Aquarium starter guide
Cycle the tank first, stock slowly, and keep the water stable — the three things that keep fish alive.
Most new-tank losses come from adding fish too soon. A little patience up front saves a lot of heartache.
Cycle before fish
A new tank needs 2–4 weeks to grow the good bacteria that break down waste. Run the filter and heater, and test the water before adding any fish.
Stock slowly
- Start with just a few hardy fish, not a full tank at once.
- Match fish to your tank size and to each other — ask us before mixing species.
- Feed small amounts; leftover food fouls the water fast.
Keep it stable
Change about 20–25% of the water each week, keep the temperature steady, and don’t rinse the filter media in tap water — that kills the bacteria you worked to grow.