The Age of Aquariums

In terms of shape, horizontal rather than vertical tanks afford fish a more natural swimming range.

And when decorating, avoid figures that have jagged edges, as these may hurt you or your fish. Do provide plenty of hiding spaces, if that is your finned friend's preference.

Most important, it is best to set up your tank well before you add any fish, to make sure the thermostat (if needed) and aeration and filtration systems are functioning properly. This is also the time to check for any visible cracks or leaks.

Salt vs. Fresh

As for water, consult with your local pet store to determine whether the fish you select require fresh, brackish or salt water, as well as the appropriate temperature range.

Marine or saltwater tanks are needed for healthy corals, crustaceans and other exotic sea life.

Brackish water is a combo of salt (marine aquarium salt) and fresh water, similar to the water in an estuary or marsh.

For any tank, you'll also need the proper water conditioner. "The city puts in chlorines and chloramines to kill germs to make water drinkable, but those chemicals are deadly to fish," Barron explains.

"It can also be devastating to your biological filter," Seyffarth adds. As a fail-safe, invest a few dollars on testing kits that check for harmful substances.

Finally, you will need to replace 10% to 15% of the old water with new water every week.

Telltale Warnings

"A fish's immune system is almost as robust as ours," says Seyffarth -- but they are also as fragile.

A fish can get diseases and will show signs of stress if it has a poor diet, if other fish are picking on it, if the tank has poor water quality or is overcrowded, or if the fish has been moved too much.

Some of Seyffarth's key warning signs:

• Look for anything out of the ordinary. If a middle- or top-swimmer starts to bottom or burrow, there may be a problem.
• Most fish hold their fins erect, not taut. Fish with clamped fins are usually stressed or in poor health.
• Opaque or fuzzy eyes may indicate an illness, a bacterial infection or stress.
• Look for any change in color.
• Heavy breathing and panting are signs of stress related to poor water conditions.

With the proper care and maintenance, your fish may live for many years. Home-aquarium fish offer a cost-to-enjoyment ratio that rivals most any other pet's. And next to a potted plant, large fish tanks are about as low-maintenance as caring for a living creature can get.

So don't be shy -- jump in. The water's fine!

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