by Athena Garner

Created on: September 18, 2008

Setting up your aquarium correctly from the beginning means the difference between life and death for your fish. Having an aquarium in your home is rewarding and relaxing, but if you try to take shortcuts you may harm your pets or their ecosystem. That's why it is important to get good advice when you first start out. This is a guide to setting up your frehwater tank easily. I've tried to provide detailed steps that beginners can follow. If you've had a fish tank before this will be a good refresher for you and a checklist to make sure you don't forget anything.

You will need:
An aquarium
A tank stand
Gravel
Water conditioner
A filter
An air pump
A heater (for tropical fish)
Decorations
Aquarium salt

Step 1: Consider your space and what kind of fish you want. To do this, consult with someone at a pet store who has been trained in aquarium setup and maintenaince. They are one of your best resources when it comes to this process. They will be able to tell you what size tank you'll need for the type and number of fish you want.

Step 2: Once you've purchased your supplies, place your tank stand somewhere that is not subject to drafts or direct sunlight. Also avoid areas that are extremely busy in your house (as this can stress your fish) and the kitchen due to smoke or cooking sprays that can land in the water.

Step 3: Place the tank on the stand and make sure it is level and straight.

Step 4: Wipe the tank out with a wet paper towel.

Step 5: Place your gravel in a strainer and rinse it until water runs completely clear.

Step 6: Gently place the gravel in the tank and spread it out evenly. You'll need about an inch to an inch and a half of gravel.

Step 7: Place your filter on or in the tank, depending on the kind you purchased. The filter should come with directions on how to set it up. Don't turn it on yet. Place a cartrige or other filter medium in the appropriate slot.

Step 8: Place the heater in the tank if you are going with tropical fish.

Step 9:Rinse any decorations and place them in the tank. If you are using an air stone or a bubbling decoration, hook this up to the air pump at this time and place the bubbling end at the desire point in the tank.

Step 10: Fill the tank with water, stopping about an inch and a half from the top. You want there to be a short drop between the water coming out of the filter and the water level in the tank. If you are adding plants, place them after you have filled the tank about halfway. This way you can tell what they look like wet and they

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