Step One: Planning

Before you set up your tank you should first make a few decisions that will influence what you want to get out of your tank. Do you want a peaceful community of fish or a wrestling ring? Saltwater or freshwater? Where should you put your tank? How big should your tank be? These are just a few of the questions you should ask yourself before you purchase your aquarium. I want you to grab a notebook and a pencil and take notes on the following topics to discuss with yourself!

The Aquarium's Placement

The first thing you should do is decide on a place for your aquarium. Keep in mind that the aquarium should be kept away from drafts and direct sunlight. Direct sunlight can cause unwanted algae problems and elevated water temperatures at different times of the day. Next, see if you have a sturdy dresser, desk, or table that can hold an aquarium. If you don't, you can purchase a stand later. (We'll talk about aquarium stands later on). Keep in mind when picking a table that is sturdy enough, that an aquarium filled with water usually weighs 8 pounds per gallon.   

The Aquarium's Size

Now it's time to pick out the size of the aquarium that you want. Try to get the biggest aquarium that you can afford and have space for. Some people may think that a smaller aquarium is better for beginners, but actually, a larger aquarium has more margin for error so it is better. You can also keep more fish in a large aquarium. Try to stay anywhere above 5 gallons when picking a first aquarium. Some stores will try to sell you mini tanks of 1.5-3 gallons, but these usually don't have very good filter systems and can only house one or two fish and you have a limited choice of species. I had successfully housed two gold barbs in a 3 gallon setup for a year, but then I transferred them to a ten gallon tank. If you are limited by space or financially then mini-tanks may be your only option. Try to get at least a 2.5 or 3 gallon one, and do frequent water changes.

Freshwater vs. Saltwater

Before you purchase stock for your aquarium you'll need to choose what kind of tank you'll want. Freshwater or saltwater. Personally, I prefer freshwater. I think it's a lot easier and not as expensive. What's the difference, you may ask? Freshwater is relatively salt- and mineral-free. It's the water we drink. It's the type of water that starts out as rain, and eventually wends its way to the ocean. On its way there, it travels through rivers, streams, and lakes. That's where we get it. Saltwater, or seawater, is the water found in oceans. All water has traces of salt in it, but there is much more in saltwater than in freshwater.

Why Freshwater is Better for the Beginner

Freshwater aquariums are easier. There are less salt deposits making it easier to clean your tank. The water chemistry in a freshwater tank can fluctuate a bit before it causes problems making it ideal for the beginner. If you make a small mistake, you have room to correct it instead of totally ruining chances of success. Marine fish cost about $20 each, making them about $16-$19 more expensive than freshwater fish. Also saltwater setups require more equipment. According to the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association, 11 percent of American households keep freshwater fish. Only about 0.6 percent keep saltwater. Freshwater aquaria is the first thing to master.

Size and Temperment of The Fish

Right now, picking out the species of fish is not that important. Just keep in mind that fish who are large will eat fish who are small. Also remember that the larger or more of the fish that you want will require a bigger tank. Don't crowd your tank. Because an aquarium should reflect each person's individual interests, choose whatever will appeal to you most. Will you want a peaceful community tank, or a tank with large aggressive fish? This is something to think about.

Live or Plastic Plants?

Also think about if you will want live or plastic plants. They both are lovely, but live plants can require more maitenance, and you won't need to trim or care for plastic. Live plants can add oxygen to the water, though. Live plants can also grow into a jungle but plastic plants will stay the same size the whole time. Live plants can die, but plastic plants have an unlimited life span! They both look nice in any type of aquarium, but some fish will uproot or eat live plants, so plastic would be best in those cases. You don't have to make a serious decision yet, but it's nice to think about your options.

Ready, Set, GO!

Okay, those are just a few of the things you should think about before heading to the petstore. Got your notebook full of doodles and notes? Let's head to the petstore and pick out an aquarium, as well as the rest of the equipment for our tank. Click "next".