Aquarium
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.
- Cuts stress.
- Kid-friendly.
- Home upgrade.
- Freshwater
- Saltwater
- Nano
- Cycling
Prevents toxic water - pH
Water acidity level - Substrate
Tank floor
The Perfect
10-Gallon Tank
Beginner-Friendly Size
Versatile Setup
Stable Environment
Aquarium Tank
The centerpiece!
10 gallons
Pro Tip: Glass tanks are scratch-resistant; acrylic is lighter but pricier.
Aquarium Filter
Keeps water clean by removing waste and growing good bacteria.
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
Because guessing = bad.
Types: Stick-on (cheap), digital (precise), or glass (old-school).
Aquarium Light
Fish don’t care, but plants and corals do!
Beginner Pick: LED lights with a timer (prevents algae overgrowth).
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.
Setting Up Your AquariumA 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!
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).
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.
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 ~