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Basic Beginning Aquaria

Glass, Acrylic, Long, High, Bow front, Hoods, Lights, Heating, Substrate, Live/Fake plants, Ornaments, Rocks, Caves, Under-Gravel filters, Box Filters, Cannister Filters, Power, Bio-Wheel, Cycling, Water quality, Air pumps, Air stones...

Starting out in the hobby of aquaria can be very overwhelming. Sometimes it starts with a bowl and a goldfish, and sometimes it starts with a tank you didn’t really want, but you got it. Either way, there are a few things that can make the beginning easier for everyone. Hopefully, this information will give you a basic idea about starting up your aquarium.

The Fish

Most articles I have read start out with the tank. However, I think the fish is what you need to start out with. One mistake I see very often is beginner aquarists buy a tank first, and then the fish they like. Sometimes this works, but more often than not it doesn’t. For example, if you want an Angelfish (which grows more vertically than horizontally), you don’t want to buy a short ten gallon tank. Research the fish you want, and then get the appropriate tank. This site that you are on right now is excellent for getting information on the fish you have an interest in.

The Tank

Before you choose a tank, think about what you want and what you can handle. Yes, maybe “that size tank would fit perfectly,” but do you want to be doing the maintenance on it? A gallon of water weighs about eight pounds. That is another thing to consider. I recommend that when you see a tank you like and want, wait a week or two and think about it. If you still want it after a while, then go for it. Bigger tanks can be easier, because things such as temperature change more slowly than a smaller tank. However, bigger tanks mean more water, and more water means more water.

Filters and Heaters

Many tanks come in a package, and already have a heater and filter. These are usually either bio-wheel filters built into the top of the tank, or under-gravel filters. I am not going to go into filtering detail, but if you want live plants I would recommend against an under-gravel filter, for it can disturb the roots.

Fully submersible heaters are a good way to go. They usually have an easy to read thermostat that you can adjust by turning a knob. Always remember to check the temperature every day, which is why a thermometer is a must.

Substrates and Decor

There are many different substrates available. Some people like colorful fake gravel, while others like more natural colored pebbles. For the beginner aquarist I would recommend medium-sized gravel. Color and style is up to you. Sand can be a little more difficult in a freshwater aquarium, and therefore I would advise against it to start out with. No matter what your substrate is, always remember to wash it thoroughly in warm water before putting it in (No soap or cleaning chemicals, for they are harmful to the fish!).

Researching where your fish are coming from can tell you what kind of things you want to put in your tank. Some fish prefer lots of rocks and caves, while some prefer a piece of driftwood and a heavily-planted tank. The more you can create a real setting the better. If you put wood into your tank, boil it and soak it until all the tannin has leached out. If you don’t do this a few things will happen: One, your tank water will turn a tea color, and organisms in the wood might harm the fish. Soaking it for a while will also make the wood sink, which will make it easier for you to set it in the aquarium. You want to do this process with basically anything you put in your tank, except items made specifically for aquariums. These objects only need a good cleaning with warm water and maybe a scrub of a toothbrush.

Fake Plants vs. Live Plants

As a beginner, I started out with fake plants. It just seemed easier to me at the time. There are enormous amounts of beautiful fake plants you can buy. You don’t need to trim them, and your fish (hopefully!) won’t eat them.

However, to me, live plants add a special touch to the aquarium. They also are a beneficial addition to the environment which you are creating. They convert the carbon dioxide, which the fish excrete, into oxygen, which the fish use. They do need a well-lit tank (I recommend fluorescent lights rather than incandescent lights), but most are not that difficult to keep. The choice is up to you.

With all of these things in mind, starting up an aquarium isn’t as confusing as it seems. It is a rewarding and remarkable hobby which you will enjoy all of your life. If you have patience, you can have an aquarium. Never give up!

Zack S. - courtesy of FishProfiles.com

See also The Importance of Maintaining Good Water Quality