Yearly Archives: 2019

So, you want an aquarium and FINALLY picked your wonderful selection of freshwater fish but now comes the hard part: Freshwater tank setup. There are a lot of parts to it, and it initially can feel daunting but there are a few things you can do to make the process easier for yourself. Keep in mind, you are building a habitat for organic life but it’s a rewarding experience and one you will be proud to have accomplished. Here are a few things you need to know when setting up your freshwater tank.

Keep a checklist

Freshwater tank set up has a lot of moving parts and keeping track of all that will take some organization. Making list (either on paper or digital) will help you keep track of everything you need to set up an aquarium properly. To get started, here are just a few things you may need to set up your freshwater tank properly: Aquarium gravel, aquarium filter, replacement filter medium, heater, water test kit, fish food, vacuum, fish net, glass scrubber, and a good bucket (depending on tank size). With a handy list ready, now it’s time for the work!

Prepare well

Preparation is hugely important in freshwater tank setup and doing it properly will not only give your fish an amazing environment but save you a lot of stress. First things first: Make sure that tank is clean. A simple cloth will do as you definitely do NOT want outside chemicals in your tank. Next make sure to check for leaks (add some water, wait an hour and inspect), that’s something to make sure runs smoothly before actually putting water and fish into the habitat. Determine the location and positioning of your tank and you’re ready for the next big step…

Follow the rules

Substrate, water, equipment and decorations all have their own rules for proper installation and sticking closely to them will ensure that you have the best freshwater tank setup possible. To go through all of them would make this a VERY long post but there are a few simple ones that are easy to keep in mind. For substrate remember that while it is supposed to come pre-washed, it can often also come in dusty so cleaning it outside of the tank before pouring is the best option.

When pouring water in, remember to add a de-chlorinator to the water. Fit your filter, heater, thermometer (on the opposite side of the heater) and install any additional equipment you have gathered for your tank. After setting up all the parts needed for your tank to be functional, get creative with the decorations!

Cycle that Tank

Make sure to do this without fish! After your freshwater tank setup is complete, you’ll need to get your tank cycled. Ammonia is cheaply available in most fish stores. Be sure not to deviate from the instructions (they’re there for a reason) and check your levels! When you reach the recommended ammonia and nitrate levels, you’re all set. After this you’re ready to slowly add your fish. This is a whole process in itself, check back in a later blog for more on this!

If this all seems daunting, why not hire an expert? Living Art Aquatic Design Inc. has mastered freshwater tank setup over the past few decades and will handle the process expertly. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more on the latest in Living Art!

Saltwater aquarium maintenance may seem daunting at first, but there are certain things you can do to make get the most out of your special tank!  The allure of a saltwater tank is clear: vibrant colors, exotic fish and an oceanic look. There are, however, a few things to take into account to have a healthy, thriving ecosystem in your home or business. Take note of these helpful bits of knowledge when it comes to setting up and maintaining your own saltwater aquarium.

Get the Right Fish

One of the biggest things that trips up new tank owners is getting the healthy, compatible fish to populate your new tank. Saltwater aquarium maintenance is as dependent on the nature of the fish as much as it is the equipment that houses them. We have our own list of saltwater fish that would make great tank makes but beyond the known behaviors of your fish there are a few other things to take into account. Does the fish you are looking at have erratic swimming behavior? Are there any odd growths on the skin or near their gills? What condition are the fins of your fish? These things can be signs of bigger issues down the line so be sure to curate your fish correctly and bring some lively specimens to your tank!

Get the Right Equipment

Saltwater fish require a little more can than their freshwater counterparts. Depending on what you put in your tank, your equipment needs may be more specialized but there are a few basics that you will need for fresh, functional tank. First, understanding the temperature of your tank is hugely important, so making sure you have the proper heater and thermometer goes a long way in proper saltwater aquarium maintenance. Circulation pumps are also essential, so make sure to get ones suitable for the tank you have chosen. Filters and lighting are both important as well, so make sure to consult your aquarium professional in order to get versions that meet your needs.

Test and Replace Your Water Regularly

All the above equipment, and more, is essential when testing your water parameters. High quality water parameters go a long way in extending the life of your aquatic inhabitants but you also have to make sure to check these stats regularly. Make changing your water a habit! Once a week water changes should do the trick, with a filter change at least every two weeks. Make sure to consult your aquarium expert on what the proper Norma Sea Water (NSW) values are as well as the target water test levels.

There is so much more that goes into achieving proper saltwater aquarium maintenance. It may seem like a lot of work at first, but its rewarding work with beautiful results. Of course, this may not be for everyone but if you want a gorgeous saltwater tank and don’t want the hassle of maintaining it, you can always look to Living Art Aquatic Design, Inc. for your maintenance needs! Follow us on Facebook and Instagram as well for more examples of what your aquarium could look like. Remember to do your research and get the exact tank you want today!