Choose Tank Size and Budget
1-2 hoursSelect appropriate gallon capacity for target species and estimate startup equipment and stocking costs.
Intermediate4-6 weeks
Aquarium Setup Guide
Free step-by-step aquarium setup for aquarium beginners. Plan aquarium setup with calculators and checklists covering choose tank size and budget, cycle tank.
aquarium beginnersfish hobbyistsfamily pet keepers
Workflow
Cycle Tank Before Fish
4-6 weeksRun nitrogen cycle 4–6 weeks with test kits before adding fish — never stock on day one.
Plan Stocking Levels
2 hoursResearch inch-per-gallon guidelines, compatibility, and bioload for chosen freshwater species.
Schedule Maintenance Costs
1 hourBudget monthly filter media, water conditioner, food, and electricity for heaters and lights.
Tools Used
Checklist
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Planning
Water Quality
Equipment
Maintenance
Reference Materials
Stocking Rule FormulaFormula
Freshwater community: 1 inch of fish per gallon (adult size) OR 1 cm per liter. Reduce 25% for heavy bio-load species.
Freshwater Startup Cost RangesTable
US retail averages excluding rare species — saltwater costs 2–3× more.
| Tank Size | Equipment | Fish (initial) | Monthly Upkeep |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 gal | $80–$150 | $20–$40 | $15–$25 |
| 20 gal | $120–$250 | $30–$60 | $20–$35 |
| 40 gal | $200–$400 | $50–$100 | $30–$50 |
| 55 gal | $300–$550 | $75–$150 | $40–$65 |
Nitrogen Cycle BasicsStandard
Beneficial bacteria convert ammonia to nitrite to nitrate — cycle completes when ammonia and nitrite read zero.
Buy Used Tanks Carefully
Inspect silicone seals for leaks — resealing costs $40–$80 if failed.
Never Replace All Filter Media
Replacing all media at once crashes the cycle — rinse in tank water and replace partially.
Dim Lights Reduce Algae
Limit lighting to 8 hours daily — algae blooms spike with excess light and nutrients.
Safety Notes
- Unplug equipment before hands enter tank water — GFCI outlets prevent shock near water.
- Keep fish medications away from food prep areas — many contain antibiotics toxic to humans if ingested.