] How to Breed Diamond Tetra Fish
Sunday, January 15, 2012
5 Reasons to Have a Fish As a Pet
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Bernard_Yao]Bernard Yao
Having a pet is awesome. It makes you smile, laugh, move around, and relax knowing you have company. But sometimes domesticating an animal can be a hassle. You can to feed it, give it a bath, walk it, and even clean after it. Most common pets people have are dogs and cats. There has been allergic reactions reported all because patients have these creatures living with them. They can even be rabid enough and could cause life-threatening harm than good. That's why having a pet fish if far more well than having a four-legged creature roaming around your living space.
1. Take note that hairy animals like dogs and cat leave of fur around the house that can cause allergic reactions to those with sensitive respiratory system. You'll be regretting you had these kinds of pets. Plus the fact that they have the tendency to chew or scratch off any fabric they come across. They'll be doing more harm than good if that's the case. A pet fish, on the other hand, doesn't possess any harmful threats at all. It just swims gracefully around it's tank, making makes that makes kids and kids at heart smile and stare at its beauty.
2. A pet fish is far more practical compared to having a dog or cat. You don't have to walk it, clean after it, or even give it bath. All you have to do is feed it twice a day and clean its tank twice a month. While having a dog or cat takes a lot of effort and time to take care of. Plus it even gets rabid when not taken care properly. This is not advisable especially those who want to start a family. Kids have sensitive lungs and exposure to common allergen such as these kinds of pets is never advisable.
3. Dogs and cats often makes disturbing noises since this is the only they can communicate. Sometimes they bark or howl for no apparent reason. Maybe because they can heighten senses but this disrupts the peace and serenity. A pet fish doesn't make any noise, on the other hand. Although some air pumps or filters may cause vibrating sounds, this could easily be taken care of.
4. Another reason why you should have a fish is they are "holiday friendly". Whenever you are planning to go vacation, you may easily leave your fish behind and install a automatic or slow-release feeder. You also might want to ask a friend to stop by to check the filter, heater, and of course, you fish if it's doing O.K. Having a feline or canine can be hassle since you have to leave it with a sitter or have a boarding kennel.
5. Having a pet fish is extremely cheap. You don't have to spend much to buy one or two. With just a few dollars, you can have the most gorgeous, graceful, and attractive fish you can ever have. Although setting up an aquarium might cost a little, but the expense doesn't still level off compared buying a dog with a good pedigree.
Bernard Yao invites you to http://www.petsinfoplace.com dedicated to sharing useful information on raising happy and healthy home pets for the online community. Come on by for more great updates on fish and fish care.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?5-Reasons-to-Have-a-Fish-As-a-Pet&id=6731060] 5 Reasons to Have a Fish As a Pet
Having a pet is awesome. It makes you smile, laugh, move around, and relax knowing you have company. But sometimes domesticating an animal can be a hassle. You can to feed it, give it a bath, walk it, and even clean after it. Most common pets people have are dogs and cats. There has been allergic reactions reported all because patients have these creatures living with them. They can even be rabid enough and could cause life-threatening harm than good. That's why having a pet fish if far more well than having a four-legged creature roaming around your living space.
1. Take note that hairy animals like dogs and cat leave of fur around the house that can cause allergic reactions to those with sensitive respiratory system. You'll be regretting you had these kinds of pets. Plus the fact that they have the tendency to chew or scratch off any fabric they come across. They'll be doing more harm than good if that's the case. A pet fish, on the other hand, doesn't possess any harmful threats at all. It just swims gracefully around it's tank, making makes that makes kids and kids at heart smile and stare at its beauty.
2. A pet fish is far more practical compared to having a dog or cat. You don't have to walk it, clean after it, or even give it bath. All you have to do is feed it twice a day and clean its tank twice a month. While having a dog or cat takes a lot of effort and time to take care of. Plus it even gets rabid when not taken care properly. This is not advisable especially those who want to start a family. Kids have sensitive lungs and exposure to common allergen such as these kinds of pets is never advisable.
3. Dogs and cats often makes disturbing noises since this is the only they can communicate. Sometimes they bark or howl for no apparent reason. Maybe because they can heighten senses but this disrupts the peace and serenity. A pet fish doesn't make any noise, on the other hand. Although some air pumps or filters may cause vibrating sounds, this could easily be taken care of.
4. Another reason why you should have a fish is they are "holiday friendly". Whenever you are planning to go vacation, you may easily leave your fish behind and install a automatic or slow-release feeder. You also might want to ask a friend to stop by to check the filter, heater, and of course, you fish if it's doing O.K. Having a feline or canine can be hassle since you have to leave it with a sitter or have a boarding kennel.
5. Having a pet fish is extremely cheap. You don't have to spend much to buy one or two. With just a few dollars, you can have the most gorgeous, graceful, and attractive fish you can ever have. Although setting up an aquarium might cost a little, but the expense doesn't still level off compared buying a dog with a good pedigree.
Bernard Yao invites you to http://www.petsinfoplace.com dedicated to sharing useful information on raising happy and healthy home pets for the online community. Come on by for more great updates on fish and fish care.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?5-Reasons-to-Have-a-Fish-As-a-Pet&id=6731060] 5 Reasons to Have a Fish As a Pet
Friday, January 13, 2012
Some Freshwater Aquarium Information You Need to Know
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Colin_Barton]Colin Barton
A lot of individuals enjoy keeping aquariums, and you can buy them at many places along with learning the freshwater aquarium information to care for them.
The term aquarium originates with the Latin word "aqua" which means water and the Latin word "rium" which has the meaning building or place. So the term basically means water building!
There are actually thousands of various styles for aquariums you will find to buy today, and trying to explain them all would not just be lengthy it would be downright ridiculous.
For some freshwater aquarium information on the styles, you can find the plain little fish bowls that we all had as kids up to the highly advanced systems with a filtration for the water, large number of fish, living plants growing up special-made plastic.
History of an Aquarium
Today's types of aquariums started evolving during the 1850s; these do echo the history behind them. When the Sumerians kept wild fish they did so in ponds until it was time to cook them for meals.
Koi and goldfish both have been in existence since the 1st century at least with the Chinese breeding them, and in the Song dynasty the goldfish lived in ceramic bowls even. This is a lengthy history with many details.
Even the Egyptian art from ancient times depicted an early aquarium; the fish of that time lived in temple pools of rectangular shape, this is very interesting freshwater aquarium information to learn that most do not even imagine about aquariums.
Having fish for a hobby started big after World War 1 was over which was in the mid to late 1800s. While the aquariums could be viewed at the museums and other special places, the modern filtration and lighting setups allowed people to have fish at home.
As keeping fish became to be more popular in the modern age, companies rapidly came up with new unique and fascinating items for people to add to their tanks, along with coming up with the best way to keep the water clean and the fish healthier.
This is why today that we have such a large number of choices available for people who own aquariums. You can select from the lost of numerous items and total into the thousands to complete your setup and make it fun, interesting and even unique.
Real Big Aquarium
One of the largest and most fascinating aquariums is not located in the USA, it is in Japan. This Osaka aquarium has a volume of 5,400 cubic meters and holds more than 580 different species! How's that for freshwater aquarium information?
Colin Barton has been a lifelong lover of freshwater aquarium information. He have already set up tons of fresh water aquariums and been caring for fish for over 10 years now. To learn more about the proper caring of fresh water aquarium please visit his website at http://www.freshwateraquariumscare.com/
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Some-Freshwater-Aquarium-Information-You-Need-to-Know&id=6726866] Some Freshwater Aquarium Information You Need to Know
A lot of individuals enjoy keeping aquariums, and you can buy them at many places along with learning the freshwater aquarium information to care for them.
The term aquarium originates with the Latin word "aqua" which means water and the Latin word "rium" which has the meaning building or place. So the term basically means water building!
There are actually thousands of various styles for aquariums you will find to buy today, and trying to explain them all would not just be lengthy it would be downright ridiculous.
For some freshwater aquarium information on the styles, you can find the plain little fish bowls that we all had as kids up to the highly advanced systems with a filtration for the water, large number of fish, living plants growing up special-made plastic.
History of an Aquarium
Today's types of aquariums started evolving during the 1850s; these do echo the history behind them. When the Sumerians kept wild fish they did so in ponds until it was time to cook them for meals.
Koi and goldfish both have been in existence since the 1st century at least with the Chinese breeding them, and in the Song dynasty the goldfish lived in ceramic bowls even. This is a lengthy history with many details.
Even the Egyptian art from ancient times depicted an early aquarium; the fish of that time lived in temple pools of rectangular shape, this is very interesting freshwater aquarium information to learn that most do not even imagine about aquariums.
Having fish for a hobby started big after World War 1 was over which was in the mid to late 1800s. While the aquariums could be viewed at the museums and other special places, the modern filtration and lighting setups allowed people to have fish at home.
As keeping fish became to be more popular in the modern age, companies rapidly came up with new unique and fascinating items for people to add to their tanks, along with coming up with the best way to keep the water clean and the fish healthier.
This is why today that we have such a large number of choices available for people who own aquariums. You can select from the lost of numerous items and total into the thousands to complete your setup and make it fun, interesting and even unique.
Real Big Aquarium
One of the largest and most fascinating aquariums is not located in the USA, it is in Japan. This Osaka aquarium has a volume of 5,400 cubic meters and holds more than 580 different species! How's that for freshwater aquarium information?
Colin Barton has been a lifelong lover of freshwater aquarium information. He have already set up tons of fresh water aquariums and been caring for fish for over 10 years now. To learn more about the proper caring of fresh water aquarium please visit his website at http://www.freshwateraquariumscare.com/
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Some-Freshwater-Aquarium-Information-You-Need-to-Know&id=6726866] Some Freshwater Aquarium Information You Need to Know
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
How to Choose Plants Compatible With Betta Fish
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Leslie_Bogaerts]Leslie Bogaerts
Betta fish are a species of hardy, elegant and easy to care for freshwater fish. They have a labyrinth organ that acts as a set of lungs allowing the fish to breathe air at the surface, as well as a set of gills for filtering air through water. The aggressive males can only be kept alone; gill displays shown by them are beautiful but they are also a warning of their hostility to other males. Most betta lovers keep the male betta, whose long flowing fins and bright colors are much prettier than the short finned, mutely colored female. Females flare their fins as well, but they lack the flowing elegance of the male. Because of the solitary nature of the male betta, a great deal of creativity can go into decorating his tank. Some people will place a clear plastic divider in the middle of a tank and put a betta on each side of it. The resulting displays between the two males is quite beautiful behind the safety of the divider.
Bettas in the wild are not as beautiful as those loved by the betta collector. They resemble the females moreso than the well known males who are bred for their beautiful fins and markings. Betta fish are found in the rice paddies of Thailand, Cambodia and Malaysia and do not require much room; they do not roam as other fish do. Because of this, they do can do quite well in smaller bowls in a warm room of the house.
One popular betta fish display involves an aquatic plant placed on top of the water in a display called a betta vase. This isn't without its problems because the plant could die and poison the water. Because of this, be sure the plant you are using is truly aquatic; some pet stores will try to sell terrestrial plants for the vases. When the leaves of these plants remain submerged in water, they will die and become toxic. The betta will not eat the roots of the plant as some believe, so he still must be fed, and the roots will not clean the water so the bowl still must be cleaned. Popular plants for a betta vase are the chinese evergreen, peace lilly, ludwigia, annubias nani and various types of philodendron. Great care must be excercised that the plant does not become large enough to keep the betta from being able to grab a bit of air at the surface or keep him from getting to his food; the upturned mouth of a betta makes him a surface feeder. It has been suggested that putting some straws through the plant can help the betta receive a good supply of air. Male bettas form bubble nests at the surface of the water, and will attach these nests to the floating plants. A betta vase is a beautiful display, and can be maintained with a sharp eye on the health and size of the plant, removing any dead or dying leaves promptly.
Live rooted plants are another option, but they do require a substrate at the bottom of the tank. Live plants provide oxygenation and filtration for the tank. Bettas do not require heat while some tropical aquatic plants do, so be sure to check the compatibility of your plants with your tank set up. Eelgrass is a good selection for the betta tank, as are cripts, water sprites, hygro and java ferns. Vallis, hornwort, foxtail and the amazon sword are also popular for betta tanks. These plants generally do not need excessive lighting, do well at room temperature and do not require circulated water to thrive.
While bettas can be kept at room temperature, their ideal water temperature is 75 to 85 degrees farenheit. It is at these temperatures that the true beauty of the betta can really shine. Adding a heater and mild lighting can expand your choices of plant life for the betta. Be very careful choosing a heater if you are housing a betta in a small tank, as too large a heater can overheat the water very quickly. Creeping jennies, java moss red leaf ludwigia, riccia fluitans, and banana plants are choices popular for betta tanks. Shy by nature, the betta seeks vegetation that it can hide in, around and under, so consider broad leafed plants in his tank. Multiple plants in the tank can be beneficial and creative, but always keep in mind the betta will need room to swim and get to the surface for air.
Artificial plants are a popular choice for the betta fish tank. Obviously these need no heat or light, but maintenance is required to keep algae off of them. Simply rinsing them off when you change the water is sufficient. Artificial plants are usually plastic or silk and come in an endless assortment of colors and styles. There are websites that give instructions on making artificial plants to save money and personalize the tank.Finding a plant that shows off a betta's color is a great way to add impact to his tank, and when added to a colored background and substrate, the effect can be stunning. While artificial plants cannot die and cause toxicity, they don't provide oxygen as a living plant does. Choosing a small, low powered aerator stone is a good way to ensure the betta is getting enough oxygen in his water. An artificial plant should still be chosen with the reticent nature of the betta in mind, and broad leafed plants are preferable.
You can house your betta fish with other tropical fish such a gouramis and mollies. He will do well with peaceful community fish, but keep an eye out for any bullying. Some fish species cannot resist nibbling on the betta's long fins, so plants are very important if he is in a community tank.
Plants in the tank or bowl provide many benefits to the long term health of your betta. With so many plant options, betta tanks can be created to suit any liking.
Having had fish tanks for over ten years, enjoying [http://freshwatertropicalfish.org]freshwater tropical fish, I now decided to write about my experiences on [http://freshwatertropicalfish.org]FreshwaterTropicalFish.org.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?How-to-Choose-Plants-Compatible-With-Betta-Fish&id=6731731] How to Choose Plants Compatible With Betta Fish
Betta fish are a species of hardy, elegant and easy to care for freshwater fish. They have a labyrinth organ that acts as a set of lungs allowing the fish to breathe air at the surface, as well as a set of gills for filtering air through water. The aggressive males can only be kept alone; gill displays shown by them are beautiful but they are also a warning of their hostility to other males. Most betta lovers keep the male betta, whose long flowing fins and bright colors are much prettier than the short finned, mutely colored female. Females flare their fins as well, but they lack the flowing elegance of the male. Because of the solitary nature of the male betta, a great deal of creativity can go into decorating his tank. Some people will place a clear plastic divider in the middle of a tank and put a betta on each side of it. The resulting displays between the two males is quite beautiful behind the safety of the divider.
Bettas in the wild are not as beautiful as those loved by the betta collector. They resemble the females moreso than the well known males who are bred for their beautiful fins and markings. Betta fish are found in the rice paddies of Thailand, Cambodia and Malaysia and do not require much room; they do not roam as other fish do. Because of this, they do can do quite well in smaller bowls in a warm room of the house.
One popular betta fish display involves an aquatic plant placed on top of the water in a display called a betta vase. This isn't without its problems because the plant could die and poison the water. Because of this, be sure the plant you are using is truly aquatic; some pet stores will try to sell terrestrial plants for the vases. When the leaves of these plants remain submerged in water, they will die and become toxic. The betta will not eat the roots of the plant as some believe, so he still must be fed, and the roots will not clean the water so the bowl still must be cleaned. Popular plants for a betta vase are the chinese evergreen, peace lilly, ludwigia, annubias nani and various types of philodendron. Great care must be excercised that the plant does not become large enough to keep the betta from being able to grab a bit of air at the surface or keep him from getting to his food; the upturned mouth of a betta makes him a surface feeder. It has been suggested that putting some straws through the plant can help the betta receive a good supply of air. Male bettas form bubble nests at the surface of the water, and will attach these nests to the floating plants. A betta vase is a beautiful display, and can be maintained with a sharp eye on the health and size of the plant, removing any dead or dying leaves promptly.
Live rooted plants are another option, but they do require a substrate at the bottom of the tank. Live plants provide oxygenation and filtration for the tank. Bettas do not require heat while some tropical aquatic plants do, so be sure to check the compatibility of your plants with your tank set up. Eelgrass is a good selection for the betta tank, as are cripts, water sprites, hygro and java ferns. Vallis, hornwort, foxtail and the amazon sword are also popular for betta tanks. These plants generally do not need excessive lighting, do well at room temperature and do not require circulated water to thrive.
While bettas can be kept at room temperature, their ideal water temperature is 75 to 85 degrees farenheit. It is at these temperatures that the true beauty of the betta can really shine. Adding a heater and mild lighting can expand your choices of plant life for the betta. Be very careful choosing a heater if you are housing a betta in a small tank, as too large a heater can overheat the water very quickly. Creeping jennies, java moss red leaf ludwigia, riccia fluitans, and banana plants are choices popular for betta tanks. Shy by nature, the betta seeks vegetation that it can hide in, around and under, so consider broad leafed plants in his tank. Multiple plants in the tank can be beneficial and creative, but always keep in mind the betta will need room to swim and get to the surface for air.
Artificial plants are a popular choice for the betta fish tank. Obviously these need no heat or light, but maintenance is required to keep algae off of them. Simply rinsing them off when you change the water is sufficient. Artificial plants are usually plastic or silk and come in an endless assortment of colors and styles. There are websites that give instructions on making artificial plants to save money and personalize the tank.Finding a plant that shows off a betta's color is a great way to add impact to his tank, and when added to a colored background and substrate, the effect can be stunning. While artificial plants cannot die and cause toxicity, they don't provide oxygen as a living plant does. Choosing a small, low powered aerator stone is a good way to ensure the betta is getting enough oxygen in his water. An artificial plant should still be chosen with the reticent nature of the betta in mind, and broad leafed plants are preferable.
You can house your betta fish with other tropical fish such a gouramis and mollies. He will do well with peaceful community fish, but keep an eye out for any bullying. Some fish species cannot resist nibbling on the betta's long fins, so plants are very important if he is in a community tank.
Plants in the tank or bowl provide many benefits to the long term health of your betta. With so many plant options, betta tanks can be created to suit any liking.
Having had fish tanks for over ten years, enjoying [http://freshwatertropicalfish.org]freshwater tropical fish, I now decided to write about my experiences on [http://freshwatertropicalfish.org]FreshwaterTropicalFish.org.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?How-to-Choose-Plants-Compatible-With-Betta-Fish&id=6731731] How to Choose Plants Compatible With Betta Fish
Monday, January 9, 2012
The Wall Mounted Aquarium - All The Benefits Without Taking Up All The Space
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Ned_D'Agostino]Ned D'Agostino
When I first saw the term "wall mounted aquarium" I thought it was possibly a mistake - didn't they mean "built into the wall aquarium"? After all, the weight of those things is ridiculous. One gallon of water weighs 10lbs and then you have all the added weight of the glass and rocks.
I like aquariums, but until now only those belonging to other people. My husband had three when I met him, all located in the wrong places so that they would go green very quickly. I hated all the pumps buzzing away and the dead fish that would somehow get out while I wasn't looking. It seems that a wall mounted aquarium might be a much better idea than those old-fashioned ones.
It's lovely and relaxing to look at a bunch of beautiful tropical fish, but the maintenance and research involved just turned me off. But the new designs of wall aquaria are tempting, and it would beat watching most of the TV programs that are on these days!
No longer just a fish tank, a wall mounted aquarium saves a lot of room and certainly looks more attractive than that big old green glass tank on a cast iron base, with tubes and wires coming from it. The designs of these aquaria are awesome and are bound to tempt a few newcomers to try the hobby.
They are so low maintenance that they are ideal for dentist and doctors offices - very calming while you are waiting to undergo torture, or for waiting rooms and lobbies as a point of interest for people to look at while they wait for an appointment.
A wall-mounted aquarium is hung like a picture or big screen TV - in fact it looks so surrealistic that people may not realize it really does contain live fish and real water!
They are very sophisticated too and made from shatterproof polycarbonate so they are pretty darned safe. Keeping the water at the correct temperature is no longer a hit or miss affair either, there is a state of the art control interface so you can monitor all the aquarium's systems, including temp, filtration and oxygen. The polycarbonate screen provides excellent viewing too; it looks like glass so there is no weird distortion when you look inside the aquarium. In fact just about everything is done for you, and if anything does need doing the control panel will tell you so, the epitome of low maintenance - I wish mine had been!
Not only do wall mounted aquariums look awesome in the daytime, at night they look even better, you can actually sit down and enjoy them and not worry about dead fish and algae.
Are they expensive? Well if you are a failed fish-keeper like me they are probably not, we ended up throwing away all our tanks, pumps and stands after months of miserable failure - not to mention the money we spent on doomed fish!
They start at around $300 and there is even a choice of different colored surrounds to match your d�cor - and not green slime color. You can sit back, relax and just add water - and a few happy fish of course.
To find a great deal on a <a target="_new" href="http://wallmountedaquariumz.com/">wall mounted aquarium</A> including the hugely popular <a target="_new" href="http://wallmountedaquariumz.com/aquavista-500-wall-mounted-aquarium/">Aquavista 500 wall mounted aquarium</A>, be sure to visit our website at WallMountedAquariumz.com.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?The-Wall-Mounted-Aquarium---All-The-Benefits-Without-Taking-Up-All-The-Space&id=6729149] The Wall Mounted Aquarium - All The Benefits Without Taking Up All The Space
When I first saw the term "wall mounted aquarium" I thought it was possibly a mistake - didn't they mean "built into the wall aquarium"? After all, the weight of those things is ridiculous. One gallon of water weighs 10lbs and then you have all the added weight of the glass and rocks.
I like aquariums, but until now only those belonging to other people. My husband had three when I met him, all located in the wrong places so that they would go green very quickly. I hated all the pumps buzzing away and the dead fish that would somehow get out while I wasn't looking. It seems that a wall mounted aquarium might be a much better idea than those old-fashioned ones.
It's lovely and relaxing to look at a bunch of beautiful tropical fish, but the maintenance and research involved just turned me off. But the new designs of wall aquaria are tempting, and it would beat watching most of the TV programs that are on these days!
No longer just a fish tank, a wall mounted aquarium saves a lot of room and certainly looks more attractive than that big old green glass tank on a cast iron base, with tubes and wires coming from it. The designs of these aquaria are awesome and are bound to tempt a few newcomers to try the hobby.
They are so low maintenance that they are ideal for dentist and doctors offices - very calming while you are waiting to undergo torture, or for waiting rooms and lobbies as a point of interest for people to look at while they wait for an appointment.
A wall-mounted aquarium is hung like a picture or big screen TV - in fact it looks so surrealistic that people may not realize it really does contain live fish and real water!
They are very sophisticated too and made from shatterproof polycarbonate so they are pretty darned safe. Keeping the water at the correct temperature is no longer a hit or miss affair either, there is a state of the art control interface so you can monitor all the aquarium's systems, including temp, filtration and oxygen. The polycarbonate screen provides excellent viewing too; it looks like glass so there is no weird distortion when you look inside the aquarium. In fact just about everything is done for you, and if anything does need doing the control panel will tell you so, the epitome of low maintenance - I wish mine had been!
Not only do wall mounted aquariums look awesome in the daytime, at night they look even better, you can actually sit down and enjoy them and not worry about dead fish and algae.
Are they expensive? Well if you are a failed fish-keeper like me they are probably not, we ended up throwing away all our tanks, pumps and stands after months of miserable failure - not to mention the money we spent on doomed fish!
They start at around $300 and there is even a choice of different colored surrounds to match your d�cor - and not green slime color. You can sit back, relax and just add water - and a few happy fish of course.
To find a great deal on a <a target="_new" href="http://wallmountedaquariumz.com/">wall mounted aquarium</A> including the hugely popular <a target="_new" href="http://wallmountedaquariumz.com/aquavista-500-wall-mounted-aquarium/">Aquavista 500 wall mounted aquarium</A>, be sure to visit our website at WallMountedAquariumz.com.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?The-Wall-Mounted-Aquarium---All-The-Benefits-Without-Taking-Up-All-The-Space&id=6729149] The Wall Mounted Aquarium - All The Benefits Without Taking Up All The Space
Saturday, January 7, 2012
What Is The Meaning Of Koi Colors?
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Marshall_Crum]Marshall Crum
Koi fish have been used as symbols of good luck for centuries and koi colors meanings are often given positive human characteristics, such as strength, endurance, perseverance and bravery. You never hear any negative traits applied to describe a color of this unique fish.
The symbolism of most color is fairly standard. For example:
Red, the color of fire and blood, could be associated with strength, determination or passion, love and desire. Red is a stimulating color and has been shown to raise blood pressure.
Blue could stand for stability, loyalty, wisdom, confidence and intelligence. It is a calming color and can help reduce the metabolism and relieve stress.
White, the color of snow, stands for purity and cleanliness and is associated with perfect conditions while black could symbolize strength or mystery and usually has a negative connotation.
If you search for a specific koi colors meaning, you will find that they have symbolized with strong family values, success in business and relationships as well as masculine and feminine attributes. Some people buy koi based only on the meaning of the color. The important thing is that keeping a koi in your home is supposed to bring good luck and prosperity.
Without the brilliant colors though, these would be just ordinary fish suitable only for eating. Fortunately, selective breeding over the centuries has given us many different colors and the patterns on the fish are as individual as fingerprints.
Color is king. Different varieties of koi fish are identified by the color, markings and scale variations. There is no doubt that the vivid colors and exotic patterns have something to do with the popularity of koi fish tattoos. Koi colors are beautiful and original no matter what type you choose.
These fish have long been viewed as symbols of love and friendship, peace and serenity, courage and strength. This is one reason why they have become popular on everything from jewelry to tattoos and anyone with a fish tattoo will be happy to tell you what the colors mean to them.
It should be no surprise that gold, platinum and silver koi colors symbolize wealth, prosperity and success in business. White could symbolize advancement or success in your career and black could be for other positive changes in your life. And of course, red symbolizes relationships, especially love.
When the fish has two or more colors, a person to have his or her own interpretation of what the koi colors mean. A red and white fish could symbolize success in almost anything in your life from personal to professional relationships. This is especially true when the koi is a gift to a special person or for a special occasion.
Whatever color koi you select, you can be sure that you have a living good luck charm that will attract good fortune for you and bring love and success into your life. With the right color combinations, you might even have a wish come true. At the least, you will have a pet that will bring many hours of relaxation and enjoyment. [http://www.koifish.marshallcrum.com/koi-fish-colors]CLICK HERE and go to koifish.marshallcrum for a lot more information on your koi colors meaning.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?What-Is-The-Meaning-Of-Koi-Colors?&id=6731799] What Is The Meaning Of Koi Colors?
Koi fish have been used as symbols of good luck for centuries and koi colors meanings are often given positive human characteristics, such as strength, endurance, perseverance and bravery. You never hear any negative traits applied to describe a color of this unique fish.
The symbolism of most color is fairly standard. For example:
Red, the color of fire and blood, could be associated with strength, determination or passion, love and desire. Red is a stimulating color and has been shown to raise blood pressure.
Blue could stand for stability, loyalty, wisdom, confidence and intelligence. It is a calming color and can help reduce the metabolism and relieve stress.
White, the color of snow, stands for purity and cleanliness and is associated with perfect conditions while black could symbolize strength or mystery and usually has a negative connotation.
If you search for a specific koi colors meaning, you will find that they have symbolized with strong family values, success in business and relationships as well as masculine and feminine attributes. Some people buy koi based only on the meaning of the color. The important thing is that keeping a koi in your home is supposed to bring good luck and prosperity.
Without the brilliant colors though, these would be just ordinary fish suitable only for eating. Fortunately, selective breeding over the centuries has given us many different colors and the patterns on the fish are as individual as fingerprints.
Color is king. Different varieties of koi fish are identified by the color, markings and scale variations. There is no doubt that the vivid colors and exotic patterns have something to do with the popularity of koi fish tattoos. Koi colors are beautiful and original no matter what type you choose.
These fish have long been viewed as symbols of love and friendship, peace and serenity, courage and strength. This is one reason why they have become popular on everything from jewelry to tattoos and anyone with a fish tattoo will be happy to tell you what the colors mean to them.
It should be no surprise that gold, platinum and silver koi colors symbolize wealth, prosperity and success in business. White could symbolize advancement or success in your career and black could be for other positive changes in your life. And of course, red symbolizes relationships, especially love.
When the fish has two or more colors, a person to have his or her own interpretation of what the koi colors mean. A red and white fish could symbolize success in almost anything in your life from personal to professional relationships. This is especially true when the koi is a gift to a special person or for a special occasion.
Whatever color koi you select, you can be sure that you have a living good luck charm that will attract good fortune for you and bring love and success into your life. With the right color combinations, you might even have a wish come true. At the least, you will have a pet that will bring many hours of relaxation and enjoyment. [http://www.koifish.marshallcrum.com/koi-fish-colors]CLICK HERE and go to koifish.marshallcrum for a lot more information on your koi colors meaning.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?What-Is-The-Meaning-Of-Koi-Colors?&id=6731799] What Is The Meaning Of Koi Colors?
Thursday, January 5, 2012
The Pros And Cons Of Wall Mounted Aquarium Fish Tanks
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Ned_D'Agostino]Ned D'Agostino
While most people may not be in love with the idea of an aquarium in their homes, inevitably people will pause a moment to look at a fish tank and take some time to listen to the sound of water flowing, observe fish swimming, and relax. Is getting a fish tank for a home something to contemplate? Are wall mounted aquarium fish tanks a viable and easy to maintain option?
Before making an informed decision, it is critical to explore the different benefits and burdens that come with ownership of a fish tank. The idea is to get something that requires as little maintenance as possible, whilst at the same time providing a relaxing distraction from daily activity.
Wall mounted aquariums bring benefits!
Basically, mounted to a wall in the home, they are also called portrait or wall aquariums. Hung on the wall using studs, these tanks vary in size and can even be custom built for the wall in question. If you are interested in exploring installing a fish tank in your home, and don't have the floor space to do this, clearing a wall space for a portrait aquarium may be a viable alternative. A clever use of space, these tanks can also be used to divide one room into two sections discretely, with a live divider that is at eye level and a pleasant distraction.
Such aquariums are not all that difficult to maintain and come with inbuilt filters and lighting that can easily be managed. Also a wall-mounted tank is a worthwhile consideration if there are young and very active children in the home, firstly, because it will usually be out of their reach and reduce the risk of accidents, and secondly, because it allows an opportunity to distract them from whatever they may be up to.
Difficulties with wall mounted aquariums
It is, however, not a tank of roses! There are difficulties that arise specifically with regard to the maintenance of such tanks. Amongst the common problems faced are that you must be confident that the wall support provided is good. Dry walls are not a safe place to mount a fish tank as, with the water weight included, these decorative distractions can become quite heavy.
There is also the minor issue of cost. Wall mounted aquariums tend to be more expensive and there will be less space for the fish to roam as these tanks are normally "skinny" - about 4 inches in width. It is also important to note that because of the reduced surface area, these wall mounted aquarium fish tanks have a limited water to air exchange.
So, the question is how to make this decision. The best advice anyone can give is to suggest you speak to someone who already has a wall mounted tank in his home or office. Such individuals will be able to provide you with insight on the daily benefits and burdens of such a tank and whether you will be able to float seamlessly through this acquisition.
To find a great deal on a <a target="_new" href="http://wallmountedaquariumz.com/wall-mounted-aquarium-fish-tank/">wall mounted aquarium fish tank</A> and to read why a <a target="_new" href="http://wallmountedaquariumz.com/">wall mounted aquarium</A> might be the best choice for you, be sure to visit our website at WallMountedAquariumsz.com.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?The-Pros-And-Cons-Of-Wall-Mounted-Aquarium-Fish-Tanks&id=6732148] The Pros And Cons Of Wall Mounted Aquarium Fish Tanks
While most people may not be in love with the idea of an aquarium in their homes, inevitably people will pause a moment to look at a fish tank and take some time to listen to the sound of water flowing, observe fish swimming, and relax. Is getting a fish tank for a home something to contemplate? Are wall mounted aquarium fish tanks a viable and easy to maintain option?
Before making an informed decision, it is critical to explore the different benefits and burdens that come with ownership of a fish tank. The idea is to get something that requires as little maintenance as possible, whilst at the same time providing a relaxing distraction from daily activity.
Wall mounted aquariums bring benefits!
Basically, mounted to a wall in the home, they are also called portrait or wall aquariums. Hung on the wall using studs, these tanks vary in size and can even be custom built for the wall in question. If you are interested in exploring installing a fish tank in your home, and don't have the floor space to do this, clearing a wall space for a portrait aquarium may be a viable alternative. A clever use of space, these tanks can also be used to divide one room into two sections discretely, with a live divider that is at eye level and a pleasant distraction.
Such aquariums are not all that difficult to maintain and come with inbuilt filters and lighting that can easily be managed. Also a wall-mounted tank is a worthwhile consideration if there are young and very active children in the home, firstly, because it will usually be out of their reach and reduce the risk of accidents, and secondly, because it allows an opportunity to distract them from whatever they may be up to.
Difficulties with wall mounted aquariums
It is, however, not a tank of roses! There are difficulties that arise specifically with regard to the maintenance of such tanks. Amongst the common problems faced are that you must be confident that the wall support provided is good. Dry walls are not a safe place to mount a fish tank as, with the water weight included, these decorative distractions can become quite heavy.
There is also the minor issue of cost. Wall mounted aquariums tend to be more expensive and there will be less space for the fish to roam as these tanks are normally "skinny" - about 4 inches in width. It is also important to note that because of the reduced surface area, these wall mounted aquarium fish tanks have a limited water to air exchange.
So, the question is how to make this decision. The best advice anyone can give is to suggest you speak to someone who already has a wall mounted tank in his home or office. Such individuals will be able to provide you with insight on the daily benefits and burdens of such a tank and whether you will be able to float seamlessly through this acquisition.
To find a great deal on a <a target="_new" href="http://wallmountedaquariumz.com/wall-mounted-aquarium-fish-tank/">wall mounted aquarium fish tank</A> and to read why a <a target="_new" href="http://wallmountedaquariumz.com/">wall mounted aquarium</A> might be the best choice for you, be sure to visit our website at WallMountedAquariumsz.com.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?The-Pros-And-Cons-Of-Wall-Mounted-Aquarium-Fish-Tanks&id=6732148] The Pros And Cons Of Wall Mounted Aquarium Fish Tanks
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
Live Freshwater Aquarium Plants: Make Your Fish Happy!
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Annie_A_Rogers]Annie A Rogers
Fish that thrive in fresh water will require freshwater plants in the tank. Keep in mind that fish are sourced from varied environments, with both warm and cold water temperatures. This goes for plants as well. Before you purchase, make sure you keep these requirements in mind and ensure you are buying the right species of plants to adapt to the conditions your fish will need.
There are four primary types of freshwater plants: Ferns, Mosses, Rosette Plants and Stem Plants. There are pros and cons to each. Ferns & Mosses are easy to propagate and are both non-flowering but add lots of green to your tank. The mosses will like to attach to something like a rock or an ornament, it will help if you can loosely tie them to something to help them along.
Stem plants and Rosettes are flowering plants. Stem plants are easy to grow and easier to propagate than Rosettes; however, Rosettes are those beautiful flowering plants that will be the center piece of your aquarium. Keep in mind that although beautiful, these Rosette plants will require a bit more attention and care.
The amount of energy and time you are willing to spend on caring for your live aquarium plants will dictate the type of plant you'll want to invest in. If you are planning to spend a lot of time on your aquarium, spring for the Rosettes and make your aquarium shine! If you don't have a lot of time, go for a stem plant or fern or moss instead. Another key consideration is the size of your tank, some plants will grow quite large. You'll also want to plan out how many plants you need based on the size.
Once you've decided on what type of plant you wish to introduce to your tank, you'll want to find a reliable place to buy from. The best option is a cutting from someone you know or a pet or fish store that you trust. Plants can carry disease and parasites so you want to make sure you can trust the person or place you are buying from. As a general rule, it's a good idea to keep the plants you purchase in a separate container for a day or two for observation before putting them in the tank. Make sure to keep an eye out for tiny snails, these are somewhat common and are not something you'll want in your tank!
Live aquarium plants provide many benefits including aeration and filtration; however, plants need light in order to produce these great benefits and others through photosynthesis. As with land plants, aquatic plants require differing amounts of light depending on the species. Make sure you know how much light your plants need and purchase a lighting system in line with those requirements.
Finally, your plants will require upkeep. As the plants grow bigger they will need to pruned back and brown leaves need be removed. You will also need to clear the algae off the glass as this blocks the light from getting through to your plants. Not really a big job for all the benefits your live plants will bring.
Annie Rogers writes articles on several topics including fish and aquatic plant care. She has a passion for her own aquarium and wants to help others build an aquarium that they love as well. Check our her latest website for more information on [http://www.liveaquariumplants.org]Live Aquarium Plants
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Live-Freshwater-Aquarium-Plants:-Make-Your-Fish-Happy!&id=6719723] Live Freshwater Aquarium Plants: Make Your Fish Happy!
Fish that thrive in fresh water will require freshwater plants in the tank. Keep in mind that fish are sourced from varied environments, with both warm and cold water temperatures. This goes for plants as well. Before you purchase, make sure you keep these requirements in mind and ensure you are buying the right species of plants to adapt to the conditions your fish will need.
There are four primary types of freshwater plants: Ferns, Mosses, Rosette Plants and Stem Plants. There are pros and cons to each. Ferns & Mosses are easy to propagate and are both non-flowering but add lots of green to your tank. The mosses will like to attach to something like a rock or an ornament, it will help if you can loosely tie them to something to help them along.
Stem plants and Rosettes are flowering plants. Stem plants are easy to grow and easier to propagate than Rosettes; however, Rosettes are those beautiful flowering plants that will be the center piece of your aquarium. Keep in mind that although beautiful, these Rosette plants will require a bit more attention and care.
The amount of energy and time you are willing to spend on caring for your live aquarium plants will dictate the type of plant you'll want to invest in. If you are planning to spend a lot of time on your aquarium, spring for the Rosettes and make your aquarium shine! If you don't have a lot of time, go for a stem plant or fern or moss instead. Another key consideration is the size of your tank, some plants will grow quite large. You'll also want to plan out how many plants you need based on the size.
Once you've decided on what type of plant you wish to introduce to your tank, you'll want to find a reliable place to buy from. The best option is a cutting from someone you know or a pet or fish store that you trust. Plants can carry disease and parasites so you want to make sure you can trust the person or place you are buying from. As a general rule, it's a good idea to keep the plants you purchase in a separate container for a day or two for observation before putting them in the tank. Make sure to keep an eye out for tiny snails, these are somewhat common and are not something you'll want in your tank!
Live aquarium plants provide many benefits including aeration and filtration; however, plants need light in order to produce these great benefits and others through photosynthesis. As with land plants, aquatic plants require differing amounts of light depending on the species. Make sure you know how much light your plants need and purchase a lighting system in line with those requirements.
Finally, your plants will require upkeep. As the plants grow bigger they will need to pruned back and brown leaves need be removed. You will also need to clear the algae off the glass as this blocks the light from getting through to your plants. Not really a big job for all the benefits your live plants will bring.
Annie Rogers writes articles on several topics including fish and aquatic plant care. She has a passion for her own aquarium and wants to help others build an aquarium that they love as well. Check our her latest website for more information on [http://www.liveaquariumplants.org]Live Aquarium Plants
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Live-Freshwater-Aquarium-Plants:-Make-Your-Fish-Happy!&id=6719723] Live Freshwater Aquarium Plants: Make Your Fish Happy!
Sunday, January 1, 2012
Fish Tanks For Sale - Buying Imported or Locally Made
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Don_Miguel]Don Miguel
When looking at fish tanks for sale, whether locally or those which are imported, there are many options that you will face before making your final choice. There are a few factors to take into consideration that will make your choice a bit easier though. The first choice to make is whether you want to have an acrylic tank or whether you are more interested in a tank that is made from glass. This decision depends on weighing the advantages and disadvantages of both choices. The most visible advantage for a glass tank is that it is highly scratch-resistant.
Fish tanks for sale that are made from acrylic scratch so easily that they often already arrive scratched if you are buying one that is imported, or in some cases, even those that are bought locally. The fish and various inhabitants of your tank can scratch the aquarium surface as well. Fish tanks made from acrylic do offer one important advantage though, regardless of how easily they scratch. It is very unlikely that an acrylic tank will ever break or crack, unlike glass tanks. However, acrylic tanks can break if they incur a heavy impact from a very sharp object.
Fish tanks for sale come in standard sizes or they can be ordered in customizable shapes and measurements. Custom aquariums are nearly always made from acrylic due to the fact that molding plastic is a much less costly process than molding glass. Molded glass in a custom fish tank also poses problems for observing the aquarium life. The molded glass will bend light causing warping and distortion when you are viewing your specimens. Acrylic containers refract light at a very low level. If you are interested in a custom fish tank, acrylic is likely to be your optimal choice.
One final thing to consider when choosing between acrylic and glass fish tanks for sale is the longevity of your purchase. Acrylic will yellow over long periods of time, unlike glass. Also, the build-up of scratches occurs much quicker with acrylic than with glass. If you purchase a glass aquarium it is unlikely that you will feel the need to replace the item as quickly when compared to most acrylic tanks. In regards to algae and various build-ups on the material surface, there is no considerable difference that makes one material superior to the other.
The size of your tank should vary according to the needs of the life that will be kept in it, and the price range you can afford. Larger tanks and those made from acrylics will have higher price tags. Buying fish tanks for sale locally is good in terms of supporting your local shop. Imported fish tanks and those from wholesale manufacturers can be less expensive than buying locally, but that depends heavily upon the manufacturer and other variables. In most cases, your local shop will have access to the same retailers as the common shopper in terms of ordering tanks. In many cases, they will have access to deals that the average person does not when it comes to shopping online.
The local retailers generally have more in-depth knowledge of the products to assist buyers as well. It really comes down to whether or not you as the buyer are willing to pay a few bucks extra to support their store front, and compensate their guidance through the process of picking out one of the finest fish tanks for sale - one that is right for you.
Choosing the correct tanks is important when looking for a new aquarium. [http://dalbarb.com.au/]Dalbarb.com.au has had [http://dalbarb.com.au/]fish tanks for sale for nearly 40 years. We stock a large range of sizes and can help you when looking for fish tanks for sale
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Fish-Tanks-For-Sale---Buying-Imported-or-Locally-Made&id=6737017] Fish Tanks For Sale - Buying Imported or Locally Made
When looking at fish tanks for sale, whether locally or those which are imported, there are many options that you will face before making your final choice. There are a few factors to take into consideration that will make your choice a bit easier though. The first choice to make is whether you want to have an acrylic tank or whether you are more interested in a tank that is made from glass. This decision depends on weighing the advantages and disadvantages of both choices. The most visible advantage for a glass tank is that it is highly scratch-resistant.
Fish tanks for sale that are made from acrylic scratch so easily that they often already arrive scratched if you are buying one that is imported, or in some cases, even those that are bought locally. The fish and various inhabitants of your tank can scratch the aquarium surface as well. Fish tanks made from acrylic do offer one important advantage though, regardless of how easily they scratch. It is very unlikely that an acrylic tank will ever break or crack, unlike glass tanks. However, acrylic tanks can break if they incur a heavy impact from a very sharp object.
Fish tanks for sale come in standard sizes or they can be ordered in customizable shapes and measurements. Custom aquariums are nearly always made from acrylic due to the fact that molding plastic is a much less costly process than molding glass. Molded glass in a custom fish tank also poses problems for observing the aquarium life. The molded glass will bend light causing warping and distortion when you are viewing your specimens. Acrylic containers refract light at a very low level. If you are interested in a custom fish tank, acrylic is likely to be your optimal choice.
One final thing to consider when choosing between acrylic and glass fish tanks for sale is the longevity of your purchase. Acrylic will yellow over long periods of time, unlike glass. Also, the build-up of scratches occurs much quicker with acrylic than with glass. If you purchase a glass aquarium it is unlikely that you will feel the need to replace the item as quickly when compared to most acrylic tanks. In regards to algae and various build-ups on the material surface, there is no considerable difference that makes one material superior to the other.
The size of your tank should vary according to the needs of the life that will be kept in it, and the price range you can afford. Larger tanks and those made from acrylics will have higher price tags. Buying fish tanks for sale locally is good in terms of supporting your local shop. Imported fish tanks and those from wholesale manufacturers can be less expensive than buying locally, but that depends heavily upon the manufacturer and other variables. In most cases, your local shop will have access to the same retailers as the common shopper in terms of ordering tanks. In many cases, they will have access to deals that the average person does not when it comes to shopping online.
The local retailers generally have more in-depth knowledge of the products to assist buyers as well. It really comes down to whether or not you as the buyer are willing to pay a few bucks extra to support their store front, and compensate their guidance through the process of picking out one of the finest fish tanks for sale - one that is right for you.
Choosing the correct tanks is important when looking for a new aquarium. [http://dalbarb.com.au/]Dalbarb.com.au has had [http://dalbarb.com.au/]fish tanks for sale for nearly 40 years. We stock a large range of sizes and can help you when looking for fish tanks for sale
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Fish-Tanks-For-Sale---Buying-Imported-or-Locally-Made&id=6737017] Fish Tanks For Sale - Buying Imported or Locally Made
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)