15 - Dialog 15

Hey. Look at your fish! Aren’t they sweet? I want to have a fish tank at home, and I am trying to decide which fish to buy. Which type of fish is best to keep in a tank, do you think?
Well, these are goldfish. They are very cheap to buy, and are easy to look after, so many people keep goldfish. If you prefer, you can buy tropical fish, which are very colourful and nice to look at.
What about those fish with teeth? I think they are called piranhas. Would they eat the other fish?
If I was you, I would be careful about that! Piranhas are quite scary fish! They can eat a goldfish very quickly. They will chase it around the tank until they catch it. It’s not very nice.
I don’t know what fish normally eat. How do you feed them?
It’s very easy. You can buy some fish food from your local pet store. Then you feed them every one or two days. It is important not to give them too much food. Many people overfeed their fish.
If I bought six or seven fish, would I need a very big fish tank?
Yes, I think so. They have to have enough room to swim around freely. You can buy big tanks from a pet shop.
What are they made of? Plastic?
Plastic? No way! Tanks are usually made of glass. It is more pleasant for the fish, I think.
And what kind of shape?
They only sell bowls or rectangular tanks. The rectangular tank is best if you want to keep several fish.
I see. What kind of water do they swim in?
It depends on the fish. Goldfish swim in freshwater. You can fill the tank from the water tap in your house. Some fish require salt water, if they come from the sea.
Do the fish need a light in the tank?
I’m not sure. I usually do not give them an extra light. As you can see, my tank is in the kitchen, where there is good natural light. In the evening, I turn off the light.
I see you have lots of things in your tank. What should I put in my tank?
It’s up to you. I have added a rock, so the fish can hide if they want. There are also some water plants, which help to create a more pleasant environment.
I’ve always liked starfish. Could I put starfish or other sea creatures in my tank?
In theory, yes. But remember that starfish need salt water. In a freshwater tank, you can keep snails, for example. They can be useful, because they eat the algae, which grow in the tank.
I am looking forward to having my own fish! Thanks for your help!
You’re welcome. You can ask me questions anytime.