Selecting Starter Fish for Your New Aquarium

It’s the moment of truth: You have the aquarium and all necessary equipment up and running. Now you are ready to cycle the tank. It’s time to add some fish. You remember seeing a fish you really liked at Naples Fish Store the other day. It was just beautiful and had really bright colors. But do you really want to spend $40 or $50 on a fish to cycle your new tank? Of course, the answer is a resounding NO.

It is much too risky to add an expensive fish to a brand-new aquarium. A reputable fish store, like Naples Fish Store, wouldn’t let you even consider it. When you are new to the hobby, there is still much to learn about species compatibility, water quality and temperature, and the entire cycling process.

The cycling period for a new aquarium must complete its process of establishing the biological filter base; however, this may result in high levels of ammonia and nitrites in the water. These conditions are toxic to fish as well as any other livestock in your tank. Considering that this threat looms for the first 30 days or so, it would be silly to put expensive fish in your tank during this time.

Here are some tips for making good tank starter-fish choices:

•  Start with inexpensive but hardy fish that are known to do well during the cycling process. Some of the best are Damsels, Chromis, and Clownfish. They come in an array of colors to make your aquarium attractive right from the start. Just remember that, over time, Damsels might become quite aggressive among themselves and  toward other tankmates.

•  Do not  introduce any sensitive invertebrates or corals into the tank at any time during the cycling process. 

•  Make yourself a “species list” – then learn as much as you can about each animal’s characteristics, dietary needs, compatibility issues, etc., before  buying anything.

Having patience at the beginning of your saltwater aquarium experience will pay off in beautiful, healthy fish that will bring enjoyment to you and your family for many years to come.