STAGE TWO (WEEK 1)

ADDING YOUR FIRST FISH

From our experience, we believe the number and type of fish you add to your aquarium makes a lot of difference and it is important to get off to a good start. Remember your 'starter fish' are your pioneers in developing your new aquarium (which, for the moment, is a little harsh environment) so the fish you choose must be healthy and of a type, which is considered hardy.

Our favourite starter fish are Zebra Danios, Black Widows, Golden Barbs and Red Eyed Tetras.

You will receive your fish in plastic bags and so long as they have sufficient air and are kept at the correct temperature they will last in the bag for 6-8 hours. Once you arrive home, float the unopened bags on the surface of the aquarium water to allow the temperature of the water in the bags to equalise with the aquarium water, this takes around 20-30 minutes. Because the fish will be somewhat frightened from their journey you should keep the aquarium lighting switched off. Once this time has elapsed you can open the bags and mix a little of your water with their water for a few more minutes when you can let them swim into your aquarium. Some experts believe that the water in which the fish have been transported in should not be added to your aquarium and the fish should be removed from the bag via the use of a net, so it's up to you which method you feel comfortable using

Your new fish will be very nervous to start with and we suggest that you leave the lights off for a few hours (or until the next day if late in the evening) so that they can explore their new home and settle down.

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