When starting a new aquarium it is important to
understand the nitrogen cycle. Many new aquarium owners jump into the hobby of
fish keeping too quickly. Before purchasing fish, the aquarium must be cycled.
This could take anywhere from twenty four hours to four weeks. In an established
aquarium there are certain bacteria that help the breakdown of ammonia to
nitrates, but they are not present in a new tank because they are generated from
existing fish. If there are no existing fish, then there are no good bacteria.
The basic principle of the nitrogen cycle is this. Fish eat food and generate
waste. That waste along with excess food and plant debris become ammonia in the
aquarium. Ammonia is toxic to fish and needs to be broken down. That's why the
nitrifying bacteria is important. This bacteria, turns the ammonia into nitrites
which are more tolerable to fish than ammonia. Next, different nitrifying
bacteria will turn the nitrites into nitrates, which are even less toxic to the
fish and other aquarium life. The nitrates are collected and minimized by
filters; however they will eventually accumulate in the tank. Regular water
changes are required to remove the nitrates from the water.
It is important to set up and run an aquarium before any fish are introduced
into the environment. Wash the tank and any substrate and decorations thoroughly
with water. Don't use any soap. Fill the tank with de-chlorinated water and
attach filters and lighting. Allow the tank to cycle until the water is no
longer cloudy and sufficient P.H and water temperatures have been established.
Now it is time to purchase the fish! Buy hardy fish such as danios, barb,
gouramis, and live bearers. They should be able to withstand the high nitrite
levels and ammonia in the new aquarium. Only introduce about four fish at a
time. Float the fish in the bag in the aquarium for about fifteen minutes before
adding them to the tank. This will help the fish become acclimated to the water
temperature in their new home. When adding the fish, be careful not to allow the
water from the bag into the aquarium. It may be contaminated, or will at the
very least, throw off the temperature and P.H. Allow the fish about two hours to
become acclimated before feeding.
Only feed an amount that can be consumed in the
first two to five minutes. Overfeeding is a common problem in an aquarium. It is
important not to overfeed, because excess food will become debris adding to the
ammonia levels. This is especially important in new aquariums that lack
nitrifying bacteria. Test the water P.H. every day within the first month. Watch
the tank for cloudiness; if the aquarium becomes cloudy, it may be necessary to
add a clarifier. Monitor the fish for signs of stress or illness. A healthy fish
will be swimming regularly. Lethargic fish will usually hover near the surface
of the aquarium. After about a week change approximately ten percent of the
water and begin regular maintenance.
