Fish Health
Fish health is one of the most important things
to consider when keeping fish. You need to make sure you
always purchase healthy fish and that you keep them healthy
by providing them with the correct environment and recognising
signs of distress and illness.
Follow these tips to ensure your fish are
healthy:
Purchase
Always try and purchase your fish from a specialist
dealer. A specialist dealer will have a wider choice than
a pet shop and the fish will often be in better condition
because the store owner has a passion for keeping them himself.
Good dealers will be happy to give you advice on the type
of fish and fish supplies you require
Four Checks
- Aquarium Stability - How stable is your aquarium environment
for your fish
- Physical Health - Is the fish healthy
- Ease of Care - Does the fish have any special requirements
- Compatibility - Is the fish compatible with the other
fish in your aquarium
Select Hardy Stock
Pick the hardiest stock for your aquarium. This is very important
if it is your first aquarium because it will take time for
you to become accustomed to your routine. Do not be tempted
by the more exotic species that require expert handling until
you have experience.
What To Look For In A Fish
- The fish should swim effortlessly and maintains it's position
in the water
- Eats food readily
- Fins are erect
- The colour is dense
Unhealthy fish:
- Skulk in corners
- Swim with fins held flat to their body
- Trail colourless excreta
- May have boils, spots, wounds or lumps.
Never buy a fish from a tank that has dead specimens.
Never buy a fish that has just arrived in the store. Leave
it settle for at least 24 hours.
For information on fish species Click
fish health
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