The video provides essential tips for beginners in the aquarium hobby, emphasizing the importance of starting with a larger tank (at least 60 liters) to maintain stable water parameters, choosing the right substrate based on fish needs, and avoiding sharp or chemically reactive gravel. It highlights the necessity of cycling the tank to establish beneficial bacteria, proper acclimation and quarantine of new fish, regular maintenance, and avoiding overfeeding. The speaker also advises against using certain water treatments that can harm the bacterial colony and stresses the importance of understanding fish requirements for a healthy aquarium environment.
Here are the key facts extracted from the text:
1. For a first aquarium, it's recommended to buy a fish tank of at least 60 liters or more.
2. Larger fish tanks are easier to control in terms of water parameters.
3. The type of substrate or gravel in an aquarium should depend on the needs of the fish, not personal taste.
4. Gravel with sharp edges can damage the bodies of slow-swimming fish.
5. Gravel that is not inert can alter the chemistry of the water.
6. Some types of gravel, such as those made from crushed marble or shells, can be good for marine aquariums but not for most freshwater fish.
7. These types of gravel can release calcium and magnesium carbonate, modifying the pH and hardness of the water.
8. Colored gravel can be toxic to fish and should be avoided.
9. Fish prefer waters with natural and neutral colors.
10. Cycling is an important step in setting up a new aquarium, which involves creating a colony of beneficial bacteria.
11. The nitrogen cycle is the process by which bacteria convert ammonia into nitrates.
12. The most common way to start cycling an aquarium is by introducing a small amount of fish food every few days.
13. It's not necessary to have an initial strain of bacteria, as they can be found on every surface.
14. Introducing some seafood or a small piece of meat can help speed up the cycling process.
15. There are vials on the market that sell strains of bacteria to help speed up the cycle.
16. Partial water changes can help avoid the accumulation of waste and peaks of nitrates and phosphates.
17. Overfeeding can cause problems such as algae growth and disease.
18. Fish should be fed what they can eat in two or three minutes, and fed a maximum of twice a day.
19. It's not recommended to add the water from the transport bag to the aquarium.
20. Fish should be introduced to their new home gradually, and quarantined for at least a couple of weeks if possible.
21. The frequency of maintenance depends on the size of the aquarium and the number of fish.
22. Induced overpopulation techniques can reduce aggressiveness in some fish, but this is not ideal.
23. Fish should be introduced to the aquarium in small numbers, with a maximum of two fish per week.
24. Medications such as methylene blue and malachite green can weaken the bacterial colony and make pathogens immune.
25. Filters should not be turned off, as they provide oxygen to the water and support the bacterial colony.
26. Water heaters and aquarium lighting can increase the electricity bill.
27. Expenses for aquarium maintenance can be constant, and a budget should be set aside for this purpose.