Kathmandu:

They gently swim about unaware that they such are a delight to watch. Aquariums have for long been a way to decorate one’s abode. And in many ways one gets emotionally attached to the fishes living in these transparent spaces as you need to nurture them and give them some extra attention.

Where to keep it

“It is best to keep your aquarium in your living room where it instantly catches one’s attention.

It not only beautifies your room, but also gives a pleasant feeling if you have guests waiting. However, it is very important that you keep it away from direct sunlight,” says Bhim Tandukar of Kathmandu Aquarium and Plants Centre, Lainchour.

Water woes

“The most common mistake that people make is that they directly put fish after filling water in an aquarium. After the aquarium has been filled with water and the necessary medicines have been kept to clean the water, control diseases, it should be left for at least 24 hours to let it set. Then only the fish should be put in it,” says Tandukar.

Adding to it Rajan Shrestha of Shrestha Aquarium-2 at Panipokhari says, “One should never change the water completely, only a jug or two should be added in three-four days. It is okay if the same water is kept for four-five months. If the water needs to be changed remove only half of it and retain the other half and add fresh water to it.”

Balancing act

“The table you place your aquarium in should be straight. If the surface is not straight and smooth, keep thermocol to maintain the balance and place the aquarium above it,” says Shrestha.

Varieties

It is the variety of aquariums the market has to offer these days that gives you an extra edge while decorating your rooms. Besides the standard rectangular ones, you can make them smaller or as large as you wish. All you need to do is put in your orders. If you are looking for something different, then the round, oval or wine glass shaped ones will surely be the right pick for you.

Gaining fame

Though there are so many fishes that it could send your head swirling, when you go to buy the perfect pair some popular ones are goldfish, swordtail, goppy, temple bark, angel, Mali, black widow and Oscar.

Price list

From small tiny ones to considerably large ones, the prices vary accordingly from Rs 200 to Rs 750 a pair. As for the aquariums, the prices start from Rs 1,200. The round shaped ones cost around Rs 200-300, and some interesting shaped ones cost around Rs 1800.

Complete no-no

“I’ve had customers who complained that their fish died after they cleaned the aquarium with surf, but they don’t know that after that it becomes impossible for fish to live and if some oily substances do get in the aquarium it is like poison for fish,” says Tandukar.

Embellishments

“Its alright to put in decorative items that are available in the market, and keeping plants that are particularly available for aquariums is always beneficial as it provides oxygen,” says Shrestha. “But if the plant starts to rot, it should be removed immediately,” he cautions.

health benefits

Studies have showed that aquariums (looking at the fishes) have a positive effect especially on people suffering from blood pressure. It tends to reduce stress and lowers a person’s blood pressure. The soothing sound and the watching the easy way the fish swim helps them relax. It is also beneficial for children who have hyperactivity disorder as it helps them calm down. Not only this but people living with Alzheimer’s also benefit a lot from looking at an aquarium.