Are you planning to set up your own aquarium? If yes, you might be aware that there are several factors you need to consider before introducing any type of fish species to a new fish tank.
In general, it is a must to ensure that your new pet fish won’t feel stressed from moving to a new environment. You see, wildlife is very much different from a confined fish tank, so it’s natural for the fish to feel some discomfort at first.
When introducing a fish to a new tank, you have to understand what its needs are. In the same way, you must also learn some basic guides on how to take care of your finned friend in a fish tank.
How long to wait to put new fish in the tank? In this post, we’ll guide you on how to introduce your pet fish to a new fish tank without causing any stress.
Contents
Guides to Tank Preparation
Before getting your preferred fish species, the first thing that you must ensure is that your finned buddy can get comfortable in its new environment as soon as you bring it in your place.
Step 1
The size of the fish tank should be big enough for the type of fish you plan to look after. For instance, if you plan to take care of cichlids, be sure that you research the appropriate tank size that would be precise for this specific type of fish.
Step 2
Choose fish tank decorative stuff that is designed as non-toxic for your aquatic pets. Pick items that are free of any gravel or dirt.
Please be reminded that before putting the decorative items inside the fish tank, it is a must to wash them thoroughly with warm water.
Step 3
To ensure that the tank water is clean and safe for your fish, add tap water to the aquarium, some water conditioners, and a de-chlorinator.
Step 4
Afterward, you may add some tiny and healthy plants to the aquarium.
Step 5
It is important to ensure that clean water flows in your fish tank before your aquatic pet is added.
To do so, it is necessary to pump the water through after the tank filter is already connected.
Step 6
And, the final step is to allow the nitrogen cycle to wind up.
Why is It Crucial to Test the Water Before you Add the Fish in the Aquarium?
When introducing a fish in the aquarium, the most vital factor to consider is the tank water. It is essential to inquire with your dealer about the water de-chlorinator that would work excellently with your local tap water.
It is worth noting that adding untreated tap water to your fish tank is detrimental to your fish’s health.
Meanwhile, as previously mentioned, it is indispensable to consider the type of fish species you intend to take care of and learn more about their needs.
If it is your first time buying fish, you can ask for some recommendations from an expert in a fish or aquarium shop.
Meanwhile, be sure to test the water where your aquatic pet will be added. You can do this with the aid of a traditional water tester that could be purchased from aquarium shops.
Fundamentally, nitrates, ammonia, and chlorine must all be close to zero.
The Importance of Allowing Healthy Bacteria to Thrive in the Fish Tank
Not to mention, healthy bacteria can be beneficial for any fish. Did you know that there are many benefits of healthy bacteria in a fish tank? Such benefits consist of eliminating ammonia buildup and recycling waste products.
Please take into consideration that it is critical to allow the tank to sit for 24 hours before you add the fish. This is purposely done to ensure the accumulation of healthy bacteria buildup inside the tank.
How to Add the Fish in the Aquarium with Proper Care?
Take in mind that before adding your finned friend to the tank, it is a must to examine the water temperature first. It is strongly suggested to turn off the light of the fish tank before adding your new aquatic buddy.
When adding your new pet fish to the tank, slowly allow it to drift from the plastic pack where it was placed when transporting it in your home. In doing so, your new pet will gradually be habituated to the new environment.
Moreover, bear in mind that only a few fish is recommended to be added at first. Then, slowly introduce more over the next 4 to 6 weeks. Pick only aquatic pets that are healthy and active. It is highly advised to avoid an overcrowding inside the tank.
Additionally, you need to ensure that the pH level in the aquarium is identical to the pH of the tank the fish was in before. Otherwise, your finned buddy can get ill or eventually die due to shock.
To balance the previous and current temperatures, consider floating the plastic pack in the tank for approximately 15 minutes. Afterward, at 5 minutes intervals, open the plastic pack and add a small amount of tank water.
Lastly, after 15 minutes, carefully snare the fish and put it inside the tank. Be reminded not to add the plastic pack water to the tank. Allow the fish to swim from the net into the aquarium.
The bottom line here is that the less stressful the transport is the better for your newly-adopted finned buddy.
Closing Thoughts
Starting a fish tank is less burdensome than you might imagine. Just like any type of hobby, the more you know about it, the more enjoyable and rewarding it will be. Just be sure that you follow the basic steps when introducing a fish to a new tank.
Primarily, think of your finned buddy as pets that deserve the best attention and caress you could provide. Always remember that they truly depend on you to keep their new environment safe and healthy.
Hopefully, the guides we have shared above can help you properly nurture your newly acquired aquatic pet so you could both enjoy more years of companionship.