To properly introduce tropical fish into a new aquarium, you need to acclimate them to the water's temperature. This is crucial for their health and well-being. Here's the correct procedure:
Acclimating Your Tropical Fish
The following steps are based on best practices and include information from the provided reference:
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Floating the Bag:
- Carefully place the sealed bag containing your new fish into your aquarium. Ensure the bag floats on the surface.
- Do not open the bag yet.
- The goal here is to equalize the water temperature in the bag to the temperature in the aquarium.
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Temperature Equalization:
- Let the bag float undisturbed for 15 minutes. This allows sufficient time for the water temperature in the bag to match the temperature of the aquarium water. This process reduces the stress of temperature shock on the fish.
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Opening the Bag:
- After 15 minutes, gently open the top of the bag, being very careful not to let any of the bag's water enter the aquarium.
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Releasing the Fish:
- Carefully release the fish into the aquarium from the bag.
Key Considerations
- Avoid Temperature Shock: Abrupt temperature changes can be extremely stressful, and often fatal, for fish. Taking the time to float the bag is essential for a smooth transition.
- Do Not Mix Water: The water your fish arrived in may have different parameters from your aquarium water. Avoid mixing the water in the bag with your aquarium water to prevent shock or disease transmission.
- Observe Your Fish: After releasing your fish, keep a close eye on them. Watch out for any signs of stress, illness, or aggression.
