Aquarium paraphernalia To set up tropical freshwater fish tank aquariums you will need the following equipment: filter, heater, lighting, gravel, plants and décor. You will also want replacement filter media and aquarium test kits to examine water parameters and check the nitrogen cycle. I strongly recommend buying complete system aquariums which come with all the necessary aquarium equipment. This means you are not bewildered as to what precisely you need for starting your fish tank or baffled by the range of various types of equipment for sale. Purchasing fish tank aquariums with all you want gives you peace of mind and relieves a lot of anxiety! Establishing your aquarium Before acquiring an aquarium you must decide on the room you have available and research the adult size of the fish you would like to keep, both of which will indicate the size and shape of aquarium that would be suitable. Considering all this has been carefully planned and your ideal aquarium is there with all the key equipment ready to be set up, you can follow these steps to stress-free successful aquarium setup. 1. Position aquarium (on a stand, if necessary) in an area away from direct sunlight, heat and draughts, as these change the temperature and light of the tank. Also ensure that the floor is able to carry the overall weight of the fish tank when filled with water (approximately 10 pounds per gallon of water). 2. Rinse out the tank with water as hot as you can bear. Do not use soaps or detergents as residue will be harmful for freshwater fish. 3. Place the under-gravel filter in the bottom of the tank (if your aquarium comes with one), following the instructions given. 4. Wash the gravel thoroughly in hot water using a sieve to take out any dust or debris. Add the gravel to the fish tank, covering the under-gravel filter. Create a gentle slope of gravel, deepest at the back. 5. Rinse all artificial decorations and plants in hot water and arrange in the fish tank. 6. Fasten the aquarium heater to the inside of the fish tank with its suction cups but do not plug it in for no less than 30 minutes until the thermostat has adjusted to the water temperature, otherwise the heater may shatter. Of course, you need to have researched the species you intend to keep to learn about specific temperature needs. 7. Set up the aquarium filter according to the instructions supplied, placing the filter media inside. 8. Place a dish on the bottom of the aquarium to break the power of the water and fill the fish tank with water that is at room temperature. Add de-chlorinator to the water if you are using tap water that is unfiltered. Check for any rare leaks as you fill the fish tank. (They are easily fixed with aquarium silicone). 9. Unless the aquarium lighting is already fitted underwater, put the light on top. 10. Plug in all the equipment and ensure that everything is working correctly. Make sure there is a dip in the cord before it reaches the electrical outlet, known as a 'drip loop'. This ensures the water drips off onto the floor and does not go directly into the electrical socket. Your aquarium is now ready to run in its self but is still not ready for sustaining freshwater fish. Good bacteria needs to be established first, and the aquarium environment then needs to change as new fish are gradually added. What to do after initial aquarium setup Let the tank settle and the water stabilize for a few days. Throughout this time you must keep checking the water parameters using aquarium test kits to guarantee they are suitable for the fish you intend to have (temperature, pH, hardness, and ammonia). Nitrogen cycle You will then need to begin the nitrogen cycle so your aquarium will be ready to sustain healthy freshwater fish (see related article 'Setting-Up Tropical Freshwater Fish Tank Aquariums: The Nitrogen Cycle'). Aquarium care When the nitrogen cycle is concluded and you start adding fish to your fish tank, you should initiate a maintenance schedule. Each day make sure that fish are healthy, especially during feeding times, and make certain that the filters and heaters are operating correctly. Clean your tank every one to two weeks and perform 25% water changes every month. Copyright © 2009 Jill Kaestner @ Kaestner Marketing LLC
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Discover that setting up and starting tank aquariums are not complex tasks when you can follow step-by-step instructions as indicated in this article. Learn about the equipment you will require and the benefit of buying complete system tank aquariums.
Jill Kaestner I intend to provide you with expert guidance on setting up, stocking and servicing your fish tanks. With personal experience in tropical freshwater aquariums and widespread professional research, information and guidance in my articles can be depended upon. I have also started 'Aquarius', an online store to share with you some of my unique aquariums bowls.
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