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Learn how to set up a freshwater fish tank and key considerations regarding placement, supplies needed, and the set up process.
Updated on November 13th, 2025
We can help you navigate your way through all the types of lights in fish tanks and determine which type is best for your aquarium.
Updated on November 13th, 2025
Learn how to setup your reptiles terrarium to ensure your reptile lives a wholesome & happy life. Shop at your local Petco for all reptile terrarium needs.
Updated on November 13th, 2025
If you’re thinking of adding a betta fish to your family, learn a few fun facts about these underwater wonders.
Updated on November 13th, 2025
Learn more about these slow moving fish and the care they need when added to your aquatic environment.
Updated on November 13th, 2025
A fish tank will need a filter, a light/hood and a heater. Make sure the filter is rated for at least twice the tank volume. The heater should be adjustable since water temperature will depend on the species of fish. Good "starter" fish include Tetras, Mollies, Danios or Tetras. A new tank should be set up and left running empty for several weeks before adding fish. A pinch of flake food can be sprinkled in daily. This "cycling" will allow a population of beneficial bacteria to colonize the tank and filter. These bacteria will break down wastes (ammonia, nitrites and nitrates) which are toxic to fish.
Updated on August 12th, 2025
Guppies or Neons are excellent "starter" fish. Care is simple and they are inexpensive. A standard 10 gallon tank is recommended to start. Most people don' t realize the amount of "work" needed to maintain a tank. Filter maintenance, monitoring water chemistry, water changes, monitoring fish health and providing a balanced diet are just a few items that need regular attention to keep a tank thriving. Even though fish aren't as cuddly as cats and dogs, they do have their own personalities and even respond to their owners, especially at feeding time! Studies have shown that simply watching fish in a tank can lead to a reduction in both heart rate and blood pressure. It is quite relaxing.
Updated on August 12th, 2025
As for what kind of tank you will need: Basically a square fish tank, do not get a bowl. You will likely need a heater and an air pump, and a thermometer, It is easiest to by a complete kit at a pet shop. As for size of tank: The bigger is always the better....however a minimum size will be determined by the type of fish and their average size they will grow into, So once we know what type of fish you have and how many, we can tell you how big your tank needs to be and what type of "furniture" (rocks, plants, gravel) you will need.
Updated on August 12th, 2025
Ideally, one goldfish should have 20 gallons of water. The reason being that goldfish produce a larger than average bio-load (wastes) than other fish. One fish can quickly overwhelm a small tank and filter. If you have a smaller tank, use a home test kit to monitor ammonia, nitrites and nitrates. When ammonia or nitrites begin to rise, it is time to perform a partial water change.
Updated on August 12th, 2025
The goldfish can get very big and may require a significantly larger tank as they grow and grow. As a rule of thumb, you need 1 gallon of water per inch of body length of fish. So if you have three 1 inch fish, you will need 3 gallons of water. I suspect you are at your max already in the smaller tank. Just so you know, most people do not have goldfish in tanks with tropical fish. You may consider getting two tanks One for your cold water fish like the goldfish, and one for your tropical fish that require a warm water temperature. For the goldfish I would suggest a minimum of a 20 gallon tank. For the Danio, I suggest to get a few more of these as they are schooling fish and a 10 gallon would be just fine. I hope this is helpful and please feel free to post any additional questions.
Updated on August 12th, 2025