Keeping Freshwater Fish

Freshwater Fish

Keeping fish in an aquarium is relatively easy but, as with all pets, some considerations must be made first. For example, the type of fish, the type of tank or aquarium and, most importantly, keeping them in good health. Freshwater fish in their natural environment inhabit fresh water such as rivers or lakes with very low salinity. Therefore it is necessary to re-create these conditions when keeping this type of fish at home.

Types of Freshwater Fish

There are two kinds of freshwater fish: coldwater fish and warm water fish. Fish which inhabit warm water are tropical and it is not advised to mix the two types as they require different conditions to live in. Choosing the fish you want is really a personal decision so shopping around is a good idea. One retailer may have a better selection of tropical freshwater fish than coldwater fish for example. Looking around at the types of fish available before actually buying is a good idea as the tank will need to set up to suit the fish type before they are put in it.

Living Environment

Tap water can be used in the tank but it is treated to make it drinkable therefore the chemicals must be neutralised before adding fish. You can buy a water conditioner for the tank which will put the pH of the water back to 7 and test kits are available to make sure it remains so. Some fish live in different pH’s so it is best to check. The tank will also need a filter to regularly flush out the bacteria in the tank and keep the water healthy for the fish to dwell in.

It is fine to put in some plastic plants to make the tank look attractive but it is actually beneficial for the fish to plant real greenery. Oxygen is produced by the plants which the fish can breathe and they also soak up any chemicals in the tank which may normally harm the fish. Lights in the tank are essential to keep the plants alive but it is also important for the fish as they should not dwell in darkness. Some types of fish do have to live in the dark so ask the retailer for advice. Different coloured lights will bring out the colours of certain fish but put in at least one plain white light tube.

Looking After Freshwater Fish

Feeding the fish regularly is important but be careful not to over-feed them as they can also die this way. Different fish prefer different foods so it is best to ask the retailer which foods are best for your fish. Usually they will feed on flakes and there are types for cold water and tropical fish.

Maintaining the health of your fish is important as disease will spread rapidly between fish in a tank. They can still be treated however so keep another small tank to keep the diseased fish in away from the healthy fish. Fungal diseases and parasites are common so changing the tank water regularly is essential to prevent disease spread. Also, a larger tank can give fish more space making it better for their welfare.