You are currently viewing 🐠 Complete Aquarium Setup Guide – What You Need Before Adding Fish

🐠 Complete Aquarium Setup Guide – What You Need Before Adding Fish

Starting your first aquarium? Whether you’re setting up a freshwater or saltwater tank, getting the foundation right is key to keeping your fish healthy and your tank beautiful.

At AquariumSouq.com, we provide everything you need to set up your aquarium at home or office, along with expert support and UAE-wide delivery. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the 7 essential steps to prepare your aquarium before adding fish.

🪟 1. Choose the Right Aquarium Size

Smaller tanks may seem easier, but they’re more prone to quick water changes. A minimum 40–60L (10–15 gallon) tank is ideal for beginners.

✅ Shop glass and acrylic fish tanks at AquariumSouq.com

💧 2. Install a Quality Filter and Heater

A good filter keeps the water clean and supports healthy bacteria. A heater helps maintain a stable temperature — especially important in indoor environments with AC.

Recommended for UAE:

  • Freshwater: 24–27°C

  • Saltwater/reef tanks: 25–28°C

✅ Explore filters, heaters & accessories in our Equipment section

🪨 3. Add Substrate, Rocks & Decor

Choose a substrate like aquarium gravel, sand, or aqua soil based on your fish and plant type. Add décor that creates hiding spots and a natural look.

  • For freshwater tanks: colored gravel or plant substrate

  • For planted aquariums: nutrient-rich aqua soil

  • For marine tanks: crushed coral or reef-safe sand

✅ Browse aquarium décor & substrate options at AquariumSouq.com

🌿 4. Add Plants or Hardscape (Optional but Recommended)

Live plants improve water quality and look beautiful. Choose low-maintenance plants like:

  • Anubias

  • Java Fern

  • Amazon Sword

  • Moss Balls

Alternatively, use driftwood and rocks for an aquascaped, natural look.

🧪 5. Fill the Tank & Dechlorinate the Water

Use treated tap water or RO (reverse osmosis) water. Always use a dechlorinator to remove harmful chemicals before running your filter.

✅ Shop water conditioners and dechlorinators

🦠 6. Cycle the Aquarium

Cycling builds beneficial bacteria in your tank. This is essential to break down fish waste and prevent ammonia spikes.

Cycle options:

  • Add ammonia and test water daily

  • Use bacteria starters (available on our store)

  • Wait 1–2 weeks before adding fish

✅ Ask us how to speed up the cycling process safely

🐟 7. Add Fish Slowly & Monitor Water

Once cycling is complete, add fish gradually (2–3 at a time for small tanks). Test the water regularly for:

  • Ammonia

  • Nitrite

  • Nitrate

  • pH

We recommend using test kits weekly for new tanks.

🛒 Your One-Stop Shop for Aquarium Setup in the UAE

At AquariumSouq.com, we offer:

  • Fish tanks in various sizes

  • Filters, heaters, and lighting

  • Live plants & décor

  • Bacteria starters & water treatments

  • Healthy freshwater & marine fish

  • Complete setup services & home delivery across the UAE

📦 Need Help Setting Up Your Aquarium?

Whether you’re in Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, or Abu Dhabi, our team can assist with custom setups, product selection, and aquarium maintenance.

🎯 Visit: www.AquariumSouq.com
📞 Or contact us to speak with our experts

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