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Everything you need to know about how to start a fish tank. Learn about setting up an aquarium, choosing the right type, and acclimating new fish to your tank.
Updated on November 13th, 2025

One of the oldest forms of aquarium filtration (and not just for small tanks), a sponge filter may be the right filtration choice for your aquarium!
Updated on November 13th, 2025
Wondering why you may need CO2 in your fish aquarium? Learn the basics from a Petco aquatics specialist.
Updated on November 13th, 2025
Learn how to take care of Catfish, recommended diet and tank setup. Find the right food, supplies and equipment at your neighborhood Petco.
Updated on November 13th, 2025
Our top ten most important tips for removing and keeping algae out of your aquarium.
Updated on November 13th, 2025
Check the water chemistry. Confirm ammonia and nitrite levels are 0.25ppm or less and nitrates are 40ppm or less. Use a liquid test kit or submit a sample for testing. Most pet stores or aquarists will do this for free or for a small fee. Partial water changes, about 30% can be done to decrease high levels. Use only aged or conditioned water that is temperature matched to prevent further stress or shock. My preferences for water conditioning are AmQuel Plus and NovAqua in addition to StressCoat. Confirm water temperature between 78F and 80F. You can soak pellets in some garlic juice to stimulate his appetite.
Updated on August 12th, 2025
The small size will limit the species of fish as well as the number. White Cloud Minnows or Guppies would do fine in a small tank. You could keep no more than 2 or 3 fish total. If you are looking for company for your Betta, the same species can be kept. Other options include Otocinclus (Otos), Corys, Platys or Harlequin Rasboras. Again, no more than one or two in addition to the Betta. Water changes for any tank are simple. Change no more than 30% total volume at a time. Use a water conditioner to remove harmful chemicals and make sure the water is temperature matched to prevent stress or shock. Rinse the filter in tank water, not tap water, to preserve beneficial bacteria. Vacuum the substrate every couple of weeks.
Updated on August 12th, 2025
I would recommend to have the water completely changed. New water should be ideally submitted for quality testing. Most pet stores will do this for free or a nominal fee. High ammonia levels, PH imbalances may be responsible for that as well. Oxygen concentration and quality of the filters should be determined as well. Please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.
Updated on August 12th, 2025
Thanks for using Boop by Petco! You can probably extend it to one month if you are doing water changes that often. I would recommend you extend it to 3 weeks first. If that goes well then extend it to 4 weeks to see how it goes. You can then decide how long you can let it go before cleaning. Best of luck!
Updated on August 12th, 2025
You should contact by email the administrators of the website (you can find general email on the contact section) and they put you in touch with the Head Vet in charge of hiring new experts. Best of luck and hope to see you joining the team soon. Dr. Orioles
Updated on August 12th, 2025