CHOOSING THE SYSTEM 
   Fish keeping is usually divided into two categories: freshwater and marine. We will also deal with brackish water aquariums, for which many fascinating species of fish and invertebrate are available. Among the first things that you will have to decide is which of these aquariums you wish to set up, and whether you intend to keep a tropical or a temperate aquarium. Tropical tanks dominate the aquarium hobby, because of the spectacular species of fish that can be kept in them.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT TANK 
   As a general rule, the larger the tank you choose, the more stable the water chemistry will be once the aquarium is functioning. You can use any shape of aquarium that you like, but make sure that the glass is clear and free from distortion. The most popular aquariums are all-glass tanks bonded by silicone sealant, although numerous other models are available, such as one-piece plastic tanks, or the older less common, metal-framed tanks. The latter are not recommended for marine environments, as the frame may rust

BUYING FISH 
   The best sources of aquarium fish are aquatic societies and specialist aquarium shops. Look for specimens with appropriately healthy colors and a well-defined example of any distinguishing pattern. They should have well-proportioned bodies, and should appear to swim effortlessly. Be watchful for any evidence of disease, such as ulcers, fin damage, :cloudy eyes, and breathing or swimming abnormalities. Try to observe the fish while they are feeding; those that are reluctant to take food may be in poor health.

Moving it?
You should never attempt to move a full aquarium, the glass could crack under the stress plus it's a good way to hurt yourself.

Drain off about half the water into a clean can, disconnect the electric supply, and remove the large or small rocks and plants and put them in a bucket of water.

SETTING UP THE SYSTEM
   Once you have decided on the system that you would like to set up, chosen the fish and materials, and found suitable sources for them, you are ready to build the aquarium.
   A tank full of water is extremely heavy, so you must choose its final position before attempting to set it up. The site should be near a power point, and there should be plenty of room above and beside it for access and for maintenance.
   Select a strong, level surface - you may choose to buy an aquarium stand from a dealer. So that the tank remains level, it should be positioned on a sheet of expanded polystyrene or cork. You should also make sure that the floor beneath the entire structure will be capable of taking the final weight.
   The site should not suffer from substantial variations in temperature, and should be removed from draughts and direct sunlight. Too much sunlight may make the water temperature rise excessively, and will encourage unnecessary algae growth. As long as the tank is correctly lit, it is preferable to place it in a dark corner.
  
  Do not locate the tank near a door, because the irregular banging will stress its inhabitants. Knocking on the glass, or any other abnormal noises, are equally undesirable. Although it may not at first seem so, a well-frequented room, with a stable noise level, is a far better site than a room which is only used occasionally. Try to keep atmospheric pollution in the room, such as cigarette smoke, to a minimum. The quality of the air in a room is almost as important to fish as the quality of the water, since the two interact.

                  PART TWO