I want to have a fishtank, what supplies do I need?

Question

I'm looking to have a freshwater fishtank (I'm not fond of saltwater ones), and I was wondering: What kinds of things should I get for it and what should I have around in the case of mishaps (water's wrong, etc. I guess a "First aid" kit for the tank/fish).

What kind of filter is best? What's a good kind of gravel to get? Are live plants better than fake ones?

I know my way around my local pet and fish specific stores, but is there anything that's better to buy online?

Note: I've already got a tank- I think it's 29 gallons, I should probably check the tag again.

Answer 1

There are many good options depending on the type of fish and the bio load you place on your filter equipment.

A good local dealer is a relationship worth establishing, so I recommend looking around and asking others in your community!

As to equipment; HOB, and Sponge filters are a good place to start for filters. Via Aqua, Whisper, and Aqua Clears are just a few good brands in HOB filters, while Hydro Sponge are probably the best sponge filters by far. Beware of some of the anecdotal hype around some filters though (such as bio wheels, which work but scientific test show them to not live up to the hype).

When choosing a local store (or online store) be careful of ones with little true knowledge of what they are selling. I do NOT recommend Dr. Fosters; I have been in the Pet industry for 28+ years and during the time they have been around they have not earned a good reputation from those on the inside as it pertains to what and how they sell products.

This site has very up to date information and many links to other resources that would help your research the best filter, gravel, Ect. For your needs:
http://www.americanaquariumproducts.com/Aquarium_Information.html

This sub article would be a good starting point:
http://www.americanaquariumproducts.com/Basic_Aquarium_Principles.html

Answer 2

Go to DrsFosterandSmith.com
it is a petsupply store that deals with all kinds of fish.
the best Filters are the Whisper Power Filters (model 30)
get a python water cleaner
stress coat ( keeps fish healthy after water change)
fake plants are fine
get an air stone and air pump
remember what you put into your tank is what you get out of it.
I bought cheap plants ( on sale at Target for like 1.00 they were crap)

Answer 3

well... you will need a couple of things.
you will need about 5 or 6 plants
about 2 bags of pebbles.
a filter
a small net to pick your fish out of the tank
a big sheet of paper for the back round of the fish tank (make sure it looks like in the bottom of the ocean. it make the fish feel at home.
fish food for the type of fish that you are going to get

if you have any more question's, post it on this site. and i will be sure to answer the question. i go on this wed site every day. and look at all different types of questions.

Answer 4

Ammonia try equipment Nitrite try equipment Nitrate try equipment ph try equipment gh try equipment kh try equipment gravel rocks (non-compulsory) faux vegetation (non-compulsory) lid conceal glass or condensation tray lights fixtures fliter air pump air stone heater (2 small ones at each and each end of tank is extra suited than one huge one) air tube airvalve water conditioner ph up ph down fish internet nutrients rigidity coat for cleansing tank colander sieve bucket gravel cleanser siphon tube Algae scrapper algae treatment multicure (for fungal ailments) fish wormer and that i will verify to make certain if there is extra

Answer 5

you need water, filter, substrate, plants (live or plastic) ,rocks, thermometer, aerator, glass scrubber and of course a syphon and 3 dedicated buckets for fish tank use only.

Answer 6

Here is a checklist for you
http://fishlesscycling.com/articles/new_aquarium_needs.html


Also read the other articles about cycling the tank and proper setup of a tank
http://fishlesscycling.com/articles.html



Hope that helps
Good luck


EB

Answer 7

http://www.elmersaquarium.com/h701elmers_freshwater_handbook.htm
You will find good advice here.