FAQ

1. WHAT ARE THE ESSENTIAL EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES NEEDED TO SET UP A FRESHWATER AQUARIUM?

Check out our very first blog post called 'Freshwater Aquarium Setup Essentials' for details.

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2. HOW OFTEN SHOULD I PERFORM WATER CHANGES AND HOW MUCH WATER SHOULD I CHANGE?

The frequency and amount of water changes in an aquarium depend on several factors, including the size of the aquarium, the number and size of the fish, the filtration system in place, and the overall water quality. However, regular partial water changes is generally recommended. A partial water change is about 10-20% of the total water volume. For most aquariums, doing this once every 1-2 weeks is a good starting point. Remember, these guidelines are general recommendations, and you should adapt them based on the specific needs of your aquarium. It's important to establish a routine and maintain consistent water quality for the health and well-being of your fish.

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3. HOW DO I MAINTAIN PROPER WATER PARAMETERS?

Temperature:

It is important to use a reliable aquarium thermometer to monitor the water temperature keeping it comfortable for the species of fish you are keeping. Something that is often overlooked is where the tank is placed. Is there something that could cause swings in temperature such as sun, air vents in the house, or a fireplace.

Ammonia:

Having a properly cycled tank is important to naturally controlling the ammonia your fish will produce. Over time the surfaces in your tank will grow beneficial bacteria that will break  down Ammonia into Nitrites. A test kit can check for Ammonia levels and the goal is to have 0 ppm (parts per million).

Nitrites:

A second group of beneficial bacteria will break down Nitrites into Nitrates. This group of bacterial takes longer to grow so new takes will often see a spike of Nitrites before they should normalize. A test kit can check for Nitrite levels and the goal is again to have 0 ppm.

Nitrates:

Nitrates are relatively harmless to your fish and the general rule is to keep them below 30 ppm.

1. Nitrates are removed from your tank through two typical means, Plants and Water Changes.

Plants are great at removing Nitrates, giving your critters a place to hide, and adding a layer of color and life to your tank. 

2. Removing 10-20% of the water from your tank and replacing it with fresh water is a great way to keep Nitrates below that 30 ppm. Water changes provide secondary benefits like replacing trace minerals that plants and your fish like to have. 

If you do not have plants or keep up on water changes you may start experiencing algea growth.

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Regular monitoring, consistent maintenance, and taking appropriate actions when needed will help you maintain optimal water parameters in your aquarium. Additionally, it's essential to research the specific requirements of your fish species to ensure their environmental needs are met. 

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4. HOW CAN I PREVENT COMMON AQUARIUM PROBLEMS LIKE ALGAE BLOOMS OR FISH DISEASES?

Algae thrives on excess nutrients in the water, particularly nitrates and phosphates. Minimize the build-up of these nutrients by avoiding overfeeding your fish and promptly removing any uneaten food. Perform regular water changes to dilute accumulated nutrients and maintain water quality. Algae growth is also linked to excessive lighting. Ensure that your aquarium receives an appropriate amount of light for the fish and plants you have. Consider using a timer to maintain a consistent lighting schedule and provide a period of darkness for your fish to rest.

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5. WHAT ARE THE BEST SPECIES FOR BEGINNERS?

Platies and guppies are great beginner fish! They are known for their hardiness and ability to adapt to various water conditions. They can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and pH levels, which makes them forgiving to beginner mistakes and water parameter fluctuations.

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6. HOW CAN I SAFELY INTRODUCE NEW FISH OR PLANTS INTO AN EXISTING AQUARIUM?

Quarantine! Acclimate! Observe! Its good practice to quarantine any fish or plants in a separate tank for a few weeks. Fish are sensitive to sudden changes in water parameters. To acclimate them, float the bag containing the new fish in the aquarium for about 15-20 minutes to equalize the temperature. Then, gradually add small amounts of water from the aquarium into the bag every few minutes. After 30 minutes or so, gently release the fish into the main tank using a net. Avoid adding the water from the transport bag into the aquarium, as it may contain pollutants or pathogens. After introducing new fish or plants, closely observe the behavior of the existing inhabitants for any signs of aggression, stress, or disease.

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7. WHAT DO YOU FEED YOUR FISH?

We use a variety of fish food such as: flakes, shrimpee sinking sticks, algae wafers, brine shrimp and blood worms.

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8. WHERE ARE YOU LOCATED?

Ankeny, IA

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9. DO YOU OWN A FISH STORE?

No, we work out of our basement.

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10. DO YOU SHIP?

Not at this time.