Fish
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. For kids, Marina goldfish starter kits which come in bright colours and include a small filter are an excellent starting point. Jebo units are a neatly designed glass tank including a good quality filter and double light unit. Elite ‘System’ kits are available in both tropical and goldfish setup. These include absolutely everything you’ll need, from a filter, light, net, food and water conditioners to an instructional DVD to help you set it all up. But if you just want a classic glass fish bowl, we have them in a variety of sizes too!
Choose a gravel for the bottom of the tank. Get enough for a layer about 4cm 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 such as Aqua Plus 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.
During the first 6 weeks or so of your tank’s life, it is expected that you may lose a few fish. This is due to the levels of good and bad bacteria in the tank stabilising, and reaching a balanced environment for your fish. To ease the impact of this process, a live bacteria such as Cycle is recommended. This will reduce a sudden spike of ammonia (caused by bad bacteria) and ease stress on your fish, reducing fish loss. It is also recommended that you gradually increase the number of fish in your tank, so as not to put undue stress on the system.
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, such as Jebo tanks, have high quality 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, such as Jebos, 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 will be a shock for the fish, and very stressful for them
- 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, in the gravel. 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 tank is cloudy and appears green in colour, this is from algae in the water, caused by too much light. If you have a light on your tank make sure it is only on for about 8 hours a day. Algae Cure will help resolve 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 disease and is caused by stress or fluctuations in temperature. It looks like little white pin dots on the fish, and is cured with Aquamaster White Spot Treatment.
If your fish’s fins and tail look like they are frayed, this is fin rot, and easily treated with Melafix. Fungal diseases look like white fur growing on your fish. Pimafix or Aquamaster fungus cure will help with this.
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.