{"product_id":"freshwater-aquariums-for-dummies-isbn-9781119601395","title":"Freshwater Aquariums For Dummies","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eGive your underwater pets the best aquatic life ever!\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAquarium fish are one of the most popular pets in America, with close to 150 million fish owned in nearly 13 million households. They seem like easy pets to care for, but there’s more than meets the eye when it comes to keeping your freshwater friends healthy and happy!\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eInside, you’ll find basic information to start your own freshwater aquarium, purchase and maintain healthy fish and plants, and find tips and tricks on how to introduce new fish and systems into your aquatic family.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cul\u003e \u003cli\u003eUnderstand the best aquarium set-up practices\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003eBuild the luxury tanks of your dreams\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003eMaintain a thriving aquatic environment  \u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003eDiscover many different ways to expand your hobby\u003c\/li\u003e \u003c\/ul\u003e \u003cp\u003ePerfect for beginner hobbyists and longtime aquarium enthusiasts alike, \u003ci\u003eFreshwater Aquariums For Dummies\u003c\/i\u003e makes it easier than ever to set up and take care of a freshwater aquarium—and the fish within it.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eIntroduction\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 1\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAbout This Book 1\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFoolish Assumptions 2\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eIcons Used in This Book 3\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eWhere to Go from Here 4\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003ePart 1: Getting Started with Freshwater Aquarium Basics\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 5\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eChapter 1: Taking the Plunge: Just the Essentials\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 7\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFocusing on the Tank, Stand, Accessories, and Equipment 8\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eKnowing where to put your tank 8\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eLooking at the tank and stand options 9\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFiguring out what (besides fish) to put in your aquarium 9\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eConsidering aquarium equipment 9\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eDetermining what you really need 10\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eCaring for Your New Aquatic Pets 10\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eEyeing differences in species 10\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAssessing which types of fish are best for you 10\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eBuying fish — what you need to know 11\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFeeding your fish — what types of food to buy 11\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eTaking care of sick fish 12\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eUnderstanding Water, Chemicals, and Live Plants 12\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eGrasping everything water 12\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eUsing chemicals to improve your aquarium conditions 12\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eTesting your water 13\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eGetting a system going 13\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAdding live plants 13\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFixing common problems 13\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eExpanding Your Aquarium Hobby 13\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eBreeding your fish: Yes or no? 13\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eKeeping track of your progress 14\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eBroadening your hobby 14\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eContemplating other types of aquarium structures 14\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eChapter 2: The Practice of Aquarium Keeping\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 15\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eRecognizing the Amazing Benefits of Owning an Aquarium 16\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eIdentifying Aquarium Water Systems 18\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFreshwater systems 19\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSaltwater systems 21\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eBrackish systems 22\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eOrganization Is the Key to Success 23\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eChapter 3: Finding a Good Location\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 25\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eMaking Sure Your Floor Is Sound 26\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eTaking Room Temperature and Its Effects into Consideration 26\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eWicked windows 27\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eDeadly doors 28\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eHigh Traffic Areas, Children, and Pets (Spell D-I-S-A-S-T-E-R) 28\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eContemplating Your Water Source When Placing Your Aquarium 30\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThinking about Other Household Items 30\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFurniture and space 30\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eElectrical outlets and TVs 31\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eOverhead lighting 32\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eCleaning considerations 32\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eChapter 4: The Tank and Stand\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 33\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eBuying a Tank: What You Need to Know 33\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eWater is heavy 34\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eWatching the tendency to overspend 35\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eChecking out starter kits 35\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSize matters — gauging space requirements 36\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eTaking people into consideration 37\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eDeciding where to buy 38\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eExamining the Different Types of Aquariums Available 39\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eGlass aquariums 40\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAcrylic aquariums 41\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003ePlastic aquariums (bowls and small tanks) 42\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eRimless tanks 42\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eConsidering Different and Unusual Aquarium Styles 43\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eWall-mounted aquariums 43\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eIn-wall tanks 43\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFurniture aquariums 44\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eTower aquariums 44\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eIndoor pond barrels 45\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAll-in-one tanks 45\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eBetta tanks and water gardens 45\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSpecial tanks from the pros 45\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eChoosing the Right Tank 46\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eTank size 46\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eTank shape 47\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eCarrying capacity 47\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003ePicking the Right Stand 47\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eWooden cabinet stands 48\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAngle and wrought iron stands 48\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAluminum stands 49\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eDo-it-yourself stands 49\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eMaterial-based stands 49\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eBow-front stands 49\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eMoving an Aquarium 50\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eChapter 5: Aquascaping Your Aquarium: What to Add and Not Add in Your Tank\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 51\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eTaking Clues from Your Fish’s Natural Environment 52\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eGetting the Lowdown on Substrates 53\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eStarting with the basics: Gravel, aqua soil, and fluorite 54\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThinking about pH with your substrates 54\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eKnowing which substrates to avoid 55\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eBeing aware of gravel size and the perils of sand 56\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAdding new substrate to your system 56\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eUsing established substrate 57\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eConsidering Rocks, Wood, and Artificial Plants 57\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eRocks for freshwater tanks 58\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eWood for a freshwater tank 58\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003ePlastic plants 60\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eContemplating Other Aquarium Decorations 62\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eKeeping safety first 62\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eEyeing plastic divers and other oddities 62\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAquascaping Tips and Tricks 63\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eChapter 6: Selecting the Equipment and Other Stuff Your Aquarium Needs\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 67\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eTaking the Mystery out of Filters 68\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eMechanical filtration 69\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eBiological filtration 69\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eChemical filtration 70\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSifting through Filtration Systems 70\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eUndergravel filters 71\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSponge filters 71\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eCorner filters 72\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003ePower filters 72\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eCanister filters 73\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFluidized bed filters 74\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eDiatom filters 74\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eWet\/dry filters 75\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eNatural filtration with plants 75\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAn underground filter’s best friend — powerheads 76\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eGauging Heaters and Thermometers 77\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSubmersible heaters 77\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eNonsubmersible heaters 77\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eDigital heaters 77\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eHeating your aquarium: Thermometers 78\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eMaking Bubbles with Airstones and Pumps 79\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAir pumps 79\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAirstones and other bubble makers 80\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eConnecting Tubing, Valves, and Tees 81\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAir-line tubing 81\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eGang valves and tees 82\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eCreating the Best Lighting 83\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eLooking at bulb types 84\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eMaking a hood choice 85\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003ePart 2: Taking a Closer Look at Fish and How to Care for Them\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 87\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eChapter 7: Fish Anatomy 101\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 89\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eUnderstanding What Makes a Fish Go 90\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe dorsal fin 90\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe caudal fin 91\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe anal fin 91\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe pectoral fins 92\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe pelvic fins 92\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe adipose fin 92\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSwimming movement 92\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eBreathing In and Out — Respiration 93\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe gill method 93\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe labyrinth organ method 94\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eGetting Acquainted with the Senses 95\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSight 95\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eHearing 97\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSmelling 97\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eTasting 97\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFeeling 98\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eComprehending Osmosis and the Salt-to-Water Ratio 98\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFish that don’t drink water 99\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFish that need to drink water 99\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eRecognizing Traits to Identify Fish 99\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eBody shape 100\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eTaxonomy 100\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe swim bladder 102\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eColor and its purpose 102\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eChapter 8: Figuring Out What Kind of Fish to Buy\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 105\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eLooking Closer at Freshwater Fish 106\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAnabantids 106\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eCyprinodonts and livebearers 108\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eCatfish (plecos, cories, and one special Cypriniforme) 112\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eCharacins 114\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eUnusual characins 117\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eLoaches 119\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAfrican cichlids 120\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAmerican cichlids 121\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eCyprinids 125\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFreshwater tropical invertebrates 127\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eContemplating Coldwater Fish and Invertebrates 129\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eKoi (Cyprinus carpio) 129\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eGoldfish (Carassius auratus) 129\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eWhite cloud mountain minnows (Tanichthys albonubes) 132\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eColdwater invertebrates 132\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThinking about Captive-Bred Species 134\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eBuying Fish Online 135\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eChapter 9: Working with a Fish Dealer to Purchase Your Fish\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 137\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eChoosing a Quality Fish Dealer 138\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSearching for a fish store 138\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe importance of great service 140\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe store’s appearance 140\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eDealer Practices: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly 142\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eDo Bee dealers 143\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eDon’t Bee dealers 143\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eWanna Bee dealers 144\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eDeveloping a Good Relationship with Your Fish Dealer 145\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSelecting Healthy Fish 145\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eStart simply and do your homework 145\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eLook for signs of good health 146\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eKnow your fish’s behavior 146\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eUnderstand how big the fish will grow 147\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAvoid the first fish off the boat 148\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eDon’t be Doctor Doolittle 148\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eGetting the Right Fish without Going Overboard 149\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eChapter 10: Feeding Your Wet Pets — Diet and Nutrition\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 151\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eUnderstanding Basic Nutrition 151\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eRecognizing what your fish need 152\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eBeing aware of overfeeding 153\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eUnderfeeding is just as bad 153\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFeeding just what your fish need 153\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eKnowing What Type of Eater You Have 155\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eTaking action when they stop eating 155\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eMeeting your carnivores’ desires 156\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eGoing leafy and feeding vegetarians 156\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFeeding fish that eat anything that falls into the tank 157\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eIdentifying the Different Types of Food 157\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003ePrepackaged foods 157\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFrozen foods 158\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFreeze-dried foods 158\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSpirulina 159\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eLive food — the stuff they really love and want 159\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eBrine shrimp 160\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eInfusoria 161\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eRotifers 161\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eTubifex, bloodworms, mosquito larvae, and earthworms (yuck!) 161\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFeeding Fry 162\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eMicroworms 162\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eLiquid, powdered, and growth foods 162\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eChapter 11: Recognizing Diseases and Treatments \u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e163\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAn Ounce of Prevention 163\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eYour daily review 164\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eYour weekly to-do list 165\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eMonthly checklist 168\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eIdentifying Common Ailments and Cures 168\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eCommon bacterial infection 169\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eConstipation 169\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eDropsy 169\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFin rot 169\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFish louse 170\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFreshwater velvet 170\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFreshwater ich 170\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFungus 171\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eGill parasites 171\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eHole in the head 171\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eIntestinal parasites 172\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eLarge skin parasites 172\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eMouth fungus 172\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003ePop-eye 172\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSepticemia 173\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSkin flukes 173\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSlimy skin disease 173\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSwim bladder disease 174\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eTuberculosis (TB) 174\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eKeeping an Eye Open for Frequent Causes of Disease 174\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eCarbon dioxide poisoning 175\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003ePoor water quality 175\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eMetal poisoning 175\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eChemical poisoning 175\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eImproper diet 176\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eOverfeeding 176\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFrightened fish 176\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eRelying on a Tried-and-True Home Remedy: Giving a Salt Bath 177\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003ePlaying Detective: The Sherlock Holmes Method 177\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eUsing Quarantine Tanks 178\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eGrasping the purpose and advantages of quarantining 178\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eKnowing how much time to quarantine 179\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eKeeping good records: Writing it all down 179\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFocusing on the tank 179\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSetting Up a Hospital Tank 180\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eUnderstanding Medications 180\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003ePart 3: The Background Players: Water, Chemicals, and Plants\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 183\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eChapter 12: All Water Isn’t Created Equal\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 185\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eComparing Different Water Types 186\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eTap water 186\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eRainwater 188\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe advantages of bottled water (not Perrier) 189\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eWell water (don’t count on it) 189\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eCollecting Water from Bodies of Water (Why You Want to Forget This Bad Idea) 190\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAdding Water to Your Aquarium 190\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eUsing a garden hose 190\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eUsing a Python 191\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eMoving water the old-fashioned way 191\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eChapter 13: Considering Those Crazy Chemicals\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 193\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eUnderstanding Chemical Use 194\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eKnowing when to use (and not use) chemicals 194\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFollowing instructions to the letter 194\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eKnowing Which Chemicals You Need to Start Your Aquarium 195\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eGlass cleaner 195\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eDechlorinator 195\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eWater conditioner 196\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eCycling chemicals 196\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eBacteria in a bottle 197\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eBacteria on a medium 197\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eMaintaining Your Aquarium: Chemicals to Use 197\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eUsing the Right Chemicals for Your Plants 198\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eCreate your own rainforest 198\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003ePlant growth 199\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eRoot tabs 199\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAlgae control 199\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eNaming Chemicals Your Fish Need for Medication 200\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eChapter 14: The Nitrogen Cycle and Water Testing\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 201\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eEliminating Fish Waste 201\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eConditioning Your Tank 202\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eStarting the Nitrogen Cycle 203\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eEncouraging nitrosamonas (good bacteria number one) 203\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003ePromoting nitrobacter (good bacteria number two) 205\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eMonitoring through the conditioning period 205\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSpeeding things up a bit 206\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003ePreventing new tank syndrome 207\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eTesting Ammonia, Nitrites, Nitrates, and pH 207\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eChanging the water regularly 207\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eMaintaining proper pH levels 208\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eTesting Hardness (dH) 210\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eChapter 15: Putting It All Together\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 211\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSetting Up Your Tropical Freshwater System 212\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSetting Up a Small Plant Tank 214\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSetting Up Your Coldwater System 215\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSetting Up Your Simple Indoor Goldfish Pond 216\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eChapter 16: What You Need to Know: Live Plants for Aquariums\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 217\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eUnderstanding What Live Plants Do for Your Aquarium 218\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eIdentifying Different Plant Types 220\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFerns and mosses 221\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFloating plants 221\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eStem plants 221\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eRooted plants 221\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eCuttings 222\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eMaintaining Plant-Friendly Aquarium Conditions 222\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eTemperature requirements 222\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSubstrate for rooting 223\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFiltration 223\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFeeding 223\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eLighting 224\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eOther supplements 224\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003ePurchasing and Transporting Your Plants 224\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eTaking from the wild 224\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eBuying from a dealer 225\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eBuying online 225\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eGetting plants home in one piece 226\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAchieving acclimation 226\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eNoticing Potential Plant Problems 227\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eRecognizing signs of poor plant health and what to do about them 227\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAlgae 228\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eMedications 228\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003ePlanting Techniques and Aquascaping 229\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eChapter 17: Choosing Plant Species for Your Tank\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 231\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eConsidering Foreground Plants 232\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eBaby tears (Micranthemum umbrosum) 232\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eBrazilian micro sword (Lilaeopsis brasiliensis) 233\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eCryptocoryne (Cryptocoryne wendetti) 233\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eDwarf anubias (Anubias nana) 234\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eDwarf four-leaf clover (Marsilia hirsute) 234\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eJava moss (Taxiphyllum barbieri) 235\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eMadagascar lace (Aponogeton fenestralis) 235\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003ePearl grass (Hemianthus micranthemoides) 236\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eLooking at Midwater Plants 237\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAquatic banana plant (Nymphoides aquatica) 237\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eCoffeefolia (Anusbis barteri) 237\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eDwarf sagittaria (Sagittaria subulata) 237\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eWater wisteria (Hygrophila difformis) 238\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eContemplating Background Plants 238\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAmazon sword (Echinodorus amazonicus) 238\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eCarolina fanwort (Cambomba caroliniana) 239\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eCorkscrew val (Vallisneria spiralis) 239\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eElodea (Egeria densa) 240\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eGiant anubias (Anubias barteri) 241\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eHornwort (Ceratophyllum demersum) 241\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eOriental sword (Echinodorus oriental) 242\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eRed ludwigia (Ludwigia mullertii) 243\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eRed-stem milfoil (Myriophyllum matogrossensis) 244\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eStargrass (Heteranthera zosterifolia) 244\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eGoing with Floating Plants 244\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAmazon frogbit (Limnobium laevigatum) 245\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eDuckweed (Lemna minor) 245\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eEnvisioning Pond Plants 245\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eWater hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) 246\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eWater lettuce (Pistia stratiotes) 246\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eStarting with Some Easy Plants 247\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003ePart 4: Breeding and Other Fun Stuff\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 249\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eChapter 18: Being Prepared When Trouble Strikes\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 251\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eTackling Physical Fish Problems 252\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSeparating fighting fish 252\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSolving the aggression problem 252\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eLooking at the injured 253\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eDealing with a stuck fish 253\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eCorrecting Feeding Problems 253\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eGetting your fish to eat 253\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAddressing a food hog 253\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eDislodging items eaten by your fish 254\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eCleaning up the aftermath 254\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAddressing Equipment Problems 254\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eHandling uneven stands and tanks 254\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFixing a clogged filter 254\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAnalyzing heater problems 254\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eLighting falling into the tank 255\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eExploding light bulbs 255\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFlickering lighting 255\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFacing Tank and Decoration Problems 256\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eChecking for leaks 256\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eGetting your fish to safety 256\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eRepairing a small crack 256\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eWhen an entire side of your aquarium breaks 257\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eUprooted plants and decorations 257\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eWhat to do when you lose power 257\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eConfronting Water Problems 257\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSolving green algae problems 258\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eControlling chemical problems 258\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eCooling a tank that’s too hot 258\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eWarming a tank that’s too cold 259\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eChapter 19: Setting Up the Breeding Tank\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 261\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eDeciding to Breed Your Aquarium Fish 262\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eBreaking new barriers 262\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eGaining new knowledge and enjoyment 263\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eConserving the environment 263\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eChoosing Your Equipment for Breeding 263\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe aquarium 264\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003ePutting a lid on the whole thing 264\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eDecorations 264\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSubstrate 265\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSpawning grates 265\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eTurning up the heat 266\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFiltration 266\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003ePlants for safety, spawning, and inspiration 267\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eGetting the Water Right 269\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003epH and dH control 269\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eWater temperature 269\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eCleanliness 269\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eChapter 20: Ready, Set, Spawn\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 271\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eIntroducing the Bride and Groom 272\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eDealing with aggressive males 274\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSetting up the second date 274\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eYay, my fish really like each other! 274\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eDarn, my fish hate each other! 274\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eUnderstanding Breeding Types 277\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eLivebearers 277\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe egglayers 277\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSaving Everyone from Everyone Else 279\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSaving Mom and Dad from Mom and Dad 279\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSaving the kids from Mom and Dad 280\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSaving the kids from each other 281\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eRaising the Fry 281\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eStepping up to brine shrimp 282\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eGiving them a real home 282\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003ePicking new stock 282\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eUnderstanding Genetics 282\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eChoosing the best 283\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eObtaining variation the good way 283\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eObtaining variation through mutation 283\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eCreating strains through inbreeding 283\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eChoosing the Right Species for You 284\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eBreeding livebearers 284\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eOther fun fish to breed 285\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eChapter 21: Recording Data and Photographing Fish\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 289\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eKeeping a Logbook 289\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eMaking Your Fish the Stars They Were Meant to Be 290\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eKnowing Where to Take Pictures 291\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003ePhotographing Your Fish with Digital Photography 292\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eRecording fish 293\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003ePrinting your work 293\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSharing your work online 294\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003ePhotographing Your Fish the Old-Fashioned Way 294\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFilm cameras 294\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe film 295\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eLenses 296\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eConsidering Lighting 297\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eRelying on lighting 297\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eMaking your fish shine 299\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFocusing Your Camera 300\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eUnderstanding Composition Techniques 300\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eUsing the rule of thirds 301\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003ePanning the scene 301\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSetting up for close-ups 302\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eShooting the Tank 302\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eBuilding your own photography tank 303\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eUsing different backgrounds 304\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eChapter 22: Expanding Your Hobby in Fun Ways\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 305\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eEntering a Fish Show 305\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eGetting to Know the Types of Shows 307\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eParticipating in exhibitions 307\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eUnderstanding competition classes 307\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003ePreparing Your Fish for the Show 308\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe holding tank 308\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eWater conditions 309\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eTank considerations 309\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eKnowing what the judges are looking for 310\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eTransporting Fish to and from a Show 312\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eRemembering to Have Fun 313\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eJoining an Aquarium Club 314\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eVolunteering at an Aquarium or Zoo 314\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eWriting an Article 315\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSetting Up a Tank for a Worthy Cause 316\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSharing Your Love of Aquariums and Science with Others 317\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eChapter 23: Advancing Your Hobby: Other Types of Aquarium Systems\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 319\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eTrying a Brackish Aquarium Setup 319\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eConsidering a Marine Aquarium System 320\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eIdentifying the types of marine systems 321\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSetting up a simple marine aquarium 322\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSetting up a coldwater fish-only marine system 323\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eComparing Freshwater and Saltwater Systems 324\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAdaptability 324\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAvailability 325\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eCost 325\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eBeauty and friendliness 325\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eEquipment 326\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003ePart 5: The Part of Tens\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 327\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eChapter 24: Ten Cool Aquarium Gadgets\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 329\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAquarium Claws (Those Handy Picker-Upper Doodads) to Move Decor 329\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAlgae Cleaners to Keep Dry 330\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eExtendable Fish Nets, the Long and Short of It 331\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eA Tool Box for Storing Stuff 331\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eLight Timers for the Win 332\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAquarium Sealer (Flood Insurance) 332\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAquascaping Tools to Make You a Star 332\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eDigital Water Testing Makes It Easy 333\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAutomatic Gravel Cleaners Do the Job 333\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAquarium Smart Controllers (Spy on Your Fish) 334\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eChapter 25: Ten Ways to Kill Your Fish without Even Trying \u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e335\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eGo Away on Vacation and Forget Them 335\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003ePlay Doctor without a License 336\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eGive Your Cat a Sushi Bar 336\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eStuff Your Fish with Seven-Course Meals 337\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eMix Apples and Oranges 337\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAdd Too Many Fish (the Shoehorn Syndrome) 338\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eDon’t Do Your Homework 338\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eLet the Neighbor’s Unruly Kid Play with Your Fish 338\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eBecome a Hypochondriac Hobbyist 339\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eBuy Used or Cheap Equipment 339\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eChapter 26: Ten Scientific Fish Laws\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 341\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe Fish Law of Thermodynamics 341\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe Fish Law of Metamorphosis 342\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe Fish Law of Motion 342\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe Fish Law of Anti-Matter 343\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe Fish Law of Nutrition 343\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe Fish Law of Company 344\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe Fish Law of Potential Energy 344\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe Fish Law of Psychic Felines 344\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe Fish Law of Aggression 345\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe Fish Law of Time 345\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eChapter 27: Ten Aquatic New Year’s Resolutions\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 347\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFeed the Fish the Good Stuff 347\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eClean the Tank Frequently 348\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eReduce Celibacy 348\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eRemove Algae 348\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eMonitor Filter Mediums 348\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eTurn on the Lights 349\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eUse My Test Kits 349\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003ePay Attention to My Fish 349\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eRedecorate the Tank 349\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eShare with Others 350\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eIndex 351\u003c\/p\u003e  \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMadelaine Francis Heleine\u003c\/b\u003e has been involved with aquariums and fish-keeping for more than 40 years. She has been a contributing writer and columnist for various magazines dealing with the aquatic world and has written several books about aquarium fish. Madelaine even enjoys exploring the underwater world firsthand as a scuba diver.   \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e \u003cli\u003eUnderstand aquarium setups and fishkeeping basics\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003eBuild the luxury tank of your dreams\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003eMaintain a thriving aquatic environment\u003c\/li\u003e \u003c\/ul\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCreate your own amazing underwater world\u003c\/b\u003e  \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAn aquarium is a beautiful blend of art form, nature observation, and pet ownership…not to mention a whole lot of fun! If you've ever dabbled in the idea of brightening your home with an aquarium, this book is the place to start. What goes into keeping fish happy and healthy? Does it matter where I put my aquarium? Is all that equipment necessary? Do fish get sick? Should I try to keep live plants in there? Is an aquarium hard to maintain? Find the answers and the guidance you need to start enjoying this fascinating hobby! \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eInside...\u003c\/b\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e \u003cli\u003eHow to choose a tank\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003eEquipment you need to have\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003eWays to select fish\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003eCommon fish ailments   and cures\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003eWhen you need chemicals\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003eHows and whys of water testing\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003ePicking plants for your tank\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003eTips for breeding your fish\u003c\/li\u003e \u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"For Dummies","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47989245477093,"sku":"NP9781119601395","price":29.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1842\/7735\/files\/9781119601395.jpg?v=1761783358","url":"https:\/\/k12savings.com\/products\/freshwater-aquariums-for-dummies-isbn-9781119601395","provider":"K12savings","version":"1.0","type":"link"}