How to equip an aquarium

Date Posted:9 January 2022 

How to equip an aquarium main image How to equip an aquarium image

Many individuals fantasize about owning an aquarium containing beautiful fish like gourami or discus. On the other hand, many are afraid of buying and installing all aquarium equipment themselves since it is a complex deal. The ability to set up an aquarium and know where to place it is critical. It is also necessary to pick the appropriate fish, plants, and other aquarium accessories to ensure a successful water environment. Anyone may easily set up an aquarium by following a few basic guidelines.

How to set up an aquarium by yourself?

Setting up an aquarium all by yourself is a challenging and time-consuming endeavor. It is fairly easy if you follow all the guidelines and regulations of experienced fishkeepers. The process involves several steps. The most critical step is selecting the equipment and fish.

Choosing a fish tank

The selection of the appropriate aquarium is the first step. Beginning fishkeepers should pick modest aquariums with volumes ranging between 15 to 20 gallons. Fish tanks that are larger in size are a lot more difficult to maintain for newbies. The best aquarium shape is rectangular or square. They will provide the most comfortable environment for fish and plants to thrive. Fish tanks with various convexed and bulging sides will distort the image. 

 

Before you buy an aquarium, we recommend paying particular attention to the following considerations.

  • The type and quantity of fish that you want to have
  • Types of plants
  • Aquarium equipment

Equipment for your fish tank

Aquarium equipment is required for the maintenance good of water parameters and the creation of acceptable living conditions for plants and fish. Installation of the aquarium equipment is pretty easy and straightforward. Here is the list of aquarium equipment that you need in your fish tank. Be sure to visit our accessories page and get the essential appliances at the best price.

  • Filter
  • Air pump
  • Heater
  • Thermometer
  • Lighting

This is the very minimum of what should be included in any fish tank. While selecting equipment, it is essential to choose them depending on the fish you want to have and the size of the tank. Don't forget to buy some accessories to keep your tank in good condition.

  • Nets to catch fish
  • Scrub for cleaning glass
  • Vessels for removing changing water
  • Aquarium lid if not included
  • Sponges 

It is not recommended that you install the equipment right away after acquiring it. Instead, add the substrate first.

Adding substrate

In the next stage of setting up an aquarium, it is essential to select the appropriate substrate. It will significantly impact the aquatic ecosystem and how aquarium fish look. Various gravel forms are the most popular and easy substrate to install. In addition, they are simple to clean. It is preferable to buy it in aquarium shops rather than other parties. Rinse the substrate under running water to eliminate any dirt or bacteria. After thoroughly treating it, carefully lay it in a uniform layer on the tank's bottom. The optimal thickness is between 2 to 3 inches.

Decorations

The selection and placement of beautiful decorations are the most fascinating stages in setting up an aquarium. You can buy decorative stones, snags, wrecks, various buildings, caverns, and other visually appealing and colorful items. 

 

You may let your creativity go wild and create a one-of-a-kind aquarium by decorating it with items that appeal to your sense of style. Remember to thoroughly clean all decorations and driftwood before putting them into the water because various harmful germs, dirt, and microorganisms may be on them.

 

When the substrate, decorations, and driftwood have been added, install and test the heater, filter, and air pump after pouring the water. Have it switched on all the time. 

Plants

After three days of filling your aquarium with water, it's time to start planting your aquatic plants. Buy various low-maintenance plants for novices such as ferns and mosses, like cryptocoryne or echinodorus. There are hundreds of varieties of aquarium plants to choose from. Each plant type should be planted in specific locations. For example, long-leaved plants should be placed in the background, and small ones should be at the front. After planting everything, turn on the lighting to encourage growth and development.

Fish

The final step, planting the fish, can be started in five to six days when all of the essential tests and measurements have been conducted and you understand that the water indicators are safe. Selecting and settling the aquarium fish is the most fun stage. Beginners should choose fish that are brightly colored and are easy to care for, like:

  • Various small catfish
  • Guppies
  • Neon tetras
  • Xiphophorus 
  • Zebra Danios
  • Gourami
  • Angelfish

The amount of fish planted in your aquarium should be capped by their maximum size and the size of the fish tank itself. Keep in mind, however, that not all species can harmoniously coexist. Thus, while picking aquarium species, it is critical to evaluate the fish's compatibility with one another. 

Conclusion

When it comes to setting up an aquarium, it is crucial to adhere to all norms and rules. After selecting the equipment and installing everything, it is necessary to continuously care for the fish and plants and keep the water clean and free of debris.

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