Responsible fish keeping starts with how you set up your aquarium. Make sure that the aquarium can accommodate the fish you want. Many people believe that fish will swell to the size of the aquarium. Preventing them from growing to their fullest size by keeping them in a small tank is dangerous for the fish. Ultimately, you have to provide your fish a bigger tank if they outgrow their smaller tank.

Research the type of fish you plan to keep to determine what size aquarium you need to purchase. It is better to start with an aquarium of the appropriate size for your fish at their adult size, but if your fish outgrow their small tank, the responsible thing to do is upgrade their habitat to a larger aquarium.

Make sure that the fish you choose will be compatible with each other. Responsible fish keepers will not add different species to the same aquarium without first making sure that they will get along. Different fish have different requirements for pH, water temperature, and other measurements, too. Do not purchase too many fish for your tank, either. Just because they are small doesn't mean that several dozen of them can fit in your small aquarium.

If your aquarium becomes crowded with fish that have grown to adult size and aquatic plants, do not release them in just any body of water. People, unfortunately, sometimes dispose of their big fish this way. They will probably not survive a change of environment or if they did, might prey on local species instead.

A lot of tropical fish found in the aquarium cannot continue to live outside the aquarium especially in frigid waters. Releasing them in this environment is like giving them a death sentence. If you cannot afford an upgrade of your tank, returning your fish to the pet store is a better alternative.

Aside from the fish tank, you will also need a heater and water filter. These are essentials in your aquarium. The type of your water filter will be determined by the size of your tank. The type of the fish you plan to have will determine the type of heater you need.

Water changes and aquarium cleaning should still be done regularly even if you have a water filter attached. This is to ensure the highest water quality for your fish. Check the water weekly for the required pH, nitrites, and ammonia level. You can also reduce the maintenance required for your tank as well as reduce water changes by using EcoBio-Block Family products which help to keep your water clear and healthy with beneficial bacteria.

Small fish are often neglected when there are bigger fish around. All your fish should receive proper care and nourishment. Research their food requirements and give them only what is considered proper diet for them. Buy supplies only from aquarium stores that have good reputations. Ask pet stores for their recommendations.

Responsible fish keeping means making a commitment to keeping their environment as healthy as possible.

Leonard Boyler has been keeping fish for more than two decades. His favorite products make aquarium care and maintenance very easy from start up to clarifying cloudy aquarium water. To learn more about how you can keep your water clear and have healthy fish, please visit ONEdersave.com.