Pet Fish

Some people appreciate the loyalty of dogs, or the curiosity of cats. Others prefer the primordial snake, or the feisty gerbil. But for some people, the ideal pet is the fish. A fish tank embodies the majesty of the deep, the enigma of a world beneath our everyday perception. Fish come in all types. They can have the pageantry of the Clownfish, the dangerous beauty of the Lionfish, or the iridescence of the Angelfish. A properly maintained and stocked fish tank can be a room’s centerpiece.

If you’re interested in getting a fish tank, there are a few things you have to know beforehand. Fish can be expensive, so you should know a few general things before you make what can be a sizable investment. First of all, you need to make a decision about the type of fish you wish to keep. Not all fish have the same water requirements. Fish from the sea need the water to have a higher saline content from fish from coastal estuaries, while freshwater fish require water with almost no saline content. These fish cannot cohabitate in the same tank, so you’ll have to decide which is best for you.

Secondly, you need to understand the basics of the nitrogen cycle. Fish and other aquarium inhabitants produce waste that is high in nitrogen in the form of ammonia, and when this waste isn’t properly disposed of, the water can become toxic for them. Your tank will have to have organisms that convert and dilute the ammonium, namely bacteria such as “nitrifiers” and “Nitrospira.”

Contact Us

If you have any questions about keeping fish as pets, or their health concerns, contact your Austin Vet Clinic today.