Essential Aquarium Care Guide

The largest aquatic retailers tend to be specialist superstores with huge selections of tropical, marine, and pond fish. Availability and rankings change, so the best option is usually your nearest trusted aquatic centre with knowledgeable staff and a wide range of healthy livestock.

A strong, level surface away from direct sunlight, radiators, and loud vibrations (like speakers). A spot near a power source and water access makes maintenance easier.

Most fish prefer longer tanks because they give more horizontal swimming space and better oxygen exchange. Tall tanks often suit species like angelfish, but length helps most fish feel comfortable and reduces territorial issues.

Yes, you can bury a pet fish in your garden, but choose a spot away from edible plants and avoid wrapping them in plastic. Freezing first reduces odours and contamination risks.

Beauty is subjective, but some of the most admired public aquariums include Japan’s Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, Georgia Aquarium in the USA, and S.E.A. Aquarium in Singapore. All feature incredible large-tank marine displays.

Yes! 100-gallon tanks are a popular size for larger community setups and marine reefs. They offer great swimming space and more stability for water parameters.

Very big! Tanks of this size are usually found in major public aquariums and can be large enough to house whale sharks and manta rays. For perspective: 6.3 million gallons is about 28–30 million litres of water!

Fish respond to stress, movement, and changes in behaviour. While they don’t understand human emotions like sadness, they can sense when something feels “off” in their environment or care routine.

Avoid areas with direct sunlight, loud noise, or heavy foot traffic — and never place a tank on a weak or unstable stand. Vibrations and sudden movements can stress fish.

Yes, but only if treated with a water conditioner. Tap water contains chlorine or chloramine which must be neutralised before adding fish.

Ammonia from fish waste is the number one killer in new tanks. Poor water quality — high ammonia, nitrite or nitrate — can harm or kill fish quickly, so cycling the tank is crucial.

Somewhere sturdy, calm, and temperature-stable — not near windows, heaters, or doorways. Eye-level placement also means you can enjoy your tank more!

Generally no. Sunlight can cause overheating and algae blooms. It’s better to use controlled lighting designed for aquariums.

Yes! The filter provides oxygen and houses helpful bacteria that keep the water clean. Turning it off can quickly harm fish.

Remove the fish promptly, check water quality to protect other fish, and safely dispose of or bury the fish. Avoid flushing — plumbing chemicals can contaminate the environment.

No. Sunlight causes rapid algae growth and temperature spikes, both stressful for fish. Aquarium-specific lighting is best.

It’s usually fine if the TV isn’t extremely loud or causing vibration. Limit sudden bright light changes and avoid placing the tank right against speakers.

Dechlorinated tap water suits most freshwater species. Some fish prefer hard or soft water, so it’s worth checking your species’ needs. Marine tanks require saltwater mixed to a precise salinity.