Frequently Asked Questions

Best for: Most fish, especially those from pet stores

Steps:

1. Float the Bag: Place the sealed fish bag in the aquarium water. This helps equalize the temperature between the fish and the tank.
2. Wait: Allow the bag to float for 15-20 minutes. This helps the fish adjust to the tank’s temperature.
3. Open the Bag: After floating, open the bag and roll down the top edges so the bag stays upright.
4. Add Tank Water: Slowly add a small amount of tank water to the bag every 5 minutes for about 15-20 minutes. This gradually acclimates the fish to the tank’s water chemistry.
5. Release the Fish: Gently net the fish from the bag and place it into the aquarium. Avoid adding the water from the bag to the tank to prevent introducing any potential contaminants.

Best for: Fish with specific water parameter needs

Steps:

1. Prepare Equipment: Use a clean bucket, airline tubing, and a drip valve (or create one with a clamp on the tubing).
2. Float the Bag: Float the bag in the aquarium for 15-20 minutes to equalize the temperature.
3. Transfer Fish: Open the bag and gently pour the fish into the bucket, keeping the water from the bag separate.
4. Start Dripping: Use the airline tubing to slowly drip tank water into the bucket at a rate of 2-4 drops per second. Adjust the flow with the drip valve or clamp.
5. Acclimate: Continue dripping for about 30-60 minutes. This gradual process helps the fish adapt to the new water conditions.
6. Release the Fish: Gently net the fish from the bucket and place it in the tank. Again, avoid adding the bucket water to the tank.

Best for: Fish that may need both temperature and gradual water parameter changes

Steps:

1. Float the Bag: Place the sealed fish bag in the aquarium to match the temperature for 15-20 minutes.
2. Open the Bag: Open the bag and roll down the top edges.
3. Add Tank Water: Add a small amount of tank water to the bag. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, then add more water.
4. Repeat: Gradually add tank water to the bag over a period of 30-45 minutes.
5. Transfer Fish: Once acclimated, gently net the fish from the bag and place it in the tank. Dispose of the bag water.

Best for: Large quantities of fish or when the store water may contain contaminants

Steps:

1. Float the Bag: As before, float the bag in the tank for 15-20 minutes.
2. Prepare a Bucket: Get a clean bucket and fill it with tank water.
3. Transfer Fish: Open the bag and pour the fish into the bucket, discarding the store water.
4. Acclimate in Bucket: Use the drip method or simply let the fish float in the bucket for a while to adjust to the tank’s conditions.
5. Release the Fish: Gently net the fish from the bucket and place it in the aquarium.

• Monitor Fish: After introduction, observe the fish closely for signs of stress or illness.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Ensure the tank is not overcrowded, which can lead to poor water quality and increased stress.
• Maintain Water Quality: Regularly check and maintain the tank’s water quality to ensure a healthy environment for your fish.

Each method has its advantages, but all aim to minimize stress and ensure a smooth transition for your new aquatic friends.

Yes, we offer regular maintenance services for our customers. We charge $1 per gallon for service with a minimum  of 50 gallons

Cycling establishes beneficial bacteria that process fish waste. You can do this fishlessly with ammonia or with a few hardy fish in a process known as fish-in cycling. It typically takes 4-6 weeks, and you should monitor ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels regularly.

Perform a partial water change of 10-20% weekly to maintain water quality and reduce waste. The frequency might increase depending on tank size and fish load.

Select a filter that can process at least 3-5 times the tank volume per hour. Filters come in different types: internal, external, and hang-on-back. Choose one based on your tank size and fish load..

Gravel is a versatile choice, but if you have live plants, consider a nutrient-rich substrate or a mix suitable for plant growth. Avoid substrates that can harm bottom-dwelling fish.

Control algae with proper lighting (8-10 hours per day), regular water changes, and appropriate nutrient levels. Consider adding algae-eating fish or invertebrates, and ensure good water circulation.

Regularly test for ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, pH, and hardness. Use water conditioners and ensure good filtration to keep parameters in the optimal range for your fish.

Feed high-quality fish food appropriate for your species, offering a varied diet to meet nutritional needs. Feed small amounts 1-2 times a day, only as much as the fish can consume in a few minutes to prevent overfeeding.

Look for signs like unusual swimming patterns, spots, or loss of appetite. Monitor water quality first, as poor conditions can cause stress and illness. Seek advice from an aquatic specialist if symptoms persist.

Avoid overstocking, overfeeding, and skipping regular maintenance. Always research the needs of your fish and plants before adding them to ensure compatibility and avoid issues like poor water quality or stress..