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So you were out shopping with the family, when all of a sudden, your kid points to the pet section of the store and asks if they can look at the fish.
After standing there watching the fish for a few minutes, the inevitable question comes up: “Can I have a fish?” – The first answer out of your mouth is “No”, because you don’t know the first thing about keeping fish or because you think they’re too troublesome… either way, you decide not to get a fish and carry on with your shopping.
But then, for the next few days, all your kid is talking about is them wanting fish.
You start warming up to the idea and give it more thought and are considering it, but now you have to figure out what all you need for your kid’s new fish tank – well, I’m here to help you get prepared for your new fish and on the right track to buying the right accessories, so you can make your child happy!
The above scenario happened to me and my wife, so I’m assuming it happened to some of you as well and that’s why you’re here!
If The Fish Tank Is For A Child, Don’t Go Over The Top!
When doing your research, one thing to remember is that the fish is for a child, and depending on their age, you’re probably going to be the one responsible for most of the setup, cleaning and maintenance of the tank and accessories. Even if your child is older and will be helping out with taking care of the fish and tank, it’s best to keep your options towards the least complicated setup possible. This way, you won’t be regretting your decision every time you clean the tank; and if keeping fish isn’t for you and your family, you won’t be out a lot of money!
Once you get yourself acclimated with keeping fish and start to understand all of the responsibilities there are, then you and your child(ren) can graduate to a bigger, more complex, fish tank setup.
Below is a list of 10 items that you’re going to need for your new fish. Now, depending on the species of the fish, you may or may not need all of these items listed, but if you’re planning on keeping a few fish and would like them to thrive and live a long, healthy life, then these accessories are for you!
Some of the items in the list aren’t detrimental right from the beginning; so if you just want to start out with the basic items and gradually work your way up, you can do that. I will notate in the the descriptions which items aren’t critical and can wait. Some people prefer buying everything right from the start, and have the whole set up complete and be done with it. It’s up to you and your budget on how you want to do it.
But remember, some of the items in the list are very important and are needed for certain species, so you will need to buy and install them prior to putting your fish inside the tank.
The amount of money you spend, will again, depend on the species of fish you’re going to get. You can get a Betta fish and a tank with a couple of decorations for $20 total, or, you can buy more complex setups that can cost hundreds, if not thousands of dollars!
Since you’re reading this article, I’m going to suspect that you’re just getting started and are getting your feet wet, and so you’re not going to need anything too extravagant or too expensive. The list has different options and different price points, so it can meet everybody’s budget.
Please check out my reference page, where I have all the items mentioned in the list below, to help you find the items that you’re going to need for your new aquarium/fish tank.
Without Further Ado, Here’s The List of 10 Things Needed For A New Kid’s Fish Tank:
#1 – Fish Tank
I mean, this might sound obvious, but one of the first things you’re going to need for your new fish tank is a: fish tank! Picking out the right fish tank can be a very daunting task, because there are many different sizes and types that are available, and depending on what type of fish you’re going to get, you’re going to need to understand what kind of an environment your new fish needs to live, in order for it to thrive.
Some fish can get by in a small, 2 gallon, plain water fish tank (Betta’s) and others will need 100 gallons of salt water (Clownfish). I’m pretty sure you’re not going to be getting any elaborate kinds of fish for your kid’s first, new fish tank, but it’s always good to know what types of fish and fish tanks there are and the difference between them.
In my opinion, I think that every species of fish should be raised in a bigger sized fish tank, that allows for the fish to grow and thrive. Preventing a fish from growing and thriving is a form of cruelty. If you’re going to raise fish, then the least one can do is offer it a living space in which it will be comfortable and happy and have lots of room to move around and grow.
There is a big misconception that gold fish only need a small container or fish tank to live and they only live for a year or two; but that couldn’t be any further from the truth. The fact is, goldfish can grow VERY big and live many, many years and not just the few months or years that most people are raised to believe.
If you keep a goldfish, or any fish for that matter, in a small fish tank, their growth is going to be stunted and they won’t grow to their normal size. But if you were to put them in a big fish tank or large body of water, they would thrive and grow to their larger, normal size.
Even though you don’t want to keep a fish in a too small of a tank, you don’t want to do the opposite and keep it in a too large of a tank either. Why? Well because, if you are going to keep small species of fish and have a large fish tank, you won’t be able to see the fish too well because they’ll be taking up a small footprint inside all the water and you’ll have a hard time spotting them.
When you’re first starting out, a fresh water aquarium will be best for you and your family and then, as you get more involved, you can explore the other options of aquariums, such as Salt Water. But again, a salt water aquarium is a more complex and expensive ordeal and should only be an option only after you’ve done many hours of research and have a very good understanding of what all is involved.
Like I’ve said, it’s best to put your goldfish and Betta fish in bigger sized fish tanks. Even thought they can survive in smaller fish bowls or tanks, they really don’t thrive in them.
By giving your fish room to swim and thrive, they’ll be happier and live longer and it saves you from having to clean the fish tank so often because, smaller fish tanks (10 gallons or less) need to be cleaned more often than their larger counterpart (10 gallon or more).
So yes, smaller fish tanks can accommodate some species of fish and they’re cheaper and are a smaller footprint, but they’re not really fish or user friendly – upgrade to a bigger model and you’ll thank me later!
#2 – Fish Tank Stand
A fish tank stand is one of those items that can be purchased later and is not detrimental to the fish. A fish tank stand is more for aesthetics than anything else. Some people will just need the fish tank, in which they’ll put on a table, counter, mantle… and some people will want to show off their fish and fish tank setup, and so they’ll want to display it on a stand. This is a matter of personal preference.
Some fish tank stands come with a fish tank purchase, but you can also purchase the stand separately.
There are many different types and sizes of fish tank stands, so you will have to read the descriptions and choose the one that works for your fish tank. If you plan on purchasing a larger fish tank, then you will need to make sure the new fish tank stand can accommodate the size and weight of the tank.
#3 – Fish Tank Filter
Filters for your fish tank are critical for most setups. Fish tank filters help remove a lot of unwanted waste, discoloration and odors from your fish tank.
Fish go to the bathroom in the same water they swim in (shocking information, right?!?) and that means fish pee and poop will be floating around in the water and it’s harmful to fish if the concentration gets high enough – with a fish tank filter, it will help remove this waste.
Fish tank filters run constantly, so you want to find a model that is “whisper quite”, so it doesn’t disturb you during the day or night, because it could be annoying!
And as you’ve probably already guessed, fish tank filters range in both size and price and will depend on the fish tank and type of fish you have to determine the best one for you.
#4 – Thermometer
Believe it or not, a thermometer for your fish tank is very important. Some fish cannot live in colder water, while other fish can’t live in too warm of water; by having a thermometer on or in your fish tank, it will give you peace of mind knowing that the temperature is perfect for your fish.
Just like all things, there are different types of fish tank thermometers and choosing one for you is mostly a matter of preference; however, you will have to keep in mind the size of your new tank and whether or not it will accommodate some types of thermometers over others.
You can get a really generic, easy to use/read fish tank thermometer that sticks on the outside of the tank for as cheap as $3, or you can get one on the other side of the pricing spectrum for $10 – $20. For that price range, most of the offerings are going to be digital readouts and it will have a probe in which you will put into the water and the temperature will read out on the digital display.
I prefer the digital, probe type thermometers over the stick on ones. The digital ones tend to be more accurate and can be moved throughout the tank to get readings in different areas and ensure the right temperature is maintained in all areas.
#5 – Fish Tank Heater
Now that you know that some fish need certain water temperatures to thrive, you’re most likely going to need a heater for your fish tank to ensure the water stays at a specified temperature 24/7.
You’re probably picturing a huge heater that you have to have blowing onto the fish tank; if you are, then you’d be wrong! Most fish tank water heaters are pretty small and compact and they usually clip to the side of the tank and are submerged in the water inside the tank.
If you live in a colder climate or you like your house on the cooler side, you might have to invest in a fish tank water heater. The prices usually range from $10 – $100 and that price depends on the size of the heater, the size of the tank and the options available. Most likely, you’re going to need one in the range of $10 – $25.
#6 – Water Treatments
Once you get your fish tank all setup and filled with water, you’re going to have to add some water treatment to the water to get rid of harmful chemicals and bacteria.
Most water treatments remove chlorine, chloramine, and reduces the amount of ammonia, nitrites and nitrates in the water. Some treatments can add slime coat to replace the protective coat on fish, that can be damaged from handling or fighting with other fish.
Before adding any water treatment to your new aquarium, be sure to know what kind of fish you have and whether or not the water needs to be treated – putting some fish in treated water can be harmful to the fish and can cause death.
Before just tossing your fish right into its new home, make sure you’ve followed the instructions carefully on the package of the treatment and allowed the water to sit for the specified time. If you put a fish inside the water too soon, it can be a shock to them and cause sickness and most times death. So make sure you read all instructions and take all precautions so your new pets can live a long, healthy life!
#7 – Fish Tank Light
Believe it or not, fish tank lights are an important add-on for fish tanks. There are some models of lights that allow you to change the colors of the light to mimic nature and the different types of light spectrums that shine through the water of their natural habitats.
Fish tank lights also help make your fish tank glimmer and shine, and can be the focal point of any room. Your aquarium will shimmer with the right light!
Some fish tanks already come with a light installed and some of them will need to be purchased separately. Be sure to read the box (or look at the contents) of your fish tank, to see if one is already included, to prevent an unnecessary purchase.
Some aquarium hoods offer an opening for you to use your own light; so when you’re shopping for a light, be sure to get one that will fit inside the empty slot on the hood.
Other types of fish tank lights allow them to be submerged at the bottom of the tank and they shine up into the aquarium and offer a unique way of adding light to your tank.
You can purchase lights in several different colors so it can match your current decor and to change the light spectrum to be more like the colors in nature.
Nowadays, most new lights have LED bulbs and are the best type since they don’t use much electricity and their profile is much slimmer than that of a standard light bulb.
#8 – Fish Tank Air Pump
You’re probably aware of air pumps for fish tanks are are wondering if you actually need one for your fish tank – and the answer to that question is most likely not.
A lot of people think air pumps are necessary for fish tanks because it aerates the water and helps the fish breathe – but that is not true. The fish will do fine without an air pump. I mean, come on, do you see air pumps in ponds and lakes?
The only reason you would need an air pump is if your fish tank water filter needs one to operate or if you have special decorations that need supplied air to function (like this scuba guy!), then yes, you will need one. But other than that, save your money and don’t buy one, because your fish will still thrive without it!
#9 – Plants & Decorations
Even though plants and decorations are mostly for aesthetic purposes, they do offer your fish a place to sleep and hang out during the day. They add a personalized touch as well, without any harmful effects on your new fish.
There are several different types of aquarium decor:
- Backgrounds
- Rocks
- Wood
- Live Plants
- Gravel/Marbles
- Plastic Plants
- Ornaments
Live plants might seem odd for a fish tank, but they offer nutrients and help rid the water of harmful chemicals and elements.
You can pick and choose from all of the different types of decor and personalize your new tank to make it your kids own special fish tank!
Prices for fish tank plants and decorations usually range in price from $3 and up and certain plants and decorations do better in certain types of fish tanks – most of them are compatible for everything but the size might not be right for your tank.
#10 – Fish Tank Hood
Finally, the 10th item on the list of items needed for a new fish tank, is a fish tank (or aquarium) hood. Basically, it’s the cover that goes over the top of your fish tank. Most new fish tanks already have one in the box, but sometimes they’re not included.
The hood is important to make sure nothing gets into the tank and nothing gets out – yes, fish can jump out of their fish tanks, and if nobody is around to find them, they will inevitably die from lack of water.
Fish tank hoods should fit correctly on the top of your tank and should not be too big or too small. Using an ill fitting hood can allow your fish to escape.
There you have it, the list of 10 items you’re going to need for your new fish tank!
I hope all of this information helped you out and are now feeling more comfortable in purchasing all the items needed for your kids new fish tank!
Keep on reading to learn more fish and how to keep them living long and happy lives!
What Are The Best Types Of Fish For Kids To Keep?
Best fish for kids to keep:
Can I Keep Multiple Types Of Fish In The Same Fish Tank?
One thing people often overlook, is the compatibility of different species of fish; but it’s one of the most important factors when deciding to stock your fish tank with fish.
There are many different species of fish, and like most things, they all don’t get along with each other. Even fish of the same species will eat their counterparts, if they’re left alone together in the same fish tank. Crazy, I know!
Before going and picking out fish at your local pet store, do some online research into the compatible fish species and which ones can live in the same fish tank and get along with one another.
Some species of fish are more aggressive than others and wreak havoc if you put them in your fish tank. You should steer clear of the aggressive types for your first time with fish.
Once you have a better understanding of the different compatabilites, you can then decide which fish species you want and then head to the pet store to go pick them out.
Most reputable pet stores should be able to tell you which fish can live together and which ones do better on their own; so don’t be too worried about picking out incompatible species.
What Do Fish Eat?
Now that you know everything needed for a new fish tank, you will now need to know what to feed your fish! We already went over Shelter and Water, no we need to go over the final element: food!
I know you’re probably sick of hearing me say that most answers “depend on the species of fish you have”, but I have to, because each one is different and they all have their own dietary needs.
Some species of fish will eat just about anything, while others need special enzymes and nutrients that have to be supplemented through their food since they’re not getting the ones nature supplies.
Most fish will get by on being fed once per day; while others need to be fed 2 or 3 times per day.
If you have young kids, you should do the feeding, or at least be present when they’re feeding the fish, to ensure they’re not overfeeding them. Overfeeding fish can cause them to become sick and perish.
Never try to feed fish “human food”, because they are not able to eat and digest the same thing as humans and if given the wrong food, they will for sure get sick and perish.
Never put too much food or big pieces of food in the fish tank, as this may cause blockage of filters and pumps. And if the food stays in the tank too long, it can start to rot and decay and that’ll cause issues to your fish friends.
It might be a little daunting at first, but once you get going, you’ll be a pro in no time.
As an added bonus, watching the fish swim around in their aquarium and hearing the bubbling of the water, is a relaxing and soothing experience; and once your fish tank is up and running, you’ll get to enjoy the positive benefits of having a fish tank in your house!
Head on over to the “For Your Reference” page to find the product recommendations for your new fish tank setup! This page will help you save time and money, because I already picked the stuff out for you!
These recommendations will help you get started and guide you in the right direction to ensure you’re buying the right fish tank and fish tank accessories for your kids new fish tank and you’re taking care of them properly!
Good luck and if you have any questions or concerns, be sure to reach out and I’ll do my best at answering them!