An aquarium does more than decorate a room; it centers it, providing a slice of living zen amidst the chaos of existence. However, achieving zen requires a touch of science and maintenance, along with some quality supplies. Armed with the right materials, you’re not just creating a box of water; you’re establishing an ecosystem that encourages your finned friends to thrive with color and minimal stress.
Here are the must-have items for the experienced aquarium owner to achieve that magical underwater realm.
Starting The Aquarium: Basics You’ll Need
Even if you’re starting small or starting with something larger later down the line, these essentials are non-negotiable.
Aquarium Tank
Decide between:
- Glass tanks, which are easier to scratch but clearer.
- Acrylic tanks, which are lighter and more durable but more susceptible to scratches.
Filtration System
A good filter keeps the water clean by removing waste, excess food bits, and toxins from circulation.
- Hang-on-back (HOB) filters are best for beginners.
- Canister filters work well for larger tanks.
Lighting
Plants need it, and fish love it. Go for LED lights for energy efficiency and aesthetically in multiple colours to promote plant growth and help you see your fish.
Substrate
- Gravel is the most common source of substrate for freshwater setups, is easy to clean, but may hurt delicate bottom feeders’ mouths.
- Sand is best for bottom feeders and a more natural aesthetic.
Décor and Plants
- Live plants keep the water oxygenated while avoiding excess algae build-up.
- Artificial plants and ornaments are used for structure without maintenance.
Water Conditioner
Most tap water contains chlorine and other toxins that kill fish. Water conditioners neutralize these parameters instantly.
Testing Kits
Water can quickly get out of balance. You’ll want to have the following on hand:
- pH level test.
- Ammonia/nitrite/nitrate test kits.
Temperature Control: Why It Matters
Tropical fish like guppies and angelfish prefer warm temperatures, while goldfish and white cloud minnows like it cooler. Unstable temperatures mean stress, illness, and death.
Aquarium Water Heater
Heaters help regulate temperature, especially during cooler months. Look for adjustable heaters with an integrated thermostat to help you best adjust.
Aquarium Water Chiller
Hot summers necessitate a way to keep the water cool (unlike nature’s way). A chiller keeps your tank from turning into a hot tub, especially in warmer climates or if light on your tank becomes too powerful.
Best For Medium Tanks
A 60L Aquarium Water Chiller and Heater Combo serves as the best both ways because it has an automatic control system to keep your fish happy.
Feeding & Maintenance
It’s not just about feeding your aquarium; it’s about maintaining cleanliness too.
Automatic Feeders
Feeders dispense preset amounts of food at scheduled times for the busy pet parent.
Algae Scrapers
Scrape algae off glass panels without disturbing your fish.
Gravel Vacuums
Vacuum waste from gravel while performing partial water changes to keep the bottom of the tank clean.
Water Change Tools
Simple siphons or powered water changers help expedite the process when you need to change 20%-30% of the water weekly.
Additional Supplies
Once you’ve established your aquarium, these adjustments help you maintain parameters even further.
Air Pumps
Provide oxygenated levels and air-driven decor like bubble walls or ornaments to give your fish a fun atmosphere.
Protein Skimmers
Protein skimmers are added primarily to saltwater tanks to remove organic waste before breaking down.
UV Sterilizers
Ultra violet sterilizers eliminate spores and harmful bacteria/algae with ultraviolet light.
Smart Monitors
Smart monitors send alerts to your phone if anything goes awry, allowing you to always stay on top of things.
Final Words: Not All Fish Are Goldfish
It’s easy for an aquarium to become too cluttered too fast. Thus, follow a trusted checklist at setup to ensure you have everything you need. Through patience and the proper resources, your aquarium will become a stunningly alive niche of your home that breeds happiness in both you and your fish!
Want to stock up? Find aquarium supplies for sale at the PetsForHomes shop today so you can create the ideal living situation for your aquatic friends.
