Perhaps you are considering “going it alone” in setting up a smaller aquarium system or perhaps you are hauling out that old aquarium for another try.

Advice and education

It is important as you setup, maintain and enjoy your aquarium that you have a source for information on this great hobby.  Ask your aquarium professional to supply you with the information and product needed to keep your aquarium at its best.  Make sure that you ask questions and use this person to educate yourself on fish keeping techniques. It will also benefit you to purchase a reference book about fish keeping. Ask your professional to suggest a book that will help you get started right in the hobby.
 

Location

It is important to choose the proper place for your new aquarium carefully. The aquarium should be placed on an appropriate size aquarium stand or a sturdy surface that can easily support the weight of the full aquarium.  Do not place the aquarium in direct sunlight.  Direct and indirect sunlight will result in excess algae growth making your aquarium unsightly and will increase the aquariums maintenance.  
 

Cleaning your aquarium

It is important to clean your new aquarium prior to setup.  Simply wipe the inside and outside with a water-dampened paper towel. Make sure that no cleaners, detergents or chemicals of any type are ever used when you are cleaning your aquarium.  Be careful when handling a wet aquarium.
 

Adding gravel and decorations

After your aquarium is in place and cleaned, it is time to add gravel and decorations.  Gravel is necessary to anchor live or artificial plants and decorations in your aquarium.   It also helps to create a natural environment for your tank inhabitants.  It is recommended that you purchase pre-packed or bulk gravel at your local pet store.  Add approximately 1.5 pounds of gravel per gallon of water or about 2 inches of gravel in depth to your aquarium.  Most gravel contains a little dust or particles that can cloud the water in your new aquarium.  We recommend that you rinse your gravel thoroughly prior to use.  This can be accomplished by using a colander or spare clean bucket.  After your gravel is in place it is time to add rock, driftwood, plants, and other decorations to your aquarium.  It is important to clean items with fresh water prior to use.
By adding decorations to your aquarium you will create a fish friendly environment.  Use rock and driftwood to create tunnels and hiding places for your fish.  You may also want to add artificial plants to the aquarium at this time. If you intend to use live plants it is recommended that you wait roughly one month after your aquarium is running and stocked.  This will allow your aquarium to cycle properly.
 

Adding water

After your aquarium is decorated it is time to add water.  Room temperature water should be used.  Place a large bowl near the bottom of the aquarium.  Begin to fill the aquarium by simply pouring the water into the bowl that has been placed in the aquarium.  The bowl will diffract the stream of water decreasing the turbulence and allowing the majority of gravel and decorations to stay in place.
Once the aquarium is filled, the water should be treated to remove chlorine and/or chloramines.  Ask your professional what product they recommend for the water in your area.
 

Filters

There are many filter options available to you through your local aquarium professional.  These options include basic filters such as undergravel and sponge filters to power filters and sump filtration units.  Each of these filters was designed for certain applications and/or environmental considerations. Your dealer will be able to recommend the type of filter that will best meet your needs.  Make sure that you read and follow the directions provided by the manufacturer of whatever filter you decide to purchase.
 

Heaters

A heater is recommended for most tropical fish.   Fluctuating temperatures may cause health issues in your aquatic environment.  The majority of tropical fish live well in a temperature ranges between 74 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit.   Ask your advisor for the specific temperature requirements for the fish you have selected.  They should also be able to recommend a brand and size heater for your aquarium. A good rule of thumb would be to purchase a heater that has about 5 watts per every gallon of aquarium water.  To help regulate the temperature you should purchase a thermometer.  It should be placed opposite the heater.  This will give you a good indication of water temperature in your aquarium and you can adjust accordingly.
 

Lighting

A fluorescent full hood is recommended to provide the necessary light for your fish and plants.  It will also help reduce evaporation and will keep your fish from jumping out of the aquarium.   Fluorescent light provides a natural, full-spectrum environment.   Fluorescent lighting is also more energy efficient than incandescent hoods and the bulbs will last longer.  An automatic timer is recommended to turn the lights on and off.  Too much light may cause unwanted algae growth.
 

Adding fish

Once your aquarium is ready to handle the first arrivals (usually in a few days) it is time to add fish.  Prior to heading to the pet store double check your water temperature and make sure your filter is running correctly.   Make sure you choose appropriate fish for your aquarium.   Smaller aquariums may not be suitable to house certain fish that may eventually outgrow their surroundings.   When you return home with your fish make sure to acclimate them slowly.   Begin by floating the closed fish bag in the aquarium for 5 to 10 minutes allowing the temperature in the bag to match the temperature in the aquarium.  Next open the bag and roll down the top of the bag three or four times.  This will create air pockets or a float ring that will allow the bag to freely float in the aquarium.  Add a small amount of aquarium water to the open bag and allow the bag to continue to float.  Repeat adding small amounts of aquarium water every few minutes for a total of 20 minutes.  This will allow your fish to acclimate to the Ph and over-all water chemistry in your aquarium.  Next gently pour your fish from the bag into a net discarding the water in the bag.  Release your fish from the net into the aquarium.
 

Water testing

It is important to test your aquarium water to monitor ammonia, nitrite and Ph levels.  Ask your professional for a complete water testing kit.
 

Feeding your fish

Ask your consultant for help in selecting the right type of fish food for the species of fish that you will be keeping. It is important that you offer your fish a variety of foods.  Feed your fish small amounts of food multiple times a day.   Watch your fish eat.   This way you will be able to monitor and adjust the amount of food you are giving your fish.  It is important not to overfeed your fish.   Excess food in the aquarium water will lead to poor water quality, which can cause health issues for the inhabitants.
 

Enjoy

Keeping fish can be educational for children as well as a relaxing hobby for all ages.

*** Important Safety Information! ***

Handle with care!