Choosing a Fish Tank

After deciding on the type of fish to keep, you can then look at equipment. Depending on whether you choose cold water or tropical fish, will determine how much money you will initially spend, as there is slightly more equipment needed to set up a tropical aquarium.

The secret to successful fish keeping is how well you understand the basic principles.

Tanks

Tanks come in all shapes and sizes, but it is what you put into them, that you need to consider more carefully. Things to take in to consideration when buying a tank are: how many fish are you thinking of having, what type of fish will you put in the tank and where it will it be positioned in your home. Larger tanks present a more stable environment and are generally easier to look after.

To make your purchase easier we have an number of starter kits that include all the essential equipment so all you need to do is set it all up when you get home. We stock a number of smaller starter kits ideal for children so check out our range

Base

This is important if the tank is not a cabinet-style complete set, as you will need something flat and high-up on which to stand the tank. Under an all-glass tank you will also need to place a piece of polystyrene or tank foam, that is cut to measure, to avoid any unevenness.

Hood

This piece of equipment will serve many purposes - from keeping fish and water in the tank, to keeping dirt, pets, children and unwanted lighting out. If you are using a filter and/or heating/lighting equipment make sure the hood you choose allows for these.

Filter

Every aquarium needs some sort of filter system. There are several different types available, but they all perform a similar function. Quite simply, fish live in their own toilet and a filter therefore behaves like their life support system, trapping any large waste particles and ensuring the water is kept clean for them to breathe.

All fish waste is the form of ammonia which is highly toxic. Bacteria that grow and live inside your filter convert this ammonia into nitrite which in turn is also toxic; the bacteria then convert this into nitrate which is relatively harmless. Without this filtration process the amount of ammonia produced by your fish would pollute the water with fatal results.

There are three main types of filter:

Internal filter:

An internal filter is submerged in the water of your aquarium and filters the water through its system and back out; it uses two or sometimes three types of filtration;

Mechanical filtration: Literally filtering the solid waste particles from the water

Biological filtration: Natural bacteria breaks down waste products e.g. Ammonia

Chemical filtration: Different filter 'media' can be added to a filter to perform an added function e.g carbon to make the water crystal clear, or ammo rocks to absorb ammonia.

External filter:

An external filter is situated outside of the aquarium, therefore is easier to clean and access without disturbing your fish. They perform the same functions and work the same way as an internal filter, pumping the water through its system to clean it before returning it to the tank. They too combine biological, mechanical and chemical filtration and are often more able to cope with larger volumes of water than internal filters.

By breaking the water surface with their outflows, filter systems also allow oxygen to enter into the aquatic environment and other gases to escape.  In order to circulate the oxygenated water around the aquarium, and provide bacteria with oxygen and ‘food’ filters must run continuously.

A key point to remember when keeping an aquarium is: Healthy Water = Healthy Fish and if you look after the water, the fish will look after themselves. Other than filtration there are a few other key products to help you maintain a healthy and happy aquarium.

Filter boost

The biological filtration process relies on the build up of bacteria and this can take several weeks to establish. Adding a filter boost to a newly set up aquarium will aid the growth of bacteria and prepare your filter for the introduction of fish. In addition, you should remember to add a little filter boost every time you perform a water change to maintain bacteria levels.

Heater

Tropical fish require a heater to maintain a suitable and stable temperature for them.  The size of the heater you require depends on the size of your tank.  We have a guide available in-store, or ask staff for assistance.

Water conditioner

Water supplied through our taps contains Chlorine to make it safe for us to drink. However, Chlorine is very dangerous to fish and filter bacteria so it must be removed with a water conditioner or dechlorinator before adding water to the aquarium.

Water test kit

The water in your tank provides the entire living environment for your fish, it provides all their physical needs. Water test kits will allow you to monitor the water quality and provide the best possible conditions for your fish to thrive.

Media

Added to your filter, media influences the water quality, balancing levels of different chemicals to create the conditions you need. Media come in a variety of shapes and sizes, specifically to fit your type of filter.

Top Tip: Remember, regular water changes are essential for keeping your water healthy.

Air pump

Also known as aeration. Depending on the filtration system a separate air pump may not be essential but is always beneficial, at higher temperatures water is less able to hold oxygen. Air pumps can also be used to run attractive action ornaments and other bubbly features.

Lighting

There are several types of lighting tube, some for promoting the growth of live plants and some for enhancing the colours of your fish, some also allow you to view nocturnal fish. They provide an important day and night environment for your fish. Lights should be on for about 10 hours per day and a timer will ensure this is not exceeded. Don't forget, in order to power your lighting tube you will require a lighting starter kit.

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