How to Keep Freshwater Fish as Pets

As pets, freshwater fish are easy to care for with minimal time investment. Freshwater aquariums make a fun and rewarding hobby or project that anyone in the family can take part in and enjoy. Costs for starting and maintaining a freshwater tank vary depending on size and inhabitants. However, a small starter set up is often very affordable and easy to find at many retailers.

Things You Will Need:

• A Plexiglas or glass aquarium


• An aquarium stand or a level, sturdy place for the aquarium to sit


• A light hood for your aquarium


• Available electrical outlets


• Access to a nearby water source


• A large pitcher for transferring water and water treatments


• Aquarium sand or gravel


• Submersible tank heater


• Aquarium filter


• Aquarium water pump


• Freshwater water testing kit


• Fish or plant food

1. Choose an appropriate aquarium size. When considering an aquarium, the size is the most important factor. While a larger aquarium may be more eye catching and easier to care for, large volumes of water are quite heavy. It is not uncommon for a larger fish tank to weigh in at 250 pounds. This will also factor in heavily when it comes to choice of stands.


2. Choose an appropriate aquarium stand. While smaller tanks may fit well on a dresser, table or desk, many large tanks will require specialized stands. These stands often include storage for any equipment, chemicals or food for the tank as well.


3. Choose a sufficient hood with lights for the tank. For smaller tanks, a single-bulb hood should work fine. For larger tanks or tanks specializing in live plants, a dual-bulb hood should be purchased. This will allow you to put use two full-spectrum bulbs or a combination of full-spectrum and plant bulbs.


4. Choose a filtration, circulation and heating system. Heating and filtration systems are available in a variety of formats. Some attach to the walls of the tank, while others are located below the gravel or substrate at the bottom of the tank. If choosing a heating or filtration systems that is hidden beneath the substrate, do not use sand as it can clog filters and create poor circulation. This will lead to inconsistent water conditions and an unhealthy tank.


5. Set up and prepare the tank for use. Find level, sturdy location and set up the tank. If using a filter, heating or circulation system that will be beneath the substrate in your tank, place it in first. Do not plug any electrical components in until water has been added to the tank. Add any substrate and decorations to the tank.


6. Add water to the tank. Water level should be within an inch of the top of the tank to allow proper circulation and provide the most visual appeal.


7. Plug in the electrical components. This will allow the water to being circulating and heating.


8. Establish a proper chemical balance within the water. Using the test kit, measure pH and nitrate levels in the water. To support life, the water will need to be allowed to cycle and become stable. Introducing fish too early may cause complications and even death. To speed up the nitrogen cycle, there are additives available at many aquarium suppliers. You can also add small amounts of flake food to the tank every few days.

Proper Care and Maintenance for Freshwater Fish:

• Maintain proper water temperature for the species of fish and plants you have chosen. While this can vary slightly, the temperature should be near the range of 76 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit for the majority of freshwater flora and fish.


• Feed the fish regularly. Fish, like any pet, like a good reliable schedule. Establish regular feeding times and amounts. Be careful to avoid overfeeding, as this is unhealthy for the fish and can impair water quality.


• Perform filter maintenance as needed. You should regularly check the hoses and filter pads of your filters to ensure smooth operation. While some growth is natural, and helpful in some cases, water flow should never be impeded.


• Check water quality regularly. While water may need to be checked daily in the beginning, as things stabilize within the tank you can decrease frequency. However, still check your water quality weekly. This can provide important warning of any potential conditions within your tank.


• Introduce new fish and plants slowly. You should never add more than two or three live plants or fish to your tank at a time. This can disrupt the water’s natural cycle and cause toxicity issues and poor fish health. After new additions, monitor the water quality. When it has stabilized again, it is safe to add more.