I live in Mumbai, India and have a cichlid setup. I know I live in the tropics and wouldn't have to install a heater as the average room temp is around 30-32degrees C. The tank temp would be a little lower as its not in direct sunlight at any time. However, in winter it can get cold which for us is about 16-17 degrees. Do I need a heater then, as in the wild the temp does fluctuate.
You would want to keep the temp stable by using a heater. A closed system such as an aquarium is very much different than the wild where there's far more variables.
Ah, I guess a heater would be the norm then at around 25 C. That too during the monsoon and/or winter. In the summer it would naturally be at that temp.
keeping the temp stable is a perfect scenario. How does it happen in the lakes. Doesnt the temp fluctuate at all, I think it does. My point is- do we have to be that perticular. I am just concerned about the fish but in the past year, throughout the seasons, I havent seen any discomfort or untoward behaviour with any fish I have. So was just wondering how critical it is considering my geographical location. You guys stay in places where it gets really cold. However would propably purchase a heater. They are my babies
and thats the answer i am looking for. thanks there weeser. I never thought of the fish at different depths to remain comfortable. Consider the heater installed.I have a 67g, how will I maintain even heating of the water. Currents would be an issue. Should I purchase two smaller filters on either end of the tank or one large one ( going by 2-3 watts/g)
Well keep in mind that lakes are very large bodies of water and in direct contact with the Earth which helps stabilize the temperature. A lake might fluctuate 20-30 degrees throughout the year, but will only fluctuate <1 degree in a given day. An aquarium is a much smaller volume and surrounded by air, making it more prone to fluctuations. If it is 95° during the day and drops to 75° at night, that is a 20° fluctuation within a day, which is what is stressful to fish. I think if I lived in the tropics (Central Florida is warm enough for me, thanks) and had an in-wall tank that would prevent daily swings day I would skip a heater, but if my tank was out on a stand and I noticed swings of more than 1 degree in a day I would go with a heater to keep things stable.
Edit: Walked away, came back, posted without refreshing, and have been beaten to the punch. A good logic too btw.
which for us is about 16-17 degrees. Do I need a heater then, as in the wild the temp does fluctuate.
