Books

[ebola]

Hi all,

I'm pretty new to this hobby. I just started a little 10 gallon goldfish tank on only the advice from the pet store. I've had four fatalities, but the remaining two seem pretty healthy. I'm not ready to give up, but I'm wondering if anyone can recommend good books or web resources. There seems to be a fair amount of contradictory information out there, and many of the books seem to just be glossy tools for selling fish and equipment.

Thanks!

[BigAds]

10 gallon tank.... with goldfish... simply cannot work. They're too messy, and grow way too big.

I really like the fish profiles information at http://badmanstropicalfish.com/profile.html

[ebola]

Well, I have picked up a 30 gallon tank, but getting that set up is going to take a few paychecks. I do understand that I dove into this without really looking, but for now my main concern is finding the right resources. That website looks pretty good. Thanks!

[Hooked Newbie]

Been there myself ebola. My best suggestion for you is to read, read, read in the Coldwater section here and ask any questions that you have trouble finding answers to. There are a bunch of very knowledgeable people here that love to help.

:welcome: to AC!

[rogers138]

Want a web resource? Well......AC comes to mind. Also, I agree with Hooked Newbie. One thing you want to get yourself is a API Master Test Kit to check your water parameters.

Welcome to AC!

[irishspy]

I do understand that I dove into this without really looking, but for now my main concern is finding the right resources.

:welcome:

Most of us get started in similar ways, I think: "Oooh! What a pretty fish! I'll take him!"

(A few hours later, back home.)

"Umm...now what do I do?" :nilly:

There are a few goldie fanciers in the coldwater section, and I'm sure they'll be happy to help you. :)

[jm1212]

your local library is a great way to learn plenty about the hobby. AND it doesnt cost anything to do so.

[Marinemom]

I agree about the library. Read read read. Get as much info as you can especially if it is free and the library is free so why not?

Marinemom

[Lupin]

Most books are outdated. It is always best to ask around forums. You get as much experiences and opinions as the information by reading dozens of books. Specialist websites also give excellent information on certain species.

:welcome: to AC!

[AlexW]

I agree with lupin here, one of my favorite past times is going through the library and finding the fish books and seeing what ancient information I know better of now lol. With all the goldfish books I see in my library system, there isn't a one that would be a worthwhile read, most of them are designed for kids and give faulty advice.

One book I love that deals alot with coldwater that I think has a good amount of correct information is A practical guide to setting up your COLD WATER Aquarium by Nick Fletcher.

And of course AC is a good source as well, I shy away from badmans because I know a fair bit of the advice there is either incomplete or faulty.