A good freshwater aquarium can beautify any home environment. Observing its inhabitants is not only relaxing, but also educational and entertaining for everyone in the household. You can set up the aquarium yourself if you want.
It is necessary
- - an aquarium;
- - substrate (gravel or sand);
- - a stand for an aquarium;
- - water filter;
- - heater.
Instructions
Step 1
Find a suitable location for your aquarium. Be careful not to be exposed to direct sunlight, as they can cause accelerated growth of algae. Do not place the aquarium near dust sources. Make sure there is an electrical outlet near the aquarium or use an extension cord for the filter and heater.
Step 2
Choose an aquarium. Consider what kind of fish and what plants you will place in it. The larger the adult fish, the larger the tank you will need. Select your aquarium so that it fits completely on the rack that you prepare for it. Do not let the edges of the aquarium protrude beyond the edges of the rack. Find out the maximum weight of the aquarium filled with water and calculate if your rack will hold it. Use special stands as a rack for the container; dressers, tables or any ordinary cabinets are not suitable for this.
Step 3
Choose a water filter. Before purchasing a filter, pay attention to the speed of its operation and compare it with the volume of your aquarium. Ideally, for every 4 liters of aquarium, the filter should pass 20 liters of water per hour.
Step 4
Choose a substrate to cover the bottom of the aquarium. Gravel or sand can be used as a substrate. The substrate allows the inhabitants of the aquarium not to lose their orientation in space, and also serves as a shelter. It can be purchased at any pet store.
Step 5
Pour 2–5 cm of water into the aquarium and check for leaks. If you find them, drain the water, dry the container and seal the holes with sealant.
Step 6
Thoroughly rinse the substrate (gravel or sand) with running water. Spread it evenly over the bottom of the aquarium and slowly pour in some water so that it does not erode the substrate. Install the filter, but do not turn it on until the aquarium is full of water. Press down on the gravel with a plate and fill the tank to the end. Install a heater in the aquarium and heat the water to 21-25 ° C.
Step 7
The fish must be introduced into the established aquarium gradually. Submerge 2-3 fish in water for ten days. Then add two more for the next ten days, etc. If you release all of your fish into the aquarium at once, the water can quickly become toxic and spoil.