While this is 100% true, it can easily be taken out of context. Several variables should be weighed before it is concluded that water is actually being "wasted".Waste of water and it can shock the fish.
- The fish keepers should be acutely aware of the general water conditions in their local. If the fish keeper is in a generally drier area with less than average rainfall it is seriously immoral to even be in this hobby. (PERIOD!). You DON'T steal water from another Human Being's life and death needs because you like to keep fish. MOVE to an area with an adequate water supply on a normal basis!
- The seasonal drought condition and source of the water supply should be known.
I live in a rural area with above average precipitation. The water table is currently excellent in the county. My water comes from my personal well. I pay zero for water (except the electricity to pump it up from the well). In addition I have a spring fed farm pond with several 100 gallons per hour feed 24/7/365. Since 1979 the spring has NEVER ran dry in any drought condition faced in Central MD in that time span.
I drain my tanks directly into gardens and plant beds. The water from the change is actually being "recycled" to feed the plants.
I change my 30+ tanks at least 100% per week for 3/4 of the year as I have no good reason not to. I go easy in the Winter because I am a wuss that hates getting cold.