Aquarium & Fishes

Guppy and 2 gold dust guppy at the background

The second Guppy which has yellow body

I bought a new 2 feet aquarium recently. In the aquarium, I placed 2 aquatic plants, 4 molly fishes and 2 guppies.

Supporting the aquarium are fish food, anti-chlorine, Qian Hu Supper Battle Bacteria 8000, 1 filter air pump, LED lights, 1 fish net, gravel and some pails.

My decision on the type of fishes were simple (i) must be hardy (ii) must be compatible with other fishes in the community (iii) should not easily jump out of aquarium (iv) must have some colours. I have wanted to buy the red swordtail fish as the colour was vibrant but the fish has a tendency to jump out of water. I may consider this choice if my aquarium has a cover.

The molly fish gave birth to 3 fry in the tank. It was pregnant prior to my purchase. The fry need to protect themselves by hiding in the crevices among the garvel. Both molly and guppies are livebearer. Generally, molly fishes swim in a group most of the time and they are quite active. The ones I have are orange in colour or some say gold dust. They are inexpensive and cost about S$1.50 each.

The science of rearing aquarium fishes includes bacteria that can convert ammonium (from waste of fishes) to nitrates that are less harmful to fishes. The frequency of water changes must also be considered and also the need to provide oxygen to the plants and fishes.

When I was a young boy, I had opportunity to keep a small aquarium with gold fishes, tiger barbs and guppies. They were not long lasting and died pretty fast.  I lost interest after fishes died.