It would be a good idea to compare prices from two stores.
A 10-15 gallon tank “set-up” will include almost everything you need. Often they include a heater, dip tube, dip net, siphon, filter and pump.
Plants—6
Sand—10 lbs.
Light system
Cover (glass or plexiglass)
Fish—2 Guppies, 2 Swordtails and 1 Catfish
Food
TANK
Consider
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- Temperatures fluctuate less in a large tank.
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- The greater the water surface the more oxygen available to the fish and the easier it is for the carbon dioxide given off by the fish to escape.
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- You will need space to add fish later.
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- You need space for plants which will create an interdependency with the fish.
Solution
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A 10 gallon rectangular or square glass tank meets all of these requirements. Important: curved glass becomes a lens that focuses sunlight and can literally cook the fish!
WATER
Consider
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- It must be treated before filling the tank, tap water has chlorine and other chemicals.
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- Water must not come into contact with metal.
Solution
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- Age tap water in open glass jars for 4-5 days before filling the tank.
PLANTS
Plants most commonly used are Cabomba, Sagittaria and Vallisneria. Consider the size of the tank when buying. Young plants are best.
Consider
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- They provide food and oxygen for the fish and absorb carbon dioxide and other waste given off by fish.
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- Plants provide a natural background with hiding places for fish eggs and fry (baby fish).
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- They retard the growth of algae.
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- Plants need light to grow and give off oxygen, but too much sunlight will result in algae (ok for the fish but it makes the tank unattractive).
Solution
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- Location of the tank is important.
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- No direct sunlight on the tank.
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- 1-2 hours of good light daily is enough.
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- Artificial light will reduce the growth of algae (place it overhead about 6” away for 8-10 hours daily, use 60 watt bulb).
Setting up the aquarium means putting in the plants, sand and water. To plant the aquarium put 4-5” of water in the tank, wash the plants in running water to shake loose eggs and bacteria that might harm the fish. Set them in the tank in trays for easy removal when cleaning the tank or retrieving the fish. Place larger plants toward the back. Put them in groups separated by rocks and don’t bury the leaves. Use small pebbles around the base to let air circulate.
SAND
Use coarse white or #2 or #3 gravel 1-2” deep. Wash the sand by putting it in a pot or pail and turning the water on until it trickles over the side, loosen the sand and continue until the water runs clear. Place the sand at a slant 2” in back, 1” in front. This will help when you are cleaning the tank later.
FILLING THE TANK
Consider
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- You don’t want to stir up the sand.
Solution
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- Place paper or cardboard on the sand and pour the water onto it. Put water in with a sprinkling can (not metal) which is also good for aerating the water. Now let the tank sit for about a week.
THE FISH
There are three categories to consider: the live-bearers, the egg-layers and the bubble-nest builders. The live-bearers are inexpensive and the easiest of all the tropicals to keep. The three fish that are considered best for beginners are Guppies, Swordtails and Platyfish. It would be a good idea to get a Catfish too. You’ve exercised patience in preparing the tank and you’ll need it now! Those beautiful fish at the pet store are very tempting. Remember, you’re a beginner; keep it simple for success.