Aquariums
Frequently Asked Questions
How many fish are able to live
harmoniously in my aquarium?
What do I need to
setup my aquarium?
Does my aquarium have to be a salt-water environment?
How difficult is it
to maintain my aquarium?
Do I have to
conduct a complete water change each time I clean my aquarium?
How much should I
feed my fish and how often?
Where can I
purchase replacement parts for the lighting and filter systems?
How
many fish are able to live harmoniously in my aquarium?
Typically, we recommend
approximately 5 small fish in each aquarium. From our experience,
reef fish such as cromis, damsels, and clown fish have proven to be
some of the best species to inhabit this environment, based on their
hardiness and vibrant colors. Farm raised species tend to do best.
When selecting fish for your aquarium, be sure to choose species
that inhabit distinct niches within the aquarium. For instance, you
might consider a few bottom dwellers, some free swimmers, and
perhaps another species that will occupy various surfaces of the
reef sculpture. This will promote an overall balance to your
aquarium and avoid overcrowding. A “fish keepers” handbook can be
purchased from your local aquarium dealer and may be helpful when
researching the compatibility of various species.
What do I need to setup my aquarium?
All of our uniquely
designed aquariums will ship fully assembled, complete with your
choice of decorative surround, an artistically detailed coral reef
sculpture, the acrylic tank (hexagonal or cylindrical ),
pre-measured synthetic sea salt, “live” sand, a power compact
lighting unit with bulb, and a technologically advanced salt water
filtration system. Simply add reversed osmosis filtered water
obtained from your local aquarium dealer or grocery store, and begin
to introduce the fish to their new home. Always refer to the
instruction manual provided with your tank for proper setup
procedures.
Does my aquarium have to be a salt-water environment?
No, if you desire to
maintain a fresh-water aquarium and incorporate fresh water fish,
simply do not use the pre-measured synthetic sea salt or “live” sand
that is provided with your aquarium. You will need to purchase an
approved gravel from your local aquarium dealer since the “live”
sand is salt based and cultured from the ocean. Refer to a tropical
fish handbook to learn which fish inhabit fresh water environments.
Our reef and corals are created with a beautiful combination of
vibrant colors and subtle hues to emulate the natural looking corals
found in salt - water environments, however it is certainly the
choice of the consumer to decide to maintain a salt-water or
fresh-water aquarium.
How
difficult is it to maintain my aquarium?
Depending on the amount
of fish inhabiting your aquarium, the amount of food dispensed into
the tank, and the placement of your aquarium relative to a natural
light source, maintenance is minimal. Simply use a padded brush from
your local aquarium store to gently remove any algae that may
accumulate on the reef and corals. This procedure should be
performed about every few weeks or when algae is visibly present.
Avoid placing your
aquarium in the direct path of sunlight as this will cause
maintenance and algae production to significantly increase. Aquarium
cleaning magnets can be purchased to remove any algae build up along
the acrylic walls.
Due to natural
evaporation, when the water line becomes visible and recedes below
the decorative surround, simply add reversed osmosis filtered water
into the tank. To maintain an optimal flow rate and overall filter
performance, the pre-filter pad should be rinsed on a weekly basis.
Replacement of the filter cartridge is needed either monthly or
bi-monthly, depending on your bio-load or waste build up.
Do
I have to conduct a complete water change each time I clean my aquarium?
No, DO NOT conduct a
water change during your routine cleaning schedule. Note: a water
change is different from replenishing the naturally evaporated water
in your tank. A water change is needed to eliminate a build up of
nitrates and toxins in the water. To determine if a water change is
necessary, you can measure the water chemistry using a saltwater
test kit that can be purchased from any local aquarium retailer. As
a rule of thumb, depending on the fish population, a 20% water
change should be conducted every other month after the initial
set-up, or when the nitrates reach 30 parts. Always reference your
manual provided with the tank for a complete set of instructions
when performing any maintenance and water changes.
How
much should I feed my fish and how often?
We recommend using a
hormone-free, color enhancing and vitamin enriched pellet diet
specifically designed for saltwater ornamentals. In the event you
are maintaining a fresh water aquarium, be sure to purchase a pellet
food that is approved for fresh water fish. It is necessary to make
sure not to overfeed your fish. The suggested amount of food is as
much as your fish will consume in about five minutes (usually less
than a pinch). You will be able to observe the proper amounts to
distribute after a few feedings. A feeding schedule of every other
day is recommended depending on the species and fish population.
Where can I purchase replacement parts for the lighting and filter
systems?
The parts we use in our
lighting and filtration systems are standardized items that can be
purchased from most aquarium retailers. A complete list of
functioning components is included with the aquarium and lists
specific part numbers to reference when purchasing replacement parts
and filters.
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