Aquarium Care

Dropsy is a very common, very fatal disease that attacks the betta fish’s internal organs. Very little is known about dropsy, except that it causes kidney failure. No one knows what causes dropsy

Dropsy can be treated with “Maracyn 2″. this is the typical treatment for several ailments such as inner infections, tail rot and gill infections. This antibiotic must be absorbed by the Betta FishCleaning and changeing the water as well as raising the temperature in the tank is a good idea.

Fungal infections generally happen because of bad water conditions. They become visible as white fluffy growths on the betta fish’s mouth, eyes, and fins and are highly infectious.

The Treatment for fungal infections is: Increase the temperature of the betta fish tank. Fungal infections is an outcome of cooler water temperatures. Medicines including Malachite green or Methylene blue are also useful. Malachite green is a totally harmless and helpful cure in fresh and salt water on a wide variety of protozoan, crustacean, and other invertebrate parasites of fishes. Adding ordinary table salt (sodium chloride) to the water, one teaspoon per gallon can lend a hand in minimizing the healing time.

If the water temperature in your tank falls below 80 degrees you may have a battle with Ich or (Ichthyophthirius multifilius) What looks like grains of sugar appearing on the fins and body is a sure indication of Ich.

Useing Malachite green or Methylene blue treatments and adding salt to the tank will help. You must adjust the water temperature to over eighty degrees.

Velvet/Oodinium is an algae parasite found on several freshwater fish. This ailment emerges as a yellow “velvety” covering on the betta fish’s body. It may also become visible as golden or rust colored. It is habitually found in fish which are anxious due to chilling, shipping, water changes or bad water quality. Symptoms comprises of fast breathing and lethargy.

Treatment for Velvety is Raised water temperature and medicines like acriflavine, Methylene Blue or Jungle’s “velvet guard” should help cure this parasite. Bowls or tanks should be drained and unsoiled. Dyes must not be used as they have mercury.

Weaker Betta Fish are suseptable to Fin Rot.

The use of antibiotics and anti-micrbials is used in the treatment of Fin Rot. Adding a teaspoon of table salt and raising the temperature of the water in the tank will help. A common antibiotic tablet is Maracyn 2.

John Anderson has been raising and Caring for Betta Fishfor many years and has compiled a very practical free guide for you at Betta Fish Diseases You will find a lot of facts and some fun.. Also published at How to treat identifieable Betta Fish Diseases.

Technorati Tags: Aquarium, Bad Water, Betta Fish, Fish Diseases, Fish Tank, Freshwater Fish, Fungal Infections, Healing Time, Internal Organs, Kidney Failure, Malachite Green, Maracyn 2, Methylene Blue, Oodinium, Parasites Of Fishes, Shipping Water, Sodium Chloride, Tail Rot, Typical Treatment, Water Changes, Water Temperatures

Community fish tank

If a person decides to join the many who find enjoyment from keeping fish as pets, they should put some effort into becoming informed about the best fish for a beginner’s aquarium. There are important differences in how to go about this depending upon whether one is using an existing set up or creating an environment for new pets. There are many types which are practical choices for the novice owner of these diverse aquatic creatures. As the piscean enthusiast becomes more experienced, many become devoted collectors and continue to add new varieties to their stock.

The typical beginner’s first notion may be to go with the type with which most are familiar, the common goldfish. Some may be aware that this variety was first bred as pets for the Imperial Chinese family. Many are less knowledgeable of the fact that goldfish are not necessarily the easiest to care for.

Many varieties of these pets are suitable for thriving in a tank, yet the problems associated with raising different breeds ranges from simple to quite complex. So there are many factors a novice at this hobby should consider, such as how well a breed tolerates water conditions. Other important considerations are, how easy a chosen type is to feed, how large they will grow, and whether or not they are too aggressive to live with other species.

One of the mistakes made by many newcomers is to start with too small of a tank. The less the volume of water, the bigger the impact any change in water quality will have on the creatures which live in it. Another concern is that the water in a new tank can contain harmful chemicals or minerals that may harm its denizens, the best and easiest way to keep water clear and healthy is to use EcoBio-Block, a volcanic mixture with beneficial bacteria living and multiplying in the block. It creates a healthy ecosystem by keeping levels of good bacteria high.

A common error for beginners is to add too many fish to a new tank. A good rule of thumb is to start with no more than two or three fish, so that the proper levels of chemicals and bacteria for a healthy environment are reached. EcoBio-Block can also speed-up new tank syndrome. The next step is to choose the correct types of occupants for the tank.

Good types to initially stock one’s tank with are schooling fish, those that travel in schools. Common types of these are Cyprinids, smaller species that are related to Minnows and Carp. The many varieties of these include Barbs, Danios, Rasboras, and White Cloud Mountain Minnows.

Certain breeds of Catfish, known as Corys, which include Bronze, Panda, Bandit and Spotted Corys, are hardy animals which are fairly easy to care for. Another popular type for the novice are Rainbowfish, which are colorful schoolers that are best kept in groups of six or more, yet are easy to raise.

By starting in moderation and slowly adding more as the hobbyist’s knowledge increases, choosing the best fish for a beginner’s aquarium is not difficult. Once a little experience and success with one’s initial choices has been achieved, many budding aquarists will want to add more varieties and larger tanks as they do research and gain experience.

Technorati Tags: Aquatic Creatures, Beneficial Bacteria, Chinese Family, Community Fish, Denizens, Ecosystem, Fish Aquarium, Fish As Pets, Fish Pets, Fish Tank, Goldfish, Harmful Chemicals, Keeping Fish, Minerals, New Tank, Newcomers, Novice, Volume Of Water, Water Conditions, Water Quality

There are actually numerous companies that make custom made aquariums. One will be able to locate these businesses with the aid of the local Yellow Pages, but it is normally considerably less difficult to locate such companies by simply doing an internet search. Even though there are various ready made aquariums for sale at pet shops, supermarkets and on the web, quite a few individuals choose to have a custom made aquarium constructed based on their specifications.

These ordinarily cost substantially more than it would to purchase an already manufactured fish tank, so it is usually a great idea to do some research and see if there is not an ideal aquarium already made that might be bought directly. Checking online merchants is really a good idea, since lots of these particular sites carry items that are not available at standard stores.

An individual who has not discovered the ideal aquarium at an internet merchant, pet store or supermarket can easily order a custom made one online without needing to bother leaving the house. The finished item will be delivered to the buyer’s home in a specified time frame. The following are some points to consider when ordering a custom made aquarium.

Considering that most custom made aquariums can’t be returned, it is extremely vital that the measurements be correct. Be sure to measure the table or countertop where the aquarium will be positioned and ensure that the height, width and breadth of the particular aquarium ordered is right for the home. One must also consider exactly how many fish will live in the tank and whether or not they are going to remain the exact same size or keep growing. It’s really vital for fish to enjoy lots of space to swim around; the truth is, fish with a lot more space are likely to stay much healthier than those living in a cramped tank.

Take into account also exactly what variety of fish are to reside in the aquarium. This information needs to be offered to the aquarium maker, to be able to be sure the tank is appropriate for the breed of fish that are to live in it. Numerous individuals who buy a custom made aquarium are interested in a lovely decoration for the home or office.

Though aesthetics are undoubtedly crucial when purchasing an aquarium tank, particularly if an individual is going to the effort and expense of getting it custom made, you should also place a high priority on the well being of the fish that are to live in the tank. Be sure there’s adequate space and that the tank will satisfy the fishes’ needs. Because custom aquarium makers are really flexible, it should not be overly difficult to get one made that’s appropriate for the fish and a great attraction in the house or office.

Are you looking for custom aquarium tanks? Captive Seas Aquariums specializes in the design, installation, and service of custom freshwater aquariums and saltwater aquariums to suit your needs.

Technorati Tags: Aquarium, Aquarium Fish, Aquariums, Aquariums For Sale, Breadth, Countertop, Custom Aquarium, Custom Aquariums, custom built aquariums, Custom Made Aquariums, Exotic Fish, Fish Tank, freshwater aquariums, Ideal, Internet Merchant, Internet Search, Measurements, Merchants, Pet Shops, Pet Store, Saltwater Aquariums, Supermarket, Supermarkets, Time Frame, Truth, Variety, Yellow Pages

Fishkeeping can be an interesting hobby, and knowing how to clean your aquarium can help keep it looking great. It can also keep your fish and other tank inhabitants healthy.

Many inexperienced fish keepers make the mistake of thinking that cleaning the tank involves removing all of the water and inhabitants, cleaning it, and then replacing everything. This is completely wrong and can result in problems like fish loss and a cloudy tank. The cloudiness is usually from overfeeding. It is often seen as a reason to clean the tank again, or add chemicals, but it is a natural part of any tank and will disappear once the proper balance has been reached.

If you have made this mistake with your tank, or even if your aquarium is well established, you can ensure there are always sufficient bacteria by adding an EcoBio-Block. This volcanic rock is filled with bacteria, and when positioned in the tank near the filter output or by an air stone, the bacteria will begin to reproduce and populate your tank keeping your tank clear and healthy.

The first cleaning step is to unplug the filter and any air pumps you have running. Next, remove algae that may have accumulated on the sides. This can be accomplished by using an algae scraper, available in pet stores, or by using a new, clean sponge that has never been used for any other purpose. Once this is done, the water will appear cloudy, but that is okay, this will disappear in a short while.

If plants and tank decorations are very dirty, they can be removed and cleaned with a tooth brush, but this is not necessary if they do not have a build up.

Using a tank siphon, insert one end in the gravel, and run the other end into a bucket that is clean, chemical free, and preferably only for tank cleaning. Gently probe the gravel, and you will notice debris flowing through the tubing and into the bucket. Remember to move quickly as you do not want to remove too much water. Also ensure that no fish end up in the bucket as you clean. This dirty water can be discarded or it is wonderful fertilizer for your plants.

Next, take the lid off the external filter if this is the type of filtration system used, and lightly rinse away any accumulated debris. You can use a toothbrush to clean the tubes that protrude into the water, as they may have collected a film. Never clean the filter entirely, and don’t replace all of the filter media at the same time. Many of the beneficial bacteria in your tank live in the filter and will be removed if you clean it too thoroughly. Always follow the instructions on carbon packs, sponges and other filter components when replacing them as some may need to be rinsed before use, others may not.

You will now need to replace the water you have removed. Ensure that you treat tap water with a product that can remove chlorine and chloramine in the water, as these will kill your tank inhabitants. Mix the chemical with water that is the same temperature as the tank water, and gently pour it into the tank. Do not pour too quickly as it may disturb decorations and plants, or harm fish.

Ensure that your tank stays clean by performing this whenever necessary, and reduce your cleaning tasks by adding an EcoBio-Block to help keep beneficial bacteria at optimum levels. Cleaning your fish tank is easy, once you know what you are doing.

Get the exclusive inside scoop on how to clean your aquarium quickly and effectively now in our aquarium care and clear water review.

Technorati Tags: Air Pumps, Algae, Aquarium, aquarium help, Bacteria, Chemicals, Clean Water, clear aquarium, Cloudiness, Debris, Filter Output, Fish, Fish Keepers, Fish Loss, Fish Tank, Gravel, how to clean aquarium, Mistake, pet, pet stores, Proper Balance, Sponge, Tank Cleaning, Tank Inhabitants, Tooth Brush, Volcanic Rock

A home aquarium is a thing of beauty, and can add interest to a room. It does require a bit of maintenance to ensure that the tanks occupants are all healthy. It is essential to make sure that you are buying healthy fish at pet store, as if you introduce an unhealthy fish to your aquarium, the disease could spread to everyone else.

Pick a decent pet store to buy your fish from. Examine the tanks when you go in, and ask yourself if it looks immaculately clean and well cared for. Staff should be anxious to help you, and knowledgeable about their stock. You really need to be an enthusiast to work in a pet store.

The fish tanks should look clean and fresh, and should not smell. All the fish should look alert and healthy, and their colors bright. Their fins should be pointing up and should be rigid and not floppy. Fish that look as if they have been bitten by others could be feeling ill, and unable to protect themselves.

Take a close look at the fish you want, as the body should be all nicely proportioned and not bulging out weirdly. There should not be any kind of lumps or bumps, or discolored spots. The gills should be a healthy pink and respiration normal. The fish should be happy to interact with others and not afraid or stressed.

Make sure you are buying fish with the correct temperament for your tank. If you have a nice peaceful tank full of community fish then take care not to add anyone too aggressive. They will not calm down in time, but are more likely to attack your fish.

When you get your new fish home, open the lid of the tank and let the bag just rest on the top of the water. This gives new fish a chance to calm down before being introduced to their new home. It also gives the water in the bag time to reach the same temperature as the water in the tank, avoiding any shock to the fish. This should take twenty minutes or so, after which time they can be let out.

Aquariums can take a bit of time to properly maintain, as water will need partial changing, filters have to be checked and glass cleaned. You may find that the water gets cloudy every so often for no good reason. This is normal but annoying. EcoBio-Blocks are a good addition as they can help the water to clear and cut down on general maintenance time each week.

EcoBio-Blocks are made out of a kind of porous stone which is of volcanic origin. The stone contains many minerals and bacteria which are beneficial to the tank and the fish. The bacteria will act to get water clean and sparkling, and will keep it that way. Your fish will have a much healthier environment and will be easy to see. There will also be no odor in the tank.

Fish tanks can make a great focal point for a room, and are worth the effort that they take to set up and maintain. It is worth making the effort of buying healthy fish at the pet store that will live long and happy lives. Most tanks once they are set-up, will require only a short amount of time each week to maintain, especially if you have solved the problem of cloudy water.

Looking for more information on how to keep fish healthy in your fish tank? Get the lowdown now at complete EcoBio-Block review.

Technorati Tags: Aquarium, Buy Fish, Buying Fish, Community Fish, Correct Temperament, Fins, Fish, Fish Aquarium, Fish Care, Fish Store, Fish Tank, Fish Tanks, Free Fish, Gills, hobby, Home Aquarium, Lumps, Occupants, pet, Pet Fish, Pet Store, Respiration, Shock, Thing Of Beauty, Twenty Minutes