Is it really expensive to keep fish?

K

Kier

New member
I've seen many answers where it says that unless you're willing to fork out what I've researched to be as much as hundreds of dollars, you're doing it wrong. Is it really that much of a money trap to keep fish or can you do it on the cheap and still do it right?
 
If you're keeping it in a bowl you're doing it wrong. And Goldfish are some of the more expensive fish to keep if you're doing it properly!!! A fish in a bowl = a dead fish. A Goldfish needs a very large over filtered tank, small tanks are NOT for Goldfish! I wish people that actually knew about proper fish care answered these Q's and not people with fish-in-a-death-bowl.

And it is expensive as you make it really. The initial spend, such as a proper tank, filter, heater, fish stock etc, can cost a bit, but after that it's just occasional buys such as more dechlorinator/food (plus electricity and water bills which will only be effected by very large tanks). UNLESS of course you find yourself suffering with MTS (multiple-tank-syndrome) THEN it does get expensive as you just can't stop buying more and more tanks to cope with your new obsession...that's what happened to me and I don't even want to think about what I've spent!
 
No matter what, if you want to have a proper set-up no matter the size you will need a bit of cash on hand.

Firstly, the aquarium itself can cost some money. I'm not too sure on prices where you live, but it's a bit expensive where I live. One thing is purchasing a kit (tank, hood, lights, filter included etc) because this can save you a little bit. Buying them all separate can run you into a lot of money. Plus, depending on the fish you may need to buy a larger filter and a heater (if any tropical fish).

Also, liquid testing kits for Ammonia, Nitrite and Nitrate, water conditioner/de-chlorinator, a gravel vacuum, a fish net, and a variety of fish food (depending on what type) is essential for keeping healthy fish.

It's not all a rich man's hobby, but you need to have some money. The most important thing to have when keeping fish is knowledge and research. Make sure you thoroughly research your fish before even consider purchasing one, meeting all of it's needs. Also, please fishless cycle your tank before getting fish and good luck.
 
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