If you are thinking about setting up an African aquarium for your home, but you do not know how to do this, then this article is written to give you some information into how you can set one of these aquariums up with ease. Here is how you can get started.
One of the first things you need to do is work out the tank size. The tank size is important depending on how many fish you will be putting in it. A larger size tank is the better option as this will give enough room for the fish to move. Make sure that the tank has a good filter system as this is important for the health of the fish, as well as a durable heater for the right temperature.
PH levels are another thing that is important for the fish to survive. For African Cichlid, a ph level of around 8.2 to 8.4 would be appropriate. However, if you are considering other fish, you may need to ask your local pet store for the ratios of the pH levels. This way you can be sure that your fish will survive when you get them home.
When decorating this type of tank, it is important to incorporate a rocky scene with many caves. African Cichlids tend to claim territories and can be quite aggressive towards others. So when caves are added you will find that the more dominate of the species will stay around their caves or territories. Caves are also important for the egg laying fish. These fish tend to lay their eggs in the caves and guard them until they are born. Set the caves relatively apart so a few of the fish can take up their territories without fighting between themselves.
Rocks are also another thing that can be added to the aquarium. When adding rocks it is important to work out where you are going to be putting them. If you plan to place one rock on another it may be wise to connect them with silicone as Cichlid tend to dig the gravel which could cause the rocks to fall. So before you place one or more rocks on each other it may be better to silicone them together.
Fake plants that are thin and tall can also be added. These allow the fish to swim in and out and also claim if need be. Place the plants around the aquarium with space between them. For the bottom of the tank, substrate colour really depends on what you are willing to use. While a blacker colour can set the fish off, some suggest red and white. This really depends on you, but make sure you put around 2 to 3 inches in your tank as these fish a known for their digging skills.
Although you may have a good water filter, you need to change at least 20 to 30 percent of water a week as this will keep the fish healthier. Without these regular water changes, you will find that many diseases will set in causing death in your tank. Set aside day of the week where you can change the water. This will get you into a routine.
So if you are looking to set up an African tank remember to make sure the water levels are right as this will cause sickness and death in the fish if it is out of balance. A healthy tank, means healthy fish. So why not get setting up today.
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