Approximately 95 to 99% of saltwater fish available for purchase are collected from the wild. Taking fish from the ocean into a foreign environment often results in significant stress.
For this reason and others, creating a natural fish tank is a great option. This type of ethical aquarium is also a self-sustaining aquarium, which means less work for you. Continue reading to learn more about creating a self-cleaning fish tank.
What Is a Natural Fish Tank?
A natural fish tank is also known as a self-cleaning aquarium or a self-sustaining aquarium. Instead of harsh chemicals and intensive cleaning routines, you create a sustainable ecosystem within your aquarium.
This type of aquarium is considered a more ethical aquarium because it more closely resembles a natural environment for the species of plants and animals in your tank.
In addition to cleaning itself, the tank also creates and maintains its food source. While some amount of intervention is still required, the frequency of maintenance and level of stress caused is much lower.
Choose Your Tank
The first step in creating a natural fish tank is selecting the right tank. We recommend something in the range of 30 to 200 gallons for optimal results.
Aquaponic fish tanks are among the most popular options. The plants growing from the lid filter the water and are fed by fish waste.
Find the Right Substrate
The substrate is the material found at the bottom of a fish tank such as rocks, sand, or gravel. For a self-cleaning fish tank, you’ll need a substrate that cultivates good bacteria which gives your plants nutrition.
We recommend a substrate that’s not too small or else it won’t be porous enough. You can also use deep sand beds, but the bacteria can take a very long time to grow.
Install a Light Source
If you want a self-sustaining aquarium, you need a good UV light source. These lights help promote growth for your tank. Make sure to choose one that has a night and day option to minimize stress on your ecosystem.
Invest in the Filtration System
Whether you choose an aquaponic system or another self-cleaning aquarium, we recommend investing in a quality filtration system. It not only keeps the water clean, but it oxygenates the water.
The best option is a three-stage filtration system. Make sure the system is compatible with the size of your natural aquarium.
Create the Environment
The arguably best part of your ethical aquarium is creating the environment. You’ll need the right plants, structures, fish, and water to get started.
Make sure to consider which fish are compatible with the size of your tank, your chosen plants, such as chaeto algae, and with each other. Don’t forget to choose cleaning fish as well.
Start Your Natural Fish Tank
Creating an ethical aquarium is a fun and responsible adventure. Use the above guide to start your natural fish tank. Decide which tank system works best for you, find the right accessories, and then get started on creating your ecosystem.
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