Choosing aquarium equipment for your freshwater fish need not be overwhelming. In choosing aquarium equipment, your tank is the most important purchase that you will make. The size that you select should not only fit your home and your budget comfortably, but it will also be dependent on what size and type of fish that you would like to have. Keep in mind that for every one inch of fish that you have, you should have one gallon of water in your tank. Plan accordingly and allow enough room for your fish, and you should be fine with your tank selection.
The next most important factor to consider in choosing aquarium equipment is selecting your filter system. Though there are three basic types of filtration (chemical, mechanical, and biological), the only type that is suitable for fish tanks is biological filtration. Biological filtration is the only efficient method of breaking down toxic ammonia. Many common filters on the market perform all three types of filtration, but you should not rely on the mechanical or chemical methods alone to rid your tank completely of toxins. Whatever type of filtration system that you choose, be sure that you change your filter at least as often as the manufacturer recommends. You cannot over-filter!
Aside from your tank and filter system, the next step in choosing aquarium equipment is that of gravel. There are three primary reasons to have gravel in your fish tank: decoration, as a base for plant roots (in plant tanks), and if you are using an UGF (Underground filtration), gravel is an essential part of the filtration system. Gravel is generally colored, and it is not cheap, so be sure to budget for this in choosing aquarium equipment.
Hoods and lighting are integral parts of aquarium equipment. A hood will prevent your fish from jumping out, and will also prevent your water from evaporating. Lighting serves the purpose of highlighting the beauty and vivid colors of your fish, but it also provides energy for the plants in your tank.
Aside from plants and lighting, you will need air pumps, and an assortment of miscellaneous cleaning tools. You will also need a net, a bucket for water changes, and a test kit for measuring the ammonia levels in your tank's water. In choosing aquarium equipment, you will need to formulate a budget and pay close attention to that as you shop for supplies.
