Basic Equipment
So...you understand the nitrogen cycle and the different types of filtration. Now you're ready to go out and get the basic stuff.
Here are the basics for a freshwater tank...
The Tank
-- these come in all different shapes and sizes. Price varies quite a bit depending not only on size (bigger tanks cost more), but also on how difficult it was to make (curved glass is very expensive), how many pieces of glass it took (hexagon tanks tend to cost more, since it took more pieces of glass and more sealant to make), and the thickness of the glass (taller tanks need thicker glass, since the water pressure builds up at the bottom).
Buy whatever style and size tank that suits you and the type of fish you want to keep. Most brands come with a warranty...be sure to read it!
The Hood
-- tanks don't really look complete without them. They provide the proper lighting and cut down on evaporation. Most stores sell tank-and-hood packages. If you're not interested in keeping live plants, opt for a fluorescent bulb. If you want live plants to grow well, you might need a full-spectrum bulb to simulate natural sunlight (these can be used for any tank, but can be expensive and promote algae). Check to make sure the hood you are buying fits the tank well! Also, stay away from incandescent hoods (usually two short bulbs instead of one long one). This type of bulb gives off heat and will cause your water temperature to fluctuate.
Gravel
-- this comes in a stunning array of colors. Smaller-sized gravel is better for most tanks, since larger pieces have more space in between for uneaten food and debris to collect. Color is a matter of personal choice, but most fish will show better coloring against a dark gravel. A good rule of thumb is to buy at least one pound of gravel per gallon that you tank holds (10lbs for a 10-gal tank).
Heater
-- unless you are keeping just goldfish, this is very important! Submersible heaters may cost more, but I highly recommend spending the extra money! Buy a heater that allows you to set the temperature you want and can adjust accordingly. It should be able to sense the water temperature and turn on and off when needed. Figure about 5 watts per gallon (this is a little high, but it is easier to remember). So, for a 10-gal tank, you would need a 50 Watt heater.
Thermometer
-- how else will you know if your heater is working? Stick-on thermometers that go on the outside of the tank are inexpensive and fairly accurate. In-tank thermometers can also be used. Just be sure yours has a wide range of temperatures and is clearly readable.
Filter
-- this can be a pretty difficult decision. The easiest way to provide a simple-to-maintain yet powerful filtration system is to use a power filter and an undergravel filter. You will need to buy undergravel plates, which are labeled as to what size tank they fit, a power source for the UG filter (usually an air pump or a power head) and an external power filter. The power filter, air pumps, and powerheads have manufacturers recommendations as to the size tank they should be used for. Never exceed that, since many manufacturers seem to overestimate their products. I usually go one above that recommendation, and buy the next size up.
Decorations
-- again, a matter of personal choice. But, consider the type of fish you are interested in. Some fish appreciate a densely planted tank, some prefer lots of swimming room, some prefer hiding spots, and some prefer to stake out their own territories. Read up on the habits of the fish you want BEFORE you buy it, and decorate your tank accordingly. Popular items are plastic plants, driftwood, rocks, pieces of slate, resin ornaments, castles, and all sorts of other things to customize your aquarium.
Hey, look what you found! Congratulations!
Water Conditioner
-- needed to de-chlorinate and de-toxify the water before the fish are added. Make sure you have a good supply of a decent brand, as you will need to add it to any new water you add to you tank.
Background
-- usually some sort of underwater scene. There are so many different patterns, and even solid colors. Look around, there are some really sharp ones out there (try solid royal blue...it looks cool). Make sure you measure CAREFULLY before you cut! Background gets taped on the outside of the tank, so you can change it to give your tank a whole new look.
Air pump
(optional) -- this can be used as decoration or to run an undergravel filter. Make sure to buy the appropriate size for your needs.
Airline Tubing
(optional) -- needed to connect the air pump to whatever you are using it with. This is usually inexpensive, so you can buy a little extra. And remember...measure twice, cut once!
Air Stone
(optional) -- when used with an air pump, can create many interesting effects. Variations on the traditional air stone are the bubble ring and bubble wall. Experiment with these to do some cool things in the tank. Just be sure the type of fish you want will appreciate moving water...not all do!
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