A Beginner's Guide to Starting an Aquarium: Everything You Need to Know Before Bringing Your Fishy Friends Home

Table of contents:

1. Deciding on the Size and Type of Aquarium
2. Picking the Right Location
3. Equipment Essentials
4. Cycling Your Aquarium
5. Decor and Substrate
6. Choosing Your Fish
7. Maintenance Routine
8. Common Mistakes to Avoid
9. Patience is a Virtue

So, you’ve decided to dive into the world of aquariums and bring some underwater life into your space. That’s awesome! Aquariums not only add a splash of life to your home but can also be incredibly soothing, fun and rewarding.

Before you go ahead and pick out your new finned friends, there’s a few things to consider and prepare. Don’t worry, though; I’ve got you covered with this beginner’s guide to starting your aquarium.

Deciding on the Size and Type of Aquarium

First things first: size matters. And when it comes to aquariums, bigger is often better, especially for beginners. A larger volume of water is more forgiving to changes and mistakes, making your aquarium more stable. Consider starting with a 20 gallon tank (75 litres) if you have the space.

As for the type, there are freshwater and saltwater tanks. Freshwater is definitely the easier option for beginners – it’s simpler to maintain and less expensive to set up.

More information on tank types and sizes is available in our post here.

Picking the Right Location

You want to choose a spot away from direct sunlight and heavy traffic areas to avoid stressing your fish and promoting algae growth.

Make sure the floor and any table/stand can support the weight of your aquarium once it’s filled with water – remember, water is heavy! A lot of aquariums can be purchased with dedicated stands to give you this peace of mind.

Equipment Essentials

Filter — Keeps your water clean and removes toxins. The size and type will depend on your tank’s size and the fish you plan to keep.

Heater — Essential for maintaining a stable temperature, particularly for tropical fish. An adjustable heater is your best bet. Consider also getting a thermometer so you can easily see the temperature of the water. These can be strips with stick on to the side of your tank for convenience.

Lighting — Vital for plant growth and setting your aquarium’s mood. LED lights are energy-efficient and a popular choice. Some tanks come with integrated lighting but if not most lights simply press onto your aquarium roof using suction cups.

Air pump and airstones — Not always necessary but beneficial for oxygenating the water and adding a cool bubbling effect.

Water test kit — Keeping an eye on your water quality is crucial for healthy fish.

Cycling Your Aquarium

Before adding any fish, you need to cycle your tank. This process establishes beneficial bacteria that break down fish waste, preventing toxic ammonia and nitrite buildups.

Cycling can take 4-6 weeks, so patience is key! You can cycle your tank by adding a small amount of ammonia or a few hardy fish, but always monitor water parameters closely.

Decor and Substrate

Now for the fun part – decorating! Substrate (gravel or sand) not only adds to the aesthetic but also houses beneficial bacteria.

When it comes to decor, ensure everything is aquarium-safe. Plants, rocks, and hides make great additions, offering your fish places to explore and hide.

Choosing Your Fish

Research is your best friend here. Consider the fish’s adult size, temperament, and environmental needs. It’s tempting to stock your tank all at once, but adding a few fish at a time helps maintain water quality and reduce stress. Start with hardy, peaceful species like danios, tetras, or guppies.

For more information on great starter fish, check out our post here.

Maintenance Routine

Regular maintenance will keep your aquarium healthy. This includes feeding your fish properly (not too much!), performing partial water changes weekly, testing water parameters, and cleaning the tank and equipment. Consistency is key to preventing problems before they start.

For more information on aquarium maintenance check out our beginners guide here.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overfeeding: This leads to poor water quality and health issues for your fish.

• Overstocking: Too many fish can quickly lead to overcrowded conditions and polluted water.

• Ignoring water quality: Regular testing and maintenance are crucial for a thriving aquarium.

For more information on how to avoid common pitfalls check out this post

Patience is a Virtue

Remember, a successful aquarium doesn’t happen overnight. It takes time for your tank to stabilize and for your fish to adjust to their new home. Patience, research, and regular maintenance are your best tools for a thriving aquatic environment.

Starting an aquarium is an exciting adventure, and while it might seem like there is a lot to take in at first, it’s incredibly rewarding. You’re creating a little slice of nature in your home, and the beauty and tranquility of a well-maintained aquarium are hard to beat. So, take your time, do your homework, and soon you’ll be on your way to becoming a seasoned aquarist. Welcome to the club!