Freshwater aquarium

Although freshwater aquariums can be set up as community tanks, coldwater and tropical fish are generally not mixed due to incompatibilities in temperature requirements.

[3] In the later 18th century, widespread public interest in the study of nature was awakening, and fish were kept in glass jars, porcelain containers, wooden tubs, and small artificial ponds.

During this time zoologist and botanist, Johann Matthaeus Bechstein, kept many fish and amphibians and laid down the foundation for aquarium and terrarium science.

Because early filters were noisy and expensive, fishkeeping was a hobby reserved for wealthy, scientifically inclined individuals.

[5] In 1878, Rear-Admiral Daniel Ammon brought the first tropical fish from the Far East to the United States which led to a decline in the popularity of goldfish.

Unfortunately, successive generations of inbred fish frequently have less color and sport smaller fins than their wild counterparts.

[5] A typical household freshwater aquarium set-up, apart from its aquatic tenants, consists of furnishings such as a gravel substrate, live or plastic plants, rocks, driftwood, a backcloth or background, and other decorations.

When first starting an aquarium biological enhancer is also commonly used to speed up the nitrogen cycle by adding beneficial bacteria.

The surface area contributes to providing superior in-tank oxygenation and it also facilitates the creation of attractive aquatic themes.

With regards to material, an all-glass aquarium is preferable due to its reasonable cost and its superior ability to resist scratches and discoloration.

Indoor aquariums are normally placed far from windows, heating and cooling ducts of the house because direct sunlight and temperature changes can negatively affect the aquatic environment.

[2] A community aquarium refers to the mixing of fish and plants from different geographical areas with an emphasisis on the color and hardiness of the specimens.

It is important to select fish that will not damage the plants, such as small tetras, dwarf gouramis, cherry barbs, zebra danios, and White Clouds.

In the case of a low tech aquarium, a layer of potting soil or root tabs is commonly put under the substrate to provide nutrients for the plants.