Getting Ready:
When you go to purchase an aquarium, it is always best to pick a spot where you want the aquarium to be. Figure out the dimensions of the area you will be setting the tank up in and have that handy when you go to make your purchases.
Buying The Aquarium and Accessories:
With the dimensions you want, a salesman at any place that sells aquariums will accommodate any needs you may have. You might have to compromise with something shorter than what you wanted or if you have the money, you could special order the exact dimensions you desire. Once you have an aquarium picked out, there are a couple accessories you must buy to run the tank.
- Undergravel Filter
- Powerhead
- Full Hood (The Aquarium Lighting)
- Gravel
- A Heater ?(Optional)
- Stand and Canopy ?(Optional)
Cycling the Tank:
There is a cycling period that every aquarium must go through. It takes 45 days with regular Goldfish (because they are the cheapest). These Goldfish must be fed twice or thrice weekly. Keeping them there will allow the bacteria to grow, without which the expensive fish could not survive.
When adding tap water, it is best to use a water conditioner, which will remove chlorine from the water. If the Goldfish die, you need to check the pH of the water and buffer it or lower it depending on what is wrong with it. Once the levels of Nitrate and pH are normal and stable after 45 days, it is safe you add the fish you want, make sure you don't put saltwater fish in your tank.
Once you have the fish you want, your all set.
Closing Remarks:
To clean your aquarium or see the fish compatibility guide refer to my other guides. Also a Fish Store may be of some help.
