Your love for aquatic life will probably have you thinking that it’s time to invest in an aquarium. No worries, we’ve got you covered! If you are a complete novice at setting up an aquarium, this post will guide you through a step-by-step procedure.
First, you will need a flat and hard surface to place your aquarium on and an area with ideal environmental conditions suitable for fish to live in. Before proceeding with the necessary instruments for setting up a fish tank, ensure that a power outlet is near the aquarium because you will need to connect electrical equipment to the tank, like a heater, a filter, and lights. Try avoiding an extension cord, as too many wires near the aquarium can pose a hazard.
Now, let’s proceed with the step-by-step setup procedure.
Choose The Aquarium
For beginners, choose a large fish tank as they are easier to install. Plus, they are more stable than smaller ones. We recommend selecting an aquarium of at least 20 gallons. If the space you have chosen for keeping your aquarium is not adequate for a large tank, you can work with a smaller one, but be careful while installing and maintaining it.
Select The Fish Tank Gravel
Gravel is to be placed on the bed of the aquarium. Choose coarse gravel to keep the water flow subtle, but it should also be fine enough to promote nitrifying bacteria. Aquatic life and fish tank enthusiasts at https://aquaticly.com recommend choosing coarse sands, glass gravel, and creek stones for beginners. Additionally, they suggest individuals stay away from limestone and calcium-based substrates because it can make the tank water’s pH level rise, eventually killing the fish. Place the gravel evenly on the floor of the tank.
Add An Aquarium Filter
Your fish tank needs an aquarium filter to remove fish waste, dangerous chemicals, free-floating particles, decaying organic matter, and excess food from the water. The filter should have a good flow rate, ease of use, and reliability to maintain a healthy aquatic habitat for your precious fishes to survive. Your choice of filter could have a suction cup or a hook to hang it. Choose the one you find more convenient and add it to the tank.
Install The Heater
You need to install a heater in your aquarium tank to help your fish feel comfortable in their new environment. A fish tank heater is a must, especially if you plan to keep tropical fish. Make sure to find a reliable heater.
Add An Aquarium Gravel Vacuum
While a fish tank filter is suitable for suspended pollutants in the aquarium water, a gravel vacuum focuses on the base’s debris. It’s a must-have tool for maintenance so that you can get rid of the debris lying on the aquarium floor with ease. Installing one will also reduce the workload of having to clean the fish tank frequently. Ensure all these instruments are installed in the tank at an adequate distance, providing ample space for the organisms.
Pour Water In The Tank
You might need a bucket to add water. A 5-gallon bucket should be adequate to keep the work easy and convenient for you.
Check The Water Quality
You will also need an efficient water test kit, which will help you test for nitrate, pH, and ammonia levels before adding your fish to the water. You also need this equipment to determine the aquarium’s toxicity, so you can ensure the best environment for its inhabitants.
Add the Fish
Once everything is set up, add the fish to the water. Be gentle while doing so. Make sure the water in the fish tank and the fish bags are at the same temperature, so it is comfortable for them to move to the new habitat.
Get Quality Fish Food
Always take out an appropriate budget for buying high-quality fish food. It will help you nurture beautiful fish in the tank. Feed them at least two times a day. Try choosing food with a mixture of colorful textures and frozen foods, so the fish feel an urge to try these attractive meals. To keep up with their regular food intake, you can purchase fish food in bulk. Buying it wholesale can get you a discount too.
Once you’re done following these steps, you’re good to go! Your work isn’t finished here because you also need to clean the tank periodically. Other than that, you should be an aquarium pro now that you have these steps to help walk you through the process.
