Components required for a fish tank

A typical home aquarium consists of a tank, filtration system, a light and a heater. A hood prevents evaporation, and also stops the fish from jumping out! 

Filtration

Filtration systems that combine biological and mechanical filtration are commonly used in hobbyist aquariums. These are designed to either remove ammonia or to convert it into nitrate, which won’t harm the fish.

Heaters/Thermometres

Aquarium heaters heat the aquarium! It is a heating element with a thermostat, which can be set at varying degrees. Once the optimum temperature has been reached, the heater shuts off, thus maintaining an even temperature for the fish. These are used for warm water fish, however, some fish prefer colder water, and a chiller or cooler system can be used instead. It works in the same way, but instead of heating up, it cools the water down. The temperature of the water can be monitored with the use of a thermometer, which can be stuck wither on the inside or outside of the fish tank.

Lighting

Lighting is essential for aquariums, as without it, we cannot see the fish!

Freshwater Fish

Freshwater tanks can either house cold water fish or tropical fish. The fundamental difference between the two is the temperature of the water. As the name suggests, cold-water fish live in cold water, whereas Tropical fish live in warmer climates and thus need a heated environment. Most tropical fish live happily in community tanks. Guppies, Tetras and Molly’s get on well together, whereas other species prefer to be kept on their own. These tend to be larger, territorial fish, such as Cichlids and Oscars. 

Cold Water Tanks

Thinking of having a cold-water tank? Cold-water fish tanks usually contain the good old-fashioned Goldfish, but did you know that some species of Barbs, Tetra’s, Guppy’s and Loaches could survive in a cold-water tank?

Marine Aquariums

For the more advanced aquarist, have you thought to explore the depths of a Marine Aquarium? It is a far different experience from tropical or cold-water aquariums. Although it is more expensive, it is well worth it. The vibrant colours of Angel Fish and Anthias form an underwater rainbow by themselves.