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Tired? Stressed out? Just plain bored after school? You could try to relax in front of the television or hang out with friends. But did you know that keeping tropical fish in an aquarium can reduce stress and relieve nervous tension.

Imagine sitting in a room where the only light comes from a fish tank. Behind the glass a variety of colorful fine streams of bubbles. Some fish probe the crevices between rocks; others sift gravel searching for hidden tidbits. Without even realizing it, you might spend hours enjoying the playful antics of your fish. If a tropical fish hobby sounds interesting to you, the following advice will help you get started.

Equipment

Most pet store dealers have complete setups that include an all-glass aquarium (the 29-gallon size is best, but a 10-gallon tank will work too), air pump with tubing and air stones, under gravel and box filters, and even plastic ornamental and plants.

An aquarium kit is perhaps best. It will give you the basic equipment to work with and, more important, the opportunity to meet a reputable pet dealer. His advice will be invaluable in the future.

Since you’re new to the hobby, this might be the simplest way to go. But if you’re more adventurous (and cost-conscious too), you might find most of what you need at some neighborhood yard sale. Before you purchase from this and other similar sources, however, be sure the aquarium holds water and has a cover with a working light. The air pump should produce a steady and firm flow. Check out heaters to see that the glass isn’t cracked and that the heating element is free of rust.

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