My Brother's Fish Tank - Essay Example

An aquarium is first and foremost a place where the fish will spend their entire life. Having the correct combination of species is critical to maintaining balance in a fish tank. Some fish will be more aggressive and attack smaller fish. In addition, the tank needs a well-balanced mixture of the bottom, middle, and top feeders to keep the tank clean of uneaten food. Aquarium expert Thomas Narten reminds us, "Not all species of fish mix well with others". My brother has a Beta that feeds on the top, tetras, and lionfish to feed the middle, and catfish that live as bottom feeders.

They are not aggressive and stay in their own territory. My brother has provided a well-balanced environment for these fish to spend the rest of their lives in. The fact that the fish will spend their entire lives in this tank demands that it remain clean. My brother has chosen to utilize an under gravel filter. This arrangement draws water through the gravel at the bottom of the tank and the settling debris is used to feed the plants and bottom feeders that reside there. The test of a filtering system is water clarity and in this, my brother has succeeded.

The water is spotless with no floating debris. My brother has succeeded in keeping the fish from encountering unexpected changes in tank conditions, which could end their life. Even if the fish tank has all the requirements for health, it still needs to be enjoyed to be of value. My brother's aquarium is a pleasure to watch. The healthy fish dart about and are curious about the other fish in the tank. It provides a calming sensation in an otherwise chaotic world. The soft light and the colorful fish provide a world that is outside our imagination.

The aquarium is a joy to watch and is a world away from our reality. In conclusion, my brother's aquarium is an easy escape from the stress of today's life. It has the correct mix of fish, which allows it to remain a friendly place for its inhabitants. The filtering mechanism is efficient and keeps the tank clear of debris that could cloud the water. The end result is a tank that is restful and provides a sense of quiet meditation. My brother's aquarium fulfills its expectations and is a success no matter how you measure it.

Works CitedNarten, Thomas. "49 Common Causes of Stress in the Aquarium." The Ultimate Learn And Resource Center. 11 Sep. 2007. 10 Nov. 2007 <http://stason.org/TULARC/animals/aquaria/beginning-fishkeeping/49-Common-Causes-of-Stress-in-the-Aquarium.html>.