T E M P E R A T U R E
Water temperature affects the amount of
dissolved oxygen water can hold. Cool water holds more oxygen than
warm water. However, since tropical fish require warm water, we can't
just lower our aquarium's water temperature to increase its oxygen
content.
What type of aquarium heaters do I
need?
Inexpensive heaters work pretty well at keeping a constant
temperature in your aquarium, usually only fluctuating +2 or -2
degrees. Some of the more costly heaters will keep the temperature
fluctuation to only +1 or -1 degrees. To determine the heater size you
need for you aquarium, estimate 3-5 watts per gallon of water. Three
watts per gallon, should be sufficient if the aquarium is placed on an
inside wall and is in a
room at a temperature of at least 68-72 degrees.
Accurate temperature is very important.
You should always monitor the temperature with a thermometer, even if
your heater has a thermostat. A good temperature range for most
tropical fish is between 76-80 degrees. Goldfish prefer cold
water and can usually be kept at room temperature of about 70-72
degrees.
