Fish

Fish in the Aquarium

Both the Sumerians and the Egyptians kept fish in ponds. Carp had already been bred in China in the 7th century. The silver carp, which is similar to the goldfish, was kept as a kind of pet from around 960. In the 16th century, it was common in China to keep goldfish in relatively large ceramic vessels. In Europe, interest in fishkeeping in glass containers and ponds didn't arise until about 100 years later. The first aquariums were presented to the public at the 1851 World Exhibition in London. Six years later, the German naturalist Emil Adolf Roßmäßler published the book "Das Süßwasseraquarium," which contained specific instructions on how to properly set up and care for an aquarium. Aside from goldfish, Roßmäßler recommended minnows and mudsuckers as well-suited fish for aquariums. Since the needs of these and other species of fish were then only poorly understood, they often did not live very long. Above all, it was difficult to ensure an adequate supply of oxygen and sufficient light.

In the last 150 years, much has changed in the field of aquatics. Thanks to various technical and chemical inventions, it is now possible to provide fish in aquariums with a home that is as close to their natural habitat as possible. Well-functioning filter systems and lighting systems are of the utmost importance. As recently as the late 1960s, it was common to connect the glass panes of an aquarium with a metal frame, which was preferably sealed with bitumen. Once silicone adhesive became available as a mass-produced product, the metal frames became unnecessary. In addition, aquariums could be produced in different sizes and shapes without having to worry about them not being able to withstand the water pressure. Thanks to rod heaters with modern sensors, aquarium owners can easily specify the exact water temperature. The fish can also be supplied with light precisely – for example, with LED strips that not only save electricity and have a relatively high efficiency, but also provide natural light.

Community aquariums and species aquariums

Are you a beginner in the field of aquariums and fishkeeping? Then it makes sense to start with a so-called community aquarium. This is an aquarium in which various species of fish (and possibly invertebrates) are housed that require the same living conditions, especially in terms of water quality and lighting. Species aquariums are for experienced aquarists who want to keep and perhaps even breed a particular species. For this purpose, rather demanding species are often chosen, such as the Australian desert goby, which prefers a strong drop in water temperature overnight. In any case, as a beginner, you should consult extensively with a pet store to determine which species are suitable for keeping in a community tank. There are some very aggressive species (such as pufferfish) that like to harass other fish. Some of the most popular aquarium fish in this country include mollies, guppies, neon fish, cichlids, and discus fish. Mollies are originally from Central and South America. They belong to the livebearing toothcarp family. Guppies are found in large parts of South America. They are not only very robust, but also colorful and easy to keep. Neon fish are also native to South America and are highly valued, not least because of their luminous colors. Cichlids originally come from Africa and South America. They are popular as breeding fish. Discus fish are native to the Brazilian Amazon and are characterized by their calm, compatible nature.

Keeping fish in a garden pond

A well-placed and plant-filled garden pond becomes even more attractive when you keep ornamental fish in it. If you only get around to building your garden pond in late summer, it is recommended that you release the fish the following spring. In any case, it makes sense to place the first fish in a newly built garden pond no earlier than eight weeks later. Only then has a biological equilibrium developed in which the fish can also feel comfortable. It is essential to ensure that the fish species are compatible with each other and that the number of fish is suitable for the size of the garden pond. What applies to an aquarium also applies to a garden pond: it must be ensured that there is sufficient oxygen supply and water circulation. Of course, any structural measures near the pond should be avoided as much as possible once fish are present. Accordingly, the pond planting should already be finished before the fish are released. In any case, make sure there is enough shelter and protection provided by carefully arranged plants. The crucial difference between an indoor aquarium and an outdoor garden pond is that pond fish are visited, among other things, by cats and herons. By planting the shallow shoreline areas appropriately, you can make it difficult for such hunters to get close enough to the water.

Goldfish are still among the most popular fish for garden ponds in Germany and many other countries. Goldfish prefer clear and moving water. They like to hide under lily pads and among other water plants. You should not keep more than one goldfish per cubic meter of water to avoid disrupting the pond's balance. Is your garden pond relatively small? Then the goldfish probably won't find enough natural food in the water, and you will need to provide supplementary feeding. In this case, installing a filter system is essential to keep the water clean enough.

The right food for ornamental fish

Koi ponds are still in fashion. Koi can be kept and multiplied in our latitudes just like goldfish if the living conditions are right. Compared to goldfish, Koi need 30 centimeters more minimum water depth at 1.30 meters. Would you rather keep native fish in your pond? In principle, these must only come from breeding - after all, it is forbidden to catch wild animals and trade with them. Native fish that can be relatively easily kept in ponds include the bitterling, stickleback, bleak, chub, and sturgeon. In our subcategory of fish food, we offer you no less than three products from the manufacturer Vitakraft. The Vita Flake Food is suitable for feeding all ornamental fish species. With the Premium Tabs, you can supply all fish that feed on the bottom. The Special Pond Food is a sinking food that you can use for all bottom fish living in your pond. With the pet food manufacturer Vitakraft, you can be sure that your fish are getting high-quality food that contains all the essential nutrients for aquatic animals. Simply order the required fish food when you next shop in our online store.

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