Turn the filter(s) on and get it going. Ideally, you should have the filter
running for 24 hours before you introduce any fish to the tank. Once the 24
hours are up, then you should turn the heater on and adjust the thermostat
setting. Remember, these are tropical fish so the water temperature should be
kept at a balmy 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Now it’s time to get a little
scientific.
You have to make sure the pH of your aquarium’s water is right for
your fishes. A pH of 6.6 to 7.6 is best. In case you’re wondering, pH is the
measurement used to determine how acidic or alkaline the water is. If there’s
too big a difference between your aquarium’s pH and the pH of the water your
fish came from at the pet shop, the fish will suffer and sicken. You can buy
inexpensive pH kits from your pet shop that not only allow you to test your
water’s pH, but that also contain the safe chemicals needed to adjust it.
The fish
Once you’ve bought your fish, don’t introduce them into your aquarium right
away. Place the entire unopened bag(s) containing the water and fish into your
aquarium and just let them float there for about 30 minutes; until the
temperature of the water in the bag is the same as the temperature of the water
in your tank. This way your fish won’t suffer shock from a drastic change in
temperature. Finally, open each bag and slowly empty the contents into your
aquarium. Each fish, or species of fish, will make its way around your aquarium
and explore until it finds where it feels most comfortable. Some of the best
fish for a Community Aquarium are: