Setting Up Your First Freshwater Tank

Equipment Checklist

• Tank: 60 litres or larger
• Stand: Dedicated aquarium stand
• Filter: HOB or sponge filter
• Heater: 100W for tanks up to 100L
• Thermometer
• Lighting: LED, timed 8-10 hours/day
• Substrate: Gravel, sand, or plant soil
• Water conditioner and test kit
• Net and gravel vacuum

Step-by-Step Setup

Step 1: Place Your Tank

Place in its final location BEFORE filling (a 60L tank weighs 70+ kg). Away from direct sunlight, near a power outlet, on a level surface.

Step 2: Rinse Everything

Rinse substrate in a bucket until water runs clear (5-10 rinses). Never use soap on anything going in the tank.

Step 3: Add Substrate

2-5 cm of gravel or sand. Slope higher toward the back for depth.

Step 4: Fill with Water

Pour slowly onto a plate placed on the substrate. Add water conditioner per instructions.

Step 5: Install Equipment

Set up filter, heater (don't plug in yet), thermometer, and lighting.

Step 6: Add Decorations and Plants

Ensure plenty of hiding spots. Tie java fern and anubias to driftwood — don't bury their rhizomes.

Step 7: Cycle the Tank

This takes 4-6 weeks. See our How to Cycle Your Aquarium guide.

Step 8: Add Your First Fish

1. Do a 50% water change to bring nitrates down.
2. Acclimate using the drip or float method.
3. Start with 6-8 small fish. Feed sparingly.
4. Test water daily for 2 weeks.

Pro Tip: Add fish gradually — a small group every 2-3 weeks. Adding too many at once causes ammonia spikes.