Recently I was given a Gold Cross Back Arowana from a dear friend.
I have been hesitant to accept such responsibility and what I consider as an extra curricular activity with that being said being from a Chemistry background I found the water chemistry intriguing and possibly exciting.
This is a documented adventure of my experience in setting up and maintaining my first aquarium.
At this point in time since I am writing this article I have expanded my interests into aquascaping, raring guppies and with an intention to breed betta’s.
Table of Contents
The Tank
With most first timers the tank is indeed the place where you see your fish. It is your viewing screen to the fishes world.
Personally as I went for value for money. I had a friend whom is very keen about raising Arowana help me get a tank for under MYR280 with the stand at his local loitering spot in Seremban.
The Filter
So there are many approaches to this. I went with value for money and options to increase in tank size as Arowana’s can outgrow the tank I have bought.
I purchase a EHEIM 600 Classic Canister for around MYR550 (On Offer)
The Air Pump
Need to pump some air into the water, I initially bought some Malaysian brand which works well but is very noisy. So I shopped around again and ended up with a Hailea with 2 air outlets. (Works relatively silently for good value)
Initial Liquids (Starter Kit) Recommended by a friend
Dechlorination Solution
Nutrafin Aqua Water Conditioner
Bacteria Start Culture
1. Nutrafin Cycle
2. API Stress Zyme (Bought 1 month later)
Ammonia Test Kit
API Ammonia Test
Food
Hikkari Food Sticks