Aqua Plus should always be used for:
          -Adding new water
          -Water changes
          -New tank setup
          -Fish transport
          -Cuts and wounds

          The recommended dose for Aqua Plus is 1 full cap per 10 gallons. You need to double the dose during the first two times in use.

          Cycle and Waste Control should both be added weekly to your aquarium to help maintain its biological balance. The recommended dose for each is 1 full cap per 10 gallons. You need to double the dose during the first few times in use. Always shake well before use.

          -The Cycle delivers beneficial bacteria to the aquarium that will combat the negative bacteria and strive to gain dominance in the tank. The ammonia and nitrite will then be controlled at optimal levels and your biological balance will be achieved.

          -The Waste Control has powerful bacterial colonies that break down and eliminate the organic waste produced by overfeeding, fish waste and other decaying materials (ex. -plant leaf remnants).

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Fish Health: Stress is the main cause of ill health in tropical fish. This can easily be caused by simply tapping on the glass, mischievous cats, changing water and transporting fishes from one tank to another. Young children needs to be supervised and measures needs to be taken to ensure that your cats can't threaten the health, or life, of your fish.

          Always be sure to clean your tank the appropriate way. Never take out too much water and do not put cold or hot water in. Doing so can easily cause stress on your fish. Change your filter pouches regularly and ensure proper nutrition. Make sure you don't have too many fishes in your tank and that the water temperature stays at the correct degree without to many fluctuations.

          Always keep a close eye on your fish. Each morning perform a quick visual check to ensure that there is no disease, injury, and/or abnormal behavior. As soon as signs of a disease are detected, isolate that fish. Putting medication in your tank will affect your tank’s biological bacteria colony. You want to use medication as the last resort. There are natural products you can use however to help cure some diseases or to prevent them. Once you discover another sign of illness in that same tank, then you will have to treat your tank with the appropriate medication. Do not wait to long, because doing so can result in fish lost. Contact your local pet store retailer for additional information for the proper procedure.

Disease Symptoms: Here are some illness signs you want to look for in your tank:

• Little white spots on fins and body (this can be compared to small grains of salt sprinkled over your fish)
• A cottony substance on fish’s body (this can also be compared to strands of a cotton ball on your fish’s body, it sometimes seems like the skin is peeling off)
• Lethargy and unusual slowness of movement
• Signs of damage skin
• Shredded fins, frayed or deteriorated
• Constant hiding (in some case, some species do like to hide)
• Rapid gill movement
• Lack of appetite, the fish shows no interest in food for several days
• Abnormal behavior such as the fish sinks, floats, swims sideways, swims upwards, swims downwards, rubs himself against objects in the tank, swims or floats in strange angle or backwards
• The fish’s stomach is swollen
• Fish’s holds their fins flat against the body
• Signs of blemishes, sores, white or black spots, ulcers, white around the mouth, and holes
• The eyes are clouded, has a whitish film over them or is popped out

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Most Common Fish Diseases:
Ick: This is one of the most common fish diseases. It is caused mainly by stress and then it's given to all the other community fishes if not treated properly. It basically looks like tiny white dots; small like a grain of salt. You will see it on the fins most of the time, but also on the fish’s body. The longer you wait, the little white dots will increase on the fish and the chance of healing will decrease.

Fungus: This looks like a cottony substance on the fish’s body (this can also be compared to strands of a cotton ball on the fish’s body, it sometimes seems like the skin is peeling off). This is also stress related and can be given to other fishes in the community tank. If ignored or not treated right away, the chances of saving the fishes are slim.

Fin Rot: This is caused by stress, but also by both a virus and bacteria. The fish's fins will look like it has been cut in numerous places and will have a stringy appearance.

Internal Parasite: This one is a little bit harder too see, but some signs of internal parasites may be noticed by odd swimming. For example the fish will swim in an angle and sometimes even backwards. The feces will also appear in a clear color instead of a green/brownish color. Feeding them Pepso Food along with the correct medication is highly recommended.

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How To Treat Your Tank For Diseases: Anytime you add medications to your tank, it destroys some of the beneficial bacteria your tank contains, breaking that biological balance you have worked so hard to achieve. Therefore, treating with medication should be the last resort, but when it is necessary, it shouldn't be delayed for too long. Most of the diseases are contagious and if you fail to take the appropriate measures, you may risk loosing fishes.

• Make a 25% water change.
• Remove the carbon pouch and add the proper amount of medication directly in your aquarium.
• Wait 48 hours.
• Put the carbon pouch in your filter and wait 24 hours.
• Remove the carbon pouch once again, and add another dose of medication.
• Wait another 48 hours.
• At the end of the treatment, add both a new carbon and ammonia pouch.

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Betta

           The Betta Fish, or Siamese Fighting Fish, is well known for its brilliant colors and flowing fins. However, only one male can be kept together, otherwise vicious fighting will occur. Females are safe with each other or with one single male. It is very easy to tell the males and the females apart; the males have more elongated fins than the females. These fish will usually reach the length of about 2 inched and has an average lifespan of 1 to 2 years. They live in room temperature water and are able to breath atmospheric air, which makes them a little bit different than other certain types of fish.

INTRODUCING YOUR NEW FISH

1. Rinse fish bowl, rocks and decorations thoroughly under hot water.
2. Place everything in your bowl (rocks, plants etc.).
3. Fill bowl with water a little bit cooler than warm adding 1 full cap of Betta Plus. That is a tap water conditioner that will remove chlorine to make it safe for the fish. It also relieves the stress off the fish. Stress can be caused by transporting your fish from one aquarium to another or by simply changing his water.
              -You can either use Spring Water or tap water treated
               with Betta Plus. Never use distilled water or from a
               Water Softener.
4. Leave the bag with the fish floating in the bowl for 15-20 minutes. Your fish needs to gradually get use to your water temperature. A drastic change could produce a shock on your fish.
5. Open the bag and add a little bit of water from the bowl inside the bag and leave it standing for another 15-20 minutes.
6. It‘s now time to put your new fish in. Using a fish net, fish your fish out of the bag and gently put him in his new home.

           It's very important not to add the water, which the bag contains in your fish bowl.

FEEDING

           Feeding is twice a day, morning and evening, in a very small amount. The size of their eye is a sufficient diet for your fish.

Do not over feed!! A Big amount of food, along with your fish's organic waste, will increase the ammonia and nitrite level, reducing the amount of oxygen; therefore, your fish will have difficulty breathing.

CLEANING

1. Only ½ the water has to be changed every 4-5 days.
2. The night before, you need to prepare your water by filling up a clean container with cold water, adding 1 full cap of Betta Plus. Let it stand over night for it to become room temperature.
3. The following day, scoop ½ the water out and fill it back up with the water you prepared ahead of time

           Never change all the water completely. Only ½ at a time. If you'd like to clean the entire bowl once in a while, you can do so by keeping at least ½ of the old water. Clean bowl, rocks and decorations under hot water only. You can use Baking Soda if desired. Never use soap or any detergent what so ever.

           *Please note: For the use of Betta Plus, the quantities may vary depending on the size of your fish bowl. The recommended dose is 1 full cap per ½ gallon.

By following these simple procedures, your fish could have a long, healthy life!

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Goldfish Bowl

INTRODUCING YOUR NEW FISH

1. Rinse fish bowl, rocks and decorations thoroughly under hot water.
2. Place everything in your bowl (rocks, plants etc.).
3. Fill bowl with water a little bit cooler than warm adding ¼ cap of Aqua Plus. That is a tap water conditioner that will remove chlorine to make it safe for the fish. It also relieves the stress off the fish. Stress can be caused by transporting your fish from one aquarium to another or by simply changing his water.
              -You can either use Spring Water or tap water treated
               with Aqua Plus. Never use distilled water or from a
               Water Softener.
4. Leave the bag with the fish floating in the bowl for 15-20 minutes. Your fish needs to gradually get use to your water temperature. A drastic change could produce a shock on your fish.
5. Open the bag and add a little bit of water from the bowl inside the bag and leave it standing for another 15-20 minutes.
6. It's now time to put your new fish in. Using a fish net, fish your fish out of the bag and gently put him in his new home.

           It's very important not to add the water, which the bag contains in your fish bowl.

FEEDING

           Feeding is twice a day, morning and evening, in a very small amount. The size of their eye is a sufficient diet for your fish.

           Do not over feed!! A Big amount of food, along with your fish's organic waste, will increase the ammonia and nitrite level, reducing the amount of oxygen; therefore, your fish will have difficulty breathing.

CLEANING

1. Only ½ the water has to be changed every 2-3 days.
2. The night before, you need to prepare your water by filling up a clean container with cold water, adding ¼ cap of Aqua Plus. Let it stand over night for it to become room temperature.
3. The following day, scoop ½ the water out and fill it back up with the water you prepared ahead of time.

           Never change all the water completely. Only ½ at a time. If you'd like to clean the entire bowl once in a while, you can do so by keeping at least ½ of the old water. Clean bowl, rocks and decorations under hot water only. You can use Baking Soda if desired. Never use soap or any detergent what so ever.

           *For the use of Aqua Plus, the dose has to be doubled the first two times in use (¼ cap). Afterwards, 1/8 of a cap will be sufficient. (Please note that these quantities may vary depending on the size of your fish bowl. The recommended dose is 1 full cap per 10 gallons.)

By following these simple procedures, your fish could have a long, healthy life!

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Hexafun (1 & 2 gallons)

INTRODUCING YOUR NEW FISH

1. Rinse aquarium, rocks and decorations thoroughly under hot water.
2. Place everything in your aquarium (under gravel filter, rocks, plants etc.).
3. Fill aquarium with water a little bit cooler than warm adding ½ a cap of Aqua Plus. That is a tap water conditioner that will remove chlorine to make it safe for the fish. It also relieves the stress off the fish. Stress can be caused by transporting your fish from one aquarium to another or by simply changing his water.
              -You can either use Spring Water or tap water treated
               with Aqua Plus. Never use distilled water or from a
               Water Softener.
4. After the tank is filled up, you can now install the air pomp and the air stone in the tank and plug it in.
5. Leave the bag with the fish floating in the aquarium for 15-20 minutes. Your fish needs to gradually get use to your water temperature. A drastic change could produce a shock on your fish.
6. Open the bag and add a little bit of water from the tank inside the bag and leave it standing for another 15-20 minutes.
7. It's now time to put your new fish in. Using a fish net, fish your fish out of the bag and gently put him in his new home.

           It's very important not to add the water, which the bag contains in your fish tank.

FEEDING

           Feeding is twice a day, morning and evening, in a very small amount. The size of their eye is a sufficient diet for your fish.

           Do not over feed!! A Big amount of food, along with your fish's organic waste, will increase the ammonia and nitrite level, reducing the amount of oxygen; therefore, your fish will have difficulty breathing.

CLEANING

1. Only ½ the water has to be changed once a week.
2. The night before, you need to prepare your water by filling up a clean container with cold water, adding ½ a cap of Aqua Plus. Let it stand over night for it to become room temperature.
3. The following day, scoop ½ the water out and fill it back up with the water you prepared ahead of time.

           Never change all the water completely. Only ½ at a time. If you'd like to clean the entire tank once in a while, you can do so by keeping at least ½ of the old water. Clean tank, rocks and decorations under hot water only. You can use Baking Soda if desired. Never use soap or any detergent what so ever.

           *For the use of Aqua Plus, the first few times in use, you need to double the dose, ½ a cap. Afterwards, ¼ cap will be sufficient.

By following these simple procedures, your fish could have a long, healthy life!

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Hexafun (4 gallons)

INTRODUCING YOUR NEW FISH

1. Rinse aquarium, rocks and decorations thoroughly under hot water.
2. Place everything in your aquarium (under gravel filter, rocks, plants etc.).
3. Fill aquarium with water a little bit cooler than warm adding 1cap of Aqua Plus. That is a tap water conditioner that will remove chlorine to make it safe for the fish. It also relieves the stress off the fish. Stress can be caused by transporting your fish from one aquarium to another or by simply changing his water.
              -You can either use Spring Water or tap water treated
               with Aqua Plus. Never use distilled water or from a
               Water Softener.
4. After the tank is filled up, you can now install the air pomp and the air stone in the tank and plug it in.
5. Leave the bag with the fish floating in the aquarium for 15-20 minutes. Your fish needs to gradually get use to your water temperature. A drastic change could produce a shock on your fish.
6. Open the bag and add a little bit of water from the tank inside the bag and leave it standing for another 15-20 minutes.
7. It's now time to put your new fish in. Using a fish net, fish your fish out of the bag and gently put him in his new home.

           It's very important not to add the water, which the bag contains in your fish tank.

FEEDING

           Feeding is twice a day, morning and evening, in a very small amount. The size of their eye is a sufficient diet for your fish.

           Do not over feed!! A Big amount of food, along with your fish's organic waste, will increase the ammonia and nitrite level, reducing the amount of oxygen; therefore, your fish will have difficulty breathing.

CLEANING

1. Only ½ the water has to be changed once a week.
2. The night before, you need to prepare your water by filling up a clean container with cold water, adding 1 a cap of Aqua Plus. Let it stand over night for it to become room temperature.
3. The following day, scoop ½ the water out and fill it back up with the water you prepared ahead of time.

           Never change all the water completely. Only ½ at a time. If you'd like to clean the entire tank once in a while, you can do so by keeping at least ½ of the old water. Clean tank, rocks and decorations under hot water only. You can use Baking Soda if desired. Never use soap or any detergent what so ever.

           *Please note: For the use of Aqua Plus, the first few times in use, you need to double the dose, 1 a cap. Afterwards, ½ cap will be sufficient.

By following these simple procedures, your fish could have a long, healthy life!

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Mini Bow (2.5 gallons)

INTRODUCING YOUR NEW FISH

1. Rinse aquarium, rocks and decorations thoroughly under hot water.
2. Place everything in your aquarium (filter, rocks, plants etc.).
3. Fill aquarium with water a little bit cooler than warm adding ½ a cap of Aqua Plus. That is a tap water conditioner that will remove chlorine to make it safe for the fish. It also relieves the stress off the fish. Stress can be caused by transporting your fish from one aquarium to another or by simply changing his water. - You can either use Spring Water or tap water treated with Aqua Plus. Never use distilled water or from a Water Softener.
4. After the tank is filled up, add water in the filter and plug it in.
5. Leave the bag with the fish floating in the aquarium for 15-20 minutes. Your fish needs to gradually get use to your water temperature. A drastic change could produce a shock on your fish.
6. Open the bag and add a little bit of water from the tank inside the bag and leave it standing for another 15-20 minutes.
7. It's now time to put your new fish in. Using a fish net, fish your fish out of the bag and gently put him in his new home.

           It's very important not to add the water, which the bag contains in your fish tank.

FEEDING

           Feeding is twice a day, morning and evening, in a very small amount. The size of their eye is a sufficient diet for your fish.

           Do not over feed!! A Big amount of food, along with your fish's organic waste, will increase the ammonia and nitrite level, reducing the amount of oxygen; therefore, your fish will have difficulty breathing.

TREATMENT

           Add ¼ a cap of Cycle and Waste Control weekly. Double the dose during the first few times in use, ½ cap.

CLEANING

1. Only 2 inches of water has to be changed once a week using your gravel cleaner.
2. The night before, you need to prepare your water by filling up a clean container with cold water, adding ½ a cap of Aqua Plus. Let it stand over night for it to become room temperature.
3. The following day, take out 2 inches of water with your gravel cleaner and fill up your tank with the water you prepared ahead of time.
4. Rinse your filter weekly, and change it entirely once a month.

           Never change all the water completely. Only 2 inches at a time. If you'd like to clean the entire tank once in a while, you can do so by keeping at least ¾ of the old water. Clean tank, rocks and decorations under hot water only. You can use Baking Soda if desired. Never use soap or any detergent what so ever.

           *Please note: For the use of Aqua Plus, the first few times in use, you need to double the dose, ½ a cap. Afterwards, ¼ cap will be sufficient.

By following these simple procedures, your fish could have a long, healthy life!

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Mini Bow (5 gallons)

INTRODUCING YOUR NEW FISH

1. Rinse aquarium, rocks and decorations thoroughly under hot water.
2. Place everything in your aquarium (filter, rocks, plants etc.).
3. Fill aquarium with water a little bit cooler than warm adding 1 cap of Aqua Plus. That is a tap water conditioner that will remove chlorine to make it safe for the fish. It also relieves the stress off the fish. Stress can be caused by transporting your fish from one aquarium to another or by simply changing his water.
              -You can either use Spring Water or tap water treated
               with Aqua Plus. Never use distilled water or from a
               Water Softener.
4. After the tank is filled up, add water in the filter and plug it in.
5. Leave the bag with the fish floating in the aquarium for 15-20 minutes. Your fish needs to gradually get use to your water temperature. A drastic change could produce a shock on your fish.
6. Open the bag and add a little bit of water from the tank inside the bag and leave it standing for another 15-20 minutes.
7. It's now time to put your new fish in. Using a fish net, fish your fish out of the bag and gently put him in his new home.

           It's very important not to add the water, which the bag contains in your fish tank.

FEEDING

           Feeding is twice a day, morning and evening, in a very small amount. The size of their eye is a sufficient diet for your fish.

           Do not over feed!! A Big amount of food, along with your fish's organic waste, will increase the ammonia and nitrite level, reducing the amount of oxygen; therefore, your fish will have difficulty breathing.

TREATMENT

           Add ½ a cap of Cycle and Waste Control weekly. Double the dose during the first few times in use, 1 cap.

CLEANING

1. Only 2 inches of water has to be changed once a week.
2. The night before, you need to prepare your water by filling up a clean container with cold water, adding 1 cap of Aqua Plus. Let it stand over night for it to become room temperature.
3. The following day, take out 2 inches of water with your gravel cleaner and fill up your tank with the water you prepared ahead of time.
4. Rinse your filter weekly, and change it entirely once a month.

           Never change all the water completely. Only 2 inches at a time. If you'd like to clean the entire tank once in a while, you can do so by keeping at least ¾ of the old water. Clean tank, rocks and decorations under hot water only. You can use Baking Soda if desired. Never use soap or any detergent what so ever.

           *Please note: For the use of Aqua Plus, the first few times in use, you need to double the dose, 1 cap. Afterwards, ½ a cap will be sufficient.

By following these simple procedures, your fish could have a long, healthy life!

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Glass Aquarium (5, 10 & 15 gallons)

Aquarium Set up

           Always check for leaks before setting up your aquarium. Using a clean bucket that has never been used with soap or detergent, fill the bottom of your tank with water and let it stand for about 10 minutes, checking the edges where the silicon and the glass meet to make sure it stays dry, if there is no indication of a leak, you can wash the inside of your tank and empty that water out.

           Only use town water, well water or spring water. Once an aquarium is fill up with water and decorations, it weights a lot. For example, 1 gallon of water capacity including rocks and decorations ends up weighting about 10 pounds. And 20 gallons of water capacity including rocks and decorations will weight about 200 pounds. This comes to say; an appropriate aquarium stand is very important. Aquarium stand are specifically designed to fit different sizes of aquarium and has the capacity to hold that aquariums' weight. The stand must be level; the aquarium should be supported evenly at all four corners, so that no stress will be placed along the length of the sides.

           Designate a specific bucket for when you'll be using it for your tank. Never use a bucket that has had any soap or detergent in it. And never clean any aquarium decorations or accessories with soap or detergent as well. This is very important because any residue can harm the fish and affect the chemical balance of your fresh water aquarium.

Where should I place my new aquarium?

           Your aquarium should never be exposed to direct sunlight. This will increase the growth of algae and can cause dangerous heat fluctuations. Your tank should also be placed away from any heater or air conditioning vents. This will prevent rapid temperature swings.

           After finding the correct spot for your aquarium, making sure you stand is level, you can know carefully place your tank and start setting it up.

What do I do first?

           First off, everything must be rinsed under hot water. Never place anything in your tank without rinsing it thoroughly first. Rinse you aquarium rocks first and carefully place them in the bottom of your tank. Fill your tank half way with water, and then continue placing the rest of your plants and decorations. Apart from being decorative, plants provide refuge for fishes, making them more comfortable in their natural environment. The more plants there are, the better it will be. You can then fill up the rest of your tank to the top.

How warm should my aquarium be?

           A thermometer should be installed even if you don't intend to own tropical fish. If you intend to own tropical fishes, then a heater will be obligated. Place you heater in your tank and wait about 20-30 minutes before plugging it in. When you will plug in your heater, turn the control knob ¼ clockwise each time to slowly increase the water temperature till it reaches 79ºF (26ºC). Make sure to verify the temperature on a daily basis.

What are the maintenance and the reason for a water filter?

           Efficient filtration is a key component for a clean, healthy, thriving aquarium. The Aqua Clear filter system provides the mechanical filtration that will help to do just that. Assemble the filter after rinsing every piece, including both the carbon and ammonia pouch and the foam.

           The carbon pouch improves the water clarity, absorbs odor and color, traps organic compounds, helps support the biological filtration, and removes chlorine, medications and other contaminants.

           The ammonia pouch removes and controls toxic ammonia; controls unexpected ammonia spikes and supports the biological filtration.

           The foam simply mechanically filters dirt and debris. The numerous attachment nodes in the foam also allows for the establishments of thriving colonies of bacteria to aid the biological balance of your aquarium.

           Install the filter on the edge of the back of the tank and insert the foam in the bottom, the carbon pouch in the middle and finally the ammonia pouch on top. Taking a clean glass or a small container, fill up the filter with water from your tank, and then you may plug in your filter. It should start running immediately.

           Take the routine to rinse out all three of these weekly, to ensure proper filtration. Both the ammonia and carbon pouch needs to be changed monthly, while the foam only needs to be changed once every three months. Never change them all at once. Replacing them in alternation will remain the bacteria uninterrupted. Start first by changing the carbon pouch, wait about 5-7 days and then change the ammonia pouch.

What are the maintenance and the reason for a water filter?

           This will creates air bubbles providing oxygen for your fish, water movement and it may be used for ornamental purposes. Any aquarium should be equipped with one. Making sure you have a sufficient length of tube, connect one end of the tubing to the air pomp. On the other end, connect the air stone and place that end in your tank. You can add as many air stones or aquarium aeration decorations as you want, just make sure you get an appropriate connecter to be able to connect them all.

           A check valve is also very important to have. Cut in half the main tube that is connected to the air pomp, and slip both ends in the new extremities you have just cut. That will ensure that if ever electricity were lost, no water would be able to go down through the tube and into the air pomp, ruining it. Just make sure to install the check valve on the proper side.

What does the water treatments do to my tank and I often do I use them?

          Aqua Plus is a tap water conditioner that removes chlorine and chloramines. It neutralizes heavy metals and it also puts a protective coat on the fish’s scales and fins to protect against scrapes and cuts. Aqua Plus is also a stress reducing formula. Stress can be caused by transporting a fish from one aquarium to another or by simply changing water.

Aqua Plus should always be used for:
          -Adding new water
          -Water changes
          -New tank setup
          -Fish transport
          -Cuts and wounds

          The recommended dose for Aqua Plus is 1 full cap per 10 gallons. You need to double the dose during the first two times in use.

          Cycle and Waste Control should both be added weekly to your aquarium to help maintain its biological balance. The recommended dose for each is 1 full cap per 10 gallons. You need to double the dose during the first two times in use. Always shake well before use.

          -The Cycle delivers beneficial bacteria to the aquarium that will combat the negative bacteria and strive to gain dominance in the tank. The ammonia and nitrite will then be controlled at optimal levels and your biological balance will be achieved.

          -The Waste Control has powerful bacterial colonies that break down and eliminate the organic waste produced by overfeeding, fish waste and other decaying materials (ex. -plant leaf remnants).

          For the Cycle and Waste Control, only add both of these after having fishes to your tank. These beneficial bacteria will only help achieve a healthy biological balance in your aquarium if bacteria produced by fishes meet them. Adding these two products while no fish is in the tank will change absolutely nothing.

          After having fishes in your tank, 1 cap per 10 gallons should be added weekly. Don't forget to double the dose during the first few times in use.

Testing your water

          Test kits allow easy analysis of the aquarium. Testing your ammonia, Nitrite and pH levels will help you identify if any action should be undertaken. These tests should be performed weekly.

How much light is too much?

          Only 10 to 12 hours of light per day is sufficient. Too much light will increase green algae, while having not enough light will produce brownish algae. Also, as in nature, fishes and plants require dark periods as well.

When can I start introducing fishes?

          If you are introducing tropical fish, when your water temperature will be stable at 79ºF (26ºC), you may then introduce some fishes. Only introduce a few at a time, and have your water tested before each times you want to add new fishes. It may take about 6 weeks to maintain an ideal biological balance. During that time, you do not want to introduce to many fishes to shock your water and risk to lose some or all of them.

How many fish can I have?

          Keep fish populations within reasonable limits; no more than 1 inch of fish per one gallon of water is recommended. Adding too many fish in a small environment will only result losing fishes. The fishes won't have enough room to make their territories and the ammonia and nitrite levels will increase too much due to too much fish waste. A high level of ammonia and nitrite is very harmful for fishes.

Introducing new fishes

          Fishes are cold-blooded and maintain the same body temperature as their environment. It is extremely important that the water temperature maintains constant. Sudden water temperature changes will cause stress and lead to disease.

          It's important not to stress your fish with a drastic temperature change. Make sure to follow the following steps each time you will be adding any new fish in your aquarium.

          First, add 1capful per 10 gallons of Aqua Plus. Then leave the bag floating in the aquarium for 15-20 minutes. Add a bit of water from your aquarium into the bag, and leave it standing for another 15-20 minutes. This will gradually let your fish get adjusted to your water temperature.

          Then you can introduce your fish to your tank. However, don't add the water of the bag in your aquarium, using your fish net, gently catch them and release them into their new home.

Cleaning

          Using your gravel cleaner, only 2 inches of water has to be siphoned once every two weeks. Never empty out the entire water. This will cause stress on your fish and will disturb the biological balance of your aquarium. Never wash any decoration or the rocks with any soap or detergent. Any residue left, will be harmful to your fish and to your tanks beneficial bacteria's.

          Partial water changes on a regular basis will provide stable water quality and maintain ideal conditions.

          Always prepare your water ahead of time. The night before, using your bucket labeled for fish use only, add cold water and the appropriate amount of Aqua Plus. Leave it setting over night so it has time to become room temperature. The following day, clean the bottom of your tank with the gravel cleaner until 2 inches of water will have been taken out, and simply fill up your tank with the prepared water.

Feeding

          Feeding is twice a day, morning and evening, in a very small amount. The size of their eye is a sufficient diet for each of your fish. Having 3-4 different kind of fish food is highly recommended. By rotating and giving a different food everyday, it will provide your fishes to have a well, complete and balanced diet.

          Do not over feed!! A Big amount of food, along with your fish's organic waste, will increase the ammonia and nitrite level, reducing the amount of oxygen; therefore, your fish will have difficulty breathing and will result in fish loss.

Basic Maintenance

Daily care

• Feed morning and evening.
• Every morning, while feeding your fishes, observe your entire aquarium inhabitant. Perform a quick visual check to ensure that there is no disease, injury, and/or abnormal behavior.
• Verify the water temperature to make sure it's maintaining at the correct temperature, and confirm that all support equipment is functioning correctly (filter, heater, lighting, etc.).

• Add both Cycle and Waste Control products in directly in your aquarium.
• Rinse the foam, carbon and ammonia pouch under hot water.
• Clean the inner and outer glass of your aquarium. This will eliminate any algae accumulation and ensure full viewing pleasure.
• Perform a 2-inch of water change, using your gravel cleaner once every 2 weeks.
• Test your water.

• Change both carbon and ammonia pouch after one month of use. Do not change them together at once. Start by changing the carbon pouch, and wait 5-7 days after to change the ammonia pouch.
• Change the foam after 3 months of use.
• Check supplies, food, water treatments and all other regular used items.

Making sure all of your fishes needs are met and are done correctly, your fishes could have a long healthy life, and you will enjoy the calmness and relaxing mood they will bring to you.

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Glass Aquarium (20, 25, 33...gallons)

Aquarium Set up

          Always check for leaks before setting up your aquarium. Using a clean bucket that has never been used with soap or detergent, fill the bottom of your tank with water and let it stand for about 10 minutes, checking the edges where the silicon and the glass meet to make sure it stays dry, if there is no indication of a leak, you can wash the inside of your tank and empty that water out.

          Only use town water, well water or spring water. Once an aquarium is fill up with water and decorations, it weights a lot. For example, 1 gallon of water capacity including rocks and decorations ends up weighting about 10 pounds. And 20 gallons of water capacity including rocks and decorations will weight about 200 pounds. This comes to say; an appropriate aquarium stand is very important. Aquarium stand are specifically designed to fit different sizes of aquarium and has the capacity to hold that aquariums' weight. The stand must be level; the aquarium should be supported evenly at all four corners, so that no stress will be placed along the length of the sides.

          Designate a specific bucket for when you'll be using it for your tank. Never use a bucket that has had any soap or detergent in it. And never clean any aquarium decorations or accessories with soap or detergent as well. This is very important because any residue can harm the fish and affect the chemical balance of your fresh water aquarium.

Where should I place my new aquarium?

          Your aquarium should never be exposed to direct sunlight. This will increase the growth of algae and can cause dangerous heat fluctuations. Your tank should also be placed away from any heater or air conditioning vents. This will prevent rapid temperature swings

          After finding the correct spot for your aquarium, making sure you stand is level, you can know carefully place your tank and start setting it up.

What do I do first?

          First off, everything must be rinsed under hot water. Never place anything in your tank without rinsing it thoroughly first. Rinse you aquarium rocks first and carefully place them in the bottom of your tank. Fill your tank half way with water, and then continue placing the rest of your plants and decorations. Apart from being decorative, plants provide refuge for fishes, making them more comfortable in their natural environment. The more plants there are, the better it will be. You can then fill up the rest of your tank to the top.

How warm should my aquarium be?

          A thermometer should be installed even if you don't intend to own tropical fish. If you intend to own tropical fishes, then a heater will be obligated. Place you heater in your tank and wait about 20-30 minutes before plugging it in. When you will plug in your heater, turn the control knob ¼ clockwise each time to slowly increase the water temperature till it reaches 79ºF (26ºC). Make sure to verify the temperature on a daily basis.

What are the maintenance and the reason for a water filter?

          Efficient filtration is a key component for a clean, healthy, thriving aquarium. The Aqua Clear filter system provides the mechanical filtration that will help to do just that. Assemble the filter after rinsing every piece, including both the carbon and ammonia pouch and the foam.

          The carbon pouch improves the water clarity, absorbs odor and color, traps organic compounds, helps support the biological filtration, and removes chlorine, medications and other contaminants.

          The ammonia pouch removes and controls toxic ammonia; controls unexpected ammonia spikes and supports the biological filtration.

          The foam simply mechanically filters dirt and debris. The numerous attachment nodes in the foam also allows for the establishments of thriving colonies of bacteria to aid the biological balance of your aquarium.

          Install the filter on the edge of the back of the tank and insert the foam in the bottom, the carbon pouch in the middle and finally the ammonia pouch on top. Taking a clean glass or a small container, fill up the filter with water from your tank, and then you may plug in your filter. It should start running immediately.

          Take the routine to rinse out all three of these weekly, to ensure proper filtration. Both the ammonia and carbon pouch needs to be changed monthly, while the foam only needs to be changed once every three months. Never change them all at once. Replacing them in alternation will remain the bacteria uninterrupted. Start first by changing the carbon pouch, wait about 5-7 days and then change the ammonia pouch.

Should I add an air pomp?

          This will creates air bubbles providing oxygen for your fish, water movement and it may be used for ornamental purposes. Any aquarium should be equipped with one. Making sure you have a sufficient length of tube, connect one end of the tubing to the air pomp. On the other end, connect the air stone and place that end in your tank. You can add as many air stones or aquarium aeration decorations as you want, just make sure you get an appropriate connecter to be able to connect them all.

          A check valve is also very important to have. Cut in half the main tube that is connected to the air pomp, and slip both ends in the new extremities you have just cut. That will ensure that if ever electricity were lost, no water would be able to go down through the tube and into the air pomp, ruining it. Just make sure to install the check valve on the proper side.

What does the water treatments do to my tank and I often do I use them?

          Aqua Plus is a tap water conditioner that removes chlorine and chloramines. It neutralizes heavy metals and it also puts a protective coat on the fish’s scales and fins to protect against scrapes and cuts. Aqua Plus is also a stress reducing formula. Stress can be caused by transporting a fish from one aquarium to another or by simply changing water.

Aqua Plus should always be used for:
          -Adding new water
          -Water changes
          -New tank setup
          -Fish transport
          -Cuts and wounds

          The recommended dose for Aqua Plus is 1 full cap per 10 gallons. You need to double the dose during the first two times in use.

          Cycle and Waste Control should both be added weekly to your aquarium to help maintain its biological balance. The recommended dose for each is 1 full cap per 10 gallons. You need to double the dose during the first two times in use. Always shake well before use.

          -The Cycle delivers beneficial bacteria to the aquarium that will combat the negative bacteria and strive to gain dominance in the tank. The ammonia and nitrite will then be controlled at optimal levels and your biological balance will be achieved.

          -The Waste Control has powerful bacterial colonies that break down and eliminate the organic waste produced by overfeeding, fish waste and other decaying materials (ex. -plant leaf remnants).

          For the Cycle and Waste Control, only add both of these after having fishes to your tank. These beneficial bacteria will only help achieve a healthy biological balance in your aquarium if bacteria produced by fishes meet them. Adding these two products while no fish is in the tank will change absolutely nothing.

          After having fishes in your tank, 1 cap per 10 gallons should be added weekly. Don't forget to double the dose during the first few times in use.

Testing your water

          Test kits allow easy analysis of the aquarium. Testing your ammonia, Nitrite and pH levels will help you identify if any action should be undertaken. These tests should be performed weekly.

How much light is too much?

          Only 10 to 12 hours of light per day is sufficient. Too much light will increase green algae, while having not enough light will produce brownish algae. Also, as in nature, fishes and plants require dark periods as well.

When can I start introducing fishes?

          If you are introducing tropical fish, when your water temperature will be stable at 79ºF (26ºC), you may then introduce some fishes. Only introduce a few at a time, and have your water tested before each times you want to add new fishes. It may take about 6 weeks to maintain an ideal biological balance. During that time, you do not want to introduce to many fishes to shock your water and risk to lose some or all of them.

How many fish can I have?

          Keep fish populations within reasonable limits; no more than 1 inch of fish per one gallon of water is recommended. Adding too many fish in a small environment will only result losing fishes. The fishes won't have enough room to make their territories and the ammonia and nitrite levels will increase too much due to too much fish waste. A high level of ammonia and nitrite is very harmful for fishes.

Introducing new fishes

          Fishes are cold-blooded and maintain the same body temperature as their environment. It is extremely important that the water temperature maintains constant. Sudden water temperature changes will cause stress and lead to disease.

          It's important not to stress your fish with a drastic temperature change. Make sure to follow the following steps each time you will be adding any new fish in your aquarium.

          First, add 1capful per 10 gallons of Aqua Plus. Then leave the bag floating in the aquarium for 15-20 minutes. Add a bit of water from your aquarium into the bag, and leave it standing for another 15-20 minutes. This will gradually let your fish get adjusted to your water temperature.

          Then you can introduce your fish to your tank. However, don't add the water of the bag in your aquarium, using your fish net, gently catch them and release them into their new home.

Cleaning

          Using your gravel cleaner, only 2 inches of water has to be siphoned once a month. Never empty out the entire water. This will cause stress on your fish and will disturb the biological balance of your aquarium. Never wash any decoration or the rocks with any soap or detergent. Any residue left, will be harmful to your fish and to your tanks beneficial bacteria's.

          Partial water changes on a regular basis will provide stable water quality and maintain ideal conditions.

          Always prepare your water ahead of time. The night before, using your bucket labeled for fish use only, add cold water and the appropriate amount of Aqua Plus. Leave it setting over night so it has time to become room temperature. The following day, clean the bottom of your tank with the gravel cleaner until 2 inches of water will have been taken out, and simply fill up your tank with the prepared water.

Feeding

          Feeding is twice a day, morning and evening, in a very small amount. The size of their eye is a sufficient diet for each of your fish. Having 3-4 different kind of fish food is highly recommended. By rotating and giving a different food everyday, it will provide your fishes to have a well, complete and balanced diet.

          Do not over feed!! A Big amount of food, along with your fish's organic waste, will increase the ammonia and nitrite level, reducing the amount of oxygen; therefore, your fish will have difficulty breathing and will result in fish loss.

Basic Maintenance

Daily care

• Feed morning and evening.
• Every morning, while feeding your fishes, observe your entire aquarium inhabitant. Perform a quick visual check to ensure that there is no disease, injury, and/or abnormal behavior.
• Verify the water temperature to make sure it's maintaining at the correct temperature, and confirm that all support equipment is functioning correctly (filter, heater, lighting, etc.).

• Add both Cycle and Waste Control products in directly in your aquarium.
• Rinse the foam, carbon and ammonia pouch under hot water.
• Clean the inner and outer glass of your aquarium. This will eliminate any algae accumulation and ensure full viewing pleasure.
• Test your water.

• Perform a 2-inch of water change, using your gravel cleaner.
• Change both carbon and ammonia pouch after one month of use. Do not change them together at once. Start by changing the carbon pouch, and wait 5-7 days after to change the ammonia pouch.
• Change the foam after 3 months of use.
• Check supplies, food, water treatments and all other regular used items.

Making sure all of your fishes needs are met and are done correctly, your fishes could have a long healthy life, and you will enjoy the calmness and relaxing mood they will bring to you.

Back Up

Hopefully you have found our information enjoyable and helpful on fishes. Please, do not hesitate to contact us for any additional information or if you have any questions concerning your pet.