Aquarium Supplies – Essential and Non-Essential For Fresh Water Aquariums

Fresh water aquariums are a beautiful addition to any home. They can bring color, life and joy into a room, but they also require some regular maintenance to keep them looking their best. Having the right aquarium supplies can make this maintenance easier and safer for your fish.

There are essential aquarium supplies and non-essential aquarium supplies that all owners will want to have on hand. Essential aquarium supplies include a filter, heater, lighting, and food. These are all needed to maintain a healthy, balanced ecosystem that is safe for the fish. Non-essential aquarium supplies are items that can add a little extra fun to your aquarium. These may include aquarium backgrounds, decorations, and tank decor. These supplies can make your tank look more complete and help it stand out in a room. They can also make your fish happier and healthier by providing shelter or creating visual interest for them.

A fresh water aquarium requires a filter to remove waste, dirt and debris from the water. Choosing the right type of filter for your tank will depend on the species of fish you will be keeping and how large your tank will be. You can find a wide range of filters on the market, from simple sponge filters to high-end sumps with every feature you could desire. Choosing a heater for your tank is another important decision, as it will determine how warm or cool your water will be. Generally, it is better to get a smaller heater and put it in the corner of the tank than a larger heater that will heat the whole area of the tank.

Choosing the right tank size is another crucial decision, as it will determine how much water your tank can hold and the temperature that you will be able to maintain. Most hobbyists recommend starting with a 20-gallon tank for beginners. Larger tanks are ideal, but they can be difficult to store in dorm rooms or apartment living spaces. Glass aquariums are preferred by many, but acrylic tanks weigh less and don’t break as easily, so they are a good choice for households with children.

If you plan on adding live plants to your aquarium, it is a good idea to purchase a plant substrate rather than regular aquarium gravel. Choosing a nutrient rich substrate will help your rooted plants thrive.

Aquarium backgrounds can add a lot to the look of your aquarium, and they are usually very affordable. They can be as elaborate as molded plastic scenes or as simple as colored wrapping paper or poster board affixed to the back of the aquarium glass. Decorative items can also make the aquarium more aesthetically pleasing, and these options range from shipwrecks and mermaids to rockwork caves and replicas of natural coral reefs.

If you are looking to add some life to your aquarium, check out the fish section of your local pet store or online retailers that specialize in freshwater and saltwater fish. They can offer a huge selection of freshwater and marine species, including bettas, killifish, plecos and South American cichlids. They take great care in packaging their livestock and often offer a 14-day guarantee on live arrival (with some exceptions).