Don't Do These Beginner Mistakes - (We've All Done Them)

Welcome to the hobby! Guess what, we all make mistakes! But it's better to learn these beginner aquarium mistakes now and avoid having to go through them yourself! Keeping fish is not easy and aquarium mistakes are just part of the hobby.
In this beginner aquarium guide, I'll show you the top 10 you're most likely to commit and even a few experienced guys are still committing.
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Referenced Videos ||
Cycling your tank-
• The Aquarium Nitrogen ...
Nitrogen Cycle -
• The Aquarium Nitrogen ...
Wave Maker Benefits and Placement -
• Aquarium Wave Maker Po...
Battery Backup Air Pump -
• You Need a Backup Aqua...
Redundant Heating System -
• Aquarium Temperature C...
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#KaveManAquatics #AquariumHobby #Aquariummistakes

[@KaveManAquatics]

What mistakes have you made in your fish keeping journey? Let us all know so we can feel better about screwing up ourselves lol Dont forget to Subscribe! - 👉 kzbin.info

[@passenger3]

Kev do a video on how to set up a malaw tank with rock and maybe the reasons behind the rocks, you will get good views. Double peace brother

[@KaveManAquatics]

King Of Frontosa Thanks for the tip bro! 😊😊

[@kimmorankm]

When I first started fish keeping I used to rinse the decorations in tap water.😓 just rinsed all of that BB down the drain🤦🏻‍♀️

[@MorRhyy]

hi

[@InnovatewithLes]

Hey Kev is a 20 gallon a good starting tank? Or would a 30 be better?.....also, would love to see a video on what to do with the fish when on vacation 🤔 like how can we look after these guys for a week? Thanks bro love this channel!

[@maryssahamilton7914]

When I was little my mom would clean the tank in my room weekly by emptying it, scrubbing all the decor down in soapy water, bleach all the gravel, and windex the inside and outside of the tank. No heater, no testing, no thermometer.... then I was always sad when my fish died off. The information just wasn't available and wasn't communicated by the pet stores.

[@tammylanae3066]

🤣🤣🤣 Yes people use to do that

[@finnyc.260]

😢😢😢

[@arijitbose888]

I have done that many times....learned it a hard way

[@thehedgehogofdeath230]

😫

[@CraftsbyMandaRae]

😱

[@Nlyoungblood1]

Tips in writing: 1. Never add fish to an tank before you have cycled it. 2. Not using a dechlorinator. -Prime, API Stress Coat 3. Too much light - Stresses fish and causes algae 4. Do not overfeed - Just bad overall 5. Do not change water and filters at the same time. Alternate 6. Don't clean biomedia with tap water. Rinse in tank water and do not discard 7. Not having enough oxygen or bubbles. - Wave maker is great. 8. No oxygen backup. Get a battery backup. I need this. 9. Not having a redudent heater system. Use a temp controller 10. Deciding not to quarantine your new fish. This will take a few weeks. Bonus Tips: Don't buy a tiny tank, fluctuations are more common and more devestating. Buy a used tank, don't buy new.

[@KaveManAquatics]

This is awesome, Thanks! 😁

[@brendanwallace4661]

I was asked to help a mate out with his fish. I ended up overfeeding his fish and killed them!

[@emihayashi7725]

@@KaveManAquatics Request for instructions on cleaning/sterilizing a used tank to remove harmful pathogens. Are used reptile tanks safe for fish? If not, how does one clean them for fresh fish safety? No dish detergents right?

[@IdiosyncH]

Guilty of over feeding 😅 my tequila guppies were troopers until i tried feeding them spinach. Small amount but still too much for their small stomachs at once. Had 2 die the day after 😅 water levels are good.. So definitely the over feeding 😅 RIP. Its too easy to over love them.

[@gabrilapin]

​@@brendanwallace4661Bruh

[@sarahelizabethbarnes7617]

Omg you are just so spot on with everything. I bought a Betta and a tiny aquarium. Then AFTER (because of course) I did actual research about Betta care. Freaked out and went out and bought a ten gallon "everything included" kit. Then I added more fish. At this point I was overwhelmed and started watching KZbin. There are so many channels and so much information and conflicting opinions! You were the only person who really broke it down and made everything easy to understand. You also gave awesome solutions to the mistakes I already made instead of expecting me to have a time machine and go back and unmake all the mistakes I made. Per advice, got a way bigger used tank on craigslist, bought stresszyme, quick start, and prime. Bought polyfill, an airstone, and a sponge filter. Guess what? Every single one of my poor fish is still alive, despite all my mistakes. Thank you so much. If it wasn't for this channel I would have just given up after the first week.

[@esmegib]

how are they now?

[@MeanOldLady]

I kept 1 betta at a time in a 1 gallon bowl, for 2-5 years each, with no problems. I had a peace lily at the top that I kept trimmed so it didn't choke out the top with roots & prevent the betta from breathing & grazing. I just had smooth substrate & a soft, fake plant in the bottom. They loved hanging around the roots of the lily more than they wanted to do anything else besides flaring at mirrors. =p They've been raised in confined spaces for 1,000 years, so a space 4x the size of a store betta cup is ideal for them. I started over with a long, 9 gallon tank full of natural plants & hardscape & the cute lil bugger just wants to hang around in 1 spot anyway - just like with the 1 gallon bowl. =p

[@git_reset]

Having live plants are also the "backup" oxygen, thanks for the tips!

[@misstayliana1]

I’ve made some of these disappointing & expensive mistakes when I first started. 4 years later & I’m still learning new things. Thanks for the great tips.

[@KaveManAquatics]

Thanks! 😊 And I’m sure you’re not alone! That’s why I love this hobby, always more to learn!

[@justinstuart8382]

40 years later and I'm still learning. Sometimes you learn again what you already forgotten if your an old timer like me 😄

[@estherdeida341]

My. Ocarina is in a 40 gallon is that ok

[@towdoctor670]

@@justinstuart8382 when I was younger I didn't think this would happen To me, now as I get older I'm thinking I'll totally forget I even thought that at some point.

[@carljeanne4218]

Yeah I learned #1 almost the hard way luckily I saved my fish just in time I did add a bit too much fish at once ngl:/ but I was just excited fish nearly died I was doing so fine until I added more fish like everything was good until I added those fish

[@brianmizway9324]

Beginner here. And I'm going through the newbie mistakes now. Just found you with this video and after watching this it makes alot of sense. Someone gave my wife and I a free 36 gallon bowed tank with stand and supplies. The tank is new but this guy decided he didn't want to do it anymore. Total gain for us to get our feet wet and experiment with a fresh water tank. And your cichlids in the tank look amazing.

[@KaveManAquatics]

Thank you sir! Welcome to the hobby, you've come to the right place to get started 😊 I highly suggest you check out my playlist for beginners. It'll be very helpful for you 😁 - kzbin.info/aero/PLP5OXTIIDO8NYvhUHAmwAd54WFmS4d8er

[@honkylipsproductions2659]

New to the aquarium world and came across your channel. I like that you were to the point and direct with your message. Very well spoken with no mean of misinterpretation. Thank you look forward to watching more of your videos

[@steverabbits]

Absolutely brilliant as usual Kev. Your advice has transformed my fish keeping for sure. Every beginner should watch this video and the old hands too, we all need reminders from time to time 🐟🐟🐟

[@KaveManAquatics]

Thank you bro, glad you enjoyed it! Appreciate the positive feedback! 😊

[@TexasTuesdays]

Old hand here...agreed. Love this video!

[@RiverRat1953]

I’m almost 60 years of laying off of fish keeping. I am into it big time now and your channel and advice is definitely welcomed!👍😊

[@RiverRat1953]

I have a 55 gallon community tank and I did a water change, 50%, and a filter cleaning on the same day. I lost 6 fish that day!😪

[@quinnhawkinson894]

Your channel seriously is one of the best out there. Thank you !

[@KaveManAquatics]

Thanks bro, Glad you think so! 😊😊

[@PrettyBossUNLIMITED]

Facts

[@anntabb4782]

It truly is!!

[@Hitman-li8od]

@@KaveManAquatics love your videos because they are straight to the point & easy to understand 🥰 I’m a fan from 🇸🇬🙌

[@f8nomore]

I love your channel ...and really appreciate that you keep the beginners/newbies in mind! Thanks so much for all the great and helpful content! XOXO

[@KaveManAquatics]

My pleasure! This channel will always be focused on helping beginners 😁

[@MisterRightish]

Beginner here and have to say I love the series. Been binge watching them all. Thank you for the time and effort you put into these videos.

[@KaveManAquatics]

My pleasure! Glad you've been finding the channel helpful!

[@ThePOPDIVA24]

This is so helpful! I really liked the tip about having a battery backup for oxygenating the tank in case of a power outage. Also, I had never heard of a wave maker. Great tip about temperature control too. I’ll start implementing some of these tips right away. Thanks a bunch!

[@plushpossum]

Absolutely the best starter video I have ever seen! I actually was looking for a video to share for a friend who is considering buying her first tank. This is the one!

[@KaveManAquatics]

Awesome! Glad you enjoyed it...you could also try giving your friend this playlist link, made for beginners - kzbin.info/aero/PLP5OXTIIDO8NYvhUHAmwAd54WFmS4d8er

[@ManWeeZ1]

Just joined and gotta say I love this channel. I like how well you present everything in a very simple to understand but very straightforward way as well as give good advice for someone just starting out. Much love brotha.

[@KaveManAquatics]

Thank you! Glad you're finding the channel helpful! 😁💪

[@richandahatcher63]

I’m so glad you made this video! There is stuff in here I hadn’t heard before and I have been looking up information everywhere!

[@ut4321]

Excellent, clear content and very organized format down below linking the equipment and other videos you mentioned. We have a 1500 gallon indoor koi tank, and I learn so much from fish experts like you every day! Thanks for this channel!

[@KaveManAquatics]

My pleasure! Glad you're finding the channel helpful 😁

[@MandyMichels]

Really great video! I was into caring for fish over a decade ago, and have forgotten a lot of it. Your video really made things fresh in my brain and I really appreciate it. In the process of making an aquarium now and I feel much more confident - thank you!

[@KaveManAquatics]

My pleasure! Glad you're finding the channel helpful. Welcome back to the hobby! 😁

[@snapdragon2441]

I’m a new keeper. Had my first tank for about 6 months now. Think I’m doing ok. But still learning all the time and that’s part of what I love about this hobby. Just about to set up a smart plug and automatic feeding system for when we go away in the summer. Keep keeping and sharing advice everyone.

[@KaveManAquatics]

Awesome! Glad you're finding the channel helpful! 😁💪

[@livinglifeexploring]

What’s up kaveman just stumbled upon your channel because I just got a 70 gallon tank and was trying to research info.I can’t describe how great your videos are and how much information you provide. I really appreciate you taking the time to put out all this info this helps so much. Now time to go down the rabbit hole and start watching all of your videos lol. Thanks again keep the great content coming 🤙🤙🙏🙏

[@thedude2867]

Excellent advice all around.I've been keeping fish since I was 12 and I'm now in my fifties and consider myself a pro.You are spot on with all your advice and 1000% correct.

[@qcwaters77]

Thanks for the tips and I enjoy your channel. Your advise helped me out on the cloudy tank.

[@KaveManAquatics]

Glad to hear it!

[@victorruffin9672]

I never thought about it being bad to wash out filters in tap water. Does make sense though. You can always learn something.👌

[@keen5336]

I was making 2 of the newbie mistakes you listed here. Thanks for pointing them out!

[@adriennewhittington8387]

Hey Kev. I really wanted to take this time to say THANK YOU SO MUCH!! You have truly helped my husband get his love of fish imagined by setting up his new 75-gallon tank. We really appreciate your time !!

[@justinehoard6852]

Great great great video. I love how non-judgemental you are! We all start somewhere and we all make mistakes, even those of us who aren't beginners. I find myself just watching your videos because of how charismatic and passionate you are. Thank you for these videos and thank you for sharing all of your knowledge and experience in a kind way. There are too many know it all jerks out there making videos that scare people away from the hobby

[@KaveManAquatics]

Thank you for that positive feedback! I remember starting this hobby and feeling the same way, even feeling intimidated to ask questions in my LFS. So on this channel I always try to keep in mind, and remind other to keep in mind, that we all started from somewhere! 😊

[@itsajeepthingxj]

I agree with the bonus tip, and further more my number one piece of advise to someone starting out in the hobby is spend good money on good equipment the 1st go around. Your gonna end up spending more in the long run having to upgrade when your current equipment is no longer sufficient for your application. 👌🏻

[@KaveManAquatics]

100% agree!

[@tiffanyfreshnezz]

Thanks so much for all the tips and tricks. I been in the game for almost 3 years and I love learning new things.

[@Vcaser]

Your redundant heater video is brilliant! I will be modifying my setup ASAP. I have definitely made the mistake of an undersized tank! Had my betta in a 2 gallon, and the constant testing/water changes were time consuming. I cycled him a 10 gallon planted mansion, and he now lives better than we do haha! I have a nice ecosystem in there with Martok, tons of live plants, some shrimp, and snails. So much fun to watch, and has been a great hobby during quarantine 💕

[@iHavakz]

Just found your videos doing a bunch of research on how our betta died. You've coached me back up and I understand what I've done at this point. Doing large water changes during cycle process is where I failed. Now I'm going through a bunch of videos to learn as much as possible

[@KaveManAquatics]

Sorry for your loss. Some of us in this hobby have to learn the hard way, myself included. But Im glad you found the channel now its helpful fo you. Never stop learning! 😊💪

[@ladydoon1]

I love your channel, very informative for us newbies! Thanks!

[@KaveManAquatics]

You are so welcome!

[@xmalvazar4203]

Loved the video so much and thank you for putting this info up... I've had several issues keeping my tank going made a lot of mistakes that even petco didn't know was a thing... I would definitely say I learned a lot more from you!

[@xmalvazar4203]

Also I would like to add something I discovered though research that with the right amount of aquarium salt it kills external parasites and can even treat some sick fish... also with proper care duckweed can help with having to change out the water too much... oh and not really a topic people mention but a fishtank that has no fish still needs water changes but less frequent ... disadvantage of duckweed is you have to maintain a 50% surface of it and aquarium salt you can overdue it so do background research on it

[@ericdonofrio6946]

I am thinking about getting into the hobby with my son. This is a really helpful video for someone who doesn't know anything about maintaining a fish tank. Thanks!

[@HydetheRapper]

If I passed you on the street, I’d have no idea that you had a dope, well-cared for aquarium at home. But you make the BEST videos about aquarium care anywhere. I got a betta a few weeks ago, had no idea what I was doing, and quickly learned that there was a LOT I didn’t know. You’ve helped fill a lot of those gaps. Thank you!

[@KaveManAquatics]

Thank you bro! I appreciate that positive feedback. Glad I was able to help get your betta tank back in check 😊💪

[@HydetheRapper]

@Wow Gaming Doing well! I have him in a 3 gallon tank, and it’s a little small, but he seems happy.

[@tammyfoster197]

Yes, I've been a Betta mom for 2 years now. It definitely takes some work having an good, established tank. I only had gold fish in my younger ages. And Gold Fish can just about live in mud. Lol!! My Betta is my first Tropical fish. I plan on going a little larger and adding a few more fish and/or start a oriental shrimp tank. But it's only Toshi for now.

[@cultivatedmind8352]

He's wearing a shirt with a fish on it.

[@GeorgeFarmerStudios]

Biggest mistake most folk make is talking more than listening. Nice video bro. 😃

[@KaveManAquatics]

Very true, thanks!

[@theretrogeek2281]

I been in the hobby for years,and I still watched,this is the most informative aquarium video for a beginner period! I all went trough most of what you said,I wish I found this video back then!! Thanks 😊

[@KaveManAquatics]

Glad to hear that from a veteran of the hobby! Thank you 😁

[@RedViking2020]

Great advice brother. Love the one on doing the filter clean at a different time to the water change. Makes sense but i never thought of that. Thank buddy,great channel :-)

[@Beamrgurl1]

My tank started at 1 and then it went up to 7, now were down to 4. 75 gallon curved tank, 10 gallon and a 35 gallon and a 55 gallon tank. We learnt that one at the beginning with the nitrates etc. Once you learn its awesome to watch your fish.

[@paulrogers7067]

Great advice. Have been struggling for a year and this info helps

[@KaveManAquatics]

Thank you! Glad you're finding the channel helpful! 😁💪

[@andrealenzi2114]

I also watched you crystal clear water video which I found very helpful as well as this one. Thank you.

[@BigYi313]

It's been more than a year since I first watched this video. With your advices, I had ao much fun and good experience. Thanks again my man. Ultra respect🙏🙏🙏

[@KaveManAquatics]

My pleasure bro, glad you’ve stuck with me and to hear about your success 😁

[@BeinGiza]

This video is GREAT & SUPER INFORMATIVE! Sadly, I've done many of these mistakes 10 years ago and had to learn through a tragic trial and error.

[@KaveManAquatics]

Thanks bro, glad you enjoyed it! No worries, you're not alone...Most of us veterans had to learn things the hard way 😊

[@dieyoung8259]

I year in I did the trial and error with live plants, this enabled me to cycle my water as my plants attempted to grow or die. This hobby teaches you patience and to keep it simple. I stay on the 3rd floor so everything I would like to do I have to keep in mind that one day I might have to carry all this shit back down to the first floor.

[@KaveManAquatics]

lol yea that's pretty important to keep in mind! lol Thanks for sharing 😊

[@snapdragon2441]

Advice on plant keeping welcome. I have live plants, they seem to alternate, a couple are doing really well but 2 others are declining. A few weeks ago it was the other way round. Is this normal

[@Geminish15]

😂😂😂

[@katherinekovachg3662]

Excellent! Advice was clear, concise, and very helpful. I've had fish for 60 years, and still found his advice helpful. A+

[@KaveManAquatics]

Thank you! Always happy to hear positive feedback from the veterans of the hobby! 😊💪

[@sewalldk]

I am a long time aquarium keeper, 60 years now. Love your information clear easy to follow. Just wanted to say I appreciate what you’re doing big thumbs up to you.

[@KaveManAquatics]

Thank you so much! Love to hear positive feedback from the veterans of the hobby! 😊💪

[@ericmarquez5983]

Excellent well said I've been in the hobby for Years and the information is very helpful thanks

[@KaveManAquatics]

Thank you! Glad you're finding the channel helpful! 😁💪

[@justinstuart8382]

That's some very good advice my friend and I have to admit being a fish keeper now for over 40 years I still also make these mistakes. Golden No 1 up there though IMO is quarantine!

[@KaveManAquatics]

Thank you sir, glad you enjoyed it and found it helpful!

[@justinstuart8382]

@@KaveManAquatics I started with Goldfish back in 1985 with a 10 gallon tank. My dear grandmother got me started as she bought me my tank for my 9th birthday. 40 years later I'm still going with the hobby. I now keep Asian Arowana. Though I used to have a huge tank with huge Frontosas if you check out my channel. Regards

[@christiananthonymanguera7979]

You don't fail making things crystal clear! Thanksss

[@KaveManAquatics]

Lol Thank you! Glad you found it helpful! 😊

[@janghussain3438]

Thanks for the great advice lacemaking I’m a newbie and just set up a secondhand tank .will be watching your videos cheers

[@yprimrose]

Thanks for this video it answered alot of questions for my little, who got a carnival goldfish. Can you believe it's been alive for 4 months. So we are glad we found this channel so the little one can learn to care for her first pet and keep him healthy. Hopefully, we'll move to a bigger tank and more fish on day.

[@KaveManAquatics]

My pleasure! Glad you're finding the channel helpful 😁

[@lindadouglas5972]

I received so much positive information about looking after a fish tank, we went straight in at the deep end and due to my thoughtlessness we lost quite a few fish over the past few months, it's very upsetting when the fish rely on us to keep them healthy, safe and well, it's been a very hard lesson, do your homework before starting a new project, I'm taking your advice and watching lot's of videos so I can educate myself better so the rest of our fish can survive to their best potential and live happy, Thank you for this video, it,s very much appreciated 🙏

[@KaveManAquatics]

Many of us have learned that same hard way, don't worry to much about it. Part of the hobby. Glad you're doing your research now and that you're finding the channel helpful! 😊

[@almabradley5561]

Reading this gave me some comfort after I realized last night my daughter's fish wasn't actually dead yet when we decided to flush it down the toilet 😥🤦😭I feel terrible! We just got these two little goldfish from a carnival on Saturday and by Tuesday it was floating at the bottom of the tank on it's side. After doing some research last night I realized it was most likely sick not dead and we possibly could've saved my daughter's little fish she named Pearl💔 I also just learned flushing fish down the toilet is not good and flushing Pearl alive makes me so sad! 😞

[@davidrayman3576]

Awesome videos man Been building tanks for a long time and then quit and for got all I knew and stumbled onto this video after I had a ammonia spike A lot of helpful stuff in this short video

[@X_PATHOGEN_X]

Hey man thanks for making videos like this. Even though I've been at it a few years there's always the chance to make a mistake or more importantly learn something new. Definitely checking out your other work

[@KaveManAquatics]

My pleasure! Glad you're finding the channel helpful 😁

[@maci7263]

Subscribing. You’re really straight to the point and know what you’re doing unlike a lot of “fish experts” on here ! Learned a lot

[@KaveManAquatics]

Thank you! Glad you're finding the channel helpful! 😁💪

[@kimmorankm]

😂ur cracking me up! U have a video for everything! I don't mean that in a bad way, that's awesome and so helpful! I'm just cracking up everything u point to the suggested videos when they pop up.😂👍

[@KaveManAquatics]

😁😁 My attempt at being high tech 🤣

[@kimmorankm]

Highly effective👍

[@skylinefrazier]

This was a great video! Loved it, thanks for putting this together.👌

[@KaveManAquatics]

My pleasure! Glad you're finding the channel helpful 😁

[@irmscher2007]

Great video. Never thought about alternating the filter cleaning and water changes

[@KaveManAquatics]

Thank you! Glad you're finding the channel helpful! 😁💪

[@dog2man1994]

When it comes to lighting it depends on the fish. I've noticed that my Molly's like the light as a day night cycle. Once the light goes off the fish go inactive and start sleeping

[@robbygarate7414]

Here cause I won some goldfish at the fair, I really want to give this a shot give these little fishies a good life. I’m glad I came up on this video! Thanks bro!

[@jamesnguyen7069]

is your goldfish still alive

[@marianmensky3435]

Thankyou so much, for your excellent and explicit advice and the care that you put into it. Most grateful.

[@KaveManAquatics]

My pleasure! Glad you’re enjoying the channel! 😊

[@Shadow-wn5fw]

Thanks Kev. Your videos are always full of great info.

[@KaveManAquatics]

Very welcome

[@flojoe9211]

These videos are almost as addicting as buying more tanks! My first tank was a 55 and everything worked out flawlessly even with little to no knowledge, now that I have more tanks I am having to do more research because of algae, water parameters, and fish dying. My 55 is still going strong no issue.

[@KaveManAquatics]

Glad to hear the hobby is growing on you and that you're enjoying the channel! 😊

[@echoesvayne9790]

Yeah. My first 20 gallon I researchand it all went perfectly, then I got a 15 gallon for a school of pygmy corydoras and that tank had huge cyanobacteria problems.... tore it down and rescaped it for shrimp.... problems keeping them alive... virtually the same as my 20 gallon which just is bonkers with shrimp... now it is fiddler crabs and they are about to pass the 2 year mark so that's great for their life expectancy.... original 20 gallon still is a boss... it's balanced down to one water change a month and just top offs from all the live plants

[@moriah1202]

Omg this was so helpful, thank you so much. I NEEDED the beginner portion 🙏 I feel like I won't kill my kids' new fish now!

[@KaveManAquatics]

My pleasure! Glad you're finding the channel helpful 😁

[@Yonnie2436]

Thank you, your video is extremely informative and your hardwork is greatly appreciated 🥰

[@KaveManAquatics]

Thank you!! Glad you’re finding the channel helpful 😊

[@chiclids]

Excellent tips I’m pretty much aware about all those tips I love your lake Malawi background and that is cool a battery pack for keeping the tank oxygenated that’s the thing I need to see thanks very much for the tip buddy❤️❤️

[@paramysticpodcast]

Wish I’d seen this video a month ago. I know every single tip in this video but had to learn it the hard way and I don’t recommend that route. If I could go back I would do every single thing in this video especially the used tank and not getting a small tank parts. My advice so far is 1- listen to people but if something feels off then go with your gut. The advice I got at the pet stores was wrong and resulted in all the fish dying within 2 days. If something feels off then ask around and do your own research. Some things are a matter of opinion not fact. Sometimes pet store staff can have high knowledge but no experience of owning fish in the home. Knowledge and experience arnt the same. 2- Dont be tempted to go cheap or buy without researching the product and manufacturers. Do it right the first time. It’s expensive enough without having to replace stuff. 3- Make sure your tools are actually stainless steel. Most arnt. Look for reputable brands. 4- Dont just dump any old pebbles in there from any old cheapo non pet shop shop. This resulted in my fish being unable to breathe. 5- go natural but research what’s going in. Plants and stuff can have an effect and your fish have specific needs. For example my ph, gh and kh were wrong so I added coral to fix this. If these don’t need fixing then dumping in a bag of coral for aesthetics may not be great. 6- Have something breaking the water surface. I’m using my pump at present while I sort this out. 7- Under no circumstances buy a tiny tank. 28 litres minimum and that is still classed as small. Like this guy says it is not easier it is a whole world of stress. It’s cost me hundreds to set up a 14 litre. It wouldn’t have cost much more to have set up a 4 footer. I can’t even add any fish to mine after all this cycling as I’m now told it’s too small for everything and not fit for fish…funny the pet shop didn’t tell me that when they sold me the tank but hey. Wont be giving them any more tank money I will get second hand. 8- Just because you had a fish growing up and used unconditioned uncycled water and they were fine doesn’t mean they will be fine in 2022. Times have clearly changed. Just don’t do it it’s cruel and also I have really appreciated this cycle time as I have used it to get to know how to do everything and testing the water, fixing problems ect. You need that fishless time for learning. 9- Dont be like me…don’t lift a tank full of water. They often break when lifted😂 10- driftwood often needs to be soaked for weeks otherwise your water will go like coffee. For the love of god just do everything this man says 😂

[@thiccmuffinman9641]

Goodness, 14 litres!? You might aswell put them in a milk jug 🥲 was it a marine or freshwater tank?

[@tammyfoster197]

I'm glad I came across this channel. I have only 1 beautiful Betta in a 5gal tank. Before I got him, I did a good bit of research. I never want to be responsible for poorly taking care of my pets. I want to have healthy and happy animals. I got Toshi from PetsSmart. I was getting food for my cats. And I fell in love with how beautiful they are. So I got one of thos tiny micro tanks, like 1 1/2gal and set it up. Had it up and running for about a week, no Betta yet. And I just kept feeling like it was so wrong to have him in such a small place. That like us trying to live in a closet. So I upgrade to a 3gal. Still felt bad. Finally settled on a 5gal. And Toshi has been happy and healthy since I got him.

[@KaveManAquatics]

Sounds like your guy Toshi is in great hands! 😊

[@alissatyau849]

Me too, and now I have like 14 different tanks lol

[@xmalvazar4203]

@@alissatyau849 14 tanks o.O but yea I'm addicted now too but not enough money for 14 tanks XD I run 2 right now

[@emihayashi7725]

How often does a planted 5 gal betta tank need water changing? Water tests indicate my 10 gal betta tank can safely last one month

[@willothewispl]

I had fish tanks many years ago, before all these new products. It is very nice to see all the new things and how they make life better for these beautiful fish.

[@KaveManAquatics]

Couldn't agree more! Thanks for sharing! 😊

[@jimcook3882]

Absolutely the BEST and most important video for the beginner, like me. I am waiting for my 10 gal tank now. THANK YOU from Las Vegas!!!

[@KaveManAquatics]

My pleasure! Glad you're finding the channel helpful 😁

[@vincentvalentine4038]

Good tips. I would also add to research the fish you’re interested in before purchasing, they all have different needs and compatibility.

[@KaveManAquatics]

Vincent Valentine absolutely, great tip! 👍

[@Mattipedersen]

Great video, bro! In regards to the de-chlorinator, one other trick I’ve learned is, if you run out of de-chlorinator, for some reason, you can fill a bucket with tap water and let it sit uncovered for about 24-48 Hours, which should allow the majority of the chlorine to evaporate, out of the water, which should be safe for your fish, afterward. One other suggestion is, if you’re planning on building another tank or you’re planning on replacing you’re filter media, in the near future, I would add the new filter media, to your existing filter system, essentially doubling your filtration media and leave it there for a couple of weeks, at least. This way, when you finally replace your old filter media or you build your new system, the new filter media won’t have to be completely cycled from scratch, hopefully lessening the amount of time needed to cycle your filter action system or your new tank, etc. Other suggestions for shortening the cycle time is to take some substrate/gravel from your existing tank and place it in the new tank. Perhaps, using some of the water from the existing tank may help. Lastly, plants are a great addition, which may speed up the cycling process. Java Moss and Dwarf Hair Grass are very easy to start with, if you don’t have a lot going of aquascaping experience.

[@KaveManAquatics]

All great suggestions! Thank you 😊

[@brianthiel1488]

letting it sit removes chlorine, but will not remove chloramines.

[@rally4reel77]

All good points except dwarf hair grass is arguably not beginner friendly and needs high light and co2 typically

[@msv6674]

Lol 😆 You must not have any mosquitoes ! I actually age 2 (two) empty milk gallon jugs with tap water several weeks vs days, covered to keep pests away 😇. So far haven't run out of " decholorinator" I.e. Tetra® AQUASAFE when I do their 25% water changes. Even with the "aged" weeks tap water, I personally still add an appropriate amount of the "decholorinator", also I do use the existing tank water as I use the aquarium Only sponge scrubber, aquarium Only toothbrush cleaner & this other aquarium Only scrub sponge. I rinse them afterwards with tap water and air dry till next % water change. I do also soak the decor (aquarium designed) in a mix of recommended aquarium salt (freshwater use too !) & rinse w running/ tap water. Such a low amount that the AQUASAFE I pray 🙏covers if any minute amounts of chlorine should be present...or other unwelcome chemicals it says it covers - doesn't mention "cholramines" as one other commenter mentioned (Brian Thiel).

[@scottdaniels3033]

Good info. Keep that up❤

[@AndreRees]

Great info; thanks so much from a beginner who has no clue. FYI when I upgraded to a bigger tank that I was lucky to get for free the tank was so much easier to maintain then the small one I had. Good advice

[@KaveManAquatics]

Yes, thats always the case! 😊 Glad you're enjoying the channel and finding it helpful!

[@hellspawn8572]

Great info brother. My mistake is initially buying a small 20 gallon. Had to upgrade 6 months in. 😂

[@KaveManAquatics]

Yup, just like most of us did lol

[@bigmex8794]

I started back about 3 years ago. Idk why I bought a 10, but I did. After that I bought a 30, 56 tall, 55 long, and now finally a 100 gallon with a ten gallon sump. We’ve ALL definitely made this mistake. Lol

[@gc8281]

@Sqrley L. wat state?

[@Geminish15]

Well, if you only have a small goldfish it's fine to have a smaller tank. Really.

[@erinwright2324]

My 5 watt uv sterilizer does wonders in my 75 gallon community tank. The water is crystal clear now after using it for just a week! Also I use bottled spring water when I do 20% water change and gravel vacuuming instead of tap water and my ph, hardness, nitrates are all much better now. Fish are fun!

[@Everything-dr1wb]

Thank you for sharing this video 😁👍

[@aronmcntre2317]

such a great vid, straight to the point and highly informative

[@KaveManAquatics]

Thank you! Glad you're finding the channel helpful! 😁💪

[@lastdays7855]

Great video! Another tip is to not overcrowd your tank.

[@KaveManAquatics]

True, except in the case of African Cichlids. With these fish overcrowding is the #1 way to curb aggression in the tank.

[@bigmex8794]

I’ve made so many of these mistakes at one time or another. This channel is soooo good and so informative.

[@KaveManAquatics]

Thank you! Glad you think so! 😊

[@JennetEstepaCatubig24]

Thanks for the tips 🥰💖💕

[@plantsbyb1491]

Thank you for the tips I have 2 female red claws and 1 male . Got back into fish keeping after 10 yrs and I started with crabs !

[@shawnpaul9544]

Facts! ☝️This man speaks the truth! Yo u got me into African cichlids and into using seachem products. I used to use API products, which are still good but since I changed to seachem prime and other seachem products it's been a big difference! Thank you Kev! 🙏🏽

[@KaveManAquatics]

My pleasure! Glad you're finding the channel helpful 😁

[@emihayashi7725]

@@KaveManAquatics I am a pet store shopper API product user, in what way is seachem better?

[@sierra3646]

It looks like too many fish in your tank.

[@michellelindsay8911]

It's a Malawi tank, they are usually on the stocked side it helps to stops bullying, these are aggressive territorial fish

[@summar1z3d]

i love how to speak so confidently! especially when it comes to my water babies i'm very scared to hurt them! and hearing you with all your experience makes me feel better about my mistakes! thank you so much, this helped so much! i recently had a problem with my electricity, and my tank was very cold for my tropical fish as i didn't notice it wasn't on! i think i will consider buying a thermometer and a water testing kit! I also learnt form this video not to overfeed, i've noticed my fish leaving food and it breaking down and turning the water toxic, i think i'll start to feed appropriately. I will also quarantine my future fish , i never knew how important it was!

[@jdoyle4811]

Superjob Kaveman to reintroduce these ideas even to even veteran hobbyists

[@casey1204]

1. You don't need to cycle your tank if it is loaded with plants and you add a few fish at a time, feeding very little for the first week. 2. You don't need chemical dechlorinators to remove chlorine from tap water, you can pour the water back and forth between two buckets several times to remove the chlorine, or simply leave the water standing in a bucket for a few days to remove the chlorine. 3. You can't really have too much light, algae growth in your tank means that you have excess nutrients in the water column, meaning you don't have enough plants or your substrate is not processing the waste efficiently. 5. If you set your tank up right, you don't have to do water changes OR filter cleaning, not regularly anyway. 7 Wavemakers may not be appropriate for some tanks or fish species. 8 If your tank is set up so that all your fish will perish if you lose power, then it sounds like you are on the edge of catastrophe. That's a horrible way to keep fish. Overfeeding, backup heaters, quarantining fish are all good points.

[@alan19844]

Great tips! I keep learning more each time I watch your videos! Thanks for the posting!

[@KaveManAquatics]

My pleasure! Glad you're finding the channel helpful 😁

[@angelrenetorres8924]

You’re amazing! Thank you new watcher here ! 👍🏼🐟🐟🐟

[@erickgreene12]

Sorry, I don't agree with the first one. I set up a 75-gallon saltwater tank with 2 Tidal 110 filters. I placed four fish in it to hurry the cycle process. Three months later, the tank are doing great, and they are thriving.

[@oversea6171]

Have you accepted jesus in your life?

[@KnowingGodExplorers]

Keep feeding his sheep

[@Rose_A]

Irrelevant

[@blakeanderson1997]

Always find your videos insightful and interesting. You’ve helped me in my fish keeping journey. Thanks 🙏🏽

[@KaveManAquatics]

My pleasure! Glad you're finding the channel helpful 😁

[@adamcenteno6155]

Talking about power shortages, I live in Puerto Rico and I definitely understand that.

[@MFsauce210]

You have no idea how many videos i went thru looking for the info in this video. And cherry on top anything you talked about i had questions on you already have another video explaining those. Beautiful page you have here

[@KaveManAquatics]

Thank you bro! Appreciate that positive feedback. Glad you’re enjoying the channel 😊💪

[@Slimboulslim]

1 year ago this video was made, all I can say is that this video helped me (being a beginner ); I look forward to seeing and hearing much more advice.

[@KaveManAquatics]

Thank you! Glad you're finding the channel helpful! 😁💪

[@nochillnicky5244]

Just turned my light off in the tank, i figured my betta would get used to seeing his reflection and he couldn’t see in the tank. But good to know i don’t need to force him to get use to it!

[@logans_beastmaster]

I’m so grateful I came across your channel! Could you do a video on understanding proper ph / hardness/ nitrate levels?

[@KaveManAquatics]

I'm glad you found it as well lol I have a few on PH and Nitrate levels. Look through the playlist section for videos covering similar topics 😊

[@asherl863]

Thanks for the info! I would be struggling without this community

[@KaveManAquatics]

[@ZebraCatfish73]

That was a really informative video. Really good advice. Thanks buddy, good job! 👍

[@KaveManAquatics]

Thank you! Glad you're finding the channel helpful! 😁💪

[@jacoba0030]

This is such a great video. Clear and concise. Thank you.

[@KaveManAquatics]

Glad you found it helpful! 😊

[@michellebedard3019]

I love how fast you go over this and with humor! Following! I made so many mistakes!!!! Aghhh

[@KaveManAquatics]

Thank you! Glad you're finding the channel helpful! 😁💪