As with
most other species, for fish illness is something best prevented.However, prophylactic medications can often stress fish and plants, as
well as damage helpful bacteria. Here are a few practices that will help you
create and maintain a healthy aquarium from the start.
1. Make
sure the fish you purchase are healthy - avoid fish that look sick.
2. When
increasing a fish population, it is always best to build the number up slowly,
introducing only a few fish at a time.
3. If
you have the space and finances to do so, putting new fish in a quarantine tank
is a good idea. This will allow you to observe and treat any fish that do not
look well before adding them to your existing aquarium.
4. New
fish should always be acclimated properly: 15-20 minutes in the bag in the
aquarium, add 20% aquarium water to the bag, wait another 15-20 minutes, and
then release fish gently.
5.
Chlorine, chloramines and metals are damaging to aquarium inhabitants, be sure
to condition water properly using one of the many commercially available
dechlorinating and cycling products. Take extra care when monitoring for metals
if copper is used in your plumbing.
6.
Perform regular maintenance every two weeks: change and test the water.
7.
Power failures will stress fish, immediately after experiencing one, check all
equipment, take a temperature reading and observe the fish.
8. Fish
and plants need regular lighting; timers can be used to ensure you are not over
or under lighting your aquarium. 8-10 hours a day of light is more than enough.
9. If
medications have been used, perform additional water changes and use carbon to
remove residual traces. Test your water frequently.
10. It
is best for your fish if they are feed on a regularly scheduled basis. Remember
not to overfeed!!
