Vivarium Archives - VivariumTips https://vivariumtips.com/category/vivarium Perfecting Your Ecosystems Wed, 13 Jan 2021 22:24:42 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.1 https://vivariumtips.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/cropped-Vivarium_Tips_Favicon-32x32.png Vivarium Archives - VivariumTips https://vivariumtips.com/category/vivarium 32 32 What To Do When You Have Yellow Fish Tank Water? https://vivariumtips.com/yellow-fish-tank-water Wed, 13 Jan 2021 22:24:42 +0000 http://vivariumtips.com/?p=4151 Who doesn’t love a good old-fashioned fish tank filled with pretty little fishes swimming around in the corner of their home? But from their food to the water they swim ... Read more

The post What To Do When You Have Yellow Fish Tank Water? appeared first on VivariumTips.

]]>
Who doesn’t love a good old-fashioned fish tank filled with pretty little fishes swimming around in the corner of their home? But from their food to the water they swim in, to taking care of any newly laid eggs and baby fish, fishes, require a lot of care and looking after. One of the most important aspects of having fish as a pet is taking care of their tank water, which must be hygienic and clean at all times to ensure fish safety. 


Cause of Yellow Tank Water

There are a few causes that might cause give your fish tank water a cloudy, yellowish appearance:

  1. Accumulation of organic compounds – this means waste that comes from living beings like uneaten food, waste matter excreted by fishes, or any decaying plants in the fish tank may all turn the water an unappealing yellow color. 
  2. Over-crowding of the tank – if you have many fishes in your tank and have decorative live plants but slack off in cleaning it, it may lead to a surge in the bioload of the tank, causing yellowing of the water.
  3. Decorative driftwood – using driftwood for an aesthetically pleasing aquarium may also be the culprit for that yellow gross water. Over time the driftwood releases tannins in the water, which causes the water to turn yellow.
  4. Too many minerals – if your tank water source has many minerals in it, namely manganese or iron, it may also be a cause of yellow tank water.

Does Yellow Tank Water Harm the Fish?

It usually depends on the source of the yellow fish water. If it’s because the source of water is yellow, then it doesn’t matter. Still, if it’s because of accumulating waste materials, tannins, or minerals, it may be a hazard to the fish as all of these are known to cause toxicity and, ultimately, death in fish. This is why assessing the cause of your yellow fish water and treating it immediately is very important for ensuring your fish’s health and safety. 


Cleaning Yellow Fish Tank Water

As the causes of yellow fish water are different, the solution to each one is different too.

  1. Preventing organic matter accumulation – any wastes, left-over food, and plant decay should be regularly removed to prevent organic compounds’ buildup. It is recommended that weekly cleaning and changing at least one-quarter of the tank water should be done. 
  2. Avoiding overcrowding – this is probably the most common cause of yellowing and, therefore, must be prevented at all costs. Try to keep lesser fish per tank and add fewer live plants to balance the tank. 
  3. Driftwood treatment – before you introduce the driftwood in the tank, make sure it is either boiled in water for an hour and then soaked in a pot of water until all the tannins have completely seeped out. The wood gives off no color in the water. 
  4. Safe water source – ensure that the water source you have is safe and does not have high amounts of toxic minerals like iron or other such components like ammonia or nitrates. 

In addition to these measures, vacuuming your fish tank to get rid of all waste accumulated once a week may help eliminate the yellow fish tank water. 


Conclusion For “What To Do When You Have Yellow Fish Tank Water”

Yellowing of fish tank water is a very common problem, and it is important to identify the cause to prevent or treat the condition. Although it is mostly only a displeasing slight, at times, it may become toxic to the fish, such as in the case of toxic mineral accumulation.

For other fish tank info and guides, check out:

The post What To Do When You Have Yellow Fish Tank Water? appeared first on VivariumTips.

]]>
Are Birds Reptiles? (6 Things That Makes a Bird, a Bird) https://vivariumtips.com/are-birds-reptiles Tue, 12 Jan 2021 00:21:10 +0000 http://vivariumtips.com/?p=4221 If there is a topic that’s divided many when it comes to the animal kingdom is whether or not birds are actually reptiles. For many, the thought of birds being ... Read more

The post Are Birds Reptiles? (6 Things That Makes a Bird, a Bird) appeared first on VivariumTips.

]]>
If there is a topic that’s divided many when it comes to the animal kingdom is whether or not birds are actually reptiles. For many, the thought of birds being reptiles, especially going by what they’ve been taught in school, is simply crazy. In fact, some of them actually laugh at the thought of birds being reptiles. But is this so? Are birds really not reptiles or simply put are birds reptiles?

As surprising as it might seem or sound, birds are indeed reptiles. I know I know, this is not what they taught in school but its true birds are classified together with other scaly animals that make up reptiles.


What Exactly Are Birds?

This is a very good question to ask and even answer when looking at whether or not birds are reptiles. So what are birds exactly? they are basically a group of warm-blooded vertebrates. A typical bird usually has the following notable traits;

  • Has Feathers
  • No Teeth
  • Has A High Metabolic Rate
  • Lays Hard-Shelled Eggs
  • Has A Strong/Lightweight Skeleton
  • Has Toothless Beaked Jaws

Not to forget is the fact that birds can fly. In fact, many argue that this is one of the most common traits of birds worldwide. While these traits are common with birds, certain birds have them and some don’t and that’s why we currently have different types of birds. Just to give you an example of the types of birds currently; there are the Waterfowl Birds, Kiwis, Extinct Birds, Hummingbirds, and Swifts just to mention a few.


The Different Types of Reptiles

One of the reasons why so many find it shocking that birds are indeed reptiles is the lack of knowledge, in particular lack of knowledge about reptiles. That said four types of reptiles are very common today. For this particular post, however, we’ll be looking at one particular group of reptiles and that’s the archosaurs. We’ll get to focus on this particular group given the fact that it’s the only group of reptiles that birds are closely related to.

Worth noting about the archosaurs group of reptiles is that it’s where the dinosaurs belong. Dinosaurs, for those who were not aware, had some slight similarities with the likes of lizards, turtles, and snakes. Furthermore, they are believed to have all been killed making them all extinct.

The use of the word “believed” when referring to dinosaurs being killed was intentional given the fact that birds were left out. What I am trying to say is that yes, birds are dinosaurs. Despite the assumptions many have when it comes to dinosaurs, it’s worth noting that not all dinosaurs were killed. A group of small feathered dinosaurs was left behind.

Fast forward 60 plus million years later and the remaining group of feathered dinosaurs evolved into what many of us know as birds today. So if you happen to visit your local zoo anytime soon and see that birds are in the same space as reptiles or more precisely dinosaurs then don’t be alarmed because they are where they are supposed to be.  


Conclusion for “Are Birds Reptiles”

I hope we can all agree by now that birds are indeed reptiles. For those however who are still skeptical I’d suggest paying a visit to a local zoo. While there, try speaking with one of the reps at the zoo or maybe the zookeeper, they’ll be able to share great details on how birds are reptiles or how they are actually dinosaurs because I am sure many are still very skeptical about that particular point. 

For articles related to “Are Birds Reptiles,” check out:

The post Are Birds Reptiles? (6 Things That Makes a Bird, a Bird) appeared first on VivariumTips.

]]>
Are Fish Reptiles? (7 Reasons + Differences) https://vivariumtips.com/are-fish-reptiles Tue, 12 Jan 2021 00:11:33 +0000 http://vivariumtips.com/?p=4216 The question of whether or not fish are reptiles has been on-going for quite some time now with some being for the opinion that they are reptiles and others for ... Read more

The post Are Fish Reptiles? (7 Reasons + Differences) appeared first on VivariumTips.

]]>
The question of whether or not fish are reptiles has been on-going for quite some time now with some being for the opinion that they are reptiles and others for the opinion that they are not. One of the main reasons why there’s some sought of confusion when it comes to fish and reptiles is the number of similarities fish has with animals regarded as reptiles.

Add the theory of evolution which basically suggests that evolved into reptiles and this topic becomes really confusing and pro fish are reptiles. So who is right, are fish really reptiles as some claim or are fish far from being reptiles?

Fish, despite the many similarities they have with animals categorized as reptiles, are not reptiles. This post highlights some of the similarities and most important differences between fish and reptiles. 


Are Fish Reptiles?

By simply looking at a fish and an animal that’s categorized or falls under the category of a reptile, chances are you’ll lean towards fish being a reptile. The reason being, fish has several similarities with animals categorized as reptiles. Some of these similarities include;

  • Vertebral Columns – Both the fish and reptiles are vertebrates. Simply put, they all have a series of bones that help protect the spinal cord. They also (fish and reptiles) have the same central nervous system and gills. Worth noting however is that reptiles tend to lose their gills while they are young.  
  • Scale-Covered Integuments – Those who’ve been keen while looking at both reptiles and fish are bound to have noticed the scaly outer covering that both these two types of animals have. While they might look similar in just about every way, they are not the same. Furthermore, the two scales don’t arise from one embryonic tissue.
  • Ectothermic Metabolisms – Another similarity that’s evident with animals categorized as reptiles and fish is that they are all cold-blooded. Simply put, they both have body temperatures that fluctuate depending on the temperature of the environment they are in.  

Differences Between Fish & Reptiles

Looking at the differences between fish and reptiles is one way of determining whether or not fish can be grouped with other reptiles. That said one obvious detail with fish and reptiles is the fact that reptiles can stay or live in both water and land while a fish can only live on land.  Here are some additional differences;

  • Limbs – Reptiles and fish have different types of limbs. Reptiles have small legs that act as limbs while fish on the other hand have fins that are either paired or unpaired (depending on the fish) that act as limbs.
  • Birth Process – How these two go about the birth process is also very different. Unlike oviparous reptiles, in that they lay eggs, fish are known to develop or fertilize their eggs outside their body.  
  • The Heart System – Reptiles, in general, have a three-chambered heart system that’s accompanied by atria, two aortas, and a partitioned ventricle while the fish has a two-chambered organ that basically allows blood to circulate to and from the atrium into the ventricle.
  • Excretory System – Another difference that’s evident between these two is their excretory system. The fish, simply put, uses its gills to diffuse nitrogenous waste. Reptiles on the other hand rely primarily on their two kidneys on matters excretory.

Conclusion for “Are Fish Reptiles”

Fish, despite the similarities with several animals that fall under the reptile category, are not reptiles. These two have a lot of differences many of which haven’t been highlighted in this particular post.

Related Posts:

The post Are Fish Reptiles? (7 Reasons + Differences) appeared first on VivariumTips.

]]>
Why Are There Bubbles In My Fish Tank? (5 Reasons!) https://vivariumtips.com/bubbles-in-my-fish-tank Tue, 12 Jan 2021 00:04:11 +0000 http://vivariumtips.com/?p=4149 You maintain a gorgeous aquarium and take great pains to provide a good atmosphere for your aquatic pal. You even clean your tank frequently and have the proper lights system. ... Read more

The post Why Are There Bubbles In My Fish Tank? (5 Reasons!) appeared first on VivariumTips.

]]>
You maintain a gorgeous aquarium and take great pains to provide a good atmosphere for your aquatic pal. You even clean your tank frequently and have the proper lights system. Everything sounds in top-notch condition; however, the appearance of unusual bubbles in the water tank can be a little startling. In an aquarium, the presence of bubbles is a common thing and not always cause for alarm. In this article, you will find all the possible reasons for bubbles in the fish tank, and how you can tackle them. While some of these reasons are harmless enough, some can put your beloved pet’s health at risk.


Why Are There Bubbles In My Fish Tank?

Here are some causes behind bubble formation in the water tank:

1. Pearls forming on Aquarium Plants

If you have live plants in your tank, then they generate oxygen as they experience photosynthesis. The oxygen tends to sit on the leaves in the shape of tiny, jeweled bubbles. This is named pearling and it is an indication of a healthy aquarium. Plants with rapid growth will do this more quickly than slow ones. If you do not observe pearling, your tank water may not have sufficient oxygen in it. If that is the circumstance, the water is engulfing the oxygen developed by the plants. Pearling is more probable when the water is soaked with oxygen.

2. Foam Formation 

When you pour water into the fish tank, it causes some agitation and creates foam-like bubbles before the water settles. However, this foam should disappear shortly. Although this foam can be fatal if it stems from soap or cleansers. You must not utilize household sponges, pails, or equipment used elsewhere for cleaning the fish tank. Even the slightest remnants of a cleaning solution can harshly damage your fish’s health. You must ensure that all of the family members understand that they cannot use the aquarium-cleaning bucket for other chores.

3. Lack of Aeration

Fish need oxygen for their survival and if the tank is laden with toxic chemicals, like ammonia and nitrates, then the fish get their oxygen by floating to the water’s surface and blowing bubbles. This is an indication that the fish is in danger. If you witness this behavior, you must test your tank water to check the levels of chemicals, and then you must look into an aeration system upgrade quickly.  A tank aeration system brings oxygen into the tank water so that the bacteria within will break down the waste solids efficiently.

4. Water Quality

The most critical aspect of fish keeping is to ensure good water quality. Excess chlorine and chloramine in tap water are very dangerous for fish and they can create bubbles. While filling the tank with tap water, utilize a de-chlorinator to neutralize the chemical. De-chlorinators are inexpensive and you can use them easily by following the product’s instructions. If your water supply is regaled with chloramine, you need a neutralizer, too. 

5. Healthy Bubbles

There is a type of these bubbles that show you how healthy your tank is. Air-driven filters can induce bubbles to formulate, and air stones create downpours of tiny bubbles that help move water in the tank. Hanging filters might also induce bubbles. All these bubbles pop shortly after forming. 


Conclusion for “Why Are There Bubbles In My Fish Tank?”

You are bound to see bubbles in the water for it is the environment’s nature, however, in some cases, they can be very dangerous. In conclusion, If the bubbles pop quickly after developing, if they are not coating the surface of the water, and do not appear foam-like, then they are nothing to stress over and are an indication of a healthy and happy tank, otherwise, caution is necessary.

For articles related to “Why Are There bubbles In My Fish Tank,” check out:

[amazon bestseller=”aquarium cleaner” items=”3″ ]

The post Why Are There Bubbles In My Fish Tank? (5 Reasons!) appeared first on VivariumTips.

]]>
What To Do With Old Fish Tanks: 5 Useful Things! https://vivariumtips.com/what-to-do-with-old-fish-tanks-5-useful-things Tue, 29 Dec 2020 07:17:32 +0000 http://vivariumtips.com/?p=4157 Everyone has that old fish tank from ages ago stashed up in their garage. If you are like everyone else and have no idea what to do with it, there ... Read more

The post What To Do With Old Fish Tanks: 5 Useful Things! appeared first on VivariumTips.

]]>
Everyone has that old fish tank from ages ago stashed up in their garage. If you are like everyone else and have no idea what to do with it, there is no need to worry. We will guide you toward what to do with it. An old fish tank is like an empty canvas, and you need the right directions on what to do with it.


Best Things To Do

Herb Garden

There are two ways of doing this. This first is by repurposing the fish tank and adding soil to make a traditional herb garden. The second method is aquaponics.

If you are going with the first method, you first need to clean your tank and clean it thoroughly. You can do this by spraying a cleaning solution on it, leaving it for some time, then rinsing and drying it. After you’ve done this, then proceed by adding the appropriate amount of soil. After that, you just have to plant the seeds and use a label to locate each type of seed. Then, just regularly water it and use fertilizer so that the plants get the right amount of nutrients.

The second method of aquaponics entails that you keep your tank as a fish tank. This is a combination of keeping fish and growing plants at the same time. Just add a small tray at the front of your tank where the plants will hopefully grow in clay pebbles. The water inside the tank will provide the nutrients, and the plants will decontaminate the water simultaneously. The fish waste will also help in fertilizing the plants, allowing them to grow and thrive. Either way, you’ll get yourself a new herb garden for your culinary needs.

Lightbox

This is an enjoyable project. All you need is a pen for the outline, mosaic tiles, and paper. First, you need to clean your tank. After you’ve done that, proceed to trace your preferred scene onto a piece of paper. Stick that paper in the tank so you can trace the drawing from the outside.

Cut the mosaic pieces and stick them into the outline. After that, you just have to place some fairy lights or light sources inside the tank. This will illuminate the beautiful mosaic and convert the tank into a beautiful masterpiece.

Just Sell It

If you don’t want to do a DIY project and feel like the fish tank is just collecting dust, you should sell it. You’ll make some money out of it, and the tank will go to a person that might need it more than you. So, it’s a win-win situation for both sides.

Reuse It

Why not just reuse the fish tank and use it for its intended purpose again? First, wipe down the tank to remove general debris, then spray either a dash of vinegar or a bleach solution onto the tank. After leaving the solution on it, rinse and dry it. Then you can use your old fish tank for your fish once again.

Display Cabinet

If you have something in your possession that you want to show the world, then clean your fish tank, line the bottom with felt, and put a stand and your desired item on the inside. Then, cover the tank with a stylish wooden lid with a light installed to showcase the item inside the ex-fish tank.


Conclusion

All in all, if you have an old fish tank lying around, you should look into repurposing it instead of it just collecting dust. Hopefully, you have gotten an idea of what to do with your old fish tank with the help of our great options.

For other fish tank guides, check out:

[amazon bestseller=”aquarium tanks” items=”3″ ]

The post What To Do With Old Fish Tanks: 5 Useful Things! appeared first on VivariumTips.

]]>
How To Clean Sand In Fish Tanks: 5 Easy Steps! https://vivariumtips.com/how-to-clean-sand-in-fish-tanks-5-easy-steps Tue, 29 Dec 2020 07:11:37 +0000 http://vivariumtips.com/?p=4155 Everyone wants a spotless aquarium, not only so that their fish remain healthy but also so that it can look marvelous as well. Well, to make sure that your tank ... Read more

The post How To Clean Sand In Fish Tanks: 5 Easy Steps! appeared first on VivariumTips.

]]>
Everyone wants a spotless aquarium, not only so that their fish remain healthy but also so that it can look marvelous as well. Well, to make sure that your tank remains clean and safe, you need regular maintenance.

One of the crucial things you need to maintain and clean is the sand substrate in the fish tank. We will guide you on how to do so that you can keep your aquarium flashy and your fish happy.

[amazon bestseller=”aquarium cleaner” items=”3″ ]


The Steps To Cleaning

Preparation

The first step to cleaning your fish tank is to know what type of sand is in it. This is because not all sands are the same and might require different cleaning methods. If you are using standard play sand, you just have to rake and siphon it without any extra steps. But if you are using a specialty planting sand, you have to take certain precautions before cleaning.

If you rake it wrong, ammonia can release from this specialty sand. This will be harmful to your fish and will also contaminate the water body. Before cleaning sand, always look at the proper instructions for cleaning it. Additionally, you can also consult with your local fish expert to get an idea of what to do.

Switch off and Disconnect Everything

This is a crucial step when you are trying to clean your sand. You need to make sure that you turn off the heater, switch off the fan, and disconnect all the pumps. If these come with a switch, then flip the switch off, or you can unplug them from any electricity.

There is no need to worry as in this short cleaning period, your fish will be just fine. It is also ideal to not have any electricity on during the water change to prevent electrocution. This is also an excellent opportunity to clean out your filters.

Remove Décor

Before cleaning, carefully dip your hand in the water and take out all the plants and decorations you want to clean. You need to wash all of these items with warm water while scrubbing them with a soft brush or your hands to remove any algae or debris that could have gathered up in them.

After you’ve done this, place them on a clean towel or in a bucket. But there are a few things to note. First of all, it’s solely up to you if you want to leave the decoration in or clean them. Secondly, you don’t have to remove live plants as you might damage their roots by doing so.

Siphoning Out Dirt From the Sand

Now is the time to clean your sand. To do this, take a siphon and place it just over your sand and start it up. Carefully navigate over the sand, and the siphon will automatically remove any dirt from the sand and dispose of it into the bucket the siphon is attached to. After you’ve done this, place everything back and turn everything on.

Cleaning Without a Vacuum

If you don’t have a siphon or a vacuum, you can always use the help of sand cleaning fish. Just place the fish in the tank, and they will automatically clean the sand of any unwanted waste or materials. Some of the best fish and creatures to use are Corydoras catfish, shrimp, snails, and Bristlenose plecos.


Conclusion

Keeping your fish tank clean and safe should be your priority. Cleaning sand in your fish tank is one of the most important ways to make that happen. Hopefully, now you know how to clean your fish tank sand and keep your tank spotless.

For articles related to “How To Clean Sand In Fish Tanks,” check out:

The post How To Clean Sand In Fish Tanks: 5 Easy Steps! appeared first on VivariumTips.

]]>
How To Clean A Betta Fish Tank In 9 Steps! https://vivariumtips.com/how-to-clean-a-betta-fish-tank Mon, 28 Dec 2020 09:24:51 +0000 http://vivariumtips.com/?p=4159 Bettas are adorable little creatures and are the perfect fish for anyone to keep. They can live happily in small bowls or tanks, so they do not require large spaces ... Read more

The post How To Clean A Betta Fish Tank In 9 Steps! appeared first on VivariumTips.

]]>
Bettas are adorable little creatures and are the perfect fish for anyone to keep. They can live happily in small bowls or tanks, so they do not require large spaces for their survival. These low-maintenance fish also do not need any aerated tanks because they consume gulps of air. Thus, bettas make the perfect aquatic companions due to their easy maintenance and simple tank cleaning process. In this article, you will find all the info on how to clean a betta fish tank effectively.

[amazon bestseller=”betta fish” items=”3″ ]


How To Clean a Betta Fish Tank

Cleaning a betta’s tank is a straightforward enough process, and you will complete it in no time. However, you must be gentle with your betta and thorough in your cleaning to successfully conduct this task.

Grab All the Necessary Tools

First, you need to ensure you have everything you need to conduct a successful cleaning like a cup or fishnet, a water conditioner, a big bowl, and a plastic spoon.

Wash Those Hands

Before you dive into the tank, your hands must be clean. You cannot touch your tank water with unwashed hands because it will affect the water. You could accidentally introduce germs into the betta’s tank. Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly, and you must check that no soap residue is left.

Start Taking the Tank Water Out

Next comes the water change, and you need to shut down all filters, heaters, and lights and unplug the tank. With the cup, start scooping water near the top of the tank until you get nearly 50% of the water out. Set this water aside because it will be going back later.

Bring the Betta Out

Once you scoop out a generous amount of water, gently use the fishnet to get the betta out of the tank and into the bowl. Be extra cautious of your betta’s delicate fins.

Take Decor and Plants Out

In the cleaning process, making sure your keep the ornaments and plants clean is crucial. Carefully take out any plants and any tank ornaments and set them aside.

Drain Out the Remaining Water

With everything out, pour out the remaining water and be careful to leave any gravel you have at the bottom of the tank.

Clean the Tank, Gravel, and Ornaments

Take your tank under the sink faucet and begin to rinse the tank’s gravel and walls with warm water. Utilize a tank scrubber to make sure you rub and scrub the tank thoroughly. With your hands, sift through the gravel and rinse it out. Next, rinse and scrub the tank’s ornaments with hot water, and make sure to get into all of the nooks and crannies, so you do not miss any dirt or waste on them.

Put Things Back and Refill

Once you clean the tank, gravel, and decorations, put the plants and decor back in the fish tank. After you place everything in its position, gradually refill the tank with tap water and then add back the tank water you took out earlier. While refilling, take caution in not disturbing the plants or gravel. Grab a plastic spoon and mix it in the water conditioner.

Bring Your Betta Back

Before you reintroduce your betta to the tank, you must wait for the water to reach room temperature. This is a crucial step, so you must not be hasty. Then, gently transfer your betta into the freshly cleaned tank, and voila!


Final Words

Keeping the fish tank clean and frequently changing the water will help your betta live longer and happier. Although bettas are not demanding creatures, they still require essential maintenance to thrive. As a pet owner, you must see these needs responsibly.

For other fish tank articles, check out:

The post How To Clean A Betta Fish Tank In 9 Steps! appeared first on VivariumTips.

]]>
What Are The Brown Spots In Fish Tank? (How To Fix) https://vivariumtips.com/brown-spots-in-fish-tank Mon, 28 Dec 2020 09:18:01 +0000 http://vivariumtips.com/?p=4163 When starting your aquarium-keeping hobby, you might be caught off guard when strange brown spots start appearing inside your fish tank. You might wonder whether your fish are in danger ... Read more

The post What Are The Brown Spots In Fish Tank? (How To Fix) appeared first on VivariumTips.

]]>
When starting your aquarium-keeping hobby, you might be caught off guard when strange brown spots start appearing inside your fish tank. You might wonder whether your fish are in danger or not, or if your water is dirty, or you might have some other questions. Well, no need to worry; we will provide you with the answers you require regarding these peculiar brown spots in your beautiful fish tank.

[amazon bestseller=”algae remove” items=”3″ ]


What Exactly Are Those Spots?

These brown spots are, in fact, brown algae. It is a slimy substance that can even take over your aquarium if left unchecked. However, a fun fact is that these brown algae aren’t exactly algae. The removal methods for basic algae will not work on it. This is because these are small animals named diatoms. These brown spots consist of billions of tiny interlocked diatoms. So, in reality, it is actually a bacterial colony.


Why Are These Spots in My Tank?

There are multiple reasons why these diatoms or brown algae appear in your tank. Firstly, this is inevitable because as every new tank starts to mature, these brown algae spots reappear. However, they will dissipate in a few weeks. But there are also other times where it decides to pop up.

Poor Lighting

Low light levels lead to the growth of brown algae. Although this topic is a bit controversial, it is better to be safe than sorry. Consider providing proper lighting to your fish tank. Whether this works or not is another topic for debate, but this solution has worked in some cases.

Silicate

The presence of silicate in your fish tank water can be the number one reason for brown algae growth. It is the diatom’s favorite food, and they thrive on eating this stuff. You can find silicate in multiple sources such as salt mix, live rocks or sand, and tap water.

Phosphates

Phosphate can also become a factor in the spawning of brown algae spots in your tank. Decaying food, fish, waste, and other items breaking down in your fish tank aid brown algae bloom.

Nitrates

If you don’t find silicates in the fish tank, brown algae can also feed on nitrates, which you can found in tap water, fish food, fish waste, and plant fertilizers.


Ways To Remove Brown Spots

Use Live Corals and Plants

If you add live plants and coral, they will compete for light and nutrients with the diatoms, which would reduce the bloom of brown algae.

Fix Light Levels

You need to ensure that your tank gets the proper lighting and isn’t engulfed in low light levels for too long. It’s better to have more consistent lighting to reduce the spawn of brown algae.

Add Algae-Eating Fish

Certain fish such as blennies, parrotfish, and tangs will consume algae or diatoms and keep your tank free from any brown spots.

Limiting Required Nutrients

You should control the levels of nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus, and silicate in the fish tank. You should keep things such as fish decay, waste, food decay, etc., under control to limit brown algae or diatoms’ growth.


Conclusion

All in all, don’t be worried about the brown spots in your aquarium. Hopefully, now you know the proper ways to take care of that problem and keep your tank clean and spotless. Just be sure not to add anything in the tank that has a negative impact on your fish’s lives and health.

For other fish tank-related articles, check out:

The post What Are The Brown Spots In Fish Tank? (How To Fix) appeared first on VivariumTips.

]]>
Why Is There Foam In Fish Tank? (6 Reasons!) https://vivariumtips.com/why-is-there-foam-in-fish-tank Mon, 28 Dec 2020 09:10:46 +0000 http://vivariumtips.com/?p=4165 You’ve been keeping your fish tank in tip-top condition and have done everything right. However, you start to notice that some sort of foam has begun appearing in your fish ... Read more

The post Why Is There Foam In Fish Tank? (6 Reasons!) appeared first on VivariumTips.

]]>
You’ve been keeping your fish tank in tip-top condition and have done everything right. However, you start to notice that some sort of foam has begun appearing in your fish tank. But hold on! There is no need to panic, as not all foam is harmful. But there is a chance that the foam in your tank is dangerous for your fishy friends. That is why we will guide you regarding why foam is forming in your tank and if it is something to worry about.

[amazon bestseller=”fish food” items=”3″ ]


Different Types of Foam

Water Agitation

When filling up or refilling an aquarium, water tends to move around. It gets agitated, leading to bubbles or foam forming on top of the water’s surface. This type is the most harmless type of foam and will disappear after a short time. To prevent this, you need to pour water by tilting the tank or pouring water on the tank’s side to prevent foam.

Cleansing Foam

This is quite a fatal form of foam, and you should take care of it. Foam can form due to soap or cleaners. Suppose you use household sponges or buckets or any other type of equipment to clean your tank. In that case, there is a chance that residue can stay behind in the tank and cause the formation of foam on top of the surface.

That is why you should ensure that you keep your aquarium cleaning supplies separate from any other sort of cleaning for your household. Even a small amount of cleaning residue can kill your fish.

Protein Foam

If there is excess protein in your fish tank, that can become a reason for foam appearing in it. Protein can form because of two major reasons. The first reason is that the build-up of debris in your filter can cause protein build-up. The other reason is decomposing fish, waste, and decaying fish food, causing protein build-up.

Protein coats the bubbles present in the tank. This leads to visible foam on top of the fish tank’s surface. To prevent this, you should keep your filters well maintained and clean. If there are any dead fish, you should promptly discard them.

Aquarium Plants Pearling

If you have any live plants or corals, then you might know that they carry out the process of photosynthesis. During this process, bubbles form on the leaves and surfaces of the plants. This is a perfectly healthy behavior, and you shouldn’t be worried if this happens. In fact, you should worry if this “isn’t” happening.

Lack of Air

If you notice that your fish are swimming to the surface and releasing bubbles and foam starts to form, you should take action as soon as possible. This is because this is an indication that oxygen levels in the fish tank are below standard. You should provide a separate oxygen source by adding things such as streams and a bubble machine in your tank. Otherwise, your fish might die due to a lack of oxygen.


Conclusion

Keeping your fish healthy and happy should be your number one priority. If you find out what type of foam is forming in your tank with this guide’s help, you should take appropriate action as soon as possible. But one thing to note is that most well-kept fish will let out oxygen in the form of bubbles. Hence, there is no need to worry if that is the case, as your pets are safe and sound.

For other articles related to fish tanks, check out:

The post Why Is There Foam In Fish Tank? (6 Reasons!) appeared first on VivariumTips.

]]>
How To Fix A Leaking Fish Tank: 4 Useful Steps https://vivariumtips.com/how-to-fix-a-leaking-fish-tank Mon, 28 Dec 2020 08:54:56 +0000 http://vivariumtips.com/?p=4167 While keeping a pet fish, one of the most important things many people overlook is that a fish tank also requires maintenance. You may occasionally find your aquarium’s glass getting ... Read more

The post How To Fix A Leaking Fish Tank: 4 Useful Steps appeared first on VivariumTips.

]]>
While keeping a pet fish, one of the most important things many people overlook is that a fish tank also requires maintenance. You may occasionally find your aquarium’s glass getting cracked or water leaking from the fish tank. In this article, we shall discuss some things you can try to fix a leaking fish tank!

[amazon bestseller=”aquarium tanks” items=”3″ ]


Finding the Leakage in the First Place and Gathering Tools

This is the initial step. You must first look at the aquarium spots where you suspect water leakage from inside and outside. You can do this by monitoring the level of water in your tank. Your water might drain out quickly if a significant leakage is happening.

Suppose you notice the emission of air bubbles in the area of sealant, glass chips, cracks, water stains, or any other kind of scratches or weakening of silicon. In that case, this is a good indication that your tank might be leaking water out. If you find the leakage, then it’s time to get all the tools to fix the tank.


Emptying the Tank and Scraping off the Sealant

After finding out the areas that have been leaking the water, the second thing you should do is empty the aquarium by transferring the fish to another tank. You can do that by pouring some of your water from the main tank to avoid stressing your fish. Additionally, you can use a hairdryer to dry up the tank quickly.

You can then move on to the second step. Get a scraper and start scraping the old sealant from the inside of the tank.


Using Acetone or Nail Polish To Remove the Remnants of Sealant

Acetone is a great solution when it comes to removing and cleaning the remnants of sealants. However, before you use acetone, make sure to remove the adhesive properly. Some sources say that people can also use vinegar when removing the remainder of the sealant.

However, I am not sure if this actually works, so you may opt for acetone. You may even opt for a nail polish remover if you do not want to separately buy an acetone tube.


Applying Silicon To Repair the Leaks

Applying silicon is one of the crucial stages for repairing or fixing water leaks in your tank, as silicon is definitely one of those things that helps to repair leaks in the first place. It is always important to note here that you must only buy aquarium-friendly silicon. This is because using toxic silicon might hurt your fish, and you do not want that to happen!

One of the aquarium-friendly silicons you may use to fix leakage is the Aqueon Fish Tank Silicone Sealant. This has a specific design that helps fix leakages in aquariums. Apply the silicon using a caulking gun into the areas where you can find the leakage. Start from the bottom of the aquarium and start moving upwards.


Conclusion

After adequately applying the silicon, now it’s time to wait for it to dry up and do its job. This waiting period is crucial. You should wait for 24 hours for it to get dry if your aquarium is small or your glass is 0.23 inches thick or lesser than that.

You can get your fish back in the tank and set up your tank once again. However, make sure to check for leaks properly before starting in the first place. Here again, you can use a towel to find leakages. If you see no leakage, then you are good to go, and you are done!


For other fish tank articles, check out:

The post How To Fix A Leaking Fish Tank: 4 Useful Steps appeared first on VivariumTips.

]]>