Having an aquarium in your home can be a beautiful and relaxing addition to your décor. However, many people are deterred from owning fish tanks because of the perceived maintenance involved. In this article, we will explore how to have a nearly maintenance-free aquarium in your home. We will focus on the JBJ Rimless Tank, which is a popular choice for community planted fish tanks.
The Filter System: Keeping the Chemistry in Balance
One of the key factors in maintaining a nearly maintenance-free aquarium is a good filter system. The filter system in the JBJ Rimless Tank does the majority of the maintenance work for you. It helps to keep the chemistry in balance by promoting the growth of natural bacteria that are already present in the air and water. These bacteria consume the ammonia produced by the fish as they respire, helping to keep the water clean and healthy.
Self-Sustaining Ecosystem
The JBJ Rimless Tank is designed to be a self-sustaining ecosystem . The natural bacteria in the tank consume the ammonia produced by the fish, while the plants in the tank help to oxygenate the water and provide a natural food source for the fish. Additionally, bottom-dwelling fish like algae eaters and loaches help to keep the tank clean by consuming any leftover food and algae.
Feeding the Fish: Less is More
When it comes to feeding your fish, it's important to remember that less is more. Overfeeding can lead to excess food in the tank, which can rot and make the water dirty. In the JBJ Rimless Tank, it is recommended to feed the fish just a small pinch of food, no more than they can eat in five minutes. This should be done once or twice a day to ensure the fish are getting enough nutrition without overfeeding them.
Weekly Water Changes
While the filter system in the JBJ Rimless Tank does a great job of maintaining the water chemistry, it is still important to perform weekly water changes. To do this, simply use a water bottle to remove about an inch of water from the tank. Then, replace the water with dechlorinated water. A few drops of a dechlorinating solution, such as Decor from Weco, can be added to the new water before pouring it into the tank. This helps to remove any chlorine or other harmful chemicals from the tap water.
Avoiding Algae Growth
To prevent algae growth in your tank, it's important to avoid direct sunlight and limit the amount of light the tank receives. Direct sunlight can cause algae to grow on the glass of the tank, while too much light can lead to excess nutrients in the water, which can also promote algae growth. It is recommended to keep the tank out of direct sunlight and to limit the lighting to no more than eight hours a day. This provides enough light for the plants to thrive without encouraging algae growth.
Maintaining a Clean Tank
To keep your tank clean, it's important to regularly remove any algae that may accumulate on the glass. This can be done using a glass-safe scrub brush or a magnetic algae cleaner like the Mag-Float. The Mag-Float allows you to clean the glass without even getting your hands wet, making it a convenient option for those who want a truly maintenance-free aquarium.
Choosing the Right Fish
When selecting fish for your aquarium, it's important to choose species that are compatible with each other and with the size of your tank. In the JBJ Rimless Tank, it is recommended to have a mix of bottom-dwelling, mid-level, and upper region fish. This helps to create a visually appealing and balanced tank. It's also important to consider the size of the fish in relation to the size of the tank. As a general rule, aim for one inch of fish per gallon of water. However, keep in mind that this rule is for small community fish and may not apply to larger fish.
Conclusion
Having a nearly maintenance-free aquarium is possible with the right setup and care. The JBJ Rimless Tank, with its efficient filter system and self-sustaining ecosystem, is a great option for those looking for a low-maintenance aquarium. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can enjoy the beauty of an aquarium without the hassle of constant maintenance. So go ahead, set up your tank, choose your fish, and enjoy the tranquility of a nearly maintenance-free aquarium in your home.