Aquarium

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Guide

Welcome to Aquariums For Beginners’ Free Aquarium Guide!
"Where do I even begin?"

Introduction to Aquariums

Starting an aquarium? It’s hard. 
  • Leaky tanks
  • Dead fish 
  • Green sludge
— And why does that filter cost $200?

One wrong move (like skipping water prep) and your tank becomes a toxic mess.

Relax. This guide is your shortcut: simple steps, free checklist, and more! 

Keep fish happy, save cash, skip the stress.
 

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  • Benefits?

  • Cuts stress.
  • Kid-friendly.
  • Home upgrade.
  • Aquarium Types

  • Freshwater
  • Saltwater
  • Nano
  • Aquarium Lingo

  • Cycling
    Prevents toxic water
  • pH
    Water acidity level
  • Substrate
    Tank floor

The Perfect

10-Gallon Tank

Essentials
Aquarium Tank

Aquarium Tank

The centerpiece!

10 gallons

Pro Tip: Glass tanks are scratch-resistant; acrylic is lighter but pricier.
Aquarium Filter

Aquarium Filter

Keeps water clean by removing waste and growing good bacteria.
Aquarium Heater

Aquarium Heater

Tropical fish need warm water (72–82°F).

Wattage Rule: 5 watts per gallon (e.g., 50W for a 10-gallon tank).
Thermometer Aquarium

Thermometer Aquarium

Because guessing = bad.

Types: Stick-on (cheap), digital (precise), or glass (old-school).
Aquarium Light

Aquarium Light

Fish don’t care, but plants and corals do!

Beginner Pick: LED lights with a timer (prevents algae overgrowth).
Aquarium Substrate

Aquarium Substrate

Gravel, sand, or plant-friendly soil for the tank floor.

Water Conditioner

Removes chlorine from tap water (toxic to fish!).

Water Test Kit

Your “crystal ball” for ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, pH.

Fish Food

Species-specific! Flakes for tetras, pellets for bettas, etc.

Pro Tip: Avoid overfeeding—fish stomachs are TINY.

Fish Net

For moving fish, scooping debris.

Algae Scraper/Magnet

Keeps glass sparkly.

Pro Tip: Magnetic cleaners = no wet hands!

Water Changer

For water changes (never use soap!).

Aquarium Decoration

Hiding spots = happy fish.

Options: Driftwood, rocks, caves, silk/real plants (plastic can tear fins).

Aquarium Plants

A nutritious bottom promotes growth. 

Tip: the plant needs pruning to prevent it depriving plants underneath of light.

Essential Equipment Checklist

Check items off as you shop—no more forgetting the water conditioner!
  • Aquarium_Light

    Lighting

  • Substrate_85aa8ce1-1d3a-4e3d-8d47-559bbddb67c3

    Substrate

  • Water_Conditioner

    Water Conditioner

  • Water_Tester

    Water Test Kit

  • Fish_Food

    Fish Food

  • Fish_net

    Fish Net

  • Cleaner

    Aquarium Cleaner

  • Decoration

    Decorations

Setting Up Your Aquarium
A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1:
Choose the Perfect Location

Do:
  • Place the tank on a level, sturdy surface (e.g., aquarium stand, reinforced desk).
  • Avoid direct sunlight (prevents algae) and high-traffic areas (fish hate foot vibrations).
Don’t:
  • Put it near heaters/A/C vents
Pro Tip: Fill the tank with tap water temporarily to test for leaks before adding substrate!
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Step 2:
Add Substrate

What:
  • Rinse substrate (e.g., gravel, sand) in a colander until water runs clear.
  • Layer 1–2 inches at the tank’s bottom.

Step 3:
Install Equipment

A. Filter
  • Attach the filter (hang-on-back or sponge).
  • Never rinse filter media in tap water—it kills good bacteria!
B. Heater
  • Submerge fully, set to 76°F (adjust for your fish later).
  • Wait 15 minutes before plugging in to avoid cracking.
C. Lighting
  • Mount LEDs on the lid or tank rim.
  • Set a timer for 6–8 hours/day (prevents algae).
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Step 4:
Fill the Tank (Slowly!)

A. Filter
  • Attach the filter (hang-on-back or sponge).
  • Never rinse filter media in tap water—it kills good bacteria!
B. Heater
  • Submerge fully, set to 76°F (adjust for your fish later).
  • Wait 15 minutes before plugging in to avoid cracking.
C. Lighting
  • Mount LEDs on the lid or tank rim.
  • Set a timer for 6–8 hours/day (prevents algae).

Step 5:
Cycle the Tank

The Boring (But Critical) Part:
  • Add ammonia source (fish food or liquid ammonia).
  • Test water daily with API Master Kit.
  • Wait 4–6 weeks until ammonia/nitrite hit 0ppm.
Pro Tip: Use Water Conditioner to speed up cycling!
Warning: Don't add Fish Yet! Cycling with fish is like making them live in a porta-potty.

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Step 6: Final Checks

✅ Heater working?
✅ Filter flowing?
✅ Water clear?
✅ Temperature stable (72–82°F, depending on fish)?

You’re Ready! Time to add fish ~