A clean tank is a happy, healthy tank. Here’s how good maintenance habits and a little extra attention can go a long way in keeping your fish thriving and disease at bay.

1. Keep the water boringly excellent

• Test regularly and do weekly partial water changes. 
• Clean filters in old tank water, not untreated tap water. Avoid deep-cleaning everything at once. Beneficial bacteria live in the filter. Do not murder them with enthusiasm.
• Keep ammonia and nitrite at zero. Keep nitrate low enough for the species.
• Maintain stable temperature and pH. Stable beats perfect.

2. Feed like a keeper, not a grandparent

• Overfeeding is one of the great aquarium sins. Uneaten food rots. Rotting food feeds ammonia. Ammonia stresses fish. Stressed fish get sick. Feed small amounts that fish finish quickly. Offer quality food suited to the species. Herbivorous African cichlids need different diets from bettas or discus.
• Poor diet weakens fish over time.

3. Stock for behaviour, not just colour

• Fin nipping, bullying, chasing, and overcrowding create chronic stress. Stress opens the door to disease.
• Research adult size and temperament before buying. Many fish are sold as cute juveniles with ambitious futures. That tiny Oscar may not stay adorable in a small community tank.

4. Acclimate like the fish has had a long day

• New fish have already been stressed by transport. Float the bag to match the temperature. 
• Add small amounts of tank water gradually. 
• Avoid dumping shop water into your aquarium.
• Dim the lights. Give the new fish hiding places. Do not feed heavily on day one.

Content by Petworld. 

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