By Kali Wyrosdic
Are you considering getting a fish, but not sure whether or not a fish would make the best pet? No matter what type of fish you have in mind, some basic fish care facts apply. Once you've made your decision, be sure to research the type of fish and its individual needs. Below you will find answers to several of the most common fish care questions to help you decide whether or not a fish is the right type of pet for you.
Are fish really a low maintenance pet?
Generally speaking, freshwater fish are cheaper and easier to care for than other types of pets, making them appear easy to raise. While they may pose fewer problems than other types of animals, that doesn't exactly make them low-maintenance pets.
Fish have the same basic needs as other animals, including food, water, and suitable habitat, but because fish live in completely different environments than humans and other mammals, they depend on us to provide them with everything they need to live happily.
While dogs and cats will not die if not bathed regularly (although proper grooming of your pet is encouraged), regular aquarium cleanings are essential to keeping a fish healthy. Once you've decided what type of fish to buy, you can determine which aquarium will suit you best and what type of maintenance it requires.
What are the most common types of pet fish?
The most popular types of pet fish include betta fish (also known as Siamese fighting fish), common goldfish, Achilles tang, fantail goldfish, and angelfish. Part of the reason goldfish and bettas are so popular is that they can live in water temperatures that don't always require heating (depending on where you live), can tolerate some variations in water chemistry compared to other fish, are generally healthy eaters, and are hardier than other fish.
How often should fish be fed?
Fish don't have stomachs, so they never know when to stop eating. When feeding your fish, only give it as much as it will eat in two to three minutes, once or twice a day. Some types of fish, like goldfish, should only be fed as much as they can eat in a minute, while other types have different needs. Overfeeding is one of the most common mistakes fish owners make.
A nice benefit of owning a fish is that you can provide your fish with an automatic feeder or food block inside its tank when you leave, rather than having to find someone to feed your cat or dog. Goldfish are particularly easy-going and can survive up to two weeks without food (although waiting that long between feedings is not recommended).
Where is the best place to buy a fish?
It depends on the type of fish you want to buy, but pet stores usually have a wide selection of fish. Aquarium stores have well-trained employees to educate new fish owners and can ensure you select the right fish and equipment. Another option is to seek out a fish breeder for more specialized types of fish or specific colors. Many popular types of pet fish are raised commercially, and most pet stores obtain their fish from commercial breeders.
What type of equipment does my fish need?
Food, water, filtration, and heat are the basic things you'll need to provide for your pet fish, but the exact specifications will depend on the type of fish you choose, its size, and a number of other factors. Depending on the type of fish you choose, you will need an aquarium large enough to support the fish's growth, with an air pump and submersible heater. A good rule of thumb for aquarium sizing is one gallon of water for every inch of adult fish. Tropical fish need heating elements in their habitat, but some freshwater fish (like goldfish) prefer cooler temperatures and may not need a heater. It is essential that you do your research to find out what specific equipment the pet fish you are considering needs.
When it comes to food, there are commercial fish foods manufactured to meet the nutritional needs of specific types of fish. Fish food usually comes in flake, pellet, or freeze-dried form. Specialty treats, such as bloodworms and brine shrimp, can also be purchased at freeze-dried and freeze-dried pet stores. It is better to feed your fish freeze-dried food rather than live fish because it eliminates the risk of disease transmission. Make sure the food you buy is suitable for your fish species.
How often should aquariums be cleaned?
Aquariums require regular water changes and pH testing to ensure the fish are living in good conditions. Depending on the size of the aquarium and the filtration system you have installed, you will need to do a partial water replacement every week, as well as clean the tank and change the water about once a month.
Some fish, like goldfish, are known to be very messy and may require more frequent water changes and aquarium cleanings. Overfeeding will also quickly pollute the water. Monitoring your aquarium's pH levels and keeping an eye out for any visible contaminants and pollutants should give you a good idea of how often you will need to clean your aquarium.
What else can I get for my aquarium?
When it comes to decorating your aquarium there are no limits, just keep in mind that anything you put in the aquarium you will need to clean during regular aquarium cleanings. Some fish really like plants, live or plastic. If you choose live plants, you will need some gravel at the bottom of the tank (which can be dangerous for some fish who eat them by mistake).
Other aquarium decorations are fun to look at and provide beneficial features for your fish, like treasure chests that open and also provide oxygen-rich bubbles. Whatever you choose, try to mimic the fish's natural habitat.
Image: cynoclub / Shutterstock
