Freshwater

Part II: Fish and How to Care for Them
In addition to telling you what makes fish tick, we run through all kinds of fish
species, detailing their behavior patterns, eating habits, and much more. On
top of all that, we offer some helpful tips on finding the right dealer from
whom to purchase your fish.
Taking care of your fish involves more than just sprinkling flakes into the tank
every morning on your way out the door. We explain what food options are
available, how to feed your aquatic pets properly, and tell you how to identify,
treat, and prevent many common illnesses.
Part III: Water, Chemicals, and Plants
A freshwater aquarium can really be outstanding with the addition of live
plants. Two chapters in this part give you the lowdown on plant species that
can make your aquarium more beautiful and also more hospitable for your
fish. You will check out some popular and beautiful plants and find out what
they need to stay healthy.
You also find out about how to make water safe for your aquarium, how to set
up your system, how the nitrogen cycle affects your new tank, and what to do
if you have a problem with your aquarium. We all have problems now and
then, but this is where you find solutions.
Part IV: Breeding and Other Fun Stuff
What do the birds and the bees have to do with fish? The chapters in this
part tell the breeding story. If you’re interested in getting your fish to mate,
this is where you find out how. You also learn how to keep track of your fish,
photograph them, and enter your aquatic pets into fish shows.
Once you have mastered the freshwater basics, we give you a quick glimpse
into the world of marine fishkeeping so that you will have other exciting
avenues to explore.
Part V: The Part of Tens
Introduction
This part consists of several fun lists. It’s sort of a way for us to squeeze a
bunch of extra information at the back of the book in as succinct a way as possible.
Here are some really cool and helpful aquarium gadgets, a few useful
aquatic New Year’s resolutions, and some often overlooked scientific fish laws.
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