Beginners Guide to The Aquarium Hobby Part 3: How to Set-up an Aquarium Step by Step!

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Checklist of what you need: 1) Fish Tank Helpful Videos Pros and Cons of Fish Tank Sizes: kzbin.info/aero/PL79yWtqvNd3XydbmOQZKnv5h1WQGXgY_I Fish Tank Stocking Ideas: kzbin.info/aero/PL79yWtqvNd3VkFE0maW2RVw3mN3u163gs 2) Fish Tank Filter Marineland Pro HOB Filter (amazon affiliate link): amzn.to/3qKihD2 Seachem Tidal HOB Filter (amazon affiliate link): amzn.to/3oD7TLB Aquatop Forza 5-15 HOB Filter (amazon affiliate link): amzn.to/3gCkSdr Helpful Videos How to choose the right aquarium filter: kzbin.info/www/bejne/bKvEZWd9jcSNa7s How to save money on filter media: kzbin.info/www/bejne/h2GrgYmdbN6qfKM 3) Aquarium Heater Eheim Heater (amazon affiliate link): amzn.to/344dN0e Helpful Videos Eheim heater review: kzbin.info/www/bejne/i2HOXn2epKZ8bqM 4) Aquarium Light Hygger Light (amazon affiliate link): amzn.to/3qJ398V Helpful Videos Aquarium Lighting 101: kzbin.info/www/bejne/r2HaYodvgtGbnq8 5) Fish Tank Lid 6) Thermometer Thermometer (amazon affiliate link): amzn.to/3nbhkRW 7) Fish Tank Stand (depends on size of tank) 8) Powerstrip 9) Substrate Helpful Videos How to choose the right substrate: kzbin.info/www/bejne/pZfPgoGdr82SZqs Our favorite sand: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jWXRhn95fq19qZo 10) Decorations (plants/caves/rocks/wood) - Make it FUN!! Helpful Videos Fake vs real plants: kzbin.info/www/bejne/q2LdimaOmrl0r80 Beginners guide to aquarium plants: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nIabqaqCg9-Do8U How to prepare driftwood: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eoi0dqmfZs6VaLc 11) Water Additives Water Conditioner (amazon affiliate link): amzn.to/37VheaD Fritzyme 7 Bacteria (amazon affiliate link): amzn.to/3gyNLrf 12) Algae Scraper 13) Bucket 14) Gravel Vac Helpful Videos Top Fin gravel vac review: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mIvKg4yHo7eebtU 15) Water Test Strips (Best to get both) Tetra Test Strips (amazon affiliate link): amzn.to/3440IUV Tetra Ammonia Test Strips (amazon affiliate link): amzn.to/39YBfQi Helpful Videos The nitrogen cycle explained: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mnfTf2etjcygnKs 16) Fish Tank Background Helpful videos How paint fish tanks: kzbin.info/www/bejne/b4exiIRmf8-ppqc DIY backgrounds: kzbin.info/www/bejne/oKnKZJelZ6h7qrc 17) Fish Net Fish net (amazon affiliate link): amzn.to/342VtVs 18) Fish Food Check out flipaquatics.com/collections/northfin 19) Fish! :-) Also, our new shirts can be found at: www.primetimeaquatics.com/merch For the latest in the fish room check us out on Instagram primetime_aquatics For more cool behind the scenes stuff consider becoming a member! kzbin.info/door/YVN7EN0ALL6CE4U7NpMUTAjoin If you want to see all the cool stuff Joanna does with other types of scapes check out her channel! kzbin.info/door/PEZk1MpOTGiBVh6BtWjlRg

[@mauriciobrett9253]

i know Im kind of off topic but do anybody know a good place to stream newly released series online?

[@cameronsolomon4249]

@Mauricio Brett Flixportal :P

[@mauriciobrett9253]

@Cameron Solomon Thank you, I signed up and it seems like they got a lot of movies there :) I appreciate it !!

[@cameronsolomon4249]

@Mauricio Brett Glad I could help xD

[@MridulSinghMusic]

Part 4 of the series: Look around for a bigger house to accommodate for the millions of tanks you're going to want to keep!

[@mrsprimetimeaquatics5497]

😂 yes - and includes links to realtors in your area 😆😆

[@marypaigeflynn4512]

Right on Mridul. I hope you're having a great day 🙏🌿🐟🌿💚

[@marypaigeflynn4512]

@@mrsprimetimeaquatics5497 😆😂

[@MridulSinghMusic]

Thanks Mary! I wish the same for you and yours!

[@boniw698]

Please have a safe and wonderful holiday. Thank you for all youve given us in information over this year. And previous years. I’m 70 and have had fish on and off with tanks since 1987. Thank goodness for updated online videos. No more library full of books with lots of outdated info. You’ve been a lifesaver with me starting yet another tank after a big loss. Love you guys. 🎄🎄🎄🌟🌟🌟💝❣️💝❣️💝❣️

[@mrsprimetimeaquatics5497]

Hi Bonita, how sweet of you to say! It’s a wonderful hobby I’m so many ways. Have a wonderful holiday too! 🎄

[@angiebear8727]

Love the bubble lines in a new freshly filled aquarium. Makes me smile 😀

[@notduxky9440]

Keep up work guys I just bought a 29 gallon tank and this is going to be my first time setting up a tank .

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Have fun!

[@mrsprimetimeaquatics5497]

Congrats! Have fun!! ☺️☺️

[@christopherfassett9973]

Always great to review no matter how experienced a fishkeeper is. With your educational background I'd really love to hear your thoughts on the (relatively) recent discoveries regarding the role of archaea in the nitrogen cycle and what that means for us as aquarists.

[@phillipbruni2434]

I’m actually watching this series now, wish I watched it before re-entering the hobby. I love how Joanna is being “mom” some of the early looks she gave Jason, correcting his work with the gravel, you two are funny and informative 🥰

[@tshaffer9681]

I went to Lowes hardware and bought river rock, pebbles and salt and pepper rock( looks like marble) . You need to keep rinsing it until it runs clear but it's really worth it at $5.00 bucks for each 50lb bag and it looks so beautiful and natural.

[@audaciousapathy4178]

Hey! Love your videos! I am still fairly new to this only about 8 months or so. I have a 5 gallon, 20 gallon, and a 75 gallon. The 75 is the only stocked one right now as I recently reset the 20 gallon. The 5 gallon is my back up in case of illness and injury! I always watch your videos for the raw informational techniques and how to’s! So thank you!

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Thank you for being here!

[@josiereyna864]

Thank you! As always I really appreciate all your videos!

[@jennifermartin506]

Can’t stop looking at the low boy. Beautiful Tank. Wish I had a place for one.

[@mrsprimetimeaquatics5497]

☺️ one of my favorites as well. I wish I had a miniature one ..someday ..🙂

[@jessebelle6596]

Your videos never disappoint! I’m looking forward to the next one! :)

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Thank you!

[@farmert9679]

Grass good idea to hide the filter. Nice set up. You should set up tanks dry and sell them for your business. You have a great landscaper.

[@marypaigeflynn4512]

Great step by step tutorial to be able to give to beginners!! Really great video idea for the holidays too!! Thank you Jason and Joanne for the care that you take in teaching others!! Good solid recommendations and thank you for the links you provide too! Hope you all are having a very blessed day much love you guys! 🙏🤗🌿🐟🌿

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Thank you! Have a great Christmas!

[@mrsprimetimeaquatics5497]

Thanks for stopping by, folks like you, always willing to share and help out is what makes this hobby, this community so very wonderful! 🎄🎄🎄 blessings to you!

[@markhunter2244]

Another super informative video, this will be very helpful for everyone getting their first aquariums for Christmas 🎄🎁

[@mrsprimetimeaquatics5497]

Aww, we do hope it serves some folks well. Wishing you a very Merry Christmas!

[@markhunter2244]

@@mrsprimetimeaquatics5497 . Hope you Jason and family have a very merry Christmas and a happy new year 🥳

[@lynnbonica4342]

Great video, really informative. Can't wait for the fish. Merry Christmas to you and Joanna. God Bless.

[@mrsprimetimeaquatics5497]

Thank you, Lynn! A very a Merry and blessed Christmas to you and yours!🎄

[@HJ-ix8od]

My favourite 2 people on KZbin love you guys

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Appreciate you being here!

[@Prone2Thrill]

FYI - I use Plasti-dip to paint my background - it's super easy to use, just layer and don't spray too much at once. Dries fast and best of all if you want to remove it to go back to glass or change colors, it peels off easily if you put at least 4 or 5 layers thick. Aloha

[@iqbaljumani4717]

Nice setup Very easy

[@franciscoalindogan6370]

Thank you❤

[@darylknee]

When placing decorations I grab the algae scraper and the siphon tube and check that they will fit around the hardscape. Keep in mind that a scraper with a handle often gets used at a bit of an angle to the glass.

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Smart idea!

[@farmert9679]

Very good tutorial.

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Thank you!

[@joehebert789]

It would have been good to point out that if you are using a bucket for water transportation, it should be a new bucket that is dedicated to that task alone to ensure that no outside chemicals (from things like household cleaners) get into the tank.

[@mahmoudbamarni3803]

thanks for this information ⚘⚘⚘

[@WilliamRockseo]

Amazing video, thank you this was very helpful

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Thank you!

[@realmadridfan9416]

Nice and informative video as usual 👍👍 Just one side note , Isn't better to wash the fake plants or the decorations at least with warm water, God knows how many people touched that fake plant or how many time that thing fell on the floor. And for new fish keepers that might be a big problem especially if it's their first aquarium!

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Ya, you can certainly rinse them off before adding them to the tank!

[@dougkidd4799]

Great video again thank you

[@sschario60]

Thanks for the heads-up on the Aqueon Clip LED. That'll work great on my 10 gal quarantine tank - presently used for plant growing.

[@mitchc1263]

What brand tanks do enthusiasts recommend? New here and very afraid of leaks lol Just added fluval flex to my daughters room and enjoying the hobby so far

[@woodworkerroyer8497]

I have used both Marineland and Aqueon. Neither leaked for me (though I have heard horror stories). The Marineland ones have better LOOKING seams (black silicone, and few if any drips), Aqueon uses clear silicone and at least the cheaper tanks (55g and under) have TERRIBLE silicone jobs. They are water tight, but you will want to go in with a glass cleaning razor and scrape off the silicone they left all over the tank walls. Again, my 55g Marineland lasted 2 or 3 years without problems (then I sold it), my 60g Marineland is great too, 3 years and counting, the 55g Aqueon is working 1 year later, just fine (just took the time to clean up the silicone the first day, before adding water), and my 10g Aqueon is fine (after 6 or 8 weeks). The best thing I've heard, is to buy acrylic tanks. They USUALLY (not guaranteed) fail by springing a leak, not having panels fall off like glass tanks tend to do (though, again, this is a general rule of thumb). Personally, anything under 75g, I would get glass. Over that, and the acrylic is probably close in price, and lighter, and you are to a point that it is a lifetime tank, not a "lets try 3 guppies and an oscar." Sorry for the long reply, but I looked at this a bunch about a year ago (when I thought a small bead of silicone was a crack in my 60g 🤣) and the above info is basically the boiled down version of what I found. If you want more info, then fish related forums are great!

[@csharpe5787]

You can't go wrong with Fluval products

[@mitchc1263]

@@woodworkerroyer8497 thanks for the reply! I definitely like the black silicon on our fluval. I wasn't sure if there was any other brands that weren't main stream. We like the fluval but I'm not sure if I would get another flex kit but it would be nice if they had just plain tanks that I could build on

[@woodworkerroyer8497]

@@mitchc1263 Oh. Yeah, there are brands like Waterbox, SeaClear, Clear for Life. I don't have any personal experience with any of them, but I have heard of issues with (I think) the internal filter system in the waterbox. The pump goes bad or something really frequently. For a 10g or 15g tank that cost $150 to $200, that is NOT something I want to deal with, but I haven't heard anything about the tanks themselves having any issues.

[@Jimakos_busa89]

very good guide!!

[@valiaudet3415]

Hello. I've been wondering how people give kids fish and a kit aquarium as a surprise, generally birthday and Xmas times. I can't imagine kids wanting to wait to cycle aquarium and only then buying fish. This would be a great video for you to do . Hope to see it. Xx

[@retiredbiker]

Is placement of the hob critical? Should it be in a corner or more towards the middle? I’m cycling up a 55 gallon tank now.

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

With a 55 gallon I either like to have two smaller HOB filters on either side or if using one put it closer to the middle.

[@Gardis72]

Great videos, could you please address salt water tanks vs. fresh water? Thank you.

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

I’ve never done saltwater. 😀

[@johndunbar5889]

Thank you

[@AakritiAgarwal25]

2:24 she's like hey shaddap we're recording!!

[@Christina_Maniscalco]

What would be the max size tank to put on a dresser type thing?

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

The dressers we have I had to assemble myself and they aren't very sturdy so maybe 50lbs on those. My kids have a much stronger dresser in their room and had no problem holding a 10 gallon. I usually highly recommend a stand for anything 15 gallons and above.

[@johnwood738]

Decided to try an under gravel filter in the new tank I am setting up. I have tank and filter plates thinking of crypts for plants and a couple caves. Any thoughts on cycling it? Thinking setting up and cleaning sponges in it for awhile when I see plants growing move in fish. Still waiting on the Professor to show up and take his share of the three foot plus of snow we ended up with!

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Cool - maybe just throw some Fritzyme 7 in it? Once you have the plants established for a month or so you will probably be good to start stocking lightly though.

[@johnwood738]

@@PrimeTimeAquatics thanks figure every one needs to try one once.

[@tiffanysu935]

If I already added API quick start solution to my tank water, can i still add the conditioner and the nitrifying bacteria that you recommended in your video? (I watched your video AFTER I had the tank set up...T0T)

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

You sure can!

[@renato2354]

Great video! I want to paint the back of my fish tank instead of placing a paper screen, what kind of paint would be better to do this?

[@mrsprimetimeaquatics5497]

We like the acrylic paint found at the craft stores, 2 or 3 thin coats work best. ☺️

[@renato2354]

@@mrsprimetimeaquatics5497 thanks!

[@rysd8334]

🔥🔥🔥

[@kelank12]

Added as auxiliary heater: Consistent temperature after one week

[@beccabramble5997]

We just got our 10 gallon freshwater tank set up on Saturday. We added some plants and were planning on getting some fish today, but for the past two days the water has stayed at 84 degrees…what do I do!! Is that too hot for fish?? Has to be right??

[@sethw0919]

You mention the ability to add 1 maybe 2 fish to the tank relatively immediately...with the FritzZyme 7 - does that mean in a 50 gallon tank you could safely add 5-10 small fish (a school) of something?

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Ya that should work. I’d stay closer to five.

[@sethw0919]

@@PrimeTimeAquatics Thanks!! I've been watching your vids all day today...so looking forward to finishing refurbishing my stand and getting my new-to-me tank setup!

[@Nosilla1961]

What do you think of rainwater for the fish?

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

See this! kzbin.info/www/bejne/q5rEpZKcrbp7qsksi=0yAdTE1Asux-EQHk

[@thebeigesheep6132]

Can u give us a beard tutorial video? How do u shape it and maintain it? And what do you use to keep your head shaven so smoothly without a million cuts?

[@acasidelove4728]

What type of gravel are you using?

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Usually just top fin

[@lfergusson148]

Where is the best place to buy dark paper for back of tank

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

We just used construction paper on a few of them.

[@cortneyviolette6398]

Do you need to use the fritz complete when using RO water? That’s what we use in our house and I’m a little unsure how to treat RO since it’s void of all minerals 🙂

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

If your RO is working properly it removes chlorine.

[@AbikersPOV]

is the background on the inside or the outside of the tank?

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Most are outside the tank, but we have some tanks with 3D backgrounds inside.

[@AbikersPOV]

@@PrimeTimeAquatics and its just normal colored paper right? or does it have to be some sort special material?

[@macylangley9512]

Can I use fake grass mate as my grass

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

It depends on if there are any chemicals that can leach into the water?

[@edwardhasiak7961]

Years ago when I had a Aquarium we would use under ground filtering system. Are they still in use?

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Not as much. They’re not easy to find anymore.

[@edwardhasiak7961]

@@PrimeTimeAquatics thank you

[@lewiscory6352]

Should I de- chlorinate my water every time I do a water change ?

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Yes, you want to make sure you don't have chlorine from the tap going into the tank.

[@Trollmontero69]

Do fish need to drink or do they get thursty?

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Freshwater fish typically don't because they absorb so much water from their surroundings.

[@BarrySullivan-ip8rc]

So is he saying that you put the Fritz 7 in a couple of days later?

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Nope - same time!

[@gamingchillz69]

What else can I do to avoid nitrate and amonia spikes that don't involve buying that liquid🤙🤙

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Water changes!

[@M29WeaselDriver]

Would a laser type thermometer work? Then you could check multiple aquariums with one thermometer.

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

It sure does!

[@brentmlarson]

After I fully set-up the aquarium, is it okay to add the FritzZyme 7 Nitrifying Bacteria to get a cycle going and then leave it for a week or two with no fish being added? Are there any negative effects to having a bit of time between getting the cycle going and then adding the fish later that I should be aware of?

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

It might not work the best without a source of ammonia to feed the bacteria.

[@brentmlarson]

Thanks for the response! I will make sure to include a source of ammonia. One thing that I keep seeing conflicted information on is how long beneficial bacteria last once a cycle has been completed. Some say a few days and others say that the beneficial bacteria will never die as long as the tank doesn't dry up. Do you have any advice on this or anything I could read that would be helpful on this topic?@@PrimeTimeAquatics

[@trismama1290]

Is it ok to skip the plastic plants and buy live plants in a new tank?

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Definitely!

[@trismama1290]

@@PrimeTimeAquatics ok I just didn’t know if the water would be like too nutrient devoid at the beginning

[@trismama1290]

Because im assuming a lot of what plants live off of are the fish waste

[@fahoodie1852]

@@trismama1290 you can put soil under the substrate, or use epiphyte plants that aren’t as demanding

[@rysd8334]

❤️❤️❤️

[@prissynicole]

Do we have to wash the gravel and if so with vinegar? Or just water?

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

We usually just rinse it with water.

[@GoodVibess_Only]

Do I need a bubble maker

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

No, but filtration is a must.

[@GoodVibess_Only]

@@PrimeTimeAquatics so why do people put bubbles

[@lewiscory6352]

Is the 76-78 Farinheight or Celsius ?

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Degrees F

[@lewiscory6352]

@@PrimeTimeAquatics thank you

[@lewiscory6352]

For my tank I bought something that would change the PH to 7.2, would this get rid of the chlorine ?

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Usually it doesn’t. A specific chlorine remover water conditioner is required.

[@josiereyna864]

My husband just bought me a 100 gallon tank and this one I want to set up for discus using dragon stone and plants. My brain is blank !

[@jennifermartin506]

Lucky

[@mrsprimetimeaquatics5497]

Nice!!!

[@jromine]

Where can you order a low boy online ?

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

I'm not sure? I have only ever seen them at LFS.

[@jromine]

@@PrimeTimeAquatics okay, thanks!

[@geekmashup6829]

hi

[@OfficailSamMarieZie]

I thought Elaine from Seinfeld got into fish keeping for a moment 😂

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Too funny 😂

[@Abovethesoil801]

First

[@naegwut]

❤️🎄🤓

[@michaelboulos3272]

This is literally my go to when I see the obvious noob at the big box stores.,,.

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Thank you!

[@mrsprimetimeaquatics5497]

☺️☺️☺️

[@markgilsantiago7018]

What is the size of your tank?

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

In this video it was a 10 gallon, but we have tanks ranging from 2.5 gallons up to 150 gallons.

[@af1762]

Waay too many adds man. 4 minutes in 3 adds already ...

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

It's only set to run one mid-roll add. In a 13 minute video I think that's more than fair.

[@sargundeepgirn4567]

Im sorry but I lost interest when they started putting plastic plants in there lol but the information is pretty good for beginners.

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Ya, live plants are a stretch for beginners. Most of our tanks are planted, but wanted to keep it simple here.

[@Alexschern]

I stopped watching after she added fake plants Lol

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

This video is geared for beginners :-)

[@wendihamlett105]

Always nice to be reminded of the basics

[@mrsprimetimeaquatics5497]

I agree ☺️☺️

[@ominousred]

Nice. Helpful. Thanks.

[@shesellsfish]

Great basic steps to setting up an aquarium, guys. 👍💓👍

[@mrsprimetimeaquatics5497]

Hi and thank you, ShelbyRae! ☺️

[@Tricksatrick]

Is my OCD acting up or is that tank not level? *checks waterline vigouresly*

[@carriesweeney6413]

Thrilled to have found your channel! New fish owners. Could not keep fish alive on a 5 gallon, so we are now trying a 25 gallon. 🙏

[@AsianAmericanGuy]

The demonstration in this video was great not as complicated as just explaining without any steps or showing how to do things. I think it would be easier to show how to cycle a fish tank this way because I only find a lot of videos where people are just talking and not really showing.

[@iqbaljumani4717]

Nice Good topic For Beggener and Old Thanks

[@woodworkerroyer8497]

What is the difference between fritz 7 and fritz 360 or 460? Are they all the same thing? Or more potent as you get to higher numbers?

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

The 7 has nitrifying bacteria for cycling a tank. The 360 is more of a "water clarifier".

[@martyborst5645]

Good morning Jason and Joanna. The way the tank is set up with the decorations look great! I really like h.o.b’s because they are easy to maintain and don’t take up a lot of space in the tank. I agree with idea of black gravel and background. That is how I set mine up. Black really shows up my orange and bright red discus. I always learn something when I watch your videos. Sincerely, Marty Borst👍🐠😀

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

That is a great combo!

[@mrsprimetimeaquatics5497]

Thanks, Marty! I really like them too - they don’t take up “floor” space too on the substrate 😊

[@bigmac9439]

Thank you for doing this series it has helped a lot.

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Good to hear!

[@GWorxOz]

Plastic plants, get real....

[@connorcostello3864]

In the back ground a fish jumped.

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

The cichlids sometimes like to splash. Haha

[@mrsprimetimeaquatics5497]

He wanted a part in the video series. We gave him a shot. 🙌

[@Kealiile]

Does every fish tank need a heater?

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Usually unless the tank can be maintained at 76 degrees or greater (or you have cool water fish).

[@marielizzylonglong1623]

I have a tank and just want to understand what all the pieces are for. I'll probably have to just look at the gadgets and try and figure it out. There are so many steps to setting up the tank and every video gives you all the steps. I guess it's more fun to talk about designing a pretty layout. For now I just want to know about the hardware. Is there a video that explains about the filtration and oxygenation of the water so the fish don't die? Just the basics?

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

We talk about how to set-up filters, heaters, lights in this video as well.

[@DanI-gb9yn]

Thanks so much for this series and all of your videos. I’m finally getting into the hobby after wanting to for many years. Been watching all your videos to research, and they’re so informative and helpful. Tank is coming in a few days and couldn’t be more excited!!

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Have fun!

[@dantreuthart9146]

Hello, Great video. Thanks! Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays to everyone, Stay Safe and Healthy!

[@mrsprimetimeaquatics5497]

Thank you, you too Dan !! ✨🎄✨

[@Tubercollosal]

Love this very structured tutorial series.

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Thank you!

[@k333rl]

this is the stage that i'm at. problem is that i know just enough to be dangerous. would love the active substrate but am at a gravel lvl. would love to have live plants but am at a plastic plant lvl. never had a tank before. just got a 10 gallon and am about to try to dip my toes in. just worry i don't try to go too big too soon and fall on my face.

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Take your time. You’ll have plenty of time to do the other stuff. 😀

[@VIDEOHEREBOB]

Isn't the rinsing of the substrate required?

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

I tend not to rinse aquarium sand because it's a pain. Gravel can be rinsed, but often I don't bother.

[@beccs5050]

Can I use reptile logs on my Betta tank if I boiled them first?

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

I probably wouldn’t since you won’t know the type of wood that was used?

[@moo8415]

My little twin brothers birthday is coming up next month and they want one goldfish each for their birthday, I thought I had researched everything but I've just found out about the nitrite cycle. I really dont want their fish to die cause I know they will be devasted as this is their own first pet, but I also know that if they don't have their fish by their birthday they'll be extremely sad and angry. Would their 2 fish be fine if they did 1 or 2 weekly water changes of about 20% till the ammonia and nitrite levels reached 0, gravel vaccuming, and added the nitrifying bacteria? Im really confused on this whole cycle and I want their birthday to go well.

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

I would add Fritzyme 7 when you add the fish. That should help with ammonia.

[@moo8415]

Ok thank you so much!

[@rosbossyesplz8916]

Alternatively to traditional water conditioners, you can use sodium thiosulphate to condition the water. You can find online calculators to help neutralise the chlorine in the water. You just need to know what the concentration of chlorine in your tap water is.

[@Luceium01]

Next time do real plants!

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

For sure - we did this really for people who have never set up an aquarium and so probably wouldn't dive into real plants right away.

[@Luceium01]

@@PrimeTimeAquatics understood!

[@TheRugghead]

gotta rinse everything really well,

[@amko7693]

Great instructional video! Question: I followed all of the mentioned steps, except I'm using live plants. I added API quick start (nitrifying bacteria) and my tank turned rather cloudy. I learned this is due to bacterial bloom. Is it safe to add fish or better to let it clear first? Thanks in advance!

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

I like to let things settle down a little first.

[@reneberthet9168]

Hello! Thank you for the easy to understand videos and the store links as they are real helpful! I plan to start with a 20 gal glass tank and notice you always fill the tanks up to the rim. From your experience, does any water spill from the tank being that full? And when it comes to aquarium covers, is that something you recommend and if so does it matter if they are glass or plastic? Thanks again!

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Good question - the water doesn't spill out of the tank. We have a mix of glass lids and plastic lids throughout the fish room. The glass tends to look a little nicer.