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PAWSitively Petland ShowAuthor: Ron Solsrud
Ron, with all his Petland Iowa City experience and knowledge, discusses all sorts of pet-related topics. You'll find episodes on pet training tips, pet products, pet food reviews, breed fun facts, and more. If you're a current or soon-to-be pet owner or someone who just plain loves pets, listen in to learn the latest tips and tricks to help you and your little one have an even better life! Petland Pets Make Life Better! Language: en Genres: Kids & Family, Pets & Animals Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it |
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Beyond the Bowl: The Surprising Benefits and Essentials of Fish Keeping
Episode 6
Monday, 2 February, 2026
Fish keeping is more than a decorative hobby—it’s a proven way to create a calmer, healthier living environment while connecting with nature indoors. Whether you’re new to aquariums or looking to refine your setup, understanding proper fish care is essential for both your well-being and the long-term health of your aquatic pets.At Petland Iowa City, our aquatic specialists help hobbyists succeed by focusing on four essential areas of care: behavioral, environmental, nutritional, and maintenance needs. When these are met, aquariums become what we like to call living ecosystems, not just tanks with water.The Health Benefits of Fish KeepingAquariums are often described as “living art,” but their benefits go far beyond aesthetics. Studies have shown that watching fish swim can help reduce:Blood pressureHeart rateStress and anxiety levelsThe rhythmic movement of fish and the gentle sound of circulating water promote relaxation and mindfulness, making aquariums a popular addition to homes, offices, and healthcare settings.1. The Science of a Healthy Aquarium: Understanding the Nitrogen CycleOne of the most common reasons fish don’t survive their first few weeks is an incomplete or misunderstood nitrogen cycle.Tap water contains chlorine and chloramines, which are safe for people—but toxic to fish. Without proper conditioning and biological filtration, fish waste quickly converts into ammonia, which can become deadly in small environments.How the Nitrogen Cycle WorksFish produce waste → ammoniaBeneficial bacteria convert ammonia → nitritesMore bacteria convert nitrites → nitratesNitrates are removed through water changes and live plantsTo establish this cycle safely, we recommend:Using a quality water conditionerAdding beneficial bacteria supplementsIncorporating live aquarium plantsLive plants help with:Natural water filtrationOxygen exchangeStress reduction and shelterSupporting healthy bacteria colonies2. Behavioral & Environmental Needs: Fish Are Social CreaturesFish are not decorations—they have behaviors, social structures, and environmental preferences.Many popular species are schooling fish, meaning they feel safest in groups. If one fish appears aggressive or stressed, the issue is often too few tank mates, not too many.Creating a Stress-Free EnvironmentA healthy aquarium should include:Plants (live or artificial)Driftwood or rock structuresDecorative elements that break up sightlinesThese features act as underwater “breakwaters”, helping fish navigate their environment and reducing stress-related behavior3. Nutrition: More Than Just FlakesWhile flakes and pellets are a solid staple, a varied diet keeps fish healthier, more colorful, and more engaged.Enhancing your fish’s diet can include:Frozen foods (thawed before feeding)Bloodworms or brine shrimpSpecies-specific treatsRotational feeding schedulesA varied diet mimics natural feeding habits and often results in:Increased activityBrighter colorationStronger immune systems4. Maintenance: Think of Your Aquarium as an Indoor GardenAn aquarium thrives with consistent, simple care—much like a garden.Routine Aquarium Maintenance Includes:Pruning plants to prevent overcrowdingMonthly gravel cleaning using a siphon to remove debrisPartial water changes, never full tank replacementsAlways conditioning new water before adding it to the tankAvoid over-cleaning—beneficial bacteria live on surfaces like gravel, filters, and decorations.Visit Petland Iowa CityReady to start or upgrade your aquarium? Visit us at the Lower Muscatine Road Marketplace Mall, where our aquatic experts are happy to help.Store Hours:Monday–Saturday: 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.Sunday: 12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
