Fresh Water Tanks (Fish Only)

Freshwater aquariums are the most popular type of tanks seen in homes today. A freshwater system offers great diveristy in the choice of tanks, fish, plants, lighting and filtration. They can be small, inexpensive and easy to care for by hobbyists or large, elaborate "show" systems often requiring maintenance by professionals such as FishyThings. There are many factors to consider.

Many of the freshwater fish available at local pet stores can be placed into tanks that range from 10 to 90 gallons. However, it is important to complete some research before selecting the types of fish to put in your aquarium, as fish are living creatures and require certain types of environments or tank mates to thrive. Fish are generally divided into three categories relating to aggression: aggressive, semi-aggressive, and non-aggressive. Aggression is an important factor to consider when selecting fish, because it is important that the fish selected for your tank are compatible with one another.

Temperatures in aquariums can vary, and it is important that you select fish that are appropriate for the water temperature you would like to maintain in your system. Some fish, such as neon tetras, are known to thrive in warm water, whereas, other fish, such as goldfish, usually prefer colder temperatures.

Water chemistry is another factor to consider. Water can have a wide range of ph levels from acidic to alkaline. It is important to know the ph level in your tank because fish can prefer any of the ph levels: acidic, neutral, or alkaline.

Aquarium professionals such as FishyThings can guide you in making the best selections for the tank and it's systems and inhabitants that you would like to achieve. We can provide you with top quality tanks, filtration, and a wealth of knowledge to assure that your tank will be a successful experience that you will enjoy for many years.

Fresh Water Tanks (With Plants)

Planted freshwater fish tanks can be a rewarding selection for aquarium hobbyists. Natural plants are not only a beautiful decoration, they also provide your fish with shelter and a self-replenishing food source. In fact, it's generally believed that natural plants can make the tank an all around healthier tank.

Proper and adequate lighting in a planted tank is very important. Compact Fluorescents, Metal Halide, or Standard Full Spectrum Fluorescents are some of the choices available today. Your lighting selection should be based upon your choice of plants and their requirements for light intensity.

Plants use photosynthesis to provide their own growth and maintenance. Photo- synthesis is the process by which plants use chlorophyll with the aid of light energy to synthesize water, carbon (which can be found in carbon dioxide or other carbon compounds), and various other nutrients into simple sugars, which provide energy for the plant.

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is an essential part of photosynthesis and is necessary for your planted tank to remain healthy and beautiful. There are many ways to provide your tank with supplemental CO2, if needed. The most common way is by utilizing a CO2 injector which is a system that administers CO2 into your tank in specific amounts to maintain the proper CO2 level. Other supplements such as iron, magnesium, and micro-nutrients are also beneficial additives to your planted tank.

Salt Water Tanks (Fish Only)

Today's technology has made owning and maintaining a saltwater fish tank much easier. Advancements in filtration and lighting have made it much easier to meet the needs of these delicate fish. By choosing a saltwater fish only tank, you can have an attractive, beautiful tank, without the extra expenses required for a reef tank, however, there are still many factors to consider. One important factor to consider is tank size. Even though some saltwater species can be kept in small tanks, a larger tank will allow for more variety of fish and will increase your chances for success. Substrate is another important factor to consider. There is currently a wide variety of substrates to choose from ranging from those coarse in texture to those with fine texture. The types of fish and the overall look your are trying to achieve should be considered when choosing a substrate. Many types of fish search for food in substrate, and others choose to live in it, making this a very important decision. Lighting is yet another important factor to consider for your fish tank. There are many lighting options available which range form very intense lighting (metal halides) to less intense lighting (florescents)and many choices in between. A saltwater fish only tank does not require the same intense lighting as a reef tank, therefore a more economical choice in lighting may be made in regards to this type of tank. A salt water fish only tank requires good water circulation. Good water circulation aids in gas exchange and the reduction of waste. U.V. sterilization an protein skimming are highly recommended, as they assist in controlling disease outbreaks and waste removal. When good decisions are made in regards to your fish tank, a variety of fish can be enjoyed. Fishy Things has resources available that will assist you in the adventure of owning a saltwater fish tank. Free emergency calls and "hospital" tanks are a few of the services that we provide. Fish medication is also provided by Fishy Things starting two months after the initial setup, or initial service of your fish tank. Let Fishy Things take the guess work out of these decisions, and help you make the right choices for your saltwater environment.

Reef Tanks

A coral reef tank is a classy addition to any home or business. Owning a reef tank is like owning your own "little piece of the ocean". Advancements in filtration, lighting, and temperature controls have increased the life spans and overall health of the delicate fish and coral specimens found in reef tanks. An aquarium professional can take the guesswork out of choosing the best options for your reef tank. Owning a reef tank can be an expensive hobby, but when done properly, it will be an investment that you will enjoy for many years. Protect your investment by allowing a Fishy Things professional take care of all your aquarium needs.