Continued from page 1
Put
tank near a window so it gets plenty of indirect sunlight. A cover (which can be foil loosely placed over top) helps keep out dust and also keeps an active fish in! Sand or gravel bottoms look nice, but make work in that they must be cleaned. If you have a clear aquarium, just put a placemat under it and you'll have an instant sea floor or sandy base. A little mirror propped up on outside of tank will give your fish "company".
Clean Water means a Healthy Goldfish
Change water every second day, replacing old with water that's been aged and salted. It just takes a minute and means that you don't have to buy a filter or air pump - a substantial savings. Scoop your fish out of aquarium in a holding pail, dump dirty water from aquarium, rinse a few times, re-fill and return goldfish.
Feed Sparingly and Wisely
Soak food you buy from pet shop so that it sinks to bottom of tank when you feed your goldfish. Feed a tiny amount every time you change water and, if you like, supplement that with some plants you find growing wild in fresh water rivers and ponds such as anacharis (which is probably most common aquarium plant and readily available in any pet store).
Have Fun
You and your child will not only have fun but will learn together while caring for your little golden water creature. And I'll bet you'll name her "Goldie"!
About the Author:
Stephanie Olsen, published writer, homeschooling mother of two and ESL teacher currently residing in Europe, is also owner of the expatriate site, Family Life Abroad http://www.familylifeabroad.com where you'll find humorous and informative articles by experienced expatriates on all aspects of living abroad, with lots of links and travel tips.
