If you are interested in having pets in your home but don't have the time or inclination to walk or clean up after them, then fish might be your best bet. Fish are soothing to watch and you only have to feed them once a week. The only cleaning you have to do is, clean the tank every few months. Your family and friends will love watching them, and a well designed aquarium is not only a place to keep your fish but can be a dramatic vocal point of your room. .
How to Choose a Tank:
Purchase a tank that is leak proof and strong enough to support the water. It should be big enough to allow all the fish space to move around freely. Most important si the surface area because fish breathe air caught in the water. The surface where air and water meet must be large enough to trap a suitable amount of air. Generally there should be about 25 square inches of surface for every fish. A tall thin tank will hold fewer fish than a wide tank of smaller volume.
You will also need a tank cover and stand. The cover keeps the dust out of the tank and the fish in, and should be the size of the tank. Stands are not necessary if you plan to rest the tank on a table top. Stands, preferably made of iron, should be strong enough to support the tank when full of water.
Place your aquarium where it will get some sunlight, though not in full sun. You don't want the heat from the sun to heat the water. Do not place your tank near a heat vent or an air-conditioner, or any spot susceptible to temperature changes. Avoid drafty areas and remember to place your tank near an electrical outlet; You will need power for filters, aerator, and heater.
Tank Equipment:
You will need a tank light. Natural light is usually not enough for an aquarium inside the house. Most tanks need a light to act as "sun" for the fish and plants. They can be bought at an aquarium shop and need not be strong; about 20 watts for every 12 inches of depth in the tank, and should be turned on about 12 hours a day, more if you have live plants.
To make sure you have enough air in the tank attach an aerator. An electrical powered aerator releases air bubbles in the tank and circulates the water to expose more of the surface to oxygen, and removes carbon dioxide.
You will need a filter to keep the water clear of contaminants such as, fish waste, old food, and dirt. With electrical power, water is drawn through and cleaned as it passes through. The filter often serves to circulate the air and sometimes makes the aerator unnecessary.
I will publish instructions on how fill, furnish your tank, and add the fish later, as this is getting a little too long and unwieldy.
