Caring for Bottom-Feeding Fish

An aquarium can be a work of art, as well as a source of considerable pride for the owner. Some aquariums are exquisitely-decorated with brightly-colored coral, exotic-looking plastic plants, cantilevered stone slabs and tiny models of sunken ships.

Fish are a vital part of this microcosm, though they are sometimes overshadowed by the extravagance of their surroundings. While bottom feeders such as catfish and algae eaters may not be the most beautiful creatures in the tank, they have a vital function. But their continued subsistence requires special care with which many aspiring aquarium aficionados may not be familiar.

Algae eaters such as Plecostumus (Plecos) are very efficient at removing the green slime that congeals along the glass walls of an aquarium. After this is accomplished they can survive on algae tablets, which sink to the bottom of the tank when placed in the water. There are similar food pellets designed for catfish.

A good filtration system is important for both purifying the water and maintaining oxygenation. But much of the detritus from excess food and fish waste matter sinks to the bottom of the tank, out of reach of the filter tube. Here it begins to decay, forming ammonia and lowering the pH -the measure of acidity to alkalinity- to deadly levels. pH is on a scale of 1 to 14, with 7 being neutral.

The lower the pH, the higher the acidity. A pH of 6 or 7 is ideal for most fresh water aquariums. Most pet stores carry test kits for determining the pH level of your aquarium, and testing should be done every couple of weeks. If the pH is too high, there are also products which can be added to the water to stabilize levels.

Even if the pH tests at a normal level, cleaning out the waste at the bottom of the tank is necessary. This should generally be performed on a monthly basis, depending on the size of the aquarium. This is best accomplished via a long, thick plastic tube inserted into the gravel and attached to a siphon.

Pets stores also sell units which attach directly to spigots and utilize reverse pressure to create a siphon. Prior to this, tank decorations should be removed to allow full access to the gravel. For especially large aquariums, cleaning different sections of the bottom at a time is recommended. When the tank is about one-third empty, fresh, luke-warm water should be added.

Maintaining a fresh water aquarium requires some effort, but not an unreasonable amount. If these few simple procedures are followed, bottom feeders, as well as other inhabitants of the tank, should be active and healthy.