Professional aquarium care and set up in Horsham
Aquarium care
Aquatic pets are not the simplest of creatures to look after and problems can easily arise.
Our aquatic specialists can offer regular care for your aquarium to keep your livestock and plants healthy​.
We know that not every situation is the same, which is why we supply a service tailor-made to each persons' needs and budget.
Initial aquarium set-up
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Building any prefabricated cabinet
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Filter set up
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Advice on the best types of fish for your tank
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First chemical dose
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Lighting set up
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Gravel washing
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We can also bring the fish to your aquarium and introduce them for you a minimum of 2 weeks later (extra charges depending on the fish you require and your location).
We source our livestock from a local company - Horsham Water Gardens. They offer some of the highest quality livestock in Sussex.
Aquarium Care
Aquarium set up
When setting up an aquarium, the same rules apply for tropical and cold water fish - the tank must be cleaned then filled with water. Various chemicals must be added to ensure the water is suitable. We recommend API Stress Coat & Stress Zyme (these can be purchased in most aquatic shops - we would recommend Horsham Water Gardens for the Horsham area). These are the chemicals that start the cycle in your fish tank and which remove poisonous chemicals from tap water such as chlorine.
What is fish tank cycling?
A fish tank is not safe for any fish until the water has been cycled.
Cycling an aquarium normally takes between 2-4 weeks, although some tanks are faster than others. We can test your tank using water testing strips which measure the level of ammonia, nitrite and nitrate in the aquarium. You can normally test your aquarium two weeks after set up in order to get an accurate reading. There should be no nitrite or ammonia in your fish tank before adding fish, as they are very toxic. A small amount of nitrate however is acceptable.
What happens during the cycle?
While a tank is being cycled, it will experience highs and lows of various toxins. Normally little changes in the first week, however in the second week there should be a peak of nitrite and ammonia. Only after this peak has settled is it safe to add fish. This is why we suggest waiting a minimum of two weeks before adding fish to your new aquarium.
What happens during the cycle?
While a tank is being cycled, it will experience highs and lows of various toxins. Normally little changes in the first week, however in the second week there should be a peak of nitrite and ammonia. Only after this peak has settled is it safe to add fish. This is why we suggest waiting a minimum of two weeks before adding fish to your new aquarium.
Feeding your fish?
In the natural habitat of a fish, they would eat little and often. Therefore the best way to feed your fish is in very small amounts 2 - 3 times a day. Most people would just feed their fish in the morning and evening, which is fine. It is very important not to over feed as this can cause your tank to become dirty and put your livestock at risk. Therefore we suggest you only feed a very small amount. It is important that - should the food reach the bottom of the tank - you remove it. It is a sign that you are feeding too much.
