Aquarium Fish Keeping and Aquarium Maintenance

Maintaining a fish aquarium requires proper care and regular upkeep to ensure a healthy environment for aquatic life. This presentation covers essential aspects of aquarium maintenance, including selecting the right tank setup, managing water quality, and using effective filtration systems. It also provides guidelines on feeding practices, cleaning routines, and preventing common fish diseases. Additionally, it highlights solutions for common aquarium problems and eco-friendly maintenance tips. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced aquarist, this guide will help you create a thriving and well-balanced aquarium.

1. Aquarium Fish Keeping and Aquarium Maintenance Dr. Ranjana Verma Assistant Professor Department of Zoology Bherulal Patidar Govt. P. G. College, MHOW (MP) Dr. Ranjana Verma

2. Dr. Ranjana Verma Historical Background The word "aquarium" comes from Latin . It is derived from: "aqua" meaning water "- arium " meaning a place related to OR connected with something Thus, "aquarium" literally means "a place for water" , referring to a tank or container where aquatic plants and animals are kept. The term "aquarium" was first used in its modern sense by English naturalist Philip Henry Gosse in 1854 when he popularized the concept of maintaining aquatic life in glass tanks. Before this, similar enclosures were called "aquatic vivariums " or "marine vivariums ." The concept of keeping fish in artificial enclosures dates back to ancient Sumerians, Egyptians, Romans, and Chinese , but the term "aquarium" was formally adopted in the 19th century .

3. Aquarium fish keeping is a specialized field involving the maintenance of aquatic organisms in controlled environments for ornamental, commercial, and research purposes . It integrates principles of aquatic ecology, ichthyology, microbiology, and environmental chemistry to create a sustainable aquatic ecosystem Dr. Ranjana Verma

4. Dr. Ranjana Verma Component of Aquarium Tank Filtration System Water Management: Heater, chiller, air pump, water conditioner Lighting Substrate & Decoration Livestock: Fish, plants, cleanup crew (snails, shrimp) Maintenance Tools: Siphon, algae scraper, test kits, net etc.

5. Dr. Ranjana Verma

6. Types of Aquariums Freshwater Aquariums Saltwater (Marine) Aquariums Brackish Water Aquariums Reef Aquariums Biotope Aquariums Planted Aquariums Dr. Ranjana Verma

7. Dr. Ranjana Verma Types of Aquariums Freshwater Aquariums A freshwater aquarium is one of the most popular and easiest types to set up and maintain. It houses freshwater fish, plants, and invertebrates , making it an ideal choice for beginners

8. Dr. Ranjana Verma Types of Aquariums Saltwater (Marine) Aquariums A saltwater aquarium is a fascinating and vibrant ecosystem that houses marine fish, corals, and invertebrates . While it requires more maintenance than freshwater setups, it offers stunning biodiversity and colorful reef life.

9. Dr. Ranjana Verma Types of Aquariums Brackish Water Aquariums A brackish water aquarium is a fascinating blend of freshwater and saltwater habitats, home to species that thrive in moderate salinity levels. These aquariums mimic estuaries, mangroves, and coastal rivers where freshwater meets the sea.

10. Dr. Ranjana Verma Types of Aquariums Planted Aquariums A planted aquarium is a beautiful and natural aquatic ecosystem where live plants, fish, and invertebrates coexist . It mimics natural aquatic environments and enhances water quality by absorbing excess nutrients, reducing algae growth, and improving oxygen levels.

11. Dr. Ranjana Verma Types of Aquariums Reef Aquariums A reef aquarium is a saltwater (marine) aquarium designed to house live corals, fish, and invertebrates . It replicates a coral reef ecosystem , requiring stable water parameters, strong lighting, and specialized filtration.

12. Dr. Ranjana Verma Types of Aquariums Biotope Aquariums A biotope aquarium is a highly specialized aquarium designed to replicate a specific natural ecosystem, including water conditions, plants, fish, and decor. The goal is to mimic a real-world aquatic environment as closely as possible.

13. Aquarium System Components Tank Design and Materials Dr. Ranjana Verma Rectangular Tanks – Most common and easy to maintain. Bow-Front Tanks – Curved front for a better view. Hexagonal & Cylindrical Tanks – Space-saving, but less surface area. Corner Tanks – Designed to fit into room corners. Wall-Mounted Tanks – Aesthetic appeal but limited volume. The primary materials used for aquariums are glass and acrylic

14. Factor Glass Acrylic Durability High Moderate Weight Heavy Lightweight Cost Affordable Expensive Scratch Resistance High Low Clarity Over Time Stays Clear Can Yellow Customization Limited High Impact Resistance Low High Choosing the Right Material Dr. Ranjana Verma

15. Filtration Systems Mechanical Filtration Common Aquarium Filtration Systems Sponge Filters Biological Filtration Chemical Filtration Hang-on-Back (HOB) Filters Internal Power Filters Under gravel Filters (UGF) Wet/Dry Filters Dr. Ranjana Verma

16. Dr. Ranjana Verma Filtration Systems Tank Size Best Filter Options Small (5-20 gallons) Sponge filter, Internal power filter, HOB filter Medium (20-50 gallons) HOB filter, Canister filter Large (50+ gallons) Canister filter, Sump filter Planted Tanks Sponge filter, Canister filter Saltwater Tanks Sump filter, Canister filter

17. Lighting Systems Aquarium Type Recommended Light Type Light Intensity Fish-Only Tank LED or Fluorescent Low Planted Aquarium Fluorescent or Metal Halide Lights Low Aqua scaping Tank High-quality LED (Full Spectrum) High Dr. Ranjana Verma

18. Aquarium Type Ideal Temperature (°C) Coldwater Aquarium (Goldfish, Koi) 15 - 22°C Tropical Community Aquarium (Tetras, Guppies, Mollies) 24 - 27°C Planted Aquarium 22 - 26°C Cichlid Aquarium (African Cichlids) 24 - 28°C Betta Fish Tank 26 - 28°C Temperature Dr. Ranjana Verma

19. Substrate Selection Substrate Type Description Best For Pros Cons Gravel Small, rounded stones of various sizes and colors . Community tanks Easy to clean, doesn’t compact Can trap debris if not cleaned properly Sand Fine, smooth particles (natural or colored). Bottom-dwelling fish (corydoras, loaches), planted tanks Natural look, prevents debris buildup Can compact and cause anaerobic pockets Crushed Coral Calcium carbonate-based substrate African cichlids, marine tanks Buffers pH, increases hardness Not suitable for soft-water fish Clay-Based Substrate Rich in iron and minerals (e.g., Laterite) Planted aquariums Supports plant root development Can cloud water initially Peat Moss Organic, soft material Blackwater biotopes Lowers pH, releases tannins Decomposes over time, needs replacement Bare Bottom No substrate Breeding tanks Easy to clean, prevents waste buildup Doesn’t support plants or natural aesthetics Dr. Ranjana Verma

20. Aeration and Oxygenation in a Freshwater Aquarium Aeration: The process of moving water to promote gas exchange (oxygen in, CO₂ out) Oxygenation: The amount of dissolved oxygen (DO) in the water is measured in mg/L or ppm. Dr. Ranjana Verma

21. Importance of Aeration & Oxygenation Ensures Fish Health – Fish need oxygen to survive, and low oxygen can cause stress or suffocation. Supports Beneficial Bacteria – Helps biological filtration by providing oxygen for nitrifying bacteria. Prevents Dead Zones – Stagnant water can lead to areas with low oxygen. Aids in Gas Exchange – Removes excess carbon dioxide (CO₂) and replenishes oxygen. Aeration and Oxygenation in a Freshwater Aquarium Dr. Ranjana Verma

22. Water Chemistry and Quality Management pH and Buffering Capacity Ammonia, Nitrite, and Nitrate Cycling Dissolved Oxygen Levels Water Hardness and Salinity Toxic Contaminants Planted Aquariums Dr. Ranjana Verma

23. Water Chemistry and Quality Management 1. pH and Buffering Capacity Aquarium Type Ideal pH Range Community Tank (Mixed Fish) 6.5 – 7.5 Planted Tank 6.5 – 7.5 Amazonian Biotope (Tetras, Discus) 5.5 – 6.8 African Cichlid Tank 7.8 – 9.0 Goldfish Tank 7.0 – 7.5 Betta Fish Tank 6.5 – 7.5 Dr. Ranjana Verma

24. Water Chemistry and Quality Management 1. pH and Buffering Capacity Buffering Capacity (KH) is the water’s ability to resist pH changes by neutralizing acids. It is measured in degrees of carbonate hardness . ✔ Higher KH = More stable pH ✔ Lower KH = pH fluctuations Dr. Ranjana Verma

25. The Nitrogen Cycle is essential for maintaining a healthy aquarium. It ensures that toxic fish waste is converted into less harmful compounds by beneficial bacteria. This process involves three key nitrogen compounds: Ammonia (NH₃ ), Nitrite (NO₂⁻ ), and Nitrate (NO₃⁻ ). Water Chemistry and Quality Management 2. Ammonia, Nitrite, and Nitrate Cycling Dr. Ranjana Verma

26. How to Control Ammonia, Nitrite, and Nitrate Levels? Parameter Safe Level How to Control It? Ammonia (NH₃/NH₄⁺) 0 ppm ✅ Use biological filtration (sponge, bio-media). ✅ Remove uneaten food. ✅ Perform frequent water changes. Nitrite (NO₂⁻) 0 ppm ✅ Avoid overfeeding. ✅ Use live plants for natural absorption. Nitrate (NO₃⁻) <20 ppm ✅ Do weekly 25-50% water changes . ✅ Add live plants ( Anubias , Java Fern, Hornwort). ✅ Use nitrate-absorbing media ( API Nitra-Zorb). Dr. Ranjana Verma

27. Water Chemistry and Quality Management 3. Dissolved Oxygen Levels Factor Effect on DO How to Manage It? Water Temperature ⬆ Higher temperature = Less oxygen Keep water at an optimal temperature for your fish. Surface Agitation ⬆ Increases oxygen exchange Use air stones, powerheads, or filters to create movement. Stocking Density ⬇ Overcrowding reduces oxygen Keep a proper fish-to-water ratio. Live Plants ⬆ Increase oxygen during the day but ⬇ decrease at night Balance plant and fish numbers. Filtration ⬆ Good filtration improves oxygen levels Use sponge, HOB, or canister filters for water circulation. Waste & Decay ⬇ Organic matter uses oxygen during decomposition Perform regular water changes and remove debris. Dr. Ranjana Verma

28. Water Chemistry and Quality Management 4. Planted Aquariums 🌿 Plants ✅ Anubias – Hardy, slow-growing, available in nurseries. ✅ Java Fern – Common in Indian markets, survives in low light. ✅ Amazon Sword – Root-feeding plant, thrives in Indian tap water. ✅ Vallisneria – Tall, easy-to-grow, often sold in Indian aquarium stores. ✅ Cryptocoryne wendtii – Low-light plant, grows well in Indian conditions. Dr. Ranjana Verma

29. Contaminant Source Effects on Fish Prevention & Treatment Ammonia (NH₃) Fish waste, uneaten food, decaying matter Gills damage, respiratory distress, death ✅ Regular water changes, ✅ Biological filtration, ✅ Avoid overfeeding Nitrite (NO₂⁻) Breakdown of ammonia by bacteria (Nitrogen cycle) Brown blood disease (methemoglobinemia), suffocation ✅ Fully cycle the aquarium, ✅ Strong biological filtration, ✅ Add aquarium salt in emergencies Nitrate (NO₃⁻) End product of nitrogen cycle Stress, algae growth, weak immunity ✅ Regular water changes, ✅ Live plants, ✅ Use nitrate-removing media ( Seachem Purigen ) Heavy Metals (Lead, Copper, Zinc, Iron, Mercury) Contaminated tap water, metal pipes, decorations Poisoning, neurological damage, sudden fish deaths ✅ Use water conditioners, ✅ Avoid metal decorations, ✅ Test tap water for metals Chlorine & Chloramine Municipal tap water (disinfectants) Burns fish gills, kills beneficial bacteria ✅ Always dechlorinate tap water, ✅ Let water sit for 24 hours or use conditioners Pesticides & Herbicides Contaminated water, untreated plants Kills fish and beneficial bacteria ✅ Rinse new plants, ✅ Avoid insect sprays near the aquarium, ✅ Use carbon filters Medication & Chemical Overdose Overuse of fish medications, excessive water treatments Harms fish, disrupts biological filtration ✅ Follow correct dosages, ✅ Use activated carbon to remove excess medication Water Chemistry and Quality Management 4. Toxic Contaminants Dr. Ranjana Verma

30. Selection and Compatibility of Fish Hardy Aquarium Fish Species in India Fish Species Scientific Name Water Parameters Max Size Tank Setup Special Features Zebra Danio Danio rerio pH: 6.5-7.5, Temp: 18-28°C, GH: 5-12°dH 5 cm Active swimmers, need open space Very hardy, easy to breed Rosy Barb Pethia conchonius pH: 6.0-7.5, Temp: 18-25°C, GH: 6-12°dH 10 cm Planted tanks, prefer cooler water Peaceful schooling fish Guppy Poecilia reticulata pH: 6.5-8.0, Temp: 22-28°C, GH: 8-12°dH 5 cm Small tanks, floating plants Livebearers, very adaptable Molly Poecilia sphenops pH: 7.0-8.5, Temp: 24-28°C, GH: 10-20°dH 10 cm Can tolerate brackish water Hardy, good algae eaters Platy Xiphophorus maculatus pH: 7.0-8.0, Temp: 22-28°C, GH: 10-15°dH 6 cm Small community tanks Very easy to breed Swordtail Xiphophorus hellerii pH: 7.0-8.3, Temp: 22-28°C, GH: 10-20°dH 12 cm Larger tanks, active swimmers Hardy and peaceful Indian Glass Fish Parambassis ranga pH: 6.5-7.5, Temp: 22-28°C, GH: 6-15°dH 8 cm Needs hiding spots, peaceful Transparent body, unique appearance Dwarf Gourami Trichogaster lalius pH: 6.0-7.5, Temp: 22-28°C, GH: 5-12°dH 7 cm Planted tanks, slow-moving water Hardy, labyrinth fish (breathes air) Paradise Fish Macropodus opercularis pH: 6.0-8.0, Temp: 20-30°C, GH: 5-15°dH 10 cm Low-maintenance, no aeration needed Can survive in stagnant water Dr. Ranjana Verma

31. Selection and Compatibility of Fish Community Fish Aquarium Species in India Community fish are peaceful species that can coexist with other fish in the same aquarium without aggression. These fish are ideal for planted, freshwater, or community tank setups and are popular among aquarists . Dr. Ranjana Verma

32. Fish Species Scientific Name Water Parameters Max Size Temperament Tank Setup Special Features Neon Tetra Paracheirodon innesi pH: 6.0-7.5, Temp: 22-28°C, GH: 4-12°dH 4 cm Peaceful, Schooling Planted tanks, dim lighting Bright colors, prefers groups of 6+ Zebra Danio Danio rerio pH: 6.5-7.5, Temp: 18-28°C, GH: 5-12°dH 5 cm Active, Peaceful Open swimming space Hardy, great for beginners Rosy Barb Pethia conchonius pH: 6.0-7.5, Temp: 18-25°C, GH: 6-12°dH 10 cm Peaceful, Schooling Planted tanks, cooler water Social, best in groups Guppy Poecilia reticulata pH: 6.5-8.0, Temp: 22-28°C, GH: 8-12°dH 5 cm Peaceful, Active Small tanks, floating plants Colorful, livebearers Molly Poecilia sphenops pH: 7.0-8.5, Temp: 24-28°C, GH: 10-20°dH 10 cm Peaceful, Social Tolerates brackish water Good algae eaters Platy Xiphophorus maculatus pH: 7.0-8.0, Temp: 22-28°C, GH: 10-15°dH 6 cm Peaceful, Active Small community tanks Easy to breed, livebearers Swordtail Xiphophorus hellerii pH: 7.0-8.3, Temp: 22-28°C, GH: 10-20°dH 12 cm Peaceful, Active Needs swimming space Hardy, good for beginners Dwarf Gourami Trichogaster lalius pH: 6.0-7.5, Temp: 22-28°C, GH: 5-12°dH 7 cm Peaceful, Shy Planted tanks Labyrinth fish (breathes air) Pearl Gourami Trichopodus leerii pH: 6.0-7.5, Temp: 24-28°C, GH: 5-15°dH 12 cm Peaceful, Social Planted tanks Beautiful pearly pattern Community Fish Aquarium Fish Species in India Dr. Ranjana Verma

33. Dr. Ranjana Verma Selection and Compatibility of Fish ✔ Tank Size Matters – Choose fish that fit your aquarium space. ✔ Water Parameters – Match temperature, pH, and hardness. ✔ Temperament – Keep peaceful fish together, separate aggressive ones. ✔ Diet Compatibility – Herbivores, carnivores, and omnivores need proper feeding. ✔ Avoid Conflicts ❌ Bettas & Guppies (Aggression) ❌ Goldfish & Tropical Fish (Different Temperature Needs) ❌ Oscars & Small Fish/Shrimp (Predation)

34. Selection and Compatibility of Fish Bottom Dwellers: Bottom dwellers are fish that spend most of their time at the bottom of the tank, searching for food and keeping the substrate clean. These fish are essential for a well-balanced community aquarium as they help prevent waste buildup and add diversity to the tank ecosystem. Dr. Ranjana Verma

35. Algae growth is a common issue in aquariums, but certain fish and invertebrates can help control algae naturally . These species consume different types of algae, making them essential for maintaining a clean and balanced tank Selection and Compatibility of Fish Algae Control Fish Flying Fox Zebra Loach Cherry Shrimp Mystery Snail Dr. Ranjana Verma

36. Fish Health and Disease Management Parasitic Infections Parasitic infections are one of the most common health issues in aquarium fish, affecting their growth, behavior, and survival. These infections can be caused by external or internal parasites and often spread due to poor water quality, stress, or the introduction of infected fish. Dr. Ranjana Verma

37. Bacterial Pathogens Bacterial infections in aquarium fish can be highly contagious and fatal if not treated promptly. They are often triggered by P oor water quality, S tress, I njury, or weakened immunity . Some bacterial infections are external (affecting skin, fins, or gills), while others are internal (causing systemic illness). Disease Name Causative Bacteria Symptoms Treatment Prevention Gill Disease Flavobacterium branchiophilum Rapid gill movement, gasping, mucus buildup on gills Antibiotics (Oxytetracycline), aerate tank Avoid high ammonia levels, provide clean water Mouth Rot (Mouth Fungus) Flexibacter spp. White patches on mouth, difficulty eating Antibiotics (Kanamycin, Tetracycline), salt bath Quarantine infected fish, improve diet Fin Rot Aeromonas, Pseudomonas, Flavobacterium Torn, frayed, or decaying fins, redness Antibiotics (Kanamycin, Tetracycline), improve water quality Keep water clean, avoid fin-nipping fish Dr. Ranjana Verma

38. Viral Diseases AND Nutritional Deficiencies Disease Name Causative Virus Symptoms Treatment Prevention Lymphocystis Iridovirus White, cauliflower-like growths on fins and skin No cure, remove infected fish, improve water quality Quarantine new fish, reduce stress Infectious Pancreatic Necrosis (IPN) Birnavirus Pale gills, darkened skin, spinning movement No cure, remove infected fish Quarantine new fish, improve diet Viral Hemorrhagic Septicemia (VHS) Novirhabdovirus Hemorrhages, bloating, erratic swimming No cure, supportive care Avoid overcrowding, keep tank clean Koi Herpesvirus (KHV) Cyprinid herpesvirus-3 Red patches, gill necrosis, lethargy, high mortality No cure, euthanize affected fish Keep water temp stable, avoid infected stock Dr. Ranjana Verma

39. Nutritional Deficiencies Dr. Ranjana Verma Deficiency Symptoms Affected Fish Prevention & Treatment Vitamin C Deficiency Scoliosis (curved spine), weak immunity Goldfish, Cichlids, Koi Provide vitamin-rich food (fruits, vegetables, spirulina) Vitamin B Deficiency Nervous disorders, erratic swimming, weakness Tetras, Barbs, Catfish Use high-quality pellets, supplement with live/frozen food Vitamin D Deficiency Deformed bones, weak skeletal structure Cichlids, Oscars, Loaches Provide proper lighting, calcium-rich diet Vitamin A Deficiency Loss of color, eye disorders, slow growth Bettas, Gouramis, Discus Feed carotenoid-rich food (shrimp, krill, carrots) Protein Deficiency Slow growth, muscle wasting All fish, especially growing fry Ensure protein-rich diet (bloodworms, brine shrimp, quality pellets) Calcium Deficiency Weakened bones, poor egg development Cichlids, Livebearers Provide cuttlebone, crushed coral, calcium-fortified foods Fat Deficiency Poor energy levels, dull coloration Fast-growing species (Arowana, Goldfish) Include fish oil, high-energy food like krill Iron Deficiency Pale gills, lethargy Tetras, Barbs, Discus Feed iron-rich foods (worms, daphnia, spinach) Iodine Deficiency Thyroid swelling, sluggish behavior Marine and freshwater fish Supplement with seaweed, iodized salt (in trace amounts)

40. Dr. Ranjana Verma Commercial and Research Applications Ornamental Fish Trade Aquaponics Integration Behavioral Studies Aquatic Biotechnology

41. Dr. Ranjana Verma ✔ Aquarium Technician – Maintain and design aquatic systems. ✔ Aquascaping Artist – Create stunning underwater landscapes. ✔ Marine Biologist – Study aquatic life and ecosystems. ✔ Public Aquarium Specialist – Work in zoos and oceanariums. ✔ Fish Breeding & Trade – Start a profitable fish farming business. ✔ Eco-Tourism & Conservation – Preserve aquatic biodiversity. ✔ Entrepreneurship – Own an aquarium shop or maintenance service. Career Opportunity in Aquarium Maintenance

42. Dr. Ranjana Verma Government Job Opportunities in Aquarium Maintenance & Aquatic Sciences 🔹 Fisheries Department – Fisheries Officer, Hatchery Manager 🔹 Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) – Research Assistant, Scientist 🔹 Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) – Aquatic Biodiversity Researcher 🔹 National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB) – Aquaculture Expert 🔹 State Fisheries Departments – Fishery Extension Officer, Hatchery Supervisor 🔹 Public Aquariums & Zoos ( MoEFCC ) – Aquarium Maintenance Officer 🔹 ICAR Institutes (CIFE, CIFRI) – Research & Technical Positions 🔹 Indian Navy & Coast Guard – Marine Biology & Conservation Roles

43. Dr. Ranjana Verma Noga, E. J. (2010). Fish Disease: Diagnosis and Treatment (2nd ed.). Wiley-Blackwell. Covers bacterial, viral, fungal, and parasitic infections in aquarium and wild fish. Roberts, R. J. (2012). Fish Pathology (4th ed.). Wiley-Blackwell. A comprehensive book on fish health, including bacterial, viral, and nutritional disorders. Stickney, R. R. (2005). Aquaculture: An Introductory Text (2nd ed.). CABI Publishing. Provides insights into fish health management, nutrition, and environmental factors. Francis-Floyd, R. (2002). Diseases of Ornamental Fishes. University of Florida, IFAS Extension. A detailed guide on common fish diseases and treatments. Wedemeyer, G. A. (1996). Physiology of Fish in Intensive Culture Systems. Springer. Discusses stress-related diseases, nutritional deficiencies, and disease management. Tacon, A. G. J. (1992). Nutritional Fish Pathology: Morphological Signs of Nutrient Deficiency and Toxicity in Farmed Fish. FAO. Focuses on fish nutrition and deficiency-related disorders. Austin, B., & Austin, D. A. (2016). Bacterial Fish Pathogens: Disease in Farmed and Wild Fish (6th ed.). Springer. Provides an in-depth analysis of bacterial pathogens affecting fish. Woo, P. T. K., & Bruno, D. W. (2011). Fish Diseases and Disorders: Volume 3: Viral, Bacterial and Fungal Infections. CABI. Covers detailed information on viral, bacterial, and fungal infections in fish References

44. Dr. Ranjana Verma This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND