FAQ Categories

General

What types of fish work with my fish?

Visit a sales associate at your local Pet Supermarket for advice on what species of fish are compatible for your tank.

My fish just had babies — what should I do?

Congratulations — How exciting! Please speak with a sales associate for advice. Some fish need to be separated from their parents and others may be at risk depending on what filtration system you are using. Also, you may need some baby food as adult foods are not suitable for newborn fish.

What should I do if my fish are gasping on the top of the water?

There are a few possibilities here ranging from a lack of proper circulation. Overcrowding or even temperature issues. Please see a sales associates to further diagnose.

I see growth spots/discoloration on my fish — what should I do?

Please speak with a sales associate. We do offer medications that may help.

Feeding

I am going on vacation. What should I do to feed and take care of my fish?

Visit our sales associates in-store to learn about vacation feeder options that will dissolve over time. There are a few factors to consider including length of trip, your filtration system and pH levels. Be sure to bring a water sample in when you come to make this part smoother.

Can I give my fish a treat?

Yes, of course! Ask a sales associate what your species of fish might like to snack on.

Water & Aquarium

Should I clean my tank before I put everything in it?

Before using your tank, rinse it with plain water to remove any dust or debris. DO NOT use soap on anything that is for your tank. Soap is harmful to your fish and not necessary.

How often do I need to change the water?

Roughly 25% of the water in the tank should be changed weekly. If your tank has lots of fish, you should change a little more than that.

How much substrate/gravel do I need?

The rule of thumb is 1 lb. of substrate per gallon.

Should I clean my tank before I put everything in it?

Before using your tank, rinse it with plain water to remove any dust or debris. DO NOT use soap on anything that is for your tank. Soap is harmful to your fish and not necessary.

I want to add different types of fish to my tank. What do I need to know?

Adding different types of fish to the same tank can really add personality to your tank but you have to be careful! Not all species of fish will behave nicely with each other. Please visit our stores and our sales associates can help you choose compatible species.

Should I use bottled water to fill my tank?

Most bottled waters are stripped of vitamins and minerals. If you choose to use bottled water, spring water is best. Keep in mind fish do well with consistency. You will want to make sure you are using the same water every time you do a water change. Be sure to use water conditioner as well, even if you use spring water.

The water in my new tank is cloudy — what should I do?

You may need some bacteria to improve your water quality. A sales associate can test your water to know for sure.

I have algae blooming — what should I do?

To resolve this, we recommend changing roughly 25% of your water, reduce the lighting time and add a Clarified. Be sure to speak with a sales associate to make sure there isn't anything else to consider.

My water is yellow — what should I do?

You may need to add carbon pending a water test or change the filter.

My water is brown — what should I do?

Please speak with a sales associate. Your filtration system is probably the issue and you may need a new filter. You may also have an overcrowding problem.