Why an Aquarium?
The plants that you decorate with should be ones native to the fish’s original habitat. This is true even though your individual probably has never “seen” or experienced his native habitat first hand.
In general, five types of plants can be used in your fresh water aquarium. The first type of plant is grown by bulbs. These for the most part produce rather large plants, most of which are far too large to use in a normal sized fresh water aquarium. These plants, such as the water lily and the aponogeton, are much better suited to outdoor settings, especially koi ponds.
You may also want to use a classification of live plants called Rhizomes. This plant has a thick, horizontal stem with leaves sprouting on the top. The roots to this plnat are located on the bottom. The rhizome is used as a “runner” over the surface of the substrate. As it spreads, it grows new sections of leaf and root.
The anubias and African Fern are two variations of rhizomes. It’s easy enough to plant these. You simply tie these to the driftwood you already have in your aquarium. You’ve probably seen the type of plant that looks like a crown with roots growing beneath it and leaves growing above. This is called a rosette. They cover the water by sending out runners and growing new plants as they go. Many times these plants, which include the Amazon Sword and the Sagittaria, also produce beautiful flowers.
Change your filter more regularly to ensure that this doesn’t happen, because it can hurt your fish tank, and kill your fish if it goes untreated. They simply can’t live in that sort of environment.
Ever wonder if there’s actually a benefit to having an aquarium? There are actually studies that are going as far back as the 80’s that have shown that keeping an aquarium can not only keep you more relaxed, but improve your health. For example, seniors who were provided with an aquarium - with fish, of course - had a surprising drop in blood pressure. Just watching fish can help calm hyperactive children, and no, that’s not just it.
If not every week, only about 20% of the water has to be removed, and most people use a siphon. Basically, you put one end of a hose in the tank, put the other to your lips, and suck.Once water starts flowing, put it in a bucket and let some of it drain out. Then, simply replace the water. Once a month, you’re going to want to clean your aquarium tank - part of the experience many people hate.
Surprised? Many people aren’t. Hey, just consider this - many doctor’s offices, waiting rooms, dental clinics, and even children’s hospital wings have an aquarium filled with colorful fish. Studies have been done that also show that Alzheimer’s patients react extremely well to an aquarium being in the dining area. They eat more, need less supplements, and even are less aggressive.
Live plants can add another, more enjoyable dimension to your fresh water aquarium. They may require a little more care but the rewards are definitely worth it. You can start out slowly. And as you gain experience, you can expand the types of plants you use. Not only will you enjoy the experience, you’ll be making sure your fish feel right at home!
Tags: Aquariums