Fishkeeping is a rather challenging hobby, but you can increase your chances of success at it by continually reading up and seeking advice in areas of interest before starting out, and while maintaining your aquarium.

As you plunge deeper into it, you’ll derive not only knowledge, but lots of joy in discovering more about the things you are passionate about, be it creating a lush aquascape or a thriving coral reef.

But the greatest reward is that once your aquarium is up and running, you’ll be able to sit back and enjoy the fascinating underwater world you’ve created, whenever you please.

• Don't be afraid to ask questions when you are sussing out equipment, fish and other items for your aquarium.
  Most hobbyists have their own preferences, but it’s good to learn from them about the sort of equipment they use, and the benefits and problems they have experienced.
  
  Patronise stores where the staff are able to offer advice and help you choose suitable fish and equipment for your new tank, based on factors such as the size of the tank and your level of experience.
  
  
• New developments in the aquarium industry have made it even easier than before to maintain an aquarium. With a new generation of aquarium equipment and treatment products available, aquarium owners can spend more time enjoying their fish and less time worrying about maintenance.
  
  It’s worthwhile to invest in a high-quality filtration system, as maintaining a stable biological system is critical to your fishes’ good health.
  
  But whichever kind of filtration system you opt for, be sure to read the instructions carefully and change the filters at the specified intervals.
  
  
• Set up your aquarium before you purchase any fish. The tank needs about one to two weeks to cycle. It is important for the cycling process (whereby colonies of beneficial nitrifying bacteria are cultivated in the aquarium) to be established before you add any fish to the aquarium. When you do add fish, put in only a few at a time. Should anything go wrong with the setup, the resulting damage can be minimised.
  
  
• After your aquarium is up and running, you must clean it at least once every three to four weeks. Remove 25 per cent of the water and top up with fresh dechlorinated water, remove decaying matter and debris, and if necessary, replace the filter media, take out dirty accessories for cleaning, and add salt and chemicals.