When children get their first fish, if this is something that they want, can be a very exciting time. However, it can also be when a child first has to confront what happens when a life comes to an end. Fish as pets are risky because they can die early, but they can also be fun and easy for a first pet for any child. They require very little upkeep once they are in the tank and doing fine. It’s getting there that can be the battle for parents. There are some things to keep in mind when getting aquarium fresh water fish for your child’s first pet.
If your child wants to get aquarium fresh water fish, you have to tell them that they are going to have to wait for the fish, but you can get started right away. You should take your child to the store, or look online, and see what size tank you want to get and take it home or order it. If you want to have more than one fish, avoid the one gallon size tank, as that is only good for just one fish. Follow the instructions for fish limits when buying or the fish will not last very long. If it says just one fish, that is all you can have in there. Most very small tanks only handle one or two at the most.
Once you have the tank in your hands for your aquarium fresh water fish, tell your children that they can help you set it up, but do not go out and get your fish. You want to choose the rocks you want to have at the bottom, any decorations and plants (remember fish need places to hide), and the chemicals and foods that you are going to need for your fish. This will be fun stuff to choose, but your child will not understand why they can not get their fish just yet. The reason for this lies with the filters and air supplies that you are going to be buying as well.
You may get lucky and put your aquarium fresh water fish right into a new tank and they will do well. For the most part, however, this is not going to happen. In order for a fish tank to work well and support life, there has to be a balance of bacteria in the water that agrees with life. If your tank does not have this good bacteria, your fish are not going to last long. Many experts recommend that you set up your tank, start the filter and air, and let it run for four to six weeks before you consider adding fish. This makes the water ideal for them when they do arrive, and they are more likely to survive.
Once this time has passed and your water is indeed as it should be (look for help and kits to let you know that this is the case), you can then add your fish. Take your child with you and let them choose the fish that they want, and learn how to safely add them to the tank that you have had up and running for some time. If you follow all of these instructions, your aquarium fresh water fish have a much better chance of surviving and thriving in your care and your child can enjoy them for some time to come.
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