Fish as a Pet

Initial Aquarium Set-up

Fish as a pet can be a wonderful introduction to pet ownership for children – for a family with young children, a properly filtered freshwater aquarium of at least 20 gallons (75 litres) stocked with a small community of hardy tropical fish is often the easiest and most enjoyable way to start – the aquarium becomes both a pet habitat and an educational display that the whole family can enjoy.

1. Initial Costs Can Be Higher Than Expected

Fish as a Pet

A proper Fish as a pet setup often includes:

• Aquarium cost depends upon size required
• Water filters
• Heater (for tropical species)
• Lighting for proper aquarium fish
• Water conditioner
• Gravel and decorations
• Fish food and testing kits

2. Hardware & Equipment

Fish as a Pet

1. Aquarium & Stand:

• Larger tanks (20 gallons) are easier to maintain than small bowls
• Because they hold more water
• Keep parameters stable
• Always use a stand rated for the weight of your tank

2. Filter

• Keeps the water clear
• Hosts beneficial bacteria
• Hang-on-back or sponge filters are great for beginners

3. Heater & Thermometer:

• Most community and tropical fish require a stable temperature
• Usually between 24°C and 26°C
• Use a reliable submersible heater
• A stick-on or digital thermometer

4. Lighting:

• LED lights are vital if you want live plants
• LED lights provide a healthy day/night cycle for the fish

5. Tank Lid/Hood:
6. Prevents fish from jumping out
7. Reduces water evaporation

5. Substrate, Decor & Extras:

• Substrate: Aquarium gravel or coarse sand. A layer of about 2.5 to 5 cm is ideal
• Decor & Plants: Driftwood, rock hardscapes, and live or silk plants give fish places to hide and reduce stress

6. Water Chemistry & Maintenance:

• Water Conditioner: Chemicals that instantly remove toxic chlorine and heavy metals from tap water
• Water Test Kit: A Master Test Kit: (like those by API) is crucial for monitoring ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, and pH
• Gravel Vacuum/Siphon: Used for removing waste and performing weekly water changes

3. Setting Up the Tank

(Step-by-Step)

Fish as a Pet

 Positioning: Place your tank on a sturdy stand away from direct sunlight and drafts.

4. Adding Substrate & Decor: Rinse your gravel thoroughly to prevent cloudy water. Add your substrate, rocks, and decorations.
5. Filling the Tank: Fill the tank gently with water and add your water conditioner immediately.
6. Installing Equipment: Place your filter, heater, and light in the tank. Turn them on and let the system run.
7. The Nitrogen Cycle: Before adding fish, you must “cycle” the tank. This process takes 2 to 4 weeks to allow beneficial bacteria to grow. You can speed this up using bottled bacteria.
8. Adding Fish: Test your water to ensure ammonia and nitrites are 0 ppm. Introduce fish slowly so you don’t overload the biological filtration
9. Good Beginner Fish

Fish as a Pet

1. Some beginner-friendly species include:

• Betta Fish (one fish per tank unless housed appropriately)
• Platy
• Molly
• Corydoras Catfish

These species are generally hardy and easier for beginners to care for than more delicate fish

2. Fish to Avoid for Beginners

• Goldfish in small bowls (they actually need large, filtered tanks)
• Large cichlids
• Saltwater fish
• Exotic species with specialized requirements

3. Involving Children

Children can help:

• Feed fish under supervision
• Observe fish behaviour
• Assist with simple maintenance tasks
• Learn about habitats and water quality

Fish can make excellent family pets when parents are prepared to oversee their care and ensure the aquarium is maintained properly – the key is choosing appropriate species and setting up the tank correctly from the beginning.