Aquarium 

• The only essential.
• Anything can work, but read our guide for more details.

Filter 

• Our guide describes the details.
• Power filters  are the best for small aquariums.

Food 

• Your food should be specific for the needs of your fish.
• Feed 2-3x daily what they'll eat in 2-3 minutes.

Test Kits  and De-Chlorinating Drops 

• Make sure your ammonia, nitrates, and other chemicals are at safe levels and adjust as needed.

Substrate 

• Ground cover for your tank.
• If your fish burrow, give them a thick layer.
• Pick colors and materials that coordinate with the artistry of your tank's ensemble.

Heater ,Thermometer,  and Aquarium Light 

• Fish have heat and light requirements that you need to match for their health.
• If it's anything different than "room temperature," you need these.
• Easier to monitor and essential to maintain.

Fish Net 

• When you're cleaning your tank,, you're going to need to put your fish elsewhere. Fish it out with this net.

Fish

• Before you do anything, you need to know what kinds of fish you're getting.
• Check out a book  or two to decide and then visit some pet stores and pick fish out in person so you know they're healthy.

Plants 

• Living plants control algae, entertain, and add oxygen to the tank.
• Give them 1.5 watts of lamp power , medium to fine substrate, and fertilizer .

Toys  and Decorations 

• Fish have nowhere else to go! Give them some ambiance to live for.
• Make sure than everything is movable enough for you to clean it.

Stand 

• Unless you already have a table, you want a stand to put your tank at eye level.
• Check its weight capacity and do not exceed.
• Some fold  for easy storage.

Siphon 

• Replace 20% of the tank's water every 2 weeks by siphoning a few gallons at a time.
• Take a small hose  and lower one end into a bucket and take the water out that way.

Cover 

• If you're afraid of anything falling into your tank, be it animal, vegetable, or mineral, you need a cover.
• Make sure it fits securely and isn't airtight.