Myth: 1 Inch Per Gallon
Reality: bioload depends on species, not just length.
Goldfish at 1 inch per gallon = ammonia disaster.
Plan stocking by adult body mass, not length.
Myth: Fish Grow to Fit Tank
Reality: stunted fish from undersized tanks die earlier.
Some species do grow slightly slower in small tanks but at health cost.
Plan for adult size, always.
Myth: Aging Water 24 Hours
Reality: dechlorinator works in seconds.
Aging removes chlorine without dechlorinator (passive process).
Modern conditioners make 24-hour aging unnecessary.
Myth: Replace Filter Media Monthly
Reality: only mechanical media (floss, pads) needs frequent replacement.
Biological media (ceramic rings, bio balls) should NEVER be replaced unless damaged.
Myth: Salt Cures Everything
Reality: salt helps with some bacterial infections, ich, and brown blood.
Doesn't cure: viral diseases, fungal infections, parasites in scaleless fish.