My Aquarium in all it’s glory
I’m committed to publishing content on a range of topics, either close to me or out of my comfort zone. Today, I’ll start with one close – my Aquarium.
I’ve been keeping Aquariums since I was about 10. Back then, it was a simple 12 inch Tank with three Goldfish. The typical life of a Fish back then was no more than a few months, but I was still learning.
Fast forward five years and I purchased my first full-sized Tank: a 30 inch Coldwater Aquarium. Complete with the modern provisions, such as filters and airstones; I thought it was incredible. Eventually, I added a Light and Heater to accommodate Tropical Fish (Gourami, Mollies) and Plants. Sadly I never kept any photos, but I was happy with the setup. After moving House the enthusiasm waned a little, so I dismantled the set and gave it away.
The Fish keeping bug may go dormant, but it never goes away.
My wife suggested back in 2012 that it would be a good idea to purchase the kids a Goldfish Aquarium (20L). Initially, I didn’t think much of it when I brought the Tank, but soon the fish keeping bug was awoken. Soon, I had added a light, plants and more air stones to the small kid’s setup. While it was spectacular, it wasn’t going to be big enough. Enter the 3ft Aquarium
In 2013 I purchased by 3ft (x 14 x 20) Tank. I added shelving and painted the cabinet white. My setup included an Ehiem canister filter, heater, and a 3ft Fluro light. I kept a variety of fish (including my first Discus), and I learned a lot about maintaining aquatic plants. But again, it wasn’t going to be big enough. Enter the 5ft Aquarium.
My 3ft Tank. Well stocked with Fish and Plants.
I purchased my pride and joy in 2014 – a 5ft x 2ft x 2ft (or 520L) tank). Originally set up in the kid’s toy room, it now takes pride of place in my study. It has two Canister filters (Ehiem, Aquazonic T5/Led Lights, and all the other usual mod cons. I expanded my collection of Discus Fish in the tank, combined with barbs and tetras. Sadly, some of my Discus have died, but I plan to re-stock soon.
Some of my Discus, back in the 3ft Tank.
I’ve also stepped up the planting in the Tank to make it a more natural environment. A lot more care is required, but I’m having great success keeping a healthy collection of Plants.