Aquariums full of tropical fish are perfect for those who enjoy vibrant colors and soothing aquatic life at home. However, they can also be some of the trickiest animals to keep, requiring diligent care to keep in good health for their full lifespans. Below are a few key care practices to keep your fish happy and healthy.

How to Care for Tropical Fish

1. Change the Water

Natural environments in which both freshwater and saltwater fish live enjoy a constant replenishment and replacement of water, whether that’s in the ocean or a small stream. As such, you should replace up to 20% of the water in your fish tank every month for optimal water health.

You can use a siphon when cleaning aquarium gravel to remove uneaten food, waste, and old water. Because many sources of tap and bottled water contain chemicals like chlorine, which is toxic to fish, use conditioned, filtered water to freshen up your pets’ home.

2. Test the Aquarium Water

To ensure optimal levels of waterborne chemicals, microorganisms, and nutrients, it’s important to test the water in aquariums regularly. Widely available all-in-one water quality test kits will allow you to easily check pH balance, ammonia and nitrate levels, temperature, and salinity. The results will inform you of the water’s condition and alert you to potential health hazards to your tropical fish.

3. Provide Adequate Oxygen

Fish require air to survive, which they get from dissolved oxygen in the water. If the levels are too low, your fish may be less active, exhibit labored breathing, and gather just below the water’s surface to gasp for oxygen. 

Besides regularly changing aquarium water, you can maintain an adequate air supply by placing airstones in the tank or adding an air pump. These will release a steady level of oxygen into the water and help your fish breathe easy.

Whether you’re interested in acquiring exotic fish for the first time or in keeping your aquarium healthy, Gerber’s Tropical Fish is here to help. Serving the Dayton and Cincinnati, OH, areas, they offer an extensive selection of fish and supplies, including water testing kits, aquarium furniture, and more. Call (937) 297-0515 to speak with a team member about caring for your fish or visit their website to learn more about their services.