Getting set up
Ongoing Maintenance
Some common problems
Getting set up
First you need to decide on your tank. There are some fantastic starter units to chose from, that make getting started really easy. Fluval and BiOrb make a range of great looking tanks in a variety of styles and sizes, with filters and lights built in. You can add a heater to any of these to make them suitable for tropical fish. If you just want a classic glass fish bowl or a basic glass tank, we have them in a variety of sizes and shapes too!
Choose a gravel for the bottom of the tank. Get enough for a layer about 3cm thick, so there is enough to anchor your plants down and allow them to grow. Rinse it out thoroughly before putting it in your tank to get rid of any excess particles that may cloud your tank.
A liquid water conditioner is necessary to remove the chlorine and heavy metals from the tap water, making it safe for the fish. For goldfish, conditioning salts are also recommended to add electrolytes, increase the hardness and improve the quality of water for your goldfish. When starting a brand new tank, a live bacteria supplement such as Stability or Quick Start is recommended to boost the levels of beneficial bacteria in your tank and reduce the risk of an ammonia spike, caused by an excess of bad bacteria.
We recommend that you gradually build the population in your tank, to allow the system to become established. Choose some hardy fish to begin with, and be sure to keep feeding to a minimum.
If the size of your tank allows it, we recommend you add a filter. Elite mini filters are suitable for use on even the smallest tank or bowl under 10 litres. This will not only help keep your tank clean, but the movement it creates in the water will provide aeration for your fish. Many tank units have high quality, multi stage filtration systems built into them which makes successful fish keeping even easier!
A light on your tank is optional, but it will encourage fish and plant growth and will make the colours in your aquarium appear really vibrant. Again, many tank units have built in lights.
Live plants should always be included as they help to maintain water quality, and your fish will enjoy eating them!
Ongoing maintenance
- Make sure you keep an eye on your fish each day, so you’ll pick up signs of any problems early
- Never use any soaps or detergents
- Never change all your water as it shock your fish and clean away good bacteria too
- Fortnightly, do ¼ to 1/3 water changes, depending on how many fish in your tank and your filteration. Our staff will be able to advise you on this. The water should be taken out of the tank using a gravel siphon, which drains the dirtiest water from the bottom of the tank. This is a good time to scrub any algae from the ornaments, glass or plants using an algae scrub pad
- Refill the tank with water from the tap, making sure to add the correct quantity of water conditioners
- If your tank has a filter, check it to make sure it is working properly and hasn’t become blocked
- If you’re going away on holidays, we have vacation blocks which will keep your fish happy while you’re away
Some common problems
If your water appears green in colour this is from algae in the water, caused by too much light and excess nutrients in the water. If you have a light on your tank make sure it is only on for about 8 hours a day. Also ensure your tank isn't getting any direct sunlight. Algaefix will help to fix the problem.
If your tank appears white or brown cloudy this is likely to be from overfeeding. Reduce both the frequency and amount you’re feeding your fish, and add some live plants to reduce the amount of packaged food your fish require. If you have a filter, Accu-Clear will clarify your tank within 24 hours.
White Spot is a common parasitic disease and is caused by stress or fluctuations in temperature. It looks like little white pin dots on the fish, and is contagious so you will need to treat the whole tank with White Spot treatment. If possible, elevate the temperature in your tank - this will shorten the duration of the disease.
If your fish’s fins and tail look like they are frayed, this is fin rot and easily treated with Pimafix, which will also help the fins grow back. Other fungal diseases look like white fur growing on your fish, Pimafix is suitable for these also.
If your fish is sitting on the bottom of the tank or seems lethargic with his fins clamped down, this is probably a result of water quality problems. Bring in a sample of your water to your Pets Wonderland and our staff will test your water for you and help you find a solution for the problem. You can also purchase your own easy to use test kits so you can prevent any problems occurring in the future.
Pets Wonderland Pty Ltd
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