If left for an extended period of time, it can result in the loss of all your fish.

This is definitely a situation to be avoided or at rectified as soon as possible.

So what do you do? How do you clear cloudy aquarium water?

Here are the steps you need to take:

1. Vacuum your tank to remove excess food or decaying matter.
2. Do a partial water change.
3. Test your tank water and water supply.
4. Cut back on your feeding.

Generally the source of cloudy fish tank water is a bacterial or algae bloom. This is usually caused by too many nutrients being present in the water. Start eliminating this by vacuuming your tank to take out decaying food, plant matter and other organic material.

To help reduce the problem you will need to do a partial water change. When doing the water change, you will want to be sure that you do not change more than about 30-40 percent including the water removed during the vacuuming of your tank.

Continue making water changes of

20 to 25 percent every three to four days until your water is clear

. Once your water is clear you can go back to a regular schedule of changes every 2 to 3 weeks.

Test the tank water for ammonia, nitrite, nitrate and phosphate. The values for the

first two should be zero

, particularly if your tank has been set up for a while.

Nitrate should be below 20 ppm and phosphates should be below 0.1 ppm

.
You will also want to

check your supply water, especially for nitrate and phosphate

. If your supply water is high in these nutrients, you will never get your tank levels down. To correct your supply water, you can either mix it with reverse osmosis or distilled water to dilute the levels.

Feeding will add nutrients to your tank. Of course you can’t stop feeding all together, but you can cut back.
Cut back to every other day or every two days for a while.
.

Once your water is clear again, you can resume your regular schedule. When you do this, you should probably reduce the amount you are feeding. Never feed more than your fish can consume in 3 to 5 minutes.

These simple steps will eliminate your cloudy water. If you want more detailed information about cloudy fish tank water and other tank maintenance issues check out this aquarium resource.

The aquarium cycle is often cursed and is probably the leading cause of fish losses in our aquariums. Understanding cycling can mean the difference between success and the beginning of a long and satisfying hobby and a frustrating failure and another tank in a garage sale.

But what exactly is the Aquarium Cycle?

The aquarium or nitrogen cycle refers to the process of converting nitrogen containing compounds in our aquariums to less toxic forms. It starts with the waste products produced by our fish or with the decay of excess food or other materials in the aquarium. These products all contain ammonia.

Ammonia (NH3) is highly toxic to fish. In higher pH conditions, it can exist or be converted into a slightly less toxic form called ammonium (NH4). Ammonia or ammonium is converted by bacteria (NAME) in the aquarium to nitrite (NO2).

Nitrite is somewhat less toxic than either ammonia or ammonium but can still cause a large scale die-off if it is not eliminated. Nitrite is converted by (NAME) bacteria to nitrate (NO3). Nitrate is only toxic in extremely high concentrations.

Nitrate is usually removed from the aquarium by water changes although it can be converted to elemental nitrogen (N2) and oxygen (O2)in low oxygen conditions by anaerobic bacteria.
There is a secret weapon to short cut the nitrogen cycle. The nitrogen cycle can be assisted by adding live plants to the aquarium. Live plants use the various components of the nitrogen cycle as food and remove them from the water column.

But how do you find the right food for tropical fish care?

Among the many choices offered for modern tropical fish food are brine shrimp, blood worms, standard flakes, shrimp pellets, algae pellets, many frozen foods and spirulina. Most of these products can easily be found in pet stores and aquarium supply outlets, though less expensive options may be available online. Choosing which types of tropical fish food to use in your aquarium depends largely on your preferences and the needs of various species within the tank.

Flake food for tropical fish can be a good staple meal, and usually affords balanced nutrition, but it’s a good idea to give only small servings a few times a day as flakes can contribute to protein buildup and other problems when left in the water too long.

Supplementing flakes with other types of tropical fish food is ideal and you can treat your fish to special meals just as you might occasionally offer a treat to a dog or cat.

Brine shrimp and blood worms, both high in protein, make great treats for fish and can be purchased live, frozen, or freeze-dried. Many modern tropical fish tanks incorporate species that tend to stay on the bottom of the tank or in crevices, and it’s imperative to provide sinking food types for these species to ensure they get enough to eat. Algae and shrimp pellets are popular choices. Spirulina, which is a kind of algae notable for its popularity in health food preparations for humans can contribute to a good ecosystem and provide critical nutrients to various species in your tank.

Some larger species may appreciate live food. Before introducing live food to your tank, however, you will benefit from considering the potential hazards, such as bringing diseases or bacteria into the tank along with the live food. You may want to treat these food sources as you would any other new addition to your tank and quarantine them for a period of time so you can observe them to assure they are in good health. In general, preserved foods are safer for your tank’s overall health.

Feeding your tropical fish can be a fun and rewarding activity, and you?ll find that choosing a variety of food types and special treats will make feeding time more enjoyable both for you and for your fish.

So, what are the best plants for your aquarium?

Freshwater fish tanks can accommodate a wide range of plant types, some of which can grow very large to create ample hiding spaces for tank inhabitants. Knowing which types of plants are best for a given setup is necessary in order to prevent potential inter-species problems, and to get the most benefit from aquarium greenery. Some of the hardiest aquarium plants that are also the easiest to care for are included below, and can make great starting points for new tanks.

The Amazon Sword Plant is a visually impressive species that performs well in many different types of tanks, and will be appreciated by most types of fish. The plant can grow up to about twenty inches, which makes it suitable for medium and large tanks, though smaller setups may require regular trimming. The plant can be placed in gravel and other loose bottom substances, and will appreciate the occasional iron supplement to promote healthy growth.

One of the most easily recognizable tropical fish aquarium plants is the Java Fern, a plant that in its traditional form produces large, bright green leaves with pointed tips. New varieties have been produced with narrow leaves, spiral leaves or finely branched leaves. These plants can add an exotic look to nearly any tank, and are among the simplest to care for just tucking the rhizomes under some drift wood or rocks can produce great results with minimal maintenance.

Pearl Grass is another popular choice thanks to its ability to create a lush, full appearance without too much upkeep. Able to be planted in clay and sand based substrates or other types of aquarium bottoms with proper nutrients, this plant will help provide ample cover for fish that like to nestle in greenery, and will also make your aquarium more attractive.

Choosing the right plants for your fish tanks may be one of the less demanding tasks involved in aquarium maintenance, but it should still receive fair consideration and research before you start putting down roots. If you remember that keeping an ecosystem running well is your primary task, your incorporation of live plants is sure to work well.

Popular Tropical Fish Type #1: Clownfish

Because of the popular animated film about one species, Clownfish are particularly famous tropical fish aquarium dwellers, highly prized for their bright pigmentation and generally calm, amicable behavior, although they can be fairly aggressive in protecting their territories. Clownfish tend to be fairly easy to take care of, though providing the proper environment is vital for a long and healthy life. The adult size of clownfish can vary considerably from species to species so be sure to do your research before you buy. One final note: clownfish are saltwater fish so you need to have that type of set-up to keep them.

Popular Tropical Fish Type #2: Koi

Koi are large fish that live in ponds, and while they may be outside the bounds of most indoor tropical fish species setups, they can make great additions to an outdoor garden pool. Typically kept in single-species configurations, Koi can get along with each other in most environments, and are especially happy with plenty of lily pads and other tropical plants in which to hide and play.

Popular Tropical Fish Type #3: Livebearers

Livebearers are generally thought of as the starter fish for the aquarium hobby. They include guppies, swordtails and platties. They can be found in a variety of colors and finnage patterns.

In addition to the basic livebearers, there are many other species available if you search online sources. They vary in difficulty from extremely easy to very hard so again, do your research. In general however, the livebearers you will find in your local fish store will be very easy to maintain. This type of tropical fish, when treated with care, can make an impressive addition to a well-kept tropical fish aquarium.

By checking out the fish available at your local store or researching tropical fish species in your free time, you’re sure to find a few varieties that strike your fancy and are also compatible with your tank parameters. When you create the right home for your tropical fish, you can count on a satisfying hobby and a visually stunning tank.

* Have extra equipment on hand.

It?s probably not practical to keep a backup lighting system or other major pieces of equipment, but for basic items such as tubes, filters, bulbs, and substrate, having a spare or two can come in handy in case the unexpected happens, and you won’t have to interrupt your day to make a special trip to the pet store.

*Get some tank-cleaning assistance –naturally.

There are many tank inhabitants that can help you out with aquarium maintenance simply by living in the same space as your fish and plants. Certain types of snails and shrimps, can contribute to a healthier, cleaner tank, making filtration easier. Adding plants to your tank will help to remove excess wastes and aid in maintaining a clean, algae free aquarium.

*Set a special time for your aquarium maintenance cleaning routines.

Not only are you more likely to miss critical cleanings if you simply “leave it until later”; you’ll likely find yourself having to perform a cleaning or other aquarium maintenance task when it’s inconvenient, an issue that typically leads to longer work times. With a regular schedule, you can make sure you’re prepared for maintenance when it’s needed, without worrying about schedule conflicts.

Keeping a beautiful tropical fish tank doesn’t have to soak up all of your time; attention to proper planning will help eliminate wasteful practices and procedures, and can promote an overall healthier, longer-lasting aquarium, as well.

Tropical Fish Tank Setup Step #1

Develop a regular cleaning cycle and stick to it.
Cleaning the water in a tropical fish tank may not be the most exciting activity imaginable, but it’s crucial for maintaining fish health and keeping all the biological factors in the tank in balance. Based on the species of fish, plants, and invertebrates in your tropical fish tank setup, and the aquarium size, you should decide on a schedule of cleanings, and then make sure you stay on that schedule.

Tropical Fish Tank Setup Step #2

Feed well and regularly.
Tropical fish require specific feeding techniques that may be unfamiliar to people who are used to keeping other types of pets. A few small feedings per day tends to be better for fish than one giant daily frenzy, and you’ll need to make sure that if you have any bottom-dwelling species, their needs are met with pellets or other non-floating food types. Missing feedings and over-feeding can cause fish to become stressed out and may also negatively affect your tropical fish tank water quality.

Tropical Fish Tank Setup Step #3

Know your lighting requirements.
Sometimes, tropical fish tank owners choose a standard lighting setup without giving much thought to whether certain species of plants or fish will need more or less light, or a different kind of light source. This is a critical feature of tropical fish aquariums, and should be researched and purchased with care.

An earnest desire to make your fish tank as healthy and beautiful as possible, paired with a willingness to get all the information you’ll need, will help you become an expert tropical fish owner, no matter the size, configuration, or type of tropical fish tank setup in your home.

Q: How much should I spend on fish tank supplies?
A: The size of your tank, as well as the types of fish and other species you’d like to include, will largely determine your aquarium budget. Keep in mind that depending on your choices, tropical fish can take a fair amount of equipment and regular supplies, and if spending a few hundred dollars or a few thousand dollars to get started seems outrageous, you may want to reconsider your selections because it is quite possible to get started on a budget.

Q: Do I have to live in a warm area to keep tropical fish?
A: Most environments are suitable for tropical species, thanks to the ability to alter and closely monitor water temperature with heaters and other fish tank supplies. Keep in mind that different species may require different setups.

Q: How should I choose the best fish for my tank?
A: Putting together a tropical fish ecosystem can be both challenging and rewarding; you may wish to start by identifying a few species that you especially like. Do your research and make sure they’re compatible with each other in terms of behavior and environmental requirements. Start with a couple of fish and take your time. Once you have gotten some experience, you can supplement your collection with species that have similar needs and will create a balanced tank.

Q: How often do I have to clean my tropical fish tank?
A: Keeping your tank clean is a serious priority, as it will help prevent diseases and make your fish happier and healthier. The ideal cleaning schedule varies based on tank size and type, but you should count on cleaning your tank and doing water changes once a week or once every two weeks.

Q: How can I tell if my tropical fish are sick?
A: There are many types of afflictions that can affect tropical fish, and early identification is key. Look for cloudy or enlarged eyes, discolored or flaking scales, erratic behavior, or low food consumption to check for possible diseases. By observing your fish on a regular basis, you can detect small changes and take corrective action before they become big ones.

As you enjoy your tropical fish aquarium and learn more about maintenance and fish tank supplies, you’ll pick up many healthy habits for making your tank as beautiful and prosperous as it can be. The trick to success is to be observant and maintain a regular schedule.

Though specialty freshwater aquarium stores may be attractive for the ability to check out merchandise first-hand, they are sometimes considerably more expensive than online outlets. It may be to your advantage to get a feel for the quality of products in-store, and then research their prices on the internet to get the best deal possible.

Plants are some of the most attractive parts of a healthy freshwater tank, and they can also help clean the water and provide good hiding spots for shy members of the tank. While you can certainly buy plants from any number of sources, greenery for freshwater tanks can also easily be found in the wild and incorporated into an aquarium’s ecosystem. You’ll still need to research which types of plants are best for your freshwater tropical fish species and environment, and double-checking your plant identification will go a long way towards avoiding any potential conflicts or problems, but using this method of plant procurement can cut costs dramatically.

There are many freshwater tropical fish tank supplies that you may be able to make on your own to help keep costs down. Rather than buy specialty tubing, for instance, you may be able to simply go to a hardware store and purchase generic tubes for your pumps and cleaning setups. Some freshwater tropical fish owners may even be interested in creating their own lighting equipment, a move that can save some serious cash.

No matter how you decide to keep your freshwater fish spending on budget, an open mind and a commitment to quality will help your tank –and your wallet– excel.

Top Tropical Fish Care Supplies #1

Do-it-Yourself brine shrimp hatchery. Brine shrimp is a commonly-used fish food that can be mixed with a regular diet of flakes to produce healthy fish species. You can create your very own hatchery of brine shrimp in your home for inexpensive treats and to help feed baby fish with plenty of protein. All you need is a soda bottle, some thin tubing, an air pump, aquarium salt and brine shrimp eggs, and you’ll be on your way to a great tank accessory.

Top Tropical Fish Care Supplies #2

UV sterilizer. There are many types of diseases, bacteria, viruses, and plant products that can threaten the health of your tank, and regular cleanings may not take care of everything on their own. A UV sterilizer uses ultra-violet rays to get rid of potentially harmful substances in your tank, promoting healthier fish and plants. To keep your fish protected, however, you’ll need to make sure you understand proper usage for this equipment before you introduce it to your tank.

Top Tropical Fish Care Supplies #3

LED aquarium lighting. Possibly on the expensive side for some tank owners, LED lighting is nevertheless a treat item for a wish list or to incorporate with a premium aquarium setup. This type of lighting is far more energy-efficient than other options, and tends to last longer, as well. Their small size means you can create a number of different configurations to get the perfect lighting environment, ensuring happy fish and a great-looking tank.

These high-quality tropical fish supplies will help you get the tank you’ve always dreamed about all while cutting down on potential risks and improving budget concerns in the long term. Though it may still be fun to cruise through the many offerings at pet stores in search of a quirky new accessory or useful tool, focusing on truly powerful tropical fish supplies will lead to a better tank.