Newbie question

[MNmom2]

My husband and I would like an aquarium (freshwater), but we're concerned that our son practicing drums a few times a week is going to be an issue and stress the fish. They would not be in the same room, but it is loud all over the house. If anyone has comments or suggestions, I would appreciate it.

[Sandz]

First: Congrats to your son for picking a great instrument. Second: While water resonates a lot more than air, the fish should be fine overall. I would suggest though that you dont get fish that have a strong latteral line such as Peacock african cichlids.

[talldutchie]

Alternative. Get the son an electronic drum kit and a pair of headphones. :D

Seriously, a lot of community fish will have more to fear from you learning fishkeeping (no insult intended, we all make mistakes when we start) than from drumming. Many are more scared by sudden movements close to the tank.

You may want to see about putting something under the tank to minimize shock transfer. Thick piece of styrofoam works for many people.

[fishmommie]

You're off to a great start by even thinking about the possibility of noise affecting the fish. Shows you are caring and concerned.

I think your question has been answered. I'd only add that if you decide to go ahead with your aquarium, that you utilize this forum to help get you going. Unfortunately, most fish stores encourage those 'new to the hobby' to set up their tank and immediately stock when the opposite is true.
There is a beginners section here that walks you through setting up your tank and getting the water ready for the fish. Hope you have a chance to read it before you get started and you should have a successful experience. And of course - ask questions any time.
Good luck! with the fish AND the drums :o)

[MNmom2]

Thanks! We actually enjoy listening to our son playing drums. I appreciate the advice about not getting certain fish like the Peacock African Cichlids.

[MNmom2]

Interesting alternative for the drums. :)

Thanks for the idea of putting something under the tank to help absorb some of the shock.

[MNmom2]

We will definitely utilize the forum to help get us going with an aquarium. I downloaded the book for beginners too and I noticed that we'll need to stock the tank later, rather than right away. Thanks for pointing that out and thanks for the good luck wishes with the fish and the drums! :)

[talldutchie]

Always nice to see a new fishkeeper making an effort to do it right. Well done MNmom2!

[Tiari]

For under the tank what works well is kitchen counter no slip mats. They are weaved rubberized mats, and help with any vibration transfer to the tank, and with drums, you'll have a bit of that.

[MNmom2]

Thanks, talldutchie. If we're going to do it, we want to do it right!