Aquarium Keeping Ethics

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Hasi

Go hard, or go home
MFK Member
May 30, 2005
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Australia
Hello all,

I want to start a thread with solid and sound advice for fish keepers from fellow experienced fish keepers. I am no expert but maybe we can get the more knowledgeable and experienced fish keepers to add their input and maybe get a sticky happening for hobbyists who want to step up their game or just want to know what the 'pros' think and do.

Please dont add anything twice as it is unnecessary - lets keep this serious and advantageous for all of us :thumbsup:

Heres just some to get the ball rolling, in NO specific order:



- Be religious with water changes, once a week is ideal. Personally i recommend 40% but it depends on size of tank and stocking as well as personal preference

- Keep atleast two heaters. If one fails it would be a shame to lose our valued fish

- ALWAYS have a spare tank. You just never know when you will need one. Trust me.

- Keep extra filtration such as a sponge filter or small canister going on running tank so you can setup up the spare tank if in need of emergency and have a cycled tank.

- Keep tanks covered. Fish jump

- Ensure tanks water is constantly agitated. Either have the spray bar at water level or use items like a powerhead or an air-stone

- Gravel vaccuums are great for picking up debris. A must have
 
Quarantine EVERYTHING, regardless of if it looks healthy.

Always research a fish before you go purchase it. No use getting a pretty fish that ends up being a 3 foot monster.
 
Have as much filtration as you can afford. the more filtration the healthier the fish.

Feed a balanced diet to your fish, not just one staple.

NEVER EVER over stock.

Give as much room as needed for your large fish, and than double that. minimum tank size should not be the extent of your wallet for your fish.
 
Never buy cheap heaters/equipment spend the money on quality components
 
Buy a good quality test kit.
Learn how to properly use the test kit.
Use the test kit to test your water parameters on a regular basis.

The results will help in others here on MFK in helping you when you have a problem.
 
Take the time and watch your fish. Know what their normal behavior is. This could help you catch a problem before it becomes an emergency.
 
Don't listen to pet store owners, they'll tell you exactly what you want to hear to get you money. Research for yourself and use MFK!

This should be made into a stickey!
 
never keep a fish alive for your own needs. if it is suffering (and dieing), euthanize.
 
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