Your questions, answered. Find solutions and insights from our team of expert aquarists to help you on your fish keeping journey.
For optimal health, experts recommend a partial water change of 10-25% every one to two weeks. It is advised to avoid changing more than 25% of the water at once, as larger changes can cause stress to your fish and disrupt the tank's stable environment[43].
According to veterinary professionals, maintaining **good water quality** is the most essential factor in keeping fish healthy and preventing disease[14]. You should regularly test for ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, and pH levels to ensure they are within a safe range for your fish[49].
This is often caused by adding fish to an uncycled tank, a common issue for beginners. A new aquarium must first establish a colony of beneficial bacteria to process toxic ammonia from fish waste. This "cycling" process can take several weeks and is crucial for fish survival[12].
The MSD Veterinary Manual advises looking for changes in swimming behavior (like lethargy or gasping at the surface) and noticeable changes on the body (such as spots, bloating, or frayed fins)[14].
Cycling is the vital process of establishing a biological filter. Beneficial bacteria grow in your filter media and convert highly toxic ammonia (from fish waste) into nitrite (also toxic), and then into less harmful nitrate. A fully cycled tank should have 0 ppm of ammonia and nitrite[12].
Yes. Most ornamental fish sold in stores are tropical and require a stable, warm environment to thrive. An aquarium heater is essential to maintain a consistent water temperature, typically between 75-80°F (24-27°C), which is vital for their health and metabolism[30][41].
Overfeeding is a common and dangerous mistake that pollutes the water[7]. The expert consensus is to feed fish once or twice a day, providing only an amount they can completely consume within two to three minutes[41].
While some hiding is normal, constant hiding is a sign of stress. Fish are prey animals and need adequate cover like plants and decorations to feel secure. Providing more hiding places will often make them feel safe enough to be more active[49].
You can, but it **must** be treated with a water conditioner first. Tap water contains chlorine and/or chloramines which are added to kill bacteria but are highly toxic to fish and will damage their gills[12].
Fin rot is a common bacterial infection that causes the fins and tail to look frayed, ragged, or milky. It is almost always caused by environmental stressors, especially poor water quality, overcrowding, or injury[8][42].
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