If you are looking for a low-maintenance and fun pet that can live in a fish tank, you might be surprised by the variety of options available. The easiest animal to keep in a fish tank is not necessarily a fish, but an aquatic invertebrate, such as a shrimp, snail, or crab. These animals are hardy, adaptable, and easy to care for, and they can add color and interest to your aquarium. In this article, we will explore some of the best aquatic invertebrates for beginners, and how to set up and maintain a tank for them.
Aquatic invertebrates are animals that live in water and do not have a backbone. They include crustaceans (such as shrimp, crabs, and crayfish), mollusks (such as snails, clams, and octopuses), and worms (such as leeches and earthworms). Some of the benefits of keeping aquatic invertebrates as pets are:
They are generally cheaper and easier to find than fish. You can buy them online, at pet stores, or even collect them from local ponds or streams (with permission and caution).
They are less demanding than fish in terms of water quality, temperature, and filtration. They can tolerate a wider range of conditions and are more resilient to fluctuations and diseases.
They are more active and interactive than fish. They can exhibit interesting behaviors, such as digging, climbing, scavenging, and mating. Some of them can even recognize their owners and respond to stimuli.
They are more diverse and colorful than fish. You can choose from a variety of shapes, sizes, and patterns, and create a vibrant and lively aquarium.
How to Set Up a Tank for Aquatic Invertebrates?
Setting up a tank for aquatic invertebrates is similar to setting up a tank for fish, but with some differences. Here are the basic steps to follow:
Choose a suitable tank size and shape. The size of the tank depends on the number and type of invertebrates you want to keep. As a general rule, you should provide at least one gallon of water per inch of animal. The shape of the tank should match the natural habitat of the invertebrates. For example, a long and shallow tank is better for bottom-dwellers, while a tall and narrow tank is better for climbers.
Choose a suitable substrate and decoration. The substrate is the material that covers the bottom of the tank, such as gravel, sand, or soil. The decoration is the items that provide shelter, hiding places, and enrichment for the invertebrates, such as rocks, driftwood, plants, or ornaments. The substrate and decoration should be compatible with the invertebrates’ needs and preferences. For example, some invertebrates like to burrow in the substrate, while others like to attach to the decoration.
Choose a suitable filter and heater. The filter is the device that cleans the water and removes waste and toxins. The heater is the device that regulates the water temperature and keeps it stable. The filter and heater should be appropriate for the size and type of the tank, and the invertebrates’ requirements. For example, some invertebrates need a strong filter to create water movement, while others need a gentle filter to avoid being sucked in. Some invertebrates need a warm water temperature, while others need a cool water temperature.
Choose a suitable lighting and hood. The lighting is the device that provides artificial light for the tank, and the hood is the cover that prevents evaporation and escapes. The lighting and hood should be suitable for the invertebrates’ needs and preferences. For example, some invertebrates need a bright light to stimulate their activity, while others need a dim light to avoid stress. Some invertebrates need a tight-fitting hood to prevent them from jumping out, while others need a ventilated hood to allow air exchange.
Maintaining a tank for aquatic invertebrates is similar to maintaining a tank for fish, but with some differences. Here are the basic steps to follow:
Feed the invertebrates regularly and appropriately. The frequency and amount of feeding depend on the type and size of the invertebrates, and their appetite. As a general rule, you should feed them once or twice a day, and only as much as they can eat in a few minutes. The type of food depends on the invertebrates’ diet and preference. Some invertebrates are herbivores, and eat plants, algae, or vegetables. Some invertebrates are carnivores, and eat meat, insects, or fish. Some invertebrates are omnivores, and eat both plant and animal matter. You can buy commercial food for invertebrates, or use natural food sources, such as live, frozen, or dried foods.
Change the water regularly and appropriately. The frequency and amount of water change depend on the size and type of the tank, and the number and type of invertebrates. As a general rule, you should change 10 to 20 percent of the water every week, or more often if the water quality is poor. The water change helps to remove waste, toxins, and excess nutrients, and to replenish oxygen and minerals. You should use dechlorinated tap water, or bottled water, and make sure the new water is the same temperature and pH as the old water.
Test the water parameters regularly and appropriately. The water parameters are the chemical and physical characteristics of the water, such as pH, ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, hardness, and salinity. The water parameters should be within the acceptable range for the invertebrates’ health and comfort. You can use test kits or strips to measure the water parameters, and follow the instructions on the package. If the water parameters are out of balance, you should take corrective actions, such as adding water conditioners, buffers, or salt, or performing a water change.
What are Some of the Best Aquatic Invertebrates for Beginners?
There are many aquatic invertebrates that are suitable for beginners, but here are some of the most popular and easy ones:
Shrimp. Shrimp are small crustaceans that come in a variety of colors and patterns, such as red, blue, yellow, or striped. They are active and social, and can form large colonies in the tank. They are also beneficial, as they eat algae, detritus, and leftover food, and help to keep the tank clean. Some of the best shrimp for beginners are cherry shrimp, ghost shrimp, and amano shrimp.
Snail. Snail are small mollusks that have a spiral shell and a muscular foot. They are slow and peaceful, and can coexist with other invertebrates and fish. They are also beneficial, as they eat algae, detritus, and dead plants, and help to recycle nutrients. Some of the best snails for beginners are mystery snails, nerite snails, and ramshorn snails.
Crab. Crab are medium-sized crustaceans that have a hard exoskeleton and a pair of claws. They are curious and adventurous, and can explore the tank and interact with their owners. They are also entertaining, as they display different personalities and moods. Some of the best crabs for beginners are fiddler crabs, red claw crabs, and Thai micro crabs.
Conclusion
Aquatic invertebrates are the easiest animals to keep in a fish tank, as they are hardy, adaptable, and easy to care for. They can also add color and interest to your aquarium, and provide various benefits for the ecosystem. If you are looking for a low-maintenance and fun pet, you should consider getting an aquatic invertebrate, and follow the tips in this article to set up and maintain a tank for them. You will be amazed by the diversity and beauty of these amazing creatures.
