So You Want To Be An Aquarist

Introduction,pet bird

So you think you want to be an Aquarist? Well there is more to being an Aquarist than just having a few fish in a bowl.

What Is An Aquarist?

A real basic definition of what is an Aquarist is, "it is a person who takes care of an aquarium as a hobby or as a profession". This is a pretty basic definition but does not do justice for what an Aquarist really is.

Going by the definition above anyone who has a fish in a bowl could qualify as an Aquarist.

Since most people who purchase an aquarium fail, these people would not qualify to have the title Aquarist. Let us redefine it as a person who successfully maintains an aquarium as a hobby or a profession.

A really well qualified Aquarist would also be successfully breeding his freshwater fish in an aquarium.

What Does An Aquarist Do?

An Aquarist is responsible for the proper care of aquarium fish and other aquatic animals such as snails, shrimp and other animals that live in an aquarium. This person is also responsible for maintaining a proper environment that is needed to keep healthy aquatic animals.

Feeding the aquatic animals a varied diet is also required of them. They are also responsible for observing the animals for signs of sickness or injury and if they see any problems they are required to take action to the correct the problem.

You should also be in good health. There will times when you will need to lift, bend, stoop and stand for extended periods of time.

How Do I Become An Aquarist?

If you have a home aquarium and have successfully been keeping your fish tank for over a year. Then you should consider yourself an Aquarist.

But if you want to be a professional Aquarist then you should study life sciences or biology in high school. In college pursue a degree in Aquaculture or Marine Biology.

If you do not want to pursue a degree, then you may want to receive training in this field as an intern. You can receive this training at any large aquarium if you have one in your area. If not, there are lots of pet stores that will hire you on to receive the knowledge you need.

Conclusion

Being an Aquarist means more than just having some fish in a bowl. It requires extensive knowledge of caring for aquatic animals either with a formal education or through an internship.