How to take care of a Fish

How to Take Care of a Fish – Complete Beginner’s Guide (MN Farms)
Keeping fish as pets is one of the most peaceful and rewarding experiences. They are beautiful, low-maintenance, and perfect for homes, offices, and beginners. But to keep your fish healthy and active, you need to provide the right environment, diet, and care.
Here is a professional and complete guide on how to take care of a fish.
1. Choose the Right Aquarium
The tank is the most important part of fish care.
✔ Recommended Tank Setup
For beginners: 20–40 litres
Bigger tanks are more stable and easier to maintain
Use a good-quality filter
Add gravel, plants, and decorations
Keep space for your fish to swim freely
A proper tank creates a stress-free environment and helps your fish stay active.
2. Maintain Clean and Healthy Water
Clean water = Healthy fish.
✔ Water Care Tips
Use dechlorinated or conditioned water
Maintain pH between 6.8 and 7.5 (varies by species)
Keep the temperature stable using a heater if needed
Change 20–30% of the water weekly
Avoid overcleaning the filter (clean only with old tank water)
Good water quality prevents infections and increases lifespan.
3. Choose the Right Fish Species
Not all fish are compatible or easy for beginners.
✔ Best Beginner Fish
Guppies
Mollies
Platies
Betta fish
Goldfish
Tetras
Always avoid overcrowding the tank to prevent stress and disease.
4. Provide Proper Nutrition
Feeding your fish the right food is essential.
✔ What to Feed
High-quality pellets or flakes
Frozen/live food (brine shrimp, bloodworms)
Veggie-based food, depending on the species
✔ Feeding Rules
Feed once or twice daily
Only give what they can eat in 1–2 minutes
Avoid overfeeding (causes ammonia poisoning)
Balanced nutrition keeps their colours bright and immunity strong.
5. Ensure Proper Lighting and Temperature
Every fish species requires suitable conditions.
✔ Basic Requirements
Keep the tank temperature stable (varies by species)
Use an aquarium light for 8–10 hours per day
Avoid keeping the tank in direct sunlight
Correct lighting supports plant growth and maintains fish activity.
6. Clean the Tank Regularly
A clean aquarium prevents most health issues.
✔ Cleaning Includes
Removing uneaten food
Cleaning glass walls
Vacuuming gravel
Changing partial water
Checking filter performance
Routine cleaning keeps ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates under control.
7. Monitor Your Fish’s Health
Healthy fish are active, colourful, and eat regularly.
✔ Watch for These Signs
Loss of appetite
Faded colors
Spots or patches
Clamped fins
Strange swimming patterns
If you notice any of these symptoms, quarantine the fish and consult a vet or expert.
8. Avoid Stressful Conditions
Fish get stressed easily.
✔ How to Reduce Stress
Do not tap on the glass
Avoid overcrowding
Maintain stable water parameters
Introduce new fish slowly
Provide hiding spots and plants
A stress-free environment helps fish live longer and stay active.
9. Use a Proper Filtration System
A good filter helps keep the water clean and oxygenated.
✔ Types of Filters
Sponge filters
Hang-on-back filters
Internal power filters
Canister filters
Choose a filter based on your tank size and fish species.
10. Regular Maintenance and Observation
Daily and weekly checks will keep your fish safe.
✔ Daily
Check temperature
Observe fish behaviour
Ensure the filter and air pump are working
✔ Weekly
Partial water change
Clean decorations lightly
Test water parameters
Maintenance is the key to a long-lasting aquarium.
Final Thoughts
Taking care of a fish is simple when you understand their basic needs. Provide clean water, proper food, a spacious tank, and regular maintenance — and your fish will live a healthy and peaceful life.
At MN Farms, we guide you with the best fish care tips, quality fish varieties, and complete aquarium solutions for beginners and hobbyists.