Tell Me More About Your Build
Answer a few questions about the tank you want to build. We'll use them to recommend a complete, compatible setup that fits your goals and budget.
1. What kind of aquarium do you want?
2. What tank size are you looking for?
3. What's your experience level?
4. What's your budget?
5. What style do you like?
6. How much maintenance are you comfortable with?
7. What would you like included?(select any)
8. Anything you definitely want?(optional)
Building Your Aquarium
Planning your setup
Start with the biggest tank your space and budget allow — larger volumes are far more stable and forgiving for beginners than tiny nanos. Match every part to your goal: a planted scape needs strong light, nutrient substrate and possibly CO2; a goldfish or "monster" tank needs oversized filtration; a shrimp tank wants a gentle sponge filter and no predators. Buy the tank, filter, light, substrate and conditioner together so your setup is complete on day one.
Setting up & cycling
Rinse substrate and hardware, position hardscape and plants, then fill with dechlorinated water and get the filter running. Before adding livestock, cycle the tank — grow beneficial bacteria over a few weeks until it converts ammonia and nitrite to near zero. A bottled bacteria starter and a liquid test kit make this far easier. Patience here is the single biggest factor in long-term success.
First weeks & ongoing care
Once cycled, add livestock gradually in small batches so the filter keeps pace, and feed sparingly. Settle into a simple routine: a weekly 20–30% water change, rinse filter media in old tank water (never tap water), top up ferts and conditioner, and test your parameters. Keep a net, siphon and algae scraper handy — a little regular upkeep keeps the whole system healthy and beautiful.