Frequently Asked Questions
TROPICAL
MY FISH JUST ISN’T RIGHT!
“They are just hanging around and lethargic.”
This is usually down to poor water quality which is the cause of most aquatic diseases and problems, you should test the water with your test kit or ask our staff who will be happy to help you.
If you are unable to test the water straight away you should carry out a 30-40% water change and hold off feeding the fish until the water has been tested.
Be sure to check your water PH regularly as this is a common cause of unhappy fish. You should also check for Ammonia, Nitrite and Nitrate“They are swimming erratically”
If the fish are swimming erratically or seem to be scratching themselves against objects this may again be caused by poor water quality or they may be carrying parasites. Check the fish for small white spots on the fins, tail and body. If you can see any of these let our staff know and we will provide the treatment required.
NOTE:Remove all Carbon from filters when using treatments.
WHEN SHOULD I CHANGE THE WATER IN THE AQUARIUM ?
At Kaleidoscope we would recommend that you change 20-30% of your aquarium water every two weeks, but remember always to use a recommended water conditioner.
HOW CAN I GET RID OF ALGAE ?
Algae can some times be caused by excessive light, so reducing the time that your lights are on for can help.
There are also some chemical remedies that can be affective, as is the introduction of real plants into the aquarium. Ther are also algae eating fish to help keep the green menace down.
WHEN DO MY FILTERS NEED CLEANING ?
Kaleidoscope recommend that you clean your sponge filters in your Internal Power filters and hood based Trickle Filters monthly.
Your External Power Filters will need less frequent cleaning but we would recommend 6 to 8 weeks to correspond with the replacement of your Carbon Filter media. If you use Ceramic Filter media this too should be rinsed at this time.
If Under Gravel filters are being used then the Gravel should be cleaned using a Gravel Cleaner once a month.
NOTE: Always clean Filter Sponges in aquarium water and NEVER! under the tap.
It is also a good idea to use a Bacteria culture like Stress Zime.
WHEN SHOULD I FEED MY AQUARIUM FISH ?
With a new set up we recommend that you feed your fish sparingly once a day, but be sure to only feed them what they can consume in a few minutes.
Once your Aquarium has been established you should feed up to 3 times a day with small amounts.
There are many different types of food to choose from so remember to give your fishy friends as varied a diet as possible.
HOW MANY FISH CAN I KEEP IN MY AQUARIUM ?
This is a difficult question to answer as every fish keepers taste is different and each type of fish will need differing conditions, so please ask one of our staff and they will advise you on the conditions for your specific fish and aquarium set up.
HOW CAN I GET RID OF SNAILS ?
We believe in the Clown loach (which can be an efficient muncher of snails), but they can grow too big for some small tanks so some thought has to be given when purchasing.
Another way is to place some algae wafers under an upturned saucer or lid at night and then in the morning the gathered snails can be scooped up and disposed of.
There are chemicals available, but we have not found them to be effective.
