Tetra Aquarium

Before You Begin…

Register for TetraCare, and we'll help you at every step along the way: as you decide what type of aquarium to buy; as you set up your aquarium; and as you choose the fish for your aquarium.

Whether you're just thinking about an aquarium, or already have one up and running, TetraCare can help. And it's FREE!

Getting Started

Check the following list of necessary and accessory items:

Setting Up Your Aquarium

Now that you have selected your equipment, follow these simple steps for assembly and proper installation:

1. Aquarium and Aquarium Materials
   Thoroughly wash the aquarium gravel, rocks, and ornaments. Do not use soap or detergents--they are highly toxic to fish. To wash the gravel, put it in a colander over a plastic pan or bucket and add water. The gravel should be stirred and then drained. When the water stays clear after stirring and is free of debris, the gravel is clean.
2. Undergravel Filter (if used)
   If an undergravel filter is used, place it on the bottom of the aquarium and cover it with 2 to 3 inches of washed gravel. Be careful not to pour sand into the filter stems. If you slope the gravel down toward the front, collecting accumulating debris will be easier.
3. Adding Water
   Fill the aquarium approximately one-third full. Pour the room temperature water onto a plate or saucer sitting on the gravel so it will not disturb the gravel. Always add AquaSafe (one teaspoon per 10 gallons of water) when adding water to your aquarium.
4. Connecting Air Lines
   Connect the air line tubing from the air pump to any outlets located inside the aquarium, such as undergravel filters, air stones, or decorations. By using a TetraTec CheckValve you can safely locate your air pump underneath your aquarium.
5. Decoration and Plants
   Aquascape the aquarium with rocks, ornaments, live and/or plastic plants. These should be arranged in such a way that the equipment will be concealed or at least will not detract from the appearance of the aquarium. If you are adding live plants, make sure that the water is warm enough for them. Remember to keep them moist from the time you buy them until they are planted. Plant the roots gently below the surface of the gravel, leaving the crown (if the plant has one) exposed, or they will not grow properly. For optimum plant growth and root development use Tetra FloraPride.
6. Add Balance of Water
   Fill the aquarium to near the top. Leave some air space between the water and the cover. Again, pour the water in such a way that you do not disturb your aquascaping and gravel.
7. Filter, Heater, and Thermometer
   If you are using any outside filters, fill them with filter materials, locate them according to instructions and make certain their siphon is free of air. Secure the heater as directed and place the thermometer as far away from the heater as possible. Make sure you can easily read the thermometer.
8. Starting Your Aquarium Equipment
   Plug in your air pump, power filter, and heater. Check the air outlets and adjust the settings. Make certain that water is flowing properly through your power filter. Adjust the thermostatic heater to the proper temperature, checking periodically. It will take some time for the temperature to stabilize and you may have to adjust your setting. Important: Do not switch on the heater when it is not immersed in water in the tank. The heating element can malfunction and overheat and the glass tube can shatter if placed in water while hot.
9. Check the Conditions and Temperature After a Few Hours
   Water in new aquariums will often turn cloudy for a day or two. This is caused by a harmless bacterial growth and should disappear naturally. Check the pH and hardness of your water.
10. Adding Fish to the Aquarium
    You'll be bringing your fish home from the store in plastic bags. Please be sure to come straight home after you purchase the fish, as you don't want to leave the fish in the bags any longer than necessary. When you get home, immediately float the bags in your aquarium for 15 minutes. This allows the water temperature in the bag to slowly match the water temperature in the aquarium. DO NOT pour the water from the bag into your aquarium, as the water may contain some contaminants that you don't want in your tank. Rather, over a bucket or a sink, pour the fish into a net. Then immediately place the fish into your aquarium. Also, be sure to add AquaSafe every time you add fish to your aquarium.
11. Cover the Aquarium
    Place the hood securely on top of the aquarium to protect the fish and prevent them from jumping out. Turn on the aquarium light.
12. First Feeding and Control
    It is advisable not to feed your fish until they have adapted themselves to their new environment (1 to 2 days). Watch your fish closely. If they are hiding in corners, "standing around" , or showing pale colors, it is possible that something is out of order. Recheck the following:
    • Is the temperature correct?
    • Was the water too fresh? (Was AquaSafe added?)
    • Are the lights and color of the gravel too light?
    • Do the plants offer enough hiding places for the fish?
    • Are the fish healthy?

Whenever you have concerns about your fish (looking different, acting strangely, etc.) please call us at 1-800-423-6458. We'll be happy to help you.