Pet fish are fascinating companions that appeal to a wide range of animal lovers, offering a unique alternative to traditional furry pets. Whether you have allergies or simply prefer aquatic life, a well-maintained fish tank can become a captivating focal point in your home, providing endless enjoyment with comparatively low maintenance.
In the UK, fish can be kept either outdoors in a pond or indoors in an aquarium. Outdoor ponds suit coldwater species like Koi Carp and goldfish, while indoor aquariums divide into three main types: coldwater, tropical, and marine. This guide focuses on indoor fishkeeping, providing advice especially helpful for prospective fish owners in the UK.
Fish can be suitable pets for many people, including those restricted by accommodation rules that may not allow other animals. Marine tanks, with their vibrant colours and beautiful coral, offer stunning displays but come with higher costs and care demands. Conversely, goldfish, often thought of as low maintenance, still require daily feeding and proper care; they are not "feed and forget" pets.
Before acquiring fish, consider these key questions to ensure responsible ownership:
Understanding the differences between the three main aquarium categories is vital:
Costs vary widely depending on tank type and species:
Except for marine fish, care is relatively straightforward, demanding daily feeding and weekly partial water changes and tank cleaning. Marine tanks require months to establish, careful gradual introduction of life forms, and weekly maintenance that can take several hours. Finding experienced caretakers for marine tanks during holidays can be challenging.
Fish diets in the wild vary from algae and plants to small marine life and other fish. In captivity, dried flakes or pellets are standard for convenience and nutrition. Supplemental frozen foods like larvae, bloodworms, and krill can also be beneficial, depending on species.
A fish tank must be established before introducing fish, allowing necessary bacteria for filtration and waste breakdown to colonise. This cycling process can take 1-2 weeks for coldwater and tropical tanks and several months for marine ones. Decorating with plants and ornaments before introduction helps mimic natural habitats and provides hiding places.
Weekly maintenance involves siphoning out some water for replacement with treated, dechlorinated fresh water, cleaning algae from tank glass, cleaning equipment, and removing debris. It is best to clean around the fish without removing them to minimise stress. Regular filter maintenance and water quality testing are also essential.
Fish can be robust when cared for properly but are susceptible to various infectious diseases if conditions are poor or if tanks are overcrowded. Always buy fish from reputable sellers maintaining good tank cleanliness and fish health. Avoid fish that exhibit poor buoyancy control, ragged fins, missing scales, or signs of fungus or spots. Overcrowding rapidly degrades water quality and should be avoided by opting for suitably sized tanks and species-appropriate stocking levels.
Regardless of fish type, you need a robust tank possibly supported by a sturdy stand capable of holding the water weight. For coldwater and tropical tanks, necessary equipment includes:
Marine tanks require much more specialized equipment detailed in dedicated marine care guides.
Modern fishkeeping recognises filtration as essential, even for species like goldfish, which used to be kept in bowls without filters leading to poor health and short lifespans. Filters help maintain clean water by processing waste, reducing toxins, and supporting fish well-being.
Fish are available in pet shops, garden centres, and specialist breeders including marine specialists. Consider buying fish from reputable, welfare-conscious sellers who maintain clean, appropriate tanks. Always check health indicators carefully and ask for care advice, ensuring you receive a receipt and understand any health guarantees.
Explore various options of fish for sale and adoption on Pets4Homes, where trustworthy breeders and owners offer healthy pet fish aligned with responsible ownership.
Transporting fish is delicate; usually, they are packed in water from their original tank into sealed plastic bags. To protect them: