Alright, so you just got your first fish tank set up and you're excited to finally get some little swimming buddies, huh? Well let me tell you, keeping aquarium fish is super rewarding once you get the hang of it. I've been keeping fish on and off for about 10 years now so I've definitely made my share of mistakes along the way. But I've also learned a lot and want to pass on some of the basics to help you be a successful fish parent.
Photo source:
To start, I recommend thinking about stocking your tank. You'll want to make sure you don't overcrowd it which can hurt water quality. Most local fish stores will help you figure out appropriate stocking levels based on your tank size. Also consider compatibility - some fish just don't get along so it's best to do your research beforehand. I usually go for community fish that school together like tetras, platies, or rasboras. They look really cool all swimming around in a group.
Photo source:
Once you've picked out your first fish, acclimate them slowly to the tank water. Dump the water from their shipping bag into your tank a bit at a time over 30 mins so they can adjust to any differences. Temperature should be the same. Then you can gently release them into their new home. Keep an eye on them at first in case any have issues adapting but most will perk right up.
Photo source:
Now comes the fun part - feeding! I feed my fish twice a day, once in the morning and once at night. Make sure to only feed them what they'll eat in a couple minutes so uneaten food doesn't pollute the water. I like to mix it up between flake food, frozen brine shrimp or bloodworms, and algae wafers for any herbivores. My fish go wild for bloodworms, it's almost comical to watch. Occasionally I'll supplement with vitamins too. A varied diet keeps them healthy.
Water changes are key to keeping nitrates low and conditions optimal for your little buddies. I do about 25% once a week, more if it's a heavily stocked tank. Use a gravel vac to siphon out waste during water changes too. Test the water every so often with a liquid test kit to monitor ammonia, nitrite, pH, and other levels. If anything is off, do an extra water change to bring it back into balance. It's also important to clean any algae build up on the glass monthly.
Over time as your fish grow, some may start pairing off and spawning babies! Guppies, mollies, and platies are really easy livebearers to breed in the home aquarium. If conditions are right, the pregnant females will drop fry that you can often raise right in the main tank. It's fascinating to watch the babies develop. Just be prepared - they multiply fast so you'll need to move some to another tank or give them away before you know it.
Anyways, I hope these care basics help you be off to a great start with your new fish friends. Let me know if you have any other questions as you get going. It really is such a relaxing hobby, I think you'll love watching your very own underwater world come alive in your home. Keep me posted on what types of fish you decide on!