Things to Watch Out For

Once you have your aquarium up and running, there are several potential problems and hazards you should look out for:

Overfeeding the fish. The number-one reason new aquarium owners fail is that they give their fish too much to eat. Excess food can foul the water and harm the fish. Feed your fish no more than they will eat in five minutes. And be sure they are actually eating the food rather than simply taking it in their mouths and then spitting it out.

Incorrect water temperature. Because fish are so sensitive to changes in water temperature, it is advisable to check the aquarium thermometer every day to make sure your water heater is functioning properly.

Fish diseases. Fish can get sick just as people do, so look at your fish carefully every day, especially for a few weeks after you add new ones to the tank. The most common disease affecting tropical fish results from an infection by a parasite called Ichthyophthirius multifiliis, abbreviated as Ick or Ich. This disease can wipe out an entire tankful of fish. The tiny Ich organism multiplies quickly and has a spore stage that can be seen on your fish as tiny white spots that look like salt. You can knock this disease out fast by placing medications containing quinine and malachite green into the water.

Electric shock. Electricity and water are a hazardous combination. To avoid the possibility of getting a shock, do not touch your electrical equipment when you are wet, unless it is unplugged.

Skin irritations. If you have your hands and arms in the aquarium a lot, you may find that they start to feel dry and itchy, and you may even develop a rash. If this problem occurs, the best solution is to buy a pair of elbow-length waterproof gloves to protect your skin from the water.

Many aquarists become so interested in one aspect or another of their aquariums that they begin to keep specialized varieties of fish. Some concentrate on one type of fish, such as angelfish or guppies. Others specialize in fish from specific locations, such as South America or Africa. Some aquarists even begin to breed their fish.

If you become interested in this approach to owning an aquarium, you can find specialized equipment and other aids at most pet stores. Among the newest aids are sophisticated chemical water supplements that have only recently become available to amateur aquarists. Sold under trademarked names like Instant Amazon and Rift Lake Vital, the supplements alter your aquarium's water chemistry to closely resemble that of the waters from which specific kinds of fish come.

Setting up a home aquarium can be a complicated and expensive venture. But the rewards can be priceless in terms of adding beauty and tranquility to your personal environment.