Your aquarium in autumn: don't let the cold creep into the water

Fish can't pull on a jumper. They live at the temperature of their water, and when the house starts getting chilly, the aquarium feels it. Stability is one of the things they value most, so the change of season is a good time to check your equipment and routines.

Tropical aquarium: the heater rules

Tropical fish need consistently warm water. In summer, the heater may have barely been working; in autumn it becomes essential.

• Check the heater works and that its wattage is right for the volume of your aquarium.
• Use a separate thermometer to check the temperature every day; don't rely on the heater alone.
• Place the heater somewhere with good water flow, near the filter outlet.
• Always unplug it before taking it out of the water, and wait for it to cool down.

Coldwater aquarium: it matters too

Coldwater fish, such as goldfish, tolerate lower temperatures, but sudden changes don't suit them either. Keep the aquarium away from a window that turns cold at night or a radiator that warms it up during the day.

Water changes without nasty surprises

Partial water changes are just as important in autumn. What changes is the temperature of the water you add, which comes out of the tap colder at this time of year.

• Try to get the new water to a temperature very close to the aquarium's.
• Always treat it with conditioner to remove the chlorine.
• Do regular partial changes; never empty the whole aquarium.
• Clean the filter with water from the aquarium itself, not from the tap, so you don't wipe out the beneficial bacteria.

Less light outside, same routine inside

With shorter days, the aquarium may well become the living room's mood lighting. Keep to a regular lighting schedule, with a timer if possible, and avoid leaving it on for long stretches at a time, as that encourages algae.

If your fish are listless, stay at the bottom or aren't eating, or you see marks or damaged fins, test the water parameters and consult a vet or a specialist shop.

At Petuki you'll find decorations, artificial plants and accessories so your aquarium stays the prettiest corner of the house in autumn too.