| As with many hobbies or interests we all | | | | 4. Where to Buy - Where do you buy one? Of |
| start out as novices. This is true if you | | | | course pet stores and retail stores are the |
| want to buy some fish and you need an | | | | logical place. Flea markets, garage sales, |
| aquarium to put them in. This article will | | | | eBay, and Craig's List offer good deals as |
| give you some advice that you can use when | | | | well. Using the internet for research will |
| choosing your first fish tank. | | | | give you some quick ideas on cost and style. |
| | | | Specialist websites can offer a wide |
| 1. Space for your fish tank - How much room | | | | assortment of fish tanks to choose from. |
| do you have for a tank. Buying a big fish | | | | |
| tank for a tiny space may take away from your | | | | Other things to consider include: |
| enjoyment if you are always bumping into it. | | | | |
| Fish tanks can add to the natural beauty of a | | | | - Buy the fish after your tank is set up and |
| room when they are allowed to blend into it. | | | | the water is at room temperature. |
| You want to know the amount of space you are | | | | |
| working with before you go shopping. | | | | - Keep the water at a warm temperature. Most |
| | | | fish do well at 76-79 degrees. |
| 2. Shape of your fish tank - Consider the | | | | |
| shape. Taller hexagonal and octagonal tanks | | | | - Add some colored gravel to help hold the |
| are very popular, but it is a personal | | | | tank and plants down. Darker colors tend to |
| choice, just like buying anything thing else. | | | | bring out the colors of your fish better. |
| and what appeals to you. Longer rectangular | | | | |
| tanks are the most common and appeal to | | | | - Water weighs 9 pounds per gallon so be sure |
| people who are doing this as a hobby. | | | | and get a fish tank that is sturdy enough. |
| | | | |
| 3. Size of your fish tank - If you are new to | | | | - Keep your tank clean or get a quality |
| fish and fish tanks it is advisable to start | | | | filtration system. Algae build up can be a |
| with a small tank. You will spend less and it | | | | problem and you want to spend the time |
| will give you less work to keep it up. Small | | | | necessary to keep you tank clean and fish |
| tanks can be anywhere from 10 to 20 gallons | | | | safe. |
| and cost you $10-$40 depending on the size | | | | |
| and shape. If you find that you love fish and | | | | There are several things to think about when |
| do not mind the upkeep you can always move up | | | | you are deciding on the right fish tank. If |
| to a bigger tank at a later date. | | | | you do it right from the start keeping fish |
| | | | will be a relaxing and enjoyable hobby. |