Adequate aquarium size is very important for creating the right environment for your freshwater fish. One of the most common mistakes that many beginners make is getting an aquarium that is too small. Research needs to be done in regards to the size requirements for the desired fish and accessories that will be in the tank. Providing a larger more spacious tank will result in less tank maintenance, better tank water quality and healthier fish. The best plan is to get a tank that is as large as money and space will allow.

The next element to focus on is adequate filtration for your aquarium. The filter used in the aquarium should provide mechanical, chemical and biological filtration. To provide mechanical filtration it needs to be able to physically clean the water and remove dirt from the water. To provide chemical filtration it should remove chemical and toxins from the water. To provide biological filtration it should promote the growth of bacteria that is needed for a healthy nitrogen cycle.

The third element for the perfect aquarium is providing the required temperature range. An aquarium heater will keep the water at the optimal temperature. Aquarium heaters have thermostats that detect when the water temperature drops below the desired range. The heater then turns on to warm the water back up to the right temperature. There are many heaters to choose from for your pets. It is highly recommended to do research and select the heater that is capable of consistently keeping your aquarium at the required temperature range.

Consistent maintenance is an element that should never be overlooked under any circumstances. Regular partial water changes are needed to remove dirt from the water and maintain optimal water conditions. Water changes can be done using a gravel vacuum and should be done once or twice a week. A partial water change consists of removing 10% to 20% of the water by sucking it out with a gravel vacuum. The water is then replaced with fresh water that has been treated to remove the chlorine from it before adding it to the tank.

Learning the living conditions for your desired fish is the fifth key element for setting up your aquarium. Every aquarium fish is different and has different preferences when it comes to water conditions and how a tank is set up. Some fish like to dig and should have fine gravel or sand for the aquarium substrate. Some other fish like to have places to seek shelter in like caves and passages between rocks. Overall, it is best to prepare the aquarium first before purchasing your aquatic pets.

The sixth and final key element for setting up your aquarium is purchasing fish that are compatible with each other. Do not mix passive fish with other more aggressive or territorial fish under any circumstances. Plan to have either a community tank or a species tank. Mixing the wrong types of fish in your aquarium can cause a bloodbath to take place in your aquarium.