How to Keep Your Freshwater Fish Alive
Freshwater fish are considered low maintenance fish. These fish do not require the extensive care that saltwater fish do. Freshwater fish are often less costly to purchase and supplies are relatively cheap. Like all pets, however freshwater fish do have proper care requirements to keep them healthy and alive.
- Aquarium (10 gallons minimum)
- Fish food specific to fish type
- Small net
- Set up the aquarium according to the manufacturer's specifications.
- Fill the aquarium to the appropriate water level and pour the ph-balance stabilizer that came with it into the water.
- Install the aquarium filter according to the manufacturer's specifications. Plug the power cord into an outlet and ensure the aquarium filter works properly.
- Allow the aquarium to run overnight to stabilize the ph-balance. Do not place any fish into the aquarium at this time.
- Wash all aquarium rocks thoroughly before placing them into the aquarium.
- Limit the number of aquarium decorations you place into the aquarium. For example, place only one aquarium decoration for every 10 gallons of water into the aquarium. Ensure that all aquarium decorations are washed thoroughly before placing them into the aquarium.
- Research the type of fish in which you are most interested. Ensure that your preferred fish are compatible. For instance, goldfish release ammonia, which will kill all fish except other goldfish.
- Consider all data retrieved to make your fish selections.
- Refrain from overcrowding the aquarium. A general rule of thumb is one fish per five gallons.
- Ensure that you are feeding the fish the correct food. Read the labels before purchasing fish food for this purpose.
- Ensure that you are feeding your fish properly. Follow the instructions on the fish food label properly to avoid overfeeding.
- Clean the aquarium properly. Each aquarium has manufacturer's specifications for cleaning. This information includes required frequency of cleaning and type of cleanser to use.
- Remove any dead fish found in the aquarium immediately using the net. Dead fish release toxins into the water that are dangerous for the other fish.