Cleaning an aquarium with fish and plants at home. Step-by-step process for cleaning an aquarium with fish at home Cleaning an aquarium at home with a siphon

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An aquarium is a great way to relax, an interior decoration, an opportunity to observe the life of your little silent pets. But, alas, he cannot live without cleaning. How to wash an aquarium? What is the best way to do it? With what frequency? What cleaning will not harm its inhabitants? We will answer all these questions below.

Here are some helpful tips:

• In fact, the aquarium is cleaned by any " chemistry"- from hozmyla to" Domestos". But you need to take into account an important point - the more aggressive the remedy, the more difficult it is to get rid of it completely. Leaving the container unwashed is detrimental to its inhabitants.
• Do not forget to clean not only the new aquarium, but also the decor, and the soil - colored crumbs, sand, quartz, gravel. Of course, we will not wash plant substrates.
• If you have a large aquarium, then it is cleaned at the installation site. Old water is pumped out with a pump and hose. " Chemistry"In this case, we will not apply - there is no way to wash it off. Use hydrogen peroxide from a pharmacy - it is safe for fish, does not require rinsing.

Cleaning tools

Magnetic brushes or scrapers for the aquarium.	What is the best way to clean aquarium walls? The tool is used when the walls are covered with a green coating or brown dots. Note that the innovation should be applied very carefully - if at least a grain of sand gets between it and the glass, there is a great chance to scratch the surface. Careless, inattentive cleaning with scrapers leads not only to an ugly aesthetic appearance. Remember that under the pressure of water, a scratch can develop into a crack, which already threatens with a flood and a catastrophe for the inhabitants.
Sponge for washing dishes	Ideal for everyday cleaning. Remarkably, the tool has a soft and hard side. First, we carry out general wiping, the second - we fight pollution. It is almost impossible to damage the walls of the aquarium with a sponge - after all, you work with your own hands and feel the force of pressing and pressure. In addition, if a soil microparticle gets on the glass, it is unlikely that it will threaten the appearance of a scratch. After washing, the sponge must be rinsed under running water and dried!
Toothbrush	Great for cleaning walls and decor. With a toothbrush, you can clean mini aquariums, small parts without fear.

Now let's move on to the schedule of aquarium washing processes.

Cleaning a new aquarium

After you have bought a new fish house, it must be cleaned before starting the inhabitants. This is the necessary procedure. As, in principle, for any thing after purchase. After all, it is not known where it was in the warehouse, how thoroughly it was cleaned in the window, and whether it was covered with road dust during transportation. New aquarium - how to wash it?

The first cleaning is quite simple - here are her instructions:

1. It is best to wash in the bathroom.
2. Lay out towels or cloth in advance. After all, an aquarium is an extremely fragile container that can easily slip out of your hands when wet.
3. What is the easiest way to clean a new aquarium? Get your brush ready or dish sponge) and baking soda.
4. Place the aquarium carefully on a cloth and pour hot water from the shower over it.
5. We tell further how and how to wash a new aquarium. Sprinkle some baking soda on a brush or sponge and start wiping the walls inside and out with this tool.
6. After such cleaning, rinse the container several times to wash off all the remnants of soda from it. You can carefully lay it on its side to rinse all the walls.
7. The last stage of the action how to clean a new aquarium” is the most responsible. You need to very carefully remove the container from the bathroom. We recommend asking a friend for help.
8. That's all, the aquarium for turtles and fish is ready for further installation.

Scheduled cleaning

Aquarists advise cleaning the fish house at least once a week. Don't worry - completely drain the water, you don't need to remove the soil! This is harmful - so you disturb the biological balance.

Weekly, we will clean the aquarium for turtles and fish like this:

1. The first step is to get all the installed equipment - thermoregulation, aeration, filter. All this is put aside.
2. Clean the plants, trim them if necessary.
3. How else can you wash the aquarium? Sponge or special wipers-scrapers.
4. If necessary, you can siphon the soil. There is no need to clean it every week.
5. Change of water - instead of the old, fresh is added.
6. Clean the equipment and return it to its place.
7. Finally, wash the outside of the aquarium and dry it with a clean cloth.

Advice! Do not forget to clean the lid and lamps of the aquarium at least once a month.

Cleaning in an emergency

Unfortunately, it also happens that an infection is introduced into the aquarium, which results in the death of its inhabitants. Here, simply washing will not be enough. We need total disinfection.

For this purpose, the aquarium is filled to the very brim with a solution of a disinfectant (some examples are in the photo). Please note that not all household chemicals have a disinfectant property. Therefore, it is worth looking at the label before use.

"Potassium permanganate" Formalin "Chlorine"
Chloramine Sulfuric acid Hydrochloric acid

How to wash an old aquarium effectively in this case? Aquarists recommend using the following:

• Potassium permanganate solution.
• formalin solution.
• bleach solution.
• Chlorine solution.
• A solution of sulfuric or hydrochloric acid.

After disinfection, the aquarium is washed very thoroughly and left for disinfection for a day. And the entire inventory is better to be subjected to heat treatment. Namely, boil.

The video in this article will tell you a number of tips on the topic.

Advice! If mycobacteriosis is noticed, then the aquarium is filled with a solution of washing powder with the calculation of 0.5 kg of the product per 30 liters of water.

Detail cleaning

Now let's consider more special cases.

From algae

Whatever flora lives in your aquarium, the appearance of brown and green dots on its inner walls, as well as plaque, is not good. This is a sign of poor water quality. Lower algae can appear here for several reasons - overpopulation of the aquarium, large amounts of ammonia, dirt, nitrites, nitrates, lack of the proper number of green inhabitants, untimely water replacement.

It is worth fighting the problem with the help of special means ( how to clean the aquarium from greenery):

• Algaecide preparations. Popular examples that can be easily found in pet stores: UDO Ermolaeva Algicide + CO2, Tetra Aqua Algo Stop depot.
• How to wash algae from the aquarium yet? Whiteness or bleach solution. All green decorations in the aquarium are soaked in these substances. After processing, they must be washed very, very carefully under running water and dried.
• The most important thing is to eliminate the cause of the situation. This is a decrease in daylight hours, as well as the density of fish settlement, an increase and more frequent changes in water.

From limescale

For what reason does it appear water stone» from inside:

• Too much fish food.
• Use of hard water.
• Absence of living plants.
• Use of unsettled and unfiltered water.

This whitish layer is salts deposited on the glass surface as a result of liquid evaporation. You can get rid of it in the following ways - how to wash the plaque in the aquarium:

• mechanical cleaning. Use a special scraper with hard bristles ( but not metal), the abrasive side of a kitchen sponge, a plastic scraper, an old toothbrush ( for hard to reach places).
• Special chemicals for cleaning glass from limescale, sold in stores. Be sure to thoroughly rinse the substance before launching the fish.

How to wash the aquarium from limescale yet? You can also use folk remedies. But before using them, it is important to free the aquarium from fish:

• Lemon acid. Dilute 20 g of powder in 1 glass of water, mix thoroughly. Pour the mixture into a spray bottle and spray the aquarium walls with it. Leave for 15 minutes. Then rinse thoroughly.
• Ammonia. Dilute the substance in a ratio of 1:10 in water. Clean the surface with this solution.
• Acetic acid. An excellent answer to the question "How to wash the aquarium from plaque?" Dilute one tablespoon in one glass of water. Apply the product with a spray bottle or a rag.

Filter cleaning

Many are interested in how to rinse the filter from the aquarium. Let's just say that cleaning the filter is a simple matter. It is not done regularly, but as needed - when the device starts to work poorly.

bottom cleaning

Again, this operation is carried out as pollution, sludge formation. It is produced using a special apparatus - an aquarium siphon, available in most pet stores.

The first cleaning of the soil is carried out a month after you launch the fish. Further, the degree of its contamination is quite simple to determine - turn the substrate and feel what smell comes from the risen bubbles. If they smell like rotten eggs, the soil urgently needs to be cleaned.

When cleaning, you do not need to plant fish, as well as with an incomplete water change. How and with what to wash the soil in the aquarium? Stick the siphon into the substrate to the base and methodically clean the area. Only after the water in the tip of the device is clear can the cylinder head be moved further.

Recall that the cleaning procedure should be completed by adding fresh, settled water and cleaning the walls of the aquarium from the outside.

Advice! Some aquarists prefer to clean the substrate without a siphon. Then how to wash the soil in the aquarium? The substrate is transferred to a bucket, which is placed under a powerful stream of running water. From time to time you need to turn the soil in order to thoroughly clean it.

decor cleaning

Any scenery in the aquarium needs to be cleaned over time from overgrown algae, dirt - stones, shells, driftwood, figurines. The easiest way is to take them out of the container and clean them by hand.

1. Artificial corals, stones and ceramics are easiest to whiten with "Whiteness". Dilute the product in water in a ratio of 1:10. Soak the decor for 1-2 hours depending on the degree of soiling. After that, it should be thoroughly rinsed under running water until the smell of chlorine disappears. Otherwise, you risk poisoning the fish.
2. We will tell you how to wash the stones for the aquarium. They are cleaned like this: while they are wet, they are sprinkled with a sufficient amount of soda. It can be rubbed with a brush to form a kind of gruel. Leave for half an hour, then brush again, rinse with soda. Even if particles of algae remain on the decor after this, the vegetation will disappear in 1-2 days.
3. Sea corals are boiled before being placed in the aquarium. But it’s better not to do this with shells - you will remove all mother-of-pearl. Then how to wash the shells from the aquarium? The easiest way is to use a slightly non-standard way - to put the treasure in an anthill for several hours. Insects are guaranteed to free it from organic matter.

Cleaning artificial plants

Do not use strong toxic products for such decor! It is not necessary to clean it all at once, but gradually, in order to harm beneficial bacteria colonies as little as possible.

Here are great methods - how to wash the greens in the aquarium:

• Boiling water. One of the simple, effective and safe ways. Soak the plant in boiling water for 10-15 minutes. From snails and remaining algae, clean it with a scraper.
• Bleach. Not all artificial algae will withstand such exposure. For many, the substance threatens discoloration. But high-quality samples are covered with a special varnish, which helps to preserve the color of the plant when exposed to bleach. You need to use a 10% solution of the agent ( 1 part bleach to 9 parts water). In it, artificial plants are aged for 15 minutes. Then they are placed in ordinary water for the same amount. Then - a thorough rinsing in the flow.
• Iodized salt and lemon juice. How to wash the plants in the aquarium yet? Such a composition will perfectly clean the silk decor. Before cleaning, we recommend rinsing the plants in hot water. After it - under the flow.

So we figured out how to rinse the aquarium. As you can see, care is not very difficult. The main thing is to produce it in a timely manner so as not to harm aquatic inhabitants.

10/18/2017 1 4 748 views

Watching the life of aquarium inhabitants is fascinating and soothing. Therefore, many, with a burning desire to have such beauty at home, are interested in how to properly clean an aquarium with fish at home.

Why wash a freshly bought aquarium?

A new, freshly bought aquarium needs a thorough cleaning. For all the time that he was in warehouses and stores, a lot of dust and dirt accumulated in him. And this is not the best way to affect the life of fish.

• place the aquarium in the bath;
• place a wooden stand or something soft on the bottom of the tub. This is to protect the enamel of the item;
• Sprinkle baking soda on a sponge
• carefully rub the walls of the tank;
• rinse abundantly with warm water;
• let the aquarium dry.

These manipulations will be enough to populate the wards in a new aquarium. In addition to baking soda to remove dirt from the aquarium, any chemistry will do, whether it be Domestos, comets or ordinary bleach. It is important to carefully remove the substance from the glasses. Even a microscopic particle can kill fish.

How to properly clean an aquarium?

1. Wall cleaning.
2. Bottom wiping.
3. Filter purge

Wall cleaning

Most of the problems arise when cleaning glasses. Since the process requires a lot of patience and time. Use a scraper or regular plastic card. Go through all the rises.

This procedure must be performed on time, as having missed it for the first time, the growths will be more difficult to eliminate. And even more so, not a single snail or cleaner fish can cope with them. Do not use detergents to clean glass. This will be detrimental to pets.

1. Pollution from algae and soil is well removed with a special scraper.
2. If the scraper doesn't do the job, use a blade.
3. Dirt on the lid and the outer part of the walls, wash with a damp sponge.

To facilitate the task will help special solutions. They can be purchased at the pet store. They are completely safe for fish.

It is worth noting that cleaning an aquarium with an established biological balance must be done with a scraper. If the water in the aquarium is fresh, use a clean foam sponge. This will prevent the formation of bacterial turbidity.

• move down the glass;
• upon reaching the ground, firmly press the sponge to the glass;
• slowly return to the top;
• rinse the sponge in water;
• repeat the operation until the windows are completely clean.

Wiping the bottom

Waste from the life of fish and food residues settle in the ground even with a good filter. The decay process begins. The balance is broken. The algae are starting to grow. A special device, a siphon, helps prevent rotting and stagnation of the soil. Siphons differ:

• size;
• form;
• functionality.

However, the purpose of any siphon is to clean the soil from a large amount of contaminants. The product works on the principle of water flow. In this way, the soil is cleared of the light parts of the waste, while the heavy parts are returned to their place. As a result, the flow of water carries away all the dirt. Soil and water are cleared. Algae growth slows down. To clean the soil with a siphon, you need to use a lot of water. Therefore, it is reasonable to combine cleaning with a partial replacement. Thus, you can kill two birds with one stone. Clean the soil and add clean water.

For the herbalist, surface cleaning of the soil is carried out, since the siphon cannot always reach hard-to-reach areas. This is a big minus, since harmful substances are formed in herbalists due to the decay of the plants themselves. In addition, the soil in such aquariums is usually covered with silt. This serves as a good stimulation for plant growth.

1. Dip the siphon into the aquarium water and drain the required amount into a container. It can be a bucket, a pan or a basin. If you do not need to defend the water, drain immediately into the sink.
2. When pumping water from the aquarium, keep an eye on the fish, soil and plants. Together with dirt, they can get into the siphon and suffer.
3. Take care of the decorations, gravel or sand at the bottom of the aquarium. Thoroughly rinse the material that is located at the bottom. It is necessary to remove all food, small parts from plants and other waste that was formed from the life of fish, snails.
4. Use a gravel vacuum. Position it at the bottom of the aquarium. While siphoning, clean the water and soil from any foreign contaminants.
5. Rinse plants, wood decorations. The aquarium and its accessories can be cleaned with an algae scraper. However, if the pollution is strong, for example, a green coating or a black beard, it is better to use a sink for washing. In this case, any cleaners, including soap, are prohibited. As a last resort, use a mixture of water and salt to clean the aquarium components.
6. Let the decorations dry thoroughly before placing them in the aquarium.

Filter purge

Cleaning the filter cannot be combined with washing the decorations and changing the water. A sudden change in the balance of the aquatic environment can harm the fish and aquarium plants. Wash the external filter and the internal filter at least twice a month.

• disassemble the filter;
• using a toothbrush and water, go through its parts;
• Rinse the absorbent sponge separately.

General cleaning of the aquarium

Many beginner aquarists are concerned about the question, how often should a general cleaning of the aquarium be carried out? Experts do not advise completely washing the aquarium more than once every five years. However, there are times when general cleaning may be required earlier. For example, if a black beard has settled in an aquarium and special products do not bring tangible results.

1. Turn off all electrical equipment. Lighting fixtures can be left.
2. Drain one third of the water. In the future, it will need to be poured into the aquarium in order to establish biological balance.
3. Pour some more into another container.
4. Remove plants carefully. It is important not to damage the root system and not to raise the turbidity from the bottom.
5. Rinse each leaf carefully under the tap. Remove leaves that have begun to rot. Place in a container with old aquarium water.
6. Let the water that remains in the aquarium stand for 15 minutes.
7. Use a hose to collect dirt and drain most of the water. Leave the volume in which it was more convenient to catch fish in order to transplant into another tank.
8. As a reservoir, use a container with a large surface area of ​​water. This will allow the fish to stay without blowing for a long time.
9. Before catching fish, remove large objects from the aquarium.
10. Transplant the fish into a basin and cover with glass on top.
11. Drain off any remaining water.
12. Remove and thoroughly rinse the soil. If any infections are found, hold the soil in boiling water. However, it is better to replace with a new one.
13. Wash the aquarium with clean water using a sponge or washcloth. However, it is not recommended to use any detergents.
14. Place the soil in a clean aquarium.
15. Restore filters. Plant your plants. Refill with old water. Place the fish. Top up with clean distilled water.
16. Install the aquarium equipment and connect it.

Video: How to clean an aquarium with fish at home?

Many lovers of aquarium fish are wondering if it is worth cleaning the bottom in an aquarium at all, because in nature no one does this in natural reservoirs, plants grow remarkably and fish swim. The fact is that, compared with natural reservoirs, the aquarium has a small volume, and uneaten food and fish feces that have fallen into the water pollute the water, thereby giving the green light for the development of pathogenic microbes. Therefore, cleaning the aquarium is an important and integral part of keeping fish.

Siphon hose

Cleaning the aquarium is carried out using special filters, however, they do not always do their job well.

The best thing in this business will be cleaning the bottom with a siphon tube. It consists of a hose, on one side of which there is a rubber pear, and on the other - a plastic expander with a mesh at the end, so that a fish swimming by does not inadvertently suck into it.

Cleaning the bottom of the aquarium does not take too much time, but it must be done carefully. Before proceeding with it, it is necessary to remove large stones and snags from the aquarium, as well as plants that can be accidentally damaged during the cleaning process. First, we scrape off the dirt from the walls of the aquarium with a special scraper. When all the turbidity falls to the bottom, you can proceed to the cleaning itself.

We clean the bottom

We take a siphon hose and begin to drive it along the perimeter of the aquarium, draining all the dirt into a bucket. Do not be afraid, we clean the bottom in the aquarium carefully, since all its cleanliness and beautiful appearance depend on it. It is necessary to move the pebbles with the end of the hose in order to collect the remnants of food and feces stale under them.

If the siphon tube is not at hand, you can use a regular rubber hose. In this case, the suction of water should be done with a rubber pear or just with your mouth. But you need to be careful and do it quickly so as not to inadvertently swallow dirty water from the aquarium.

Be that as it may, cleaning the bottom of the aquarium must be carried out at least once a month, while changing 30% of the water from its total volume.

And it should be remembered that the cleanliness of the aquarium is not only its beautiful appearance, but also the guarantee of the health of its inhabitants.

Proper aquarium cleaning

How to clean the aquarium yourself?

Perhaps, any aquarium owner will agree that cleaning the aquarium is a very important, necessary and responsible event. The main purpose of aquarium cleaning is to maintain a natural habitat for fish, and, of course, the aesthetic beauty of the aquarium itself. If you are faced with this issue for the first time - do not worry, there is nothing complicated in this. Simple tips will tell you how to properly clean the aquarium without spending too much on calling biologists and special tools. You will learn how to clean your artificial pond from unnecessary pollution and give it a healthy look.

Where to start?

First of all, you must clearly realize that any cleaning of the aquarium is stressful for its inhabitants. Therefore, try not to particularly disturb or frighten the fish with sudden movements.

If you were planning to rearrange the aquarium or replace the plants, it is best to combine this procedure with the cleaning of your aquarium. The use of any detergent chemicals is strictly prohibited. Before the procedure itself, you can buy equipment for cleaning the aquarium in specialized stores, for example, a special siphon. If the means do not allow this, then improvised materials can be used.

How to clean aquarium walls

Any cleaning should start with cleaning aquarium glass. How we will see the aquarium itself depends on the purity of the glass. Small algae and micro-organisms constantly appear on the glass, which makes it difficult to see and makes the aquarium itself sloppy. You can clean the walls of the aquarium using special scrapers, a nylon washcloth or an ordinary kitchen sponge.

You can cope with this task not only with the help of special tools. Some types of fish, such as ancistrus or snails, can simply eat light pollution. However, there is a drawback in this method: paths from eaten algae may remain on the walls.

How to clean the bottom of an aquarium

At the second stage of cleaning the aquarium, we proceed to clean the soil. In this section, we will talk about how to clean the soil from the accumulated remains of food and excrement, because it is at the bottom that all these impurities accumulate. Before you get started, make sure it's really necessary. To do this, it is enough to stir up the soil with something. If bubbles start to rise from the bottom, then you need to clean it.

This aquarium cleaning procedure will be greatly facilitated and painless for fish by a soil cleaner. It consists of a flexible hose with a diameter of 15 mm and a glass or metal tip, which must be driven along the bottom, periodically pressing deep into. Water with all impurities will flow through the nozzle through the hose. It is very important to monitor the amount of drained water, its volume should not be more than a fifth of the total volume of the aquarium. This is the amount of water you have to add later.

When cleaning the soil, try not to damage the roots of plants, this can lead to their death. We must not forget that our goal is not only to clean the aquarium, but also to preserve all living things in it.

We clean the water

Water purification will help refresh the water and remove any accumulated harmful substances for the fish. In order not to expose the inhabitants of the aquarium to unnecessary stress by a sharp change of water, it is necessary to partially replace the water 1-2 times a week, and also after cleaning the soil, 25% of the total volume of the aquarium. Water for replacement should be settled for 2-3 days.

If the aquarium is not covered, a film may form on the surface of the water. It is also an important process in cleaning. You can remove it with a piece of paper, the size of the surface of the aquarium. Holding the sheet by the edges, it is necessary to dip it horizontally into the water, and then, slowly lift it along with this film. If necessary, repeat the procedure several times.

It is very important not to forget about the aquarium filter during complex cleaning of the aquarium. As a rule, the filter elements of the filter are made of foam rubber, and to clean them, it is enough to rinse thoroughly under running warm water. And the mechanism itself during disassembly can be cleaned with a toothbrush or sponge.

Now you know how best to clean the aquarium without harming its inhabitants. Needless to say, how proper cleaning will prolong the life and improve the health of fish? After all, what could be more beautiful than satisfied residents and happy, enchanted looks of their owners.

How to clean an aquarium - secrets and tricks

How many articles have been written about this, how many have been said ... but still people are interested in this issue. Our site also has a fairly complete article about HOW TO WASH THE AQUARIUM.

In this article, I would like to focus on the methods and means of cleaning the aquarium.

So, first of all, the walls (glasses) of the aquarium are cleaned. This action should be carried out if the walls of the aquarium are rummaged, for example, with green dots or brown bloom. To do this, you can use special magnetic scrubs or brushes for aquariums. Like these ones:

Such magnetic brushes for aquariums do their job very well -

literally in a matter of seconds, they clean off all algal green and brown fouling from the aquarium glass

However, it is worth noting that they need to work very carefully. Alas, if even a small grain of sand gets under the magnetic scraper, they can seriously scratch the glass of the aquarium. If you don’t notice this in time, then you can end up with the Harm Kruger aquarium - all scratched and slashed.

Such careless or inattentive cleaning can lead not only to a violation of the aesthetic appearance of the aquarium, but also to the development of scratches into cracks, and these are serious things, threatening flood!!!

Therefore, if your aquarium is not very deep and there is no need to rub it to the point of insanity, I recommend using softer and more elastic materials. For example, here are such sponges for washing dishes:

Such a sponge has a soft and hard side, which is very convenient - you can carry out general wiping with the soft side, and rub the more contaminated places with the hard side. With this method of cleaning the aquarium, the risk of scratching is minimal. Firstly, because you carry out all the manipulations with your hand and feel tactilely all your actions. Secondly, even if a grain of sand gets under the sponge, it is unlikely to scratch the glass.

After using the sponge in the aquarium, it should be rinsed under the tap and left to dry until the next time.

There is another "miracle thing" invented by mankind and which is widely used to clean the aquarium, its name is TOOTHBRUSH!

Toothbrush, an indispensable thing for cleaning the walls and green aquarium decor. It is especially useful in nano (small) aquariums and Amanov's herbalists, where you need to work with small objects and carefully.

IT SHOULD BE NOTED that all aquariums are different, and each has different hydrobionts, but the excessive appearance of green and brown dots or plaque in the aquarium is a signal not very good condition of the aquarium namely poor water quality. Green and brown plaque are algae, lower plant organisms that appear at the first opportunity: dirt, overcrowding of the aquarium, high concentrations of ammonia, nitrites and nitrates, lack of sufficient living plant biomass, lack of proper water changes ... these are just some of the most common causes aquarium greening.

What to do in such cases? First, use algicide-containing preparations for algae, sold in all pet stores. For example, the widely used Tetra Aqua Algo Stop depot or, for example, UDO Ermolaeva Algicide + CO2. Secondly, all green decorations (stones, grottoes, plastic) can be removed from the aquarium and soaked in whiteness (chlorine), then rub them thoroughly and after !!!very, very carefully!!! Rinse in clean, running water several times. Thirdly, you need to eliminate the cause of the excessive appearance of algae: resettle fish, increase the frequency and volume of water changes, reduce daylight hours, and so on.

To clean the aquarium, you can also include cleaning the filter and the siphon of the aquarium bottom.

It is not difficult to wash the filter - this manipulation should be carried out as needed, i.e. when the filter starts to fail. At the same time, it is advisable to wash sponges or other filter materials in a bowl of aquarium water. Thus, you will cause less damage to the beneficial colony of bacteria that has formed in the filter. An example of filter cleaning, see this ARTICLE.

As for the siphon of the aquarium bottom, such a manipulation should also be carried out as it gets dirty, "silted up" the aquarium bottom. It is carried out using an aquarium siphon, which can also be purchased at any pet store. See - The best siphons for an aquarium

After you have cleaned the walls and aquarium decorations, siphoned the soil, washed and installed the filter and other equipment, you should change or add fresh, settled water and after that, wipe the aquarium from the outside with a dry cloth, while you can use a glass cleaner. Aquarium cleaning completed!

How to clean an aquarium video examples

How to clean the soil in the aquarium?

An aquarium is not just a beautiful interior detail, it is also a complex biological system with its own hierarchy. And in order for this colorful part of the living world to please with its beautiful view every day, it is necessary not only to create favorable conditions for the inhabitants, but also to carry out regular and thorough cleaning of the aquarium.

Water change

First of all, a novice aquarist should be aware that cleaning the aquarium will require a lot of effort and time, but it's worth it.

The whole procedure must begin with a water change. You should not change it all, it will be enough to replace only 30%. To do this, we take a hose with a special funnel at the end and lower one end to the bottom of the aquarium, and the other into a bucket where we will drain unnecessary water.

Cleaning the bottom and soil

A lot of sewage accumulates at the bottom of the aquarium. To get rid of them, you can use the same hose with a funnel to drain the water, or you can clean it with a special pear with a rubber or glass tip, lowering it to the bottom.

It should be remembered that this is a very powerful device for removing dirt from the aquarium, therefore, you need to be careful with it so that a fish does not inadvertently get sucked into it.

Thus, the soil of the aquarium is cleaned from the remnants of food and accumulated debris. Cleaning must be done carefully, you do not need to lower and keep the hose in one place, we collect garbage around the entire perimeter of the aquarium. This procedure may require transplanting plants, since it is necessary to clean the entire soil, and not a certain part of it.

Many are interested in: “How to clean the soil in the aquarium” so that there is no turbidity in the water?” The answer is simple - no way. In any case, it will settle after we fill the aquarium with clean water and let it settle a little.

General cleaning of the aquarium

Once a year, when making a general cleaning of the aquarium, it is necessary to get all the soil and carefully process it.

It will be enough to do this by putting the soil in a colander and rinse under running water, then boil for about an hour over low heat. Thus, the soil will be cleared of microorganisms harmful to fish and plants.

In any case, do not forget that the appearance, and most importantly, the health of its inhabitants, depends on the cleanliness of the aquarium. In a beautiful and clean aquarium, any fish will appear before the owner in all its glory.

How to clean the wall of the aquarium:: how to clean the plexiglass from white plaque:: Animals:: Other

Proper care of the fish living in your aquarium at home includes not only nutrition, lighting, providing flora, but also timely thorough cleaning of the walls of the aquarium. Follow the recommendations, and you will always be satisfied with the state of the water corner of nature.

The question "Why are cats not a product when there are already reviews about them" - 1 answer

Instruction

1. On the walls of the aquarium, especially in its upper part, as a rule, lime deposits always accumulate. And often there are so many of them that a simple brush and hot water will no longer help. Better take a blade or a razor. This machine is very convenient to clean plaque. It is clear that such cleaning should be carried out in the absence of the inhabitants of the aquarium.

2. Try this method too. Take a small cloth and table salt. Thanks to them, you will clean the plaque from algae. With intensive mechanical movements, simply remove unwanted contaminants.

3. Buy a hard washcloth from the hardware store, metal is better. Walk with a washcloth along the walls of the aquarium, plaque and deposits will quickly be cleaned off. But there are some downsides here. The glass can be scratched and imperfections will spoil the look of the aquarium.

4. Get a special scraper (glass cleaner) for the aquarium, it delicately cleans the glass surface. His price is quite affordable.

5. Drain completely the water from the aquarium. Soak a sponge or cloth in table vinegar and rub the inside. This method is effective, most importantly, after such a procedure, thoroughly rinse the aquarium.

6. The thinner the plaque, the less you have to sweat when cleaning it. Do not run the aquarium so much that later, unable to cope with strong pollution, throw it away. Plexiglas aquariums are the most difficult to clean. Be very careful during the cleaning procedure, do not scratch the walls.

7. Wash the walls of the aquarium at least once a month, both inside and out. Do not use household detergents and fine sand that are harmful to the inhabitants of the aquarium. Check contamination regularly.

8. Sucker fish and snails will help keep the inside walls of the aquarium clean.

Related videos

Useful advice

Try to soften the water, and you won't have to clean the walls of the aquarium very often.

How to completely clean the aquarium?

ANDREY BOLOD

many did not notice that the jar is only 25 liters! two pots of 10 liters are enough for cleaning,
half of the water (clean without dirt) into one, after washing the heater there (if it drags on for a long time) and transplant the fish, cover with something, in the dark the fish are less nervous, let the dirt settle in the second water,
the rest can be slowly washed, scraped, wiped and all sorts of things.
a small jar - you can take it to the bathroom, put it on a stool and wash it in the shower, first with soda, then with running water, the filter is also washed but without soda (beneficial bacteria live on the sponge - they must be preserved) the soil is simply rinsed, we inspect the plants, rinse, remove the spoiled and excess , collect in reverse order:
1 we lay the soil, plant the plants,
2 pour water from the second pan but without sediment (it can be used as a fertilizer for indoor)
3 put the heater and filter (the last turn on when there is enough water)
4 add water from the first pan (in your case, 4/5 should work)
5 when there is little water in the pan, we catch fish, it’s easier, and we put them in an aquarium
6 add fresh water from the tap in a thin stream, or settled
but!! ! such a procedure is often not necessary - this is a general cleaning!
and once every two weeks, 5 liters were drained through a siphon with mud from the bottom and immediately topped up with fresh
good mood and do not look for unnecessary worries!

CHRIS

catch the fish and plant somewhere else completely wash the aquarium, wash everything you can wash, just wash it under running water, and draw water in advance into a clean vessel and let it stand for several hours so that the bleach settles and fill the aquarium, if the aquarium is not washed then all precipitation gradually turns into poison and fish can die or get sick

Acca - Fairy Ideas

everything is completely removed from the aquarium only in case of a serious infection.
If the fish are healthy, then a simple cleaning is enough.
to start with a clean new dish sponge, wipe the glass from the inside.
For the bottom, it is desirable to use a siphon. But for starters, you can use a regular hose. The main task is to collect leftover food and poop. At the same time, about half of the aquarium water can be drained. (we divide the height of the water column from the ground in half) Rinse the filter thoroughly in this water. All decorative elements can be washed under running cool water without chemicals.
Now we fill the aquarium with water (preferably settled) using the same hose.

PS: if your soil is higher than 10 cm and there are no plants, then acidification is possible and it is better to remove part of it.

Elena Surmach

To the above, I can add that the aquarium is completely cleaned about 1 time per year, and about 25% of the water is changed every week.
Come to our aquarium community http://my.mail.ru/community/aqvamiir/

Igor Frolov

Try to save more of the old aquarium water, rinse everything, fill in the old water, add new water and you're done. In general, this is done when there are very big problems with aqua, and if everything is fine, ordinary cleaning is enough - siphoning the soil, replacing a third of the water once a week

How to properly clean the bottom and walls of the aquarium

How to properly clean an aquarium

Elena Perevalova

Aquarium care, aquarium maintenance, how often should an aquarium be cleaned?

Proper care of the aquarium consists in its periodic cleaning, care of aquarium water, soil, plants and its inhabitants.

For a small-capacity aquarium, weekly cleaning of the aquarium from food residues and other waste products of its inhabitants is necessary. Large capacity aquarium can be cleaned once a month. The bottom of the aquarium should also be cleaned at least once a month.

To clean the aquarium, use a rubber hose with a diameter of 10-12 mm with a glass or metal tip. The length of the hose is about 1 meter. Aquariums of small capacity can be easily cleaned with a siphon. The siphon is a glass tube with an inner diameter of up to 6 mm, which is connected to a rubber bulb. Dirt is collected from the bottom of the aquarium by pumping water with a pear.

In the daily care of the aquarium, it is necessary to remove the remnants of fish food from it. If 10 minutes have passed after giving food, and it has not been eaten by fish, then this means that the portion of food is too large. Excess food must be removed from the aquarium: from the surface of the water with a net, from the bottom of the aquarium with a siphon.

If the aquarium is not properly maintained, fish food residues lead to cloudy water. In this case, using a rubber hose and a siphon, it is necessary to collect debris from the lower layer of water, where dirt mainly accumulates. The fish are not fed with dry food for 2-4 days, the aquarium is purged with air. After such cleaning of the aquarium, the oxidation processes stop, and the water becomes clear again.

The content of the aquarium depends on the season. For example, in the spring, the aquarium is partially replaced with water and plants are transplanted. Caring for an aquarium in the autumn consists in thinning out growing vegetation, removing weak and sick fish, cleaning the soil, pebbles, snags, adjusting the lighting and thermostat. With such events, fish must be removed from the aquarium. Therefore, it is necessary to have additional containers in which it will be possible to temporarily keep the fish. In extreme cases, plastic bags are also suitable, but you can’t keep fish in them for a long time, as they can suffocate.

Cleaning an aquarium is a good time to change or update its "interior". However, try to combine all significant "rearrangements" in the aquarium with cleaning, as frequent transplants do not benefit the fish. If you bought some new decorative item for the aquarium, then you do not need to transplant the fish.

Aquarium care

Aquarium cleaning - Articles - Aquariums

Proper aquarium cleaning | Beginner aquarists

Night Wanderer

It all depends on the size. The larger the aquarium, the less often you need to clean it. During general cleaning, you need to transplant the fish into another container, spacious enough for their minimum daily stay. Then rake and rinse the soil, rinse the plants, wash the aquarium itself. Fill with soil, fill with settled water for at least a day (if there is a filter on the tap, if not, stand for 3 days), plant vegetation. In this form, the aquarium should stand for at least 10 hours. Then start the fish. Once a week (less often, I do it once every 3 weeks - lazy;) you need to clean the bottom of the aquarium with a siphon - a special "vacuum cleaner" that sucks water from the bottom along with excrement. At the same time, you need to drain the water by a third and add a new settled one. And do not overfeed the fish, this will quickly clog the water.

All owners of aquarium fish know how important it is to keep everything clean. Dirty water can not only harm the health of the inhabitants, but completely destroy them. It is much easier to keep the aquarium clean if there are cleaner fish among the inhabitants. They are unpretentious in care and get along with most other species.

What are they needed for?

Over time, a plaque of algae forms on the walls and bottom of the aquarium. This process leads to a decrease in light inside and spoils the appearance. Nevertheless, everything is quite natural and predictable. In the natural microflora, there are many unicellular green algae that do not stop multiplying. Fish "orderlies" feed on these microorganisms.

Its inhabitants cannot clean and maintain the condition of the aquarium alone. Manual cleaning and the use of special tools are still necessary. Cleaners eat algae only when they are hungry, but it is strictly forbidden not to feed the fish on purpose. Aquarium inhabitants with age may completely stop devoting time to cleaning. Many types of fish are good at cleaning the aquarium from green plaque. All of them belong to otocincluss

In addition, you can use shrimp and snails, but in small quantities. It is important to perform water changes and manual cleaning regularly so that all residents feel comfortable.

Varieties

Quite a few fish belong to the category of cleaners. Below is a list of the most popular fish names for home aquariums.

Siamese algae eater (SAE)

The fish perfectly destroys the vegetation in the aquarium and will be a good decoration for it. The Siamese algae eater can be aggressive towards its own species of fish, but it is completely neutral towards others. The best conditions for living are considered to be water with a temperature of + 24– + 26 ° С.

catfish otocinclus

This is a fairly popular fish from a number of chain mail. Catfish copes well with the task of a cleaner, and this has earned universal sympathy. Its content does not require special frills; in relation to other fish, it behaves calmly. It is noteworthy that such a catfish cleans not only the walls of the aquarium and decorative elements, but also large algae. He can feed himself on his own, but treats of plant food will be useful.

Ancistrus or catfish sucker

Such fish is found in most artificial reservoirs and aquariums. Active sanitary activity, unpretentiousness and high livability make the catfish literally mega in demand. It is noteworthy that the structure of the mouth really visually resembles a sucker. Ancistrus outwardly generally one of the strangest fish. There are small growths on the head, and the color is dark, which, in tandem with a secretive lifestyle, creates a rather mysterious role.

Under optimal conditions, the fish can live for about 7 years.

Pterygoplicht or brocade catfish

Many aquarium owners choose these fish because of their attractiveness. The brown catfish has rather developed fins on its back and protruding nostrils. It is noteworthy that the fish can grow up to 55 cm in 15–20 years of life. Friendly Cleaner feels great with any neighbors. However, in slow-moving fish such as angelfish, catfish can nibble at the scales. An aquarium for such a resident must be at least 400 liters. At the bottom you need to place a few decorative snags.

Panak or king catfish

Fish with a bright color from the Loricaria family. They are quite aggressive and defend their territory. The aquarium must have decorative elements at the bottom. One shelter catfish will choose as its home. Periodically, you need to check whether the fish is stuck in the scenery, otherwise the catfish may die. An omnivorous fish loves to eat greens and lettuce. First, they must be doused with boiling water.

Mollies (Poecilia)

Viviparous fish eat green filamentous algae. Mollies need a large open space with dense algae. It can clean the aquarium from both unwanted algae and young shoots. True, this happens only as a result of a lack of food.

Gyrinocheilus

The large cleaner has a small list of varieties. In length, the fish grows up to 15 cm, therefore the aquarium must be quite large. Breeding with other species is quite dangerous, they are aggressive. They can attack not only relatives, but also other species.. As a result of attacks, the scales of fish are damaged, which is noticeable to the naked eye. He eats plant foods, he can be fed with ordinary greens.

Most of all, representatives of the species love fresh lettuce and spinach. Fish live for a long time, and reach sexual maturity only at the age of 3 years. However, breeding such cleaners is quite difficult and is not recommended for beginners.

colorful guppies

This is one of the most unpretentious fish. Experts assure that for 1 individual, only 1.5 liters of water is enough. The fish are small, they can be settled in any aquariums. Will have to install additional artificial lighting, because guppies need long daylight hours of at least 10 hours. Nutrition is not limited to algae, they eat dry food, pieces of bread and even meat.

To feel full, you need a large amount of vegetation in the aquarium. The water temperature should not exceed +20°C.

Sturisoma

This type of chain catfish has a rather original appearance. The elongated body and long tail visually resembles a spindle. Representatives of the species are unpretentious in care. They grow quite large, about 15–20 cm long in 10 years of life. The largest representatives of the species are golden sturisomes.

Loricaria

Outwardly, representatives of the species are quite original, they have a very long tail and an elongated body. They are slightly reminiscent of the cleaners described above. Unpretentious orderlies grow up to 15–18 cm, maximum live in an aquarium of about 9-10 years.

Compatibility

The life and comfort of cleaner fish are directly dependent on the size of the pasture. For food, they can fight very aggressively. The life of neighbors can become much more difficult if they encroach on the territory of the "orderly" of the aquarium. Otocinclus and SAE get along well with each other, but this is considered a unique case. This is all due to different food preferences, they do not see competition in this case.

It is impossible to combine several different types of cleaner fish in one aquarium. Girinocheilus and SAE or ancistrus and Labeo are fierce enemies who can never live together. It is worth paying attention to other important features of compatibility.

• Keep cleaners with cichlids is not worth it. The latter are predatory and will attack the "orderlies". The only exceptions are Siamese flying foxes. They themselves are quite aggressive and large, they can defend themselves.
• The best neighbors for cleaner fish are peaceful species. And it is better to choose residents of small or medium. It is preferable that the fish have no interest in algae. So the cleaners will not suffer from encroachments on their territory.
• In a small aquarium with few hiding places, Siamese algae eaters will sort things out. But girinocheilus are ready to kill their relatives.
• For aggressive slaves, you need to select large neighbors who can defend themselves. If the cleaner is fast, then other inhabitants should be active.

Cleaner fish can help people and keep the aquarium clean for a longer time. It is important to correctly combine neighbors so as not to turn a decorative vessel into a battlefield. Provide plenty of different decor, including cabins and driftwood. In this case, the "orderlies" will be able to determine their territory and not attack outside it.

An aquarium for keeping cleaners and other fish should be quite large. For some species - at least 400 liters. So the "orderly" will get his own place and enough food. Most of the species feel comfortable in water at a temperature of +18–+24°C and a hardness of 6–12. The acidity should be neutral, but slight deviations to one side will not lead to serious negative consequences.

The water in the aquarium must be fresh. Otherwise, the cleaners will die. Catfish can breathe through the skin, and atmospheric air, so they are completely unpretentious in terms of the oxygen regime. The same situation is with other fish that eat algae. For most cleaners, it does not matter what kind of soil is at the bottom of the aquarium.

Everyone likes clean aquariums with crystal-clear walls, bright, smooth and shiny plant leaves and water that resembles mountain stream jets. But this idyllic picture is constantly striving to break the algae. They cover the glass with a brownish-green film, form a vile fringe on the plants, and give the water the color and smell of a swamp. And the aquarist has to deal with them. It's good that in this fight he has allies - algae-eating fish.

Seaweed

Algae are lower, relatively simply arranged unicellular or multicellular plants that live in an aquatic environment. They can float in water or settle on underwater objects and attach to them, forming plaque, films, threads, fluff and so on on them. They have different colors. Representatives of several departments of algae can live in an aquarium:

1. Green. They form a green coating on glass, soil, underwater objects or a cloudy green suspension in water.
2. Red - Vietnamese or black beard. Brown or black tassels, tufts or fringe on glass, plant leaves.
3. diatoms. Single-celled, form a brownish-brown slimy coating in insufficiently lit parts of the aquarium.
4. Blue-green algae, or cyanobacteria. They form slimy, bubbling, fetid films of aquamarine color on plant leaves and underwater objects. (Let's say right away: an outbreak of these algae is a catastrophe that must be urgently eliminated by completely turning off the light, massive cleaning of the aquarium and antibiotics, no biological control methods work here).

Algae is always present in any aquarium, but a sharp increase in their number occurs only when the biological balance is disturbed.

Therefore, to combat them, first of all, it is necessary to normalize the quality of aquarium water: optimize the lighting and carbon dioxide supply, reduce the amount of nitrates and dead organic matter, and plant more plants. And already with the remnants of the enemy army, algae-eating fish will fight.

Types of aquarium cleaners

There are several dozen aquarium fish that can eat algae with varying degrees of enthusiasm. This includes Ancistrus and Pterygoplicht catfish, viviparous platies and mollies, labeo cyprinids and many others, and we do not count shrimps and snails. However, only a few species are recognized as professional aquarium cleaners: otocinclus catfish, Siamese algae eaters and girinocheilus.

Otocinclus

Otocinclus (usually Otocinclus affinis) - a representative of the family of chain-mail (lokary) catfish, small - up to 5 cm - catfish with big sad eyes. A favorite of the famous Takashi Amano, who recommends adding him to an aquarium with plants at the start.

Otocinclus specializes in the extermination of diatoms, outbreaks of which are often observed in new aquariums.

And later, when the biological balance is already established, otocinclus will not hurt. He does not touch anyone, does not harm plants at all, and with the tenacity of a professional gardener, scrupulously cleans their leaves from diatoms and green algae. Cleaning glass, soil, underwater objects usually interests him less. If there are few algae in the aquarium, otocincluss are fed with vegetable food, best of all, lightly boiled zucchini, which is attached to a snag or stone with an elastic band or clip and left for two days. In an aquarium with otocincluss, there should be clean water (nitrate level no more than 10 mg / l).

Siamese algae eaters

The Latin name for this species is Crossochelius siamensis(synonym Epalzeorhynchus siamensis), they are often referred to by the abbreviation SAE (from the English Siamese Algae Eater), sometimes affectionately as Arctic Sailings or Arctic Sailings. Cute, peaceful schooling fish up to 10-12 cm long. Their mouth is adapted for eating algae growing in the form of fluff, tassels or fringes.

Siamese algae eaters are the only ones who are able to rid the aquarium of red algae - flip flops and black beard, which are very difficult to remove in other ways.

In addition to red ones, filamentous green algae are eaten with pleasure. Plants are practically not damaged, the exception is Javanese moss, adult fish are often not indifferent to it. The SAE has a poorly developed swim bladder, so they cannot swim for a long time in the middle layers of water, often lying on the bottom. At the same time, they are quite jumpy, so the aquarium with these fish must be closed. It has not yet been possible to achieve their reproduction in the conditions of an aquarium, therefore all specimens for sale are wild, imported. And here lies the problem.

The fact is that in the same rivers and streams where SAE is caught, there are several more very similar related fish species. They are caught along with Siamese algae eaters and then sold together in pet stores. Therefore, there are Thai or false algae eaters ( Epalzeorhynchus sp. or Garra taeniata), another name for them is Siamese flying foxes; Indonesian algae eaters or red-finned epalceorhynchus ( Epalzeorhynchus kallopterus); Indian algae eaters Crossocheilus latius) and other representatives of the genera Epalceorhynchus, Crossocheilus and Garra. All of them are outwardly almost indistinguishable, but differ from each other in character and efficiency as cleaners - the Siamese flying fox, for example, is quite aggressive fish, but it is reluctant to destroy algae. Therefore, if the goal is to acquire a peaceful and hardworking StrAU, you should pay attention to the following signs:

• fins are transparent, without yellow and orange shades;
• a black stripe on the side of the fish runs from the nose to the tip of the tail;
• the upper edge of this strip is zigzag;
• on the sides of the fish there is a mesh pattern (the edges of the scales are dark);
• at the tip of the muzzle there is one pair of dark antennae;
• when the fish is resting on the bottom, rocks or plant leaves, it rests on the caudal and ventral fins, not on the pectorals.

Gyrinocheilus

Girinocheilus, or Chinese algae eater ( Gyrinocheilus aymonieri or less common Gyrinocheilus pennocki), like CAE, refers to carp fish. Its mouth apparatus is arranged in the form of a sucker.

Gyrinocheilus is the best specialist for the destruction of green algae, which often appears in herbal aquariums with powerful lighting.

They reach a length of 15 cm, the color is gray-brown with a dark stripe or, more often, light golden albino. Adult fish show pronounced territoriality, attacking other fish, which they consider their competitors. The disadvantage of gyrinocheilus is their tendency to damage the soft leaves of higher plants. It cannot be said that they eat the plants clean, but they can leave small scratches and scuffs. Therefore, it is important to ensure that they have enough food. To do this, you need to observe the density of their planting - for each individual at least 40-50 liters of water. If there are few algae in the aquarium, it is recommended to feed Girinocheilus with plant foods: cucumber, cabbage, lettuce and dandelion.

Why do algae eaters stop eating algae? Quite often there is evidence that CAE, as well as girinocheilus, are engaged in diligent cleaning of the aquarium only at a young age, and when they grow up, they completely lose interest in algae and switch to dry food. Indeed, this happens, but only when they have plenty to choose from. If there is no excess dry food in the aquarium, then algae eaters have no choice but to do their direct duties. Therefore, the recommendations here are as follows: feed the fish only in the evening, if there is little algae, try to feed the fish not with dry food, but only with vegetable food, or, even better, specially grow algae in other aquariums or simply in jars of water installed in bright places.

It should be noted that there are no such complaints about the otocinclus, he is engaged in cleaning the aquarium from algae, not paying attention to dry food.

Girinocheilus example

Aquarium Algae Eater Compatibility

Since the life of algae eaters directly depends on the size of their pasture, the issue of competition for food resources is very acute for them, and the behavioral characteristics of these fish have been formed under its influence. Many of them have a pronounced territoriality, the manifestations of which complicate the life of their neighbors and the aquarist.

The only compatible algae eaters are Otocinclus and CAE. Since they have a different structure of the oral apparatus and, accordingly, different food preferences, they will not compete. In addition, both species are quite peaceful. No other types of algae eaters can be housed together.

Girinocheilus and SAE will be irreconcilably at enmity with each other, as well as with Ancistrus and Labeo. If the aquarium is small and there are few shelters, then adult Siamese algae eaters will also sort things out with individuals of their own species, and girinocheilus will fight to the death. Some authors indicate that gyrinocheilus are aggressive towards all the fish around them. I can say that this is not the case, or at least not always the case - in my aquarium, the gyrinocheilus does not pay any attention to peaceful neighbors, unless they swim close to the site on which it is currently grazing.

It is also not recommended to keep algae eaters with predatory cichlids. The only exceptions are the aggressive counterparts of the SAE - Siamese flying foxes. They are bigger and can stand up for themselves.

Thus, non-predatory peaceful fish of small or medium size, not interested in algae, can become good neighbors for the heroes of this article.

Algae-eating fish can become indispensable helpers in the fight for the cleanliness of the aquarium. Having dealt with their species, food preferences and behavioral characteristics, each aquarist decides for himself which of them will bring the greatest benefit to his glass pond, making it healthier and more beautiful.

Video of how otocincluss work in an aquarium:

Aquarium orderlies - fish, shrimps, snails fighting algae

A clean and well-maintained aquarium is not only beauty, but also a guarantee of a long and healthy life for its inhabitants. But sometimes, despite the efforts of the owner and even the work of high-tech equipment, the home reservoir is covered from the inside with a brown or dark green coating, tassels, fringe or threads. This is algae. If this problem overtook you, then do not rush to immediately grab the chemicals. Try to host algae eaters, for whom eating such "garbage" is one of the natural physiological processes. About which orderlies of the aquarium are known and against which algae they are most effective, read in our article.

Fish fighting algae

Most often in aquariums of amateurs there are these "cleanliness workers"

catfish

Especially good "cleaners" are considered

• pterygoplicht (brocade catfish),
• ancistrus vulgaris,
• and otocinclus (pygmy catfish), which prefers diatoms.

With their suction cup, they thoroughly clean everything (bacterial film, algae growth, other polluting organic matter), starting from the walls of the aquarium, soil, stones and ending with snags and large leaves of plants. At the same time, they themselves are quite unpretentious, which is a definite plus.

Of the minuses, it is worth canceling the large size and bad character of some of the catfish.

• For example, an adult pterygoplicht can grow up to 40-45 cm and begin to behave aggressively towards other inhabitants.
• Sometimes catfish, overly enthusiastic about cleaning, damage young tender tops of plants or make holes in young leaves.
• And some individuals with age begin to be lazy and perform their "duties" poorly.

The dwarf catfish is an algae-eater from the family of chain catfish that copes best with brown diatoms. A flock of five fish can easily keep a 100 liter aquarium clean. "Dwarf" is unpretentious, peaceful, able to get along even with large predators.

Pretty good in terms of cleaning and armored catfish-corridor, only he greatly troubles the water and tends to eat other fish.

And here is the “janitor”, which can be seen less often, but this does not make it worse: the royal panak, belonging to the family of chain catfish. Large fish, for which you need a 200-liter (at least) aquarium. Young individuals are calm, but with age their character noticeably deteriorates. They get along well with peaceful haracins. Best of all, panak cleans driftwood.

Girinocheilaceae

This family includes only three types of fish, the most popular of which are girinocheilus.

Their lips are like a sucker with folds on the inside. These bends form a kind of "grater".

Thanks to this design, fish can stay on the rocks even in strong currents, while at the same time scraping algae from their surface.

This food is not very nutritious, so the Girinoheylus have to “scrape” a lot.

All filamentous algae, such as filamentous algae and blackbeard, they cannot eat.

The negative points are

• damage to the leaves, on which furrows and holes may remain after “harvesting”;
• a small number of fish is not enough to keep the aquarium clean;
• in large numbers, they are aggressive and constantly attack their own kind, as they are territorial.

It is very difficult to achieve peace among them. Neighbors also need to be carefully selected, it is absolutely impossible to take slow fish. Girinocheilus take them for inanimate objects, they can “clean” and severely damage the scales.

viviparous

Many of them have a strongly developed lower jaw, which resembles a scraper that easily removes plaque from the walls, soil and plants.

The most popular live-bearer cleaners are guppies, mollies, platies and swordtails. Some breeders claim that these fish can survive even without additional food, eating only green thread.

The disadvantages of this group include the fact that they need to be kept in a large flock (at least 10 pieces), but even in such an amount they will not provide complete order in the aquarium. They are good only as assistants to other algae eaters.

In addition, these fish are not very spectacular, and for the beautiful ones there may simply not be enough space left in the aquarium. And crowding, as we know, will lead to conflicts.

Carp

The most tireless fighter against algae from this family is the Siamese algae eater (aka Crossoheil Siamese, or Crossohelius Siamese, or Siamese epalceorhynchus).

His strong point is green algae and the so-called "Vietnamese" or "black beard" (these are growths in the form of dark tassels on stones, plant leaves and other places).

It also copes well with other algae in the form of a fluff, since its mouth is most adapted for this. To keep a 100-liter aquarium perfectly clean, it is enough to have only two (even the smallest) Siamese algae eaters.

The advantages of these fish are also activity, mobility, a rather peaceful disposition, a small volume of the vessel for a normal existence and modest care.

It was not without its shortcomings. After the length of the fish becomes more than 4 centimeters, they can begin to eat Javanese moss, if it grows in an aquarium, and much more willingly than algae.

The way out of this situation is to plant larger mosses such as fissidens.

Another couple of "cleaners" from this family are two-color labeo (bicolor) and green (frenatus). Their mouthparts are facing down. Of course, they eat algae and fouling, but not as well as the previous ones. It's more of a hobby, so to speak. Their big minus is the increased aggressiveness and territoriality in relation to both other fish and their own kind.

Shrimp fighting algae

These arthropods are deservedly called champions of cleanliness. Especially good are freshwater shrimp, whose bodies are equipped with special "fans".

These outgrowths filter the water and extract from it uneaten food, feces, plant particles and what is left of the dead inhabitants. Males loosen the soil and filter the dregs that have risen at the same time. Females clean dirt from the bottom surface.

In addition to filtering water, these creatures remove fleecy algae from plant leaves and all other surfaces, and much more successfully than fish.

The reason is simple - shrimp, especially cherry ones, can get into the smallest nooks and crannies of the aquarium.

Negative points:

• a small shrimp can only handle a small amount of work;
• to make the aquarium really clean, you will need a lot of shrimp (one individual per liter);
• they are very defenseless and can be eaten by fish, as a result of which neighbors must be selected especially carefully, plus a lot of reliable shelters should be created.

In addition to cherries, amano shrimp are good at fighting algae. Perfectly keep balls of kladorfs clean, eat thread.

Important! The efficiency of "work" is affected by their size. The larger the shrimp, the tougher strings of algae it can eat. Four-centimeter arthropods are considered the best.

Enough 5 of these pieces for 200 liters. Three-centimeter will need 1 individual for every 10 liters of water. Small ones need even more (1-2 for each liter). The last option is the most unproductive and the most expensive. It is also worth noting that these shrimp do not eat xenococus and other green algae in the form of plaque. Black beard is also used reluctantly.

Another species is neocaridina. They are most common among hobbyists, as they are very easy to breed. They are small, only 1-2 cm long, so a lot of “combat units” will be required (one individual per liter). Preference is given to soft filamentous algae such as Rhizoclinium. Neocaridins are the best choice for planted aquariums. They are also indispensable in a newly launched aquarium, as they help to establish balance. In maturity, they maintain balance.

Snails fighting algae

Although mollusks are not so successful as orderlies, their strength is the ability to consume almost all pollution (leftover food, excrement of living and dead inhabitants, rotten plants, mucus and plaque on all surfaces, a film from the surface of the water).

And the well-being and behavior of some species serves as a kind of indicator of the purity of the soil and water.

The bad thing is that the number of snails is almost impossible to control, and they multiply very quickly.

Then their large army begins to "harm", eating plants and flooding everything around with their mucus.

Here are the cleaner snails most commonly found in home aquariums:

Neretina zebra(tiger snail), Neretina hedgehog, Neretina black ear. They remove plaque from glass, stones, snags, decor and large leaves without damaging them. It seems that they never get tired. Minus - they leave unaesthetic laying of caviar on the glass of the aquarium.

This crumb (1-1.5 cm) is able to crawl into the most inaccessible places and clean them to a shine. Works great with diatoms.

Septaria or turtle snail with a flat shell. It is very slow, but despite this, it copes well with algal fouling and Vietnamese. Plants are not damaged. The disadvantage is characteristic - caviar, hung on the scenery.

corbicula. This is a three-centimeter snail. It is also called the yellow Javanese ball or the golden bivalve. Helps to cope with water turbidity, suspension and flowering, as it is a filter. This means that the mollusk passes water through itself (up to 5 liters per hour!), Eating the microorganisms contained in it. Interestingly, in aquariums with carbicles, fish do not suffer from ichthyophorosis, as they somehow trap their cysts. For an aquarium of 100 liters, you need from 1 to 3 of these snails. The negative points include plowing the soil and digging up plants with weak roots.

ampoule. Pretty large lungfish. It picks up the remains of food, dead fish and other snails, actively eats fouling from the walls of the aquarium.

Helena called the killer snail. This miniature predator is considered a carrion orderly. However, she is able to eat not only a forgotten piece of food or a dead fish, but also a completely live small shrimp or snail (for example, a coil or melania).

Theodoxus. These are small beautiful freshwater snails. There are several types. They can live in both freshwater and saltwater home waters. They feed only on fouling, preferring brown and green algae. They even compete with gerinocheilus for superiority in the effectiveness of the fight against xenococus. But they don't like the "beard". Plants don't spoil.

In conclusion, let us say that the aquarium biosystem can successfully exist only with the help of man. Competent selection and adjustment of equipment and lighting, proper start-up of the aquarium, regular monitoring of water parameters and the condition of the inhabitants are very important. Fish, shrimps and snails are helpers in solving the problem of algae control, not the main characters. Of course, here we have only briefly described only some representatives of aquarium orderlies, since it is impossible to talk about everything in detail in one article. We will be grateful for interesting additions.

Catfish - aquarium cleaners

For those who like to buy and breed aquarium fish, sooner or later the question arises of how to keep the container constantly clean. After all, the fish leave a lot of dirt and waste products, and in addition, the cleanliness of the aquarium is violated by algae, which, in case of any violation of the thermal regime, begin to actively spread throughout the aquarium. Even with periodic cleaning of the aquarium and changing the water, a plaque of small plants and dirt appears on the walls of the aquarium.

It is in this case that very useful and unpretentious "helpers" come to the rescue - aquarium catfish. Their main advantage is that the fish do not require special food. They feed on the remains of the food of other sea creatures, and also eat small mosses and algae.

That is why it is very convenient to start a cleaner catfish in the aquarium. As a rule, these fish are not aggressive and can be safely kept with other inhabitants of the aquarium. But still there are different types of catfish.

The most calm and conflict-free catfish are sticky, which have a spotted color and a flattened body. When they appear in the aquarium, they immediately stick to the walls of the vessel and gradually begin to eat away the plaque.

Thus, catfish-cleaners are very helpful to the aquarist. Thanks to their efforts, a vessel with fish can be kept clean and tidy much easier.

Like other fish, they need water of the right temperature, constant oxygen and light. Some types of catfish prefer dark places and hiding places, but sticky catfish are not among them.

In addition, for its comfortable maintenance, a sufficient amount of algae is necessary so that the fish has something to eat. But, as a rule, this problem never arises. Indeed, even in the cleanest aquarium, algae and microorganisms settle, with which the cleaner catfish does an excellent job.

Otocinclus: content, catfish compatibility, reproduction, photo and video review

OTOCINCLUS
useful catfish for our aquariums

Many aquarists, even those who do not keep live aquarium plants, know such fish as algae eaters. These fish are tireless workers and orderlies of the aquarium - they eat algae around the clock and effectively cope even with such a topical problem as Blackbeard.

However, few people know that there are other fish that can help us cope with aquarium adversity. One of these indispensable helpers is the chain catfish - OTOCINKYUS. Let's see what kind of catfish it is and how it is useful!

Latin name: Otocinclus.
Russian name: Otocinclus, Otik, Oto.

Detachment, family: Chain catfish.
Comfortable water temperature: 22-25 degrees Celsius.
"Acidity" Ph: 5-7,5.
Aggressiveness: non-aggressive (peaceful).
Hardness dH: 2-15.
Content Difficulty: light. Compatibility: compatible with all peaceful fish. Difficulties can arise only when combining otocinclus with cichlids, especially large individuals. But, it is worth noting that, as a rule, aquariums with cichlids are not decorated with live aquarium plants and the presence of otocinclus in such aquariums is rare.

At the same time, there is evidence in Runet that otocincluss "stick" to the angelfish and discus, feeding on their integumentary mucus.

How many live: these catfish have an average life expectancy, they live about 4-6 years. You can find out how long other fish live HERE!

Minimum aquarium volume: there are various varieties of otocincluss, the smallest of the genus Otocinclus mariae is 2.5 cm in size, the largest Otocinclus flexilis is 5.5 cm. Therefore, when choosing the number of catfish, of course, one must proceed from the size of one or another type of otocinclus. The general recommendation is up to 7 catfish per 50 liters of aquarium water.

For information on how many other fish can be kept in an X aquarium, see HERE(at the bottom of the article there are links to aquariums of all sizes).

Requirements for care and conditions of detention:

Otocincluss are clean and love clean water. For their maintenance, aeration and filtration are necessary, as well as weekly replacement of aquarium water with fresh water, approximately 1/3 - ? parts.

Otocincluss, in addition to gill breathing, also have intestinal breathing. But, unlike corridors, which constantly use both breaths, otocincluses breathe through the intestines, only as needed. If they often capture air from the surface of the water, then the aeration you have installed is not enough.

Please note that otocincluss need to be very carefully transplanted into a new aquarium, adhering to all the rules for moving and transporting fish, otiki are very epileptic and do not like changing water parameters.

Feeding and diet:

In otocinclus, the mouthparts are shaped like suction cups, with the help of which they are naturally held downstream, and also scrape algae and bacterial growth from stones, snags and everything else that is in the river.

This amazing ability of otocincluss is their highlight!!! As well as in their natural habitat, these catfish and in the aquarium clean the walls and decorations from the ill-fated, lower - diatoms!

Feeding aquarium fish should be correct: balanced, varied. This fundamental rule is the key to the successful keeping of any fish, be it guppies or astronotus. Article How and how much to feed aquarium fish talks about this in detail, it outlines the basic principles of the diet and feeding regimen for fish.

In this article, we note the most important thing - feeding fish should not be monotonous, the diet should include both dry food and live food. In addition, it is necessary to take into account the gastronomic preferences of a particular fish and, depending on this, include food in its diet either with the highest protein content or vice versa with herbal ingredients.

Popular and popular food for fish, of course, are dry food. For example, all the time and everywhere you can find on the aquarium counters the food of the Tetra company - the leader of the Russian market, in fact, the range of food of this company is amazing. Tetra's "gastronomic arsenal" includes individual food for a certain type of fish: for goldfish, for cichlids, for loricariids, guppies, labyrinths, arowans, discus, etc. Also, Tetra has developed specialized feeds, for example, to enhance color, fortified or for feeding fry. You can find detailed information about all Tetra feeds on the official website of the company - here.

It should be noted that when buying any dry food, you should pay attention to the date of its manufacture and shelf life, try not to buy feed by weight, and also store food in a closed state - this will help to avoid the development of pathogenic flora in it.

These catfish are indispensable helpers in all Amanovsky, Dutch aquariums, which have earned 100% respect from aquascapers around the world. Sen-sei - Takashi Amano contains them in the amount of 6 individuals / aquarium 90 cm. + shrimps.

It should be noted that, unlike ancistrus, otocinclus are much more mobile. Like algae eaters, they work tirelessly to keep the aquarium clean. They eat brown algae not only from the decor and walls of the aquarium, but also directly from plants, which Ancistrus do not do!

Despite the fact that otocincluss are able to feed themselves, they should still be fed with branded plant foods. You can also offer them scalded lettuce, spinach or fresh cucumber as a delicacy.

photo of otocinclus on cucumber

In nature live: rivers and lakes of central and northern South America. Amazon basins in Peru, Brazil and Bolivia.

Types of otocinclus

There are a lot of varieties of these catfish! The most popular are Otocinclus. mariae, Otocinclus affinis, Otocinclus macrospilus and Otocinclus vittatus.

Description: All representatives of this genus are similar, differing only in size and variable colors. All otocinclus have a gray or black, continuous or broken stripe on the side. On the front of the tail there is a large spot of variable shape.

Breeding and reproduction of otocincluss very simple. In fact, it happens on its own, and sometimes it is not even noticeable to the aquarist, who only after a month notices the “replenishment in the ranks” of otocincluss.

Good housing conditions and stimulation: feeding protein food, increased aeration, frequent water changes ... that's all that is needed for the spawning of otocinclus. Sex differences are weakly expressed. Females are larger and thicker than males.

In the photo laying eggs of otocinclus

Otocinclus spawn several times during the summer; as a rule, wide leaves of plants act as a substrate for spawning. After mating games, the female lays a clutch of 100 - 150 eggs. The incubation period of eggs is 3-6 days. After that, larvae appear, which on the third day turn into fry. Food for juveniles - living dust, small, frayed food.

The cost of otocinclouses corresponds to their "usefulness" and is relatively high - 150 rubles.

Interesting video with otocincluss

AQUARIUM CLEANING FOR BEGINNERS.

How to properly clean an aquarium

General cleaning of the aquarium should be done depending on the type of fish. For some, the best option is a one-time monthly cleaning, for others - weekly. Remember that fish do not like to be disturbed, they change their habitat even for a short time. General cleaning is always stressful for any kind of fish. That is why during cleaning, do not frighten your fish with sudden movements. Are you planning to rearrange the aquarium, replace the plants? Then this procedure is best combined with cleaning and cleaning. Remember: the use of any kind of chemical cleaners in the aquarium is strictly prohibited! In specialized stores, you can buy a special siphon for cleaning the aquarium. You can also use improvised materials available in the house. The walls of the aquarium should be cleaned with a scraper, washcloth, kitchen sponge. After all, microorganisms constantly settle on them, making visibility difficult and creating an untidy, sloppy look to the aquarium. After cleaning the glass, you can start cleaning the bottom of your aquarium. The soil must be cleaned from the remnants of food and excrement of fish. All this accumulates below. But how do you know that such a cleaning is needed? Take a stick and stir the soil, stir it. If bubbles begin to rise from the bottom, then cleaning is necessary. This procedure will be facilitated by a special soil cleaner. This is a flexible hose with a glass or metal tip, which should be driven along the bottom, pressing it deep into. Water with impurities will drain through the tip. It is important to control the amount of drained water. The volume of this water should not exceed one fifth of the total water volume of the aquarium. This amount of water you need to then add to the container. You should be careful with the roots of plants when cleaning, do not damage them. After all, the main thing in cleaning is the preservation of all living things and the support of the natural habitat. Water purification helps to refresh the aquarium, remove accumulated harmful substances. In order to alleviate stress for the fish due to water changes, it is necessary to replace it partially. You need to do this once every 2 weeks. Water for this purpose should be defended for several days. Is your aquarium not covered from above? Then a film may appear on the surface of the water. You can eliminate it with a sheet of paper, the size of which is equal to the size of the aquarium. This sheet must be held by the edges, lowered into the water and slowly lifted along with the harmful film. If necessary, the procedure is done several times. When general cleaning of the aquarium, one should not forget about the filter for cleaning. Usually its elements are made of foam rubber. Therefore, to thoroughly clean them, you just need to rinse them under a strong stream of water. The filter mechanism is usually cleaned with a simple toothbrush. General cleaning of the aquarium, its competent cleaning will prolong the life of your swimming pets, maintain a normal level of the aquatic habitat. After all, cleanliness and order are necessary for all living beings. Support them, control them, watch the changes. And then your healthy pets will please the eye with their active movements!

Step-by-step cleaning of the aquarium at home: instructions

1. Clean the aquarium with a siphon.

It is not so difficult to properly clean the aquarium with a siphon, it is enough to do it once, and then you can do it with your eyes closed. Aquarium siphons come in a variety of designs, but no matter what they are, an aquarium bottom siphon will always be built on the same principles.

With this procedure, it is necessary to begin the procedure for cleaning any aquarium with fish. You should siphon both the surface of the ground and a little from the depth. As a rule, the main waste accumulates on the surface. It is necessary to siphon off such a volume that you are going to pour back in the form of settled water. It is not difficult to calculate this amount, the main thing is not to forget to do this, but if you have water with a margin, then you have nothing to worry about.

2. We clean the glass.

In fact, we want to say from our own experience - the most problems arise with glasses, simply because it is too lazy to clean them ... This is the hardest work - you have to work with a scraper, go through all the growths. If you do not do this when the first growths appear, then in the future it will be very difficult to cope with them, and even more so, not a single cleaner fish can cope with the growths of many months.

3. Filter cleaning.

Cleaning the filter is third on the list, because for this we need water from the aquarium so that we can wash the filter parts in it, rinse the sponges. It is better if it is the water that you siphon last, so that it contains as little turbidity and sediment as possible. After washing the filter in this water, you collect it and install it back.

4. Pouring settled water into the aquarium.

When all the so-called dirty work of properly cleaning the fish tank is done, there is only a little left for us - to fill in clean water. This should be water that you have defended for a week in a special container. Only after the water is filled, you can turn on the filter, as well as lighting.

5. Add vitamins.

Also, if required, you can add some fish vitamins to the aquarium. It can also be water products, as well as algae control. In general, it is better to fill in such products either together with new settled water, so that they immediately spread throughout the volume, or fill them in the area where water is released from the filter.

1. Be sure to plan ahead for when you need to clean. Do it the day before so you don't have to wait until the last minute. For the sake of such a case, we advise you to tune in at least a little to a small half-hour work with the aquarium in advance - it will be easier to do everything, and at the same time not be lazy.
2. If you suddenly forgot to defend the water (and this happens to busy people who have large aquariums), then it is better to skip cleaning than to siphon and fill in unprepared (not settled) water.
3. If you are completely lazy, then in small aquariums you can clean less often, for example, once every 2 weeks (for aquariums up to 30-40 liters). But here it all depends on the pollution of the aquarium, filter power, etc.
4. Try to move the siphon in the aquarium without sudden movements. This must be done in order not to frighten the fish once again, especially if these fish are large and shy.
5. Do not siphon deep into the soil, which is located right next to large plants. This soil contains nutrients for plants (of course, if the dirt comes through the stones, then it is necessary to siphon even there, in the depths). In addition, it is not worth disturbing the root system of plants once again, as this is stress for them - plants do not like transplants and movements around the aquarium.

   orderly fish

   There are fish species that not only delight the eye with their bright colors and peaceful disposition, but also bring undoubted benefits - these are aquarium cleaners. These include swordtails, guppies, mollies and platies. They have a special structure of the mouth - a developed lower jaw resembles a scraper, with which the fish can remove plaque from the walls or bottom of the aquarium, as well as clean the leaves of plants.

   Ancistrus and armored catfish are very interesting - their mouth apparatus is very reminiscent of a suction cup, with its help these creatures can move along the walls of the aquarium. In addition, organic plaque removed from the glass walls is part of their diet. These types of fish will become real helpers when cleaning the aquarium and will greatly facilitate this procedure.

   Means for cleaning.

   Not all detergents and cleaners can be used in cleaning the aquarium. There are even some types of chemistry that are categorically not recommended for use. Cleaning tools are the simplest, there are few of them. There are only a few items that are required without fail.

   You definitely need a scraper to clean the glass of the aquarium with high quality. There are two varieties of it: on a magnet and with a long handle. The first option is specifically designed for aquariums. It is designed in such a way that you simply lower it into the water and control its movements from the other side of the glass. That is, you do not even have to put your hands in the water.

   The second necessary item is a tube (siphon), with which the soil at the bottom of the aquarium is cleaned. She is inexpensive. In addition, you can make it yourself with a small piece of hose.

   And the last important device is a water filter. Its advantage is that it works all the time. That is, the water is filtered non-stop. There is a constant cleaning process going on. Moreover, the filter absorbs and retains foreign dirty particles. Consequently, both the soil and the walls of the aquarium get dirty less quickly. The filter also protects plants from unwanted plaque.

Which fish are the best aquarium cleaners?

Natalya A.

Siamese Algae Eater

pterygoplicht

ancistrus

corridor

ANCISTRUS - SOM
Fish are peaceful inhabitants of the soil, they love shelters, their activity increases with the onset of twilight or a drop in atmospheric pressure. They love clean, oxygen-rich water. It can be kept in a common aquarium, in which there should be thickets in some places, a sufficient number of caves and, of course, a snag, which the fish scrape off, getting the cellulose they need. Large stones should lie at the bottom of the aquarium, because if they lie on the ground, then the fish undermining under them can be crushed. Males defend the territory around the chosen shelter.

Food: 60% vegetable, the rest is live, substitutes are possible. The fish feed on growths of some types of short and soft algae.

Spawning both in general and in the spawning aquarium. A ceramic or plastic tube 3-4 cm long, 20 cm long is placed at the bottom (spawning can also occur in a cave).

Dilution water: 20-26°C, dH up to 10°, KH up to 2°, pH 6-7.3.

A pair or 2 males and 4-6 females are planted, in the latter case 2 tubes are placed at a distance of at least 50 cm from each other to avoid a fight between males over territory. The stimulus for spawning is the change of 1/3 of the volume of water to fresh water, aeration and a decrease in temperature. The female lays 50-300 eggs in a tube, which are guarded by the male. In the spawning aquarium, the female is removed, and from the common tube, together with the male, they are transferred to a nursery aquarium with the same water parameters. The incubation period is 4-9 days. After 4-12 days, the fry leave the tube and take food: live dust and finely ground vegetable food. In a growing aquarium, it is advisable to put a snag, which the fry will peel off. Sexual maturity at 7-12 months.