Care guides

Start with cycling. Then set up a real freshwater tank. Then stock it more lightly than the store display. These are editorial notes, not lab papers — they follow common hobbyist consensus and err on the side of more space and fewer fish.

Planted nano aquarium with lights, filter tubing, and no fish — a fishless cycling setup

husbandry

How to cycle a fish tank

A fishless cycle grows beneficial bacteria before you add livestock. Test ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate until the tank can process a dose of ammonia in a day.

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Planted freshwater aquarium with moss, rocks, and small community fish

setup

Beginner freshwater aquarium setup

A heated, filtered 20-gallon tank is a kinder first aquarium than a tiny kit. Cycle before you add fish, test your water, and stock slowly.

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Planted community aquarium with driftwood, rocks, and a school of small tetras

stocking

Stocking a 20-gallon tank

Inch-per-gallon is a myth. In 20 gallons, think in terms of adult size, schooling needs, waste, and swimming style — then stock less than the store display.

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