Posts by Chirianti

UV can prevent and control bacterial growth and spread of algae but it cannot eliminate it completely. At the same time, UV can kill phytoplankton which are part of the food chain in the aquarium which definitely will affect the fishes in the long run.

I think anything between 40-75 gallons would be ideal sump size for a beginner. It would be neither too big nor too small and it is not possible to keep changing the size quite often.

The risk of disease is high when the water quality is poor or when there is overcrowding in the tank. Inappropriate diet is also yet another reason for sickness in fish. Bacteria and fungi also cause disease in fishes.

Both Petco and PetSmart have more or less the same to offer with regard to fish. It is advisable to exercise due diligence before purchasing from either of these stores either online or offline.

DIY aquarium stands can be made with T slot aluminum and they are very durable and can withstand the weight of the aquariums. The height I prefer is 20 inches as that would enable me to have the desired substrate for my tank.

For about $100 one can get a decent number of fishes for 30-gallon tank. Breeding these ornamental fishes is not an easy task and hence the costs are high.

For me it was a combination of both youtube videos and personally visiting the aquariums set up by my friends and neighbors and they have been very helpful in guiding me in setting up my own.

Usually sumps are used in salt water aquariums. They contain protein skimmers, filtration equipment, algae busters, water level indicators, dividers (glass or mesh) etc.

Koi Betta fish are so beautiful with their jewel-bright colors and most spectacular fins. They are available in pairs online and the reviews are also great. These definitely would adorn any fish tank.

There are quite a few aquatic plants that survive without a substrate namely Java fern, Java moss, Hornwort, Anacharis, Duckweed etc.

A bare bottom fish tank has its own advantages over a substrate fish tank. There can be good flow in a bare bottom fish tank as opposed to the substrate one as more flow at the bottom would disturb the sand and the plants. The maintenance is also reduced in bare bottom tanks.

I too started my first fish tank in the same manner. I did not have any clue how to care for the fish or clean the tank. I was under the impression that just feeding the fishes was enough. One day I was just gazing at the fishes and it dawned upon me that there was something seriously wrong with the way I was treating these poor little things and I started my research and now I know the best way to care for my fishes and my fish tank has become the object of everyone's envy.