The most common problem which confronted novice Aquarists was overfeeding their fish. This guideline can be exceeded, but the aquarium will require more frequent water changes and a power failure or disease under crowded conditions can cause a major wipe out.
Dosages range from one-half to two teaspoons per gallon.
Aquarium salts are available at pet stores, however, non-iodized table salts are much cheaper and work just as well. The only drawback occurs when aquarium water spills on the outside glass and evaporates leaving a film which can be difficult to remove. Many aquatic habitats contain rock which provides structure and cover for fish. This natural and also attractive feature can be realistically duplicated on a small scale in aquariums. Shale and limestone are the easiest to work with and the latter also doubles as a buffer which prevents the pH of water from going acid.