COMPLETE AQUARIUM SET‐UPS The following information is intended as a guide only, and is by no means complete. We have tried to answer most common questions about caring for your fish. Setting up Clean gravel and ornaments with water to remove dust and dirt. Fill up your tank to around 90% capacity. Add appropriate amounts of water ager and “amrite down” or “stability” to your aquarium. The water ager removes chlorine and chloramine, and helps protect the slime coating on your fish. “Amrite Down” and “Stability” add bacteria to your new aquarium, which helps age the water, prevents ammonia build up, and helps break down waste products. We suggest you run your filter for up to 5 days prior to stocking your tank with fish. The same applies to heaters, which need time to uniformly heat the water. We also suggest you test your aquarium water prior to purchasing fish. You can purchase a pH test kit for around $15, and will probably find you use it regularly. We also test for ammonia or nitrate build up, which is a common occurrence in new aquariums ( particularly once you’ve added fish). We are happy to test your water for you!! When starting out, only add a few fish at a time – this usually avoids major losses, and prevents you over‐ loading a new tank. Feeding Fish Feeding your fish depends on the type, size and number of fish in your aquarium, so please ask if you need any advice. Overfeeding may result in cloudy water, a dirty aquarium and polluted water. There are several options available in terms of fish food – from prepared flakes and pellets to freeze dried and frozen foods. Some fish have specific requirements so please ask if you are not sure. Tank Maintenance An efficient filter system is essential to maintain good water quality, and will greatly reduce the amount of work you are required to do. To clean gravel we suggest a siphon gravel cleaner. There are several brands and sizes available. This means you can remove excess dirt and waste from the gravel without removing too much water or disturbing your fish. NEVER do a complete change on your tank, as this generally results in major fish loss. In effect, you are “starting over” by doing this. Generally it is recommended that you replace 10% of your tank water each week. Clean filters around every 4 weeks – again, this will depend on your tank, the type and number of fish you keep, and the filter you use. Always use water taken out of the tank to do this. Tap water will remove bacteria in the filter mediums, and your filter will not be as effective. Supplements can be added weekly to help maintain a healthy environment. ALGAE is common in aquariums, and while we find it unsightly, it rarely causes a problem for your fish. Algae growth is stimulated by light, so often closing blinds or reducing the amount of time you leave aquarium lights on will help reduce algae in your tank. Excess algae may also be a sign of poor water quality, so check your water for ammonia and nitrates. You may still find that you need to use a scraper or magnet cleaner to keep your aquarium free of algae. There are also a variety of products to remove and prevent algae if you have a continuing problem. We suggest a product such as “Algon XP” as it will kill algae and maintain water quality. We suggest “Algae Fix” as it works quickly and effectively, and does not harm fish or plants in the aquarium. Living Plants are beneficial to your aquarium. Not only will they enhance the appearance of your tank, but they help create a more natural environment and provide hiding places for your fish. BASIC AQUARIUM CHECKLIST  Water Ager such as Aqua Plus or Stress Coat  Biological supplement such as “Stability” or Ämtrite Down" (which should be refrigerated after opening)  Gravel  Test Kit  Appropriate Fish Food  Gravel Cleaner  Fish Net  Plants for your aquarium  Scraper or Magnet Cleaner for cleaning glass