Posted by:
phishie
at Mon May 10 19:26:29 2010 [ Report Abuse ] [ Email Message ] [ Show All Posts by phishie ]
If you really don't want to do work to keep an aquarium, then you shouldn't get one. I can't say whether an aquarium is right for you or not... that's up to you.
First, there's the inital set up cost, and the 4-6 weeks it takes your tank to cycle. There are a few different ways to do this as well as a few different things you can do to help the process. You would probably want to take water samples at least every 2-4 days during this process (if you don't have fish in it - every day if you do have fish). Of course, when you add fish your tank must cycle again, but it usually doesn't take 4-6 weeks this next time.
A fish tank requires 25% water changes every two weeks. This is because it is an enclosed space (unlike in the wild where the water is moving constantly and fresh water is there to replace the older water). If you don't keep up with the water changes, your fish will get sick and die. If you don't do gravel cleanings, your fish will die if the toxins stuck in the gravel get out. Mostly, if you choose a healthy fish, keep up with the water changes, and don't overfeed your fish... you should have a happy, healthy aquarium.
It's not that aquariums are complicated (once you know what you need, which is what we're here for ), but that it does require work... which most people think the fish are worth the work. It is a personal choice. I'm here if you choose that an aquarium is for you. Although, if you do get one, I will warn you... they can be addicting.
You can start looking at your local pet stores (most will have a website if you prefer to look online). There are several different places you can look for many different prices. Research is a very important thing in the aquarium hobby. ----- Phishie Site Coordinator
"An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure."
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