Professional aquarium care and set up in Chichester
Aquarium care
Caring for aquatic pets is not the simplest of tasks, and problems can easily arise.
Our aquatic specialists offer regular care for your aquarium keeping your livestock and plants healthy​.
Our services are 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
We can also bring the fish to your aquarium and introduce them for you. This can be done a minimum of two weeks after the initial set up, once the water has cycled. Extra charges may apply 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
Tropical and cold water aquariums have a similar set up process. Starting with a clean tank filled with water, various chemicals are then added to kick-start the cycle. We recommend API Stress Coat & Stress Zyme (which can be purchased in most aquatic shops). These are the chemicals that start the cycle in your fish tank, which remove toxins from tap water such as chlorine.
What is fish tank cycling?
Fish cannot be introduced to a tank until the water has been cycled.
Cycling an aquarium normally takes between 2-4 weeks, although some tanks are faster than others. We are able to 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.
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.
