Page 21 2025 Animal Stories Lincoln Daily News February 2025 Be prepared to answer some of the following questions if wanting an aquarist to help determine the size and type of tank you will need: Location, Location, Location - • Once you set it up and fill your tank with water it will be exceedingly difficult to move it, so be diligent in how much room you have, your placement, and how much room surrounding it. For example, a 30-gallon fish tank full of water weighs approximately 348 lbs. and that is without the lighted lid, filters, heaters, décor, and fish. This is one of the most important steps. The location you choose should be decided upon very carefully. You will want to pick a place that gives you plenty of room with enough space to work and clean the tank. Hopefully, the main purpose of having this tank is to enjoy the whimsical fish and view the tank. Therefore, pick a place that fits the tank well while not letting it get in the way or in a location where it could get bumped into or tripped over. • Some new hobbyists will try to cut corners with equipment, but each piece is really necessary for a tank, especially a hood with LED lights. The hood will protect your fish from getting things accidentally dropped into the tank, hands and animals going fishing, will keep fish from jumping out of the tank (yes, this can really happen) and the light in the hood will allow a calming effect in the evenings for viewing. • Also, keep in mind that the tank placement needs to be away from direct sunlight, direct cold drafts, heat/cold air ducts, and near a GFI outlet or waterproof surge protector. If you have a great expense in the tank with expensive fish, it would be wise to consider a backup plan for electricity as tanks cannot survive very long without the air pump for oxygen and a thermometer to keep the temperature at an acceptable level. • You’ll also want to place this tank in an area where you can drain and fill the tank as needed without carrying water long distances. Cleaning out, exchanging water, cleaning, or changing filters or rock is a messy business and you want to be close to a sink, if possible, to cut down on the spillage. You will also need to place your tank at least half a foot from the wall to accommodate the filter you choose. • If you decide not to purchase a fish tank/ stand combo, then you will need to place the tank on a sturdy heavy table with four solid legs. Most tank/cabinet combos are built to be a smooth transition, by standing higher than a Continued --
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