How well do you know your aquarium fish? Silly question right? Well, consider this, our fish have daily routines, needs, social conflicts and feeding habits that happen every day and many of them go unnoticed by the fishkeeper.

Now, we are not saying you are a bad fishkeeper or don't care correctly for your fish because you are not in tune with your aquarium inhabitants’ intricate social structure. Of course not. What we are going to explain is the benefits of observing your fish in a way that will greatly benefit both the fish and the fishkeeper in the long run. Let us explain.

Taking the time to closely observe each fish (within reason, Shoals of tetra can be a little challenging), especially how they swim can allow us to quickly identify a potential injury. Maybe a fin has been damaged by another fish or part of the hardscape. Discovering such an injury early on will make a huge difference when treating a fish.

Another helpful observation to make is the behaviour and personality of your fish. Over time, close attention to your fish can help learn your fish's favourite area of the aquarium. Some fish find quiet areas under plants or wood while others prefer a spot close to the surface. Knowing this detail is vital in preventing territorial disputes. It can also be a way of discovering a fish that has died. When they are not in their usual spot, you know to start looking for the ‘missing’ fish.

Feeding fish is one of the best aspects of an aquarium keeper's hobby and by far the most important time to be paying attention. Your fish during feeding time generally approach the front of the aquarium. This is the perfect time to get a closer look at them. Introduce a magnifying glass and you have a brilliant way of closely checking their fins, body and eyes. If any of your fish develop an injury or disease, this is a great way to spot it early. Again, early treatment of either an injury or disease can make all the difference. We recommend using a stick on glass tablet food every now and then. They offer a sustained grazing session in a position that gives you the best opportunity to observe them.

Take a look at our fish medicines along with some fish food that would be great for getting to know your fish better.