Information about aquariums | Types and necessary equipment
Aquariums have gained popularity as a great hobby and decoration item that brings the underwater world into your home. An aquarium dazzling with the calmness of the water and the dance of colorful creatures will calm you down while increasing your curiosity.
The graceful movements of the fish, the natural beauty of the plants and the balance of the aquatic ecosystem make aquariums create a unique world. In this article, we’ll take you on an in-depth journey into setting up aquariums, caring for fish, choosing plants, and more, and guide you through getting started in the aquarium hobby. Are you ready to dive into the fascinating world of water?
Information about aquariums
Aquariums are specially prepared closed systems in which aquatic creatures are exhibited and maintained. Aquariums provide both a decorative element and an environment that simulates a natural habitat, and have also become popular in homes, offices and even public spaces.
Throughout history, aquariums have been seen in different cultures and times. The first plates It was found in China in the 2nd century. Later, the Romans and ancient Egyptian civilization also used aquarium-like structures to observe marine life. However, the modern aquarium hobby developed from the 19th century and has become a great passion today.
Aquariums are systems that contain water, plants and fish together in a clear container, usually made of glass or acrylic material. There are aquariums of different sizes and shapes, and when choosing it is important to choose the right one based on the space and personal preferences.
When setting up an aquarium, some basic materials are needed. Equipment such as filters, heaters, lighting systems, air pumps, and water test kits help keep the water clean and stable. Regular water changes should also be carried out to ensure water quality and control water parameters.
Fish selection is one of the most important and fun parts of the aquarium hobby. However, it is important to be careful when choosing fish and to provide an environment suitable for their needs. Factors such as fish species, size, feeding habits and other fish they are compatible with should be taken into account.
Aquariums are not just fish. Plants and decorative elements give the aquarium an aesthetic look and a natural living environment. Plants produce oxygen, clean water and provide hiding places for fish. Stones, rocks, roots and other decorative elements stimulate the natural behavior of fish and make the aquarium more attractive.
types of aquariums
Aquarium hobby gives you the opportunity to experience different types of aquariums and show a variety of aquatic life forms. Whether freshwater, saltwater or mixed water environments, each aquarium type has its own unique characteristics and requirements. Here are some of the most common types of aquariums:
Freshwater aquarium
The freshwater aquarium is one of the most common and popular aquarium types. Freshwater aquariums contain freshwater fish, plants and other types of aquatic life. This type of aquarium comes in different sizes and shapes. Popular types of freshwater aquariums include community aquariums, cichlid aquariums, plant aquariums, and biotope aquariums.
Saltwater aquarium
Saltwater aquariums are used to display living specimens of ocean and marine life. These aquariums house saltwater fish, corals, sea anemones and other marine life. Saltwater aquariums may require a bit more complicated maintenance and balance. There are different types of saltwater aquariums such as reef aquariums, coral reef aquariums and monkfish aquariums.
Mixed Water Aquarium
Mixed water aquariums are aquariums where both freshwater and saltwater life forms coexist. These aquariums are used to simulate natural environments such as mangrove forests, estuaries or brackish water. Mixed water aquariums should be set up to be compatible with both freshwater and saltwater fish and plants.
Nano aquarium
Nano aquariums are compact aquarium systems that attract attention due to their small size. Typically 10 to 20 gallons, these aquariums are ideal for display in small spaces or on tabletops. Nano aquariums are designed for smaller aquatic life such as nano fish, small crustaceans or plants.
Aquarium supplies and equipment
The materials and equipment needed to set up an aquarium are essential to maintaining a healthy and balanced aquatic environment. Here are some basic supplies and equipment your aquarium may need:
Aquarium tank
The centerpiece of the aquarium is the glass or acrylic tank in which the fish and plants will live. The size of the aquarium should match the needs of the fish and plants. Aquarium tanks come in a variety of sizes and shapes, and your choice should suit the space in your home or office.
Filter system
A filtration system is essential to keep the water clear and clean. Filters remove fish excrement, excess feed and other contaminants. There are filters with mechanical, biological and chemical filter properties. When choosing a filter, it is important to consider factors such as the volume of your aquarium and the water flow rate.
Heating
A heater is used to regulate the water temperature of the aquarium. A stable water temperature is important for the healthy survival of fish. The heaters are equipped with thermostats to set the water temperature to the desired degree and to keep it constant.
Lighting system
A lighting system is essential for plant growth and to make the aquarium visually attractive. Plants need the right amount of light to carry out photosynthesis. Lighting systems are designed to provide light in the correct spectrum that plants need.
Air pump
The air pump is used to oxygenate the water and improve water circulation. It also increases oxygen exchange by breaking the film layer on the water surface. Air pumps play an important role for fish to live a healthier life.
Fish care in the aquarium
Aquarium fish need proper care and environmental conditions to live a healthy life. Here are some important tips for the care of fish in the aquarium:
Water quality
Water quality is very important for fish to be healthy. You should monitor water parameters such as pH level, ammonia, nitrite and nitrate by performing regular water tests. It is important to regularly improve the water quality by doing water changes. Water changes remove waste and pollutants and purify the water.
Power supply
A balanced and correct diet of fish is important for them to live a healthy life. You must provide the fish with suitable fish food. Different fish species may have different nutritional needs, so you need to monitor your fish’s nutritional needs and choose the right food. You should avoid overfeeding and clean up food residues regularly.
Water temperature
A correct water temperature is important for a healthy life for the fish. Depending on the fish species, there are different temperature requirements. Determine the temperature your fish require and keep the water within the desired temperature range using a heater.
Compatible fish species
Keeping compatible fish species together in the aquarium reduces stress and competition. The compatibility of fish with each other helps to create a healthier environment. You must create fish communities suitable for your tank by researching compatible species where fish can live together.
Plants and shelters
Plants give the aquarium a natural look and provide hiding places for fish. Fish need suitable hiding places to show their natural behavior and avoid stress. To grow plants, you need to provide proper lighting and nutrition.
What should I pay attention to when setting up an aquarium?
There are some important points to consider when setting up an aquarium. First you need to choose an aquarium tank that suits the needs of your fish. The size of the tank should match the size and number of fish. You must also provide the necessary equipment to control the filtration system, heating, lighting and water quality. You should check the water quality regularly and change the water if necessary. You will also need to make the necessary adjustments to ensure that your fish have the correct water temperature and pH level.
Which fish can live together?
It is important to choose compatible species in which fish can live together. Since each species of fish has different behaviors and needs, it’s important to do your research to create harmonious fish communities. For example, some fish can live well in community aquariums, while others feel better on their own. Factors such as not chasing each other, preferring the same water temperature and pH are important for compatibility. You can get help from aquarists or dealers to identify compatible fish species.
How to clean aquarium water?
It is important to do regular water changes to clean the aquarium water. Water changes improve water quality by removing waste, excess feed and pollutants. In general, a 10 to 25% water change per week is recommended. You should prepare the water you are going to change in harmony with the aquarium water and start the water change slowly. In addition, you should clean the filter regularly and replace the filter materials if necessary.
Why are aquarium plants important?
Aquarium plants provide a visually appealing appearance and contribute to the ecosystem of the aquarium. Plants produce oxygen to water through photosynthesis and maintain water balance by absorbing carbon dioxide. They also provide a natural hiding and feeding place for fish. In order for plants to grow, proper lighting, nutrition and CO2 levels must be provided. Plants improve water quality and ensure that fish can live a healthier life.
How often should aquarium fish be fed?
The nutritional needs of fish can vary depending on their species and size. In general, it is important to feed the fish daily, but overfeeding should be avoided. Feed as much as the fish can eat in a few minutes. Adding more food can pollute the water and adversely affect the health of the fish. Also, starving fish one or a few days a week can help to rest their digestive system. It is important to follow the feeding instructions depending on the type of fish and type of food.