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In nature, the correct balance in an underwater ecosystem is automatically achieved and plants, fish and other micro-organisms and invertebrate live together in harmony.

However, in an aquarium you are responsible for maintaining the balance within your tank. If this fragile thread is disturbed, the habitat will break down and plants and fish will suffer and may die. Incorrect maintenance, fluctuating temperatures, parasites, pesticides, chemicals, disease and even incorrect feeding routines can cause an upset in the balance.

The following is a general guideline of what needs to be done, but allow your tank to guide you. If the water looks murky or algae growth is aggressive you may need to act sooner.

Always turn off the heater before cleaning and store all fish products, plants and fertilisers away from children and pets. Damage caused by broken glass, water and leaks can be extensive so inspect your tank regularly for signs of cracking.

Daily:

• Feed your fish, but don’t overfeed them. Too much food will cause water problems. Remove uneaten food before it starts to decay.
• Do spot checks on your equipment, especially the heater.

Weekly:

• Clean the front of the glass with a sponge.
• Check that plants look healthy and are growing well.

Every second week:

• Check for the formation of algae and clean the glass on the inside of the tank. Do not add detergents as there can harm the fish. Do not remove all the algae as some species of fish require it as a food source.
• If you have a test kit check the pH, nitrate content and hardness. Make changes where necessary.
• If you have an under gravel filter, gently rake over the substrate.Monthly:
• Clean off surface debris.
• Do a water change — about 10 - 15 percent every two to four weeks. Keep a separate bucket especially for this purpose and do not allow anyone in your household to add detergents to it. If you notice that your fish look ill or may be developing fin rot, increase the frequency of the water changes.
• Allow the water to stand in a bucket for 24 hours for chlorine to dissipate.
• Check and clean the filter. Larger filters may be left for five to six weeks while small ones may need more regular cleaning. The amount of fish in your tank will also dictate as to how often mechanical filters should be cleaned.
• Prune aquatic plants, trim dead leaves and add some plant food for trace elements and iron.

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