How to Start With a Freshwater Aquarium
By Adam McConnell

Most people are impressed by the beauty of a well maintained aquarium and watching the activity within can be very relaxing. For some it sparks the desire to own a tank and so the aquarist is born.

For your freshwater tank to be a success it's important to remember that you need to replicate a natural environment as closely as possible and there are many items on the market today to help you to do that.

The first item you will need is the tank itself.

Large tanks are always preferable to small ones as they're better for the fish and require less maintenance.

Space is important, not height, so opt for a rectangular tank that you can accommodate and afford.

It's important not to keep the tank near to a large light source such as a window as this will promote rapid algae growth which is not desirable.

Filters not only remove toxic wastes they also aerate the water.

Of course too much oxygen will not benefit the plants in the tank so this must not be overlooked.

Choose a good quality internal or external filter and remember that larger freshwater tanks will require more than one filter.

Aquarium lighting is not only necessary for the plants, which require at least 10 - 12 hours of lighting per day, but also adds to the beauty of the tank.

A good fluorescent tube will suit your needs quite satisfactorily.

Heaters are not always needed but it's important that you maintain the proper water temperature for your fish.

Certain species require warmer water than others and it's therefore important to bear this in mind when you select fish for your tank.

Gravel is also an important part of your freshwater tank and not only from an aesthetic point of view.

Choose dark instead of light gravel that isn't too fine so that the necessary bacteria can move through it.

Ideally the gravel should slope from about 10cm at the back to 5cm in the front of the tank.

Depending upon your preferences you can choose to add stones and other ornamentation.

These will help to make the tank more attractive and interesting for you and the fish.

They are excellent for concealing the tubing and wiring.

Plants are very important in any freshwater tank and provide oxygen for the fish.

They also help to prevent algae growth, however certain plants are easier to care for than others and therefore you should take the time to find out about the different plants available.

When selecting fish for your tank it is advisable to begin with species that are not too demanding, such as Tetras and Guppies.

Although you may think that your tank is large enough to accommodate many fish it's important to remember that you will need around 1 gallon of water for 1 inch of fish length to avoid overcrowding.

Freshwater aquariums don't require that much maintenance, especially if you've taken the time to do things properly from the start.

Fish need feeding twice a day but only as much as they can consume with as little as possible reaching the gravel.

Filters should be cleaned every two months as frequent cleaning will destroy necessary bacteria in the tank.

To keep ideal water conditions a 20% water change is advised every fortnight.

Algae growth on the glass can be removed with a scraper and old and discolored leaves can simply be cut off the plants.

Before starting do some more research on keeping a freshwater aquarium, as this will minimize difficulties and problems for you and the fish themselves.

Keeping a fresh water aquarium is both a pleasurable and rewarding hobby that can provide years of enjoyment while always being an interesting conversation point.

They add beauty to almost any home when they are properly cared for and maintained.

Adam McConnell is the author of "The Ultimate Guide To Freshwater Aquariums" which provides more detail on correctly setting up a freshwater aquarium - compulsory reading for anyone considering a freshwater fish.

The website contains valuable information on how to easily create and maintain your own stunningly beautiful freshwater aquarium with lively and healthy fish, even if you have never owned fish before!

For a FREE 10 part mini-course "Learn The Secrets To Creating & Maintaining a Stunning Freshwater Aquarium With Lively & Healthy Fish" go to => http://freshwateraquariumhelp.com/

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