Fish and tank care are an important part of keeping these pets healthy. Some of the items fish need for survival are a tank, filters, air pump, water and food. Many fish owners also invest in a tank cover, heater, light, gravel decorations and plants.http://www.fishlore.com/FirstTankSetup.htm After purchasing the equipment, it should be set up and kept running for a few days before adding fish.

When setting up a fish tank, the location should be chosen first. Then gravel should be put in the tank and plants added. The filtration system will usually go into the tank next and then the decorations. After that, the water should be added. After a few days, fish can be added to the tank. When adding fish, the fish bags should be floated in the tank with the fish in them for about 15 to 30 minutes. This is so the temperature of the water in the bag becomes the same as the water in the tank. Once that has been accomplished, the bags can be open and the fish can swim out on their own.http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/small-pet-care/fish-care.html

Many commercial fish foods are offered to customers. Regardless of the food chosen, do not overfeed the fish. When overfed, the extra food goes to the bottom of the tank and lessens the water quality. A few small meals throughout the day will stop this from happening.

Everyday maintenance is needed in fish and tank care. The tank lights should be turned on and off everyday. The temperature of the water should remain constant. By removing a good portion of the water every other week, it will remove any chemical buildup going on in the aquarium.http://www.aquariumcareblog.com/ Testing with a water quality kit will help you know when this is needed. Every month, the filter should be cleaned or replaced.

This schedule of maintenance should keep your fish healthy and your tank in good repair.