Ornamental Fish Production and Management

2.2.2 Steps involved in setting up of aquarium

i) Fitting an under gravel filter

The purpose of the filter is to remove dirty materials from the aquarium. Under gravel filters are otherwise called as biological filters. Toxic substances like ammonia and nitrite are converted to relatively harmless substances like nitrate by the beneficial bacteria developed on the gravel added in the biological filter.

ii) Adding the gravels

Gravels with a particle size of 3-5 mm are used to allow good water circulation and to enable the plants to root.

iii) Installing the air pump

Air pump is installed to operate biological filter for airlifting and aeration.

iv) Adding rocks

Suitable rocks are firmly laid down on the gravel. The rocks are grouped for creating natural look. Several rock pieces can be stuck together with silicon gel to make a cave like structure, which is essential for maintaining cichlid fishes.

v) Filling the tank

Tank can be filled with water through hose pipe directed over a rock in order to avoid displacement of gravels.

vi) Keeping plants

Tall plants are kept at the back and sides. The corners are filled with short species. The roots are buried in the gravel.

vii) Putting the cover glass into position

Cover glass or plastic sheet are used to cover the top. This type has cutouts for cables and for feeding access.

viii) Fitting the electrical wiring

Electrical wiring with respect to light and filters are properly connected.

ix) Setting up the hood and lighting

This is the last stage before introducing the fishes. Fluorescent tubes are used which is fitted inside the hood. The hood may be made of metal, wood or fiberglass sheets.

x) Adding the fishes

Companionable and compatible fishes are introduced in order to avoid fighting between the fishes. The recommended stocking density of fishes in ornamental fish tank is given below. Surface area of the tanks is taken into consideration for calculating stocking density.

Tropical freshwater species

For 1 cm length of fish, 30cm² surface area is required.

Freshwater (Cold water) species

For 1 cm length of fish, 75cm² area is required.