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Aquarium Advice

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If you are thinking of buying an aquarium it would be helpful to do some reading first to make sure you are fully aware of everything you need to know and the equipment you will need. This aquarium advice section is in three parts, scroll down for part 2

Aquarium Lighting

Lighting is important when setting up a planted tank research into halide and mercury vapour lighting would be advised. For any other set up make sure the lighting is specifically designed for aquarium applications.

Aquarium Filtration

For any kind of set up filtration is vital, there are many to choose from but a mistake during the purchase of this piece of equipment can be costly. Ensure the filter is capable of filtering the volume of your tank always try to opt for the next size up where possible to ensure optimal water quality.

Aquarium Aeration

Air pumps and aeration becomes more important with higher stocking levels and temperatures that are towards the top end of the tropical range. As water temperature increases the ability to retain oxygen decreases. Fish that gasp at the surface are showing signs of oxygen depravation.

Aquarium Heating

If you are setting up a tank for tropical fish then heating is essential. Purchase a heater that is powerful enough to heat the entire volume of your tank to between 22 and 29 degrees Celsius; this is a general range for tropical fish.

Positioning Your Aquarium

It is important to site your aquarium on a level base. Make sure it is placed away from direct sunlight to reduce algae. An aquarium must not be placed near any household heating appliances as this could cause wide fluctuations in temperature (a difference of three degrees Celsius over a short space of time can be detrimental to the inhabitants of your aquarium).

Reverse Osmosis: Its A good Idea To Use R/O Water

In our opinion using an R/O unit to condition tap water is essential. The usual contaminants in drinking water are nitrates up to 50 mg per litre, chlorine up to 0.4 mg per litre, phosphates up to 0.1 mg per litre and silicates up to 50 mg per litre. These are only a few of the contaminants found in tap water.

What is deemed fit for human consumption can be potentially deadly for some fish and most invertebrates. R/O units strip all these contaminants from drinking water. Remember essential minerals are also removed and must be replaced, many powdered forms of R/O water correction are available see our treatments cures and additives section.

Are Ultra Violet Sterilisers Beneficial?

The answer is yes they can be enormously beneficial. These units are predominantly used for marine set ups but in fact they can be used for any kind of aquarium set up.

Basically they reduce pathogens and single celled algae preventing disease and green water.

They should be installed in conjunction with external filtration (post filtration inline on the return side) or with a separate supply pump installed in the aquarium or sump filtration system.

Part 2: Aquarium Design

To speak to an expert about aquarium keeping, please call 0161 304 704

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