1. Home
  2. Fish
  3. General

All of the Supplies You Need for a Fish Tank: A Complete Guide

Samantha Schwab
By Samantha Schwab
Updated
Apr. 30, 2025
supplies for a fish tank - freshwater fish in a tank

Photo by Photo by: Marietta Losada

Setting up a new freshwater fish tank can be exciting, and the possibilities for creating a beautiful aquatic ecosystem in your home or office are nearly endless. Don’t let the myriad options for aquarium supplies overwhelm or discourage you.

Navigating the prospects can be confusing, but the whole process is much simpler once you know the basics. This checklist will help make sure you have all the necessary supplies for a fish tank.

Freshwater vs. Saltwater Tanks

It’s typically recommended that beginners opt for a freshwater fish tank over a saltwater fish tank for a couple reasons.

In general, saltwater tanks are expensive. They require a different set of specialized equipment, like protein skimmers, artificial salt, supplements, higher powered lighting, additional water additives, and more. The fish and invertebrates (including coral) are also more pricey. For saltwater tanks, you should expect to pay about five times the cost of setting up a freshwater tank.

Besides expenses, freshwater tanks are easier to maintain. Saltwater fish can’t tolerate changes in water quality as well as freshwater fish, which means there’s little room for error. You’ll also need to understand special saltwater tank requirements like the proper salinity levels and coral care (if you have those).

If you’re determined to start with a saltwater tank, though, it can certainly be done with time, research and budget. Get advice on setting up a saltwater tank here.

Basic Aquarium Supplies for a Freshwater Fish Tank


To keep it simple for beginners, we’ll explore everything that’s needed to set up a freshwater fish tank for the first time.

Keep in mind these supplies should be purchased way before bring your new aquarium fish home. The biological filter needs at least a month to get established and ready to process the waste your fish will produce, so that they don’t make themselves sick. When you do add fish, add them slowly (one or a small number at a time) so you don’t overwhelm your filter.

Fish tank

You’ll need a fish tank to get started.

You can purchase a fish tank that’s made of either glass or acrylic. Glass tanks are scratch-resistant, sturdy and easy to watch your fish through, but they can be heavy. Acrylic tanks are more durable and insulated, but they’re prone to scratching and can be more expensive.

When it comes to size, the bigger the tank, the better, but aim for a tank that’s at least 16 gallons for freshwater fish. A betta fish would fare well in a smaller tank; about 5 gallons should be the minimum.

You’ll also need an aquarium stand and a lid to cover the tank. Fish tanks can be heavy (especially glass), so make sure the stand is sturdy enough to hold the weight of your tank.

Recommended Products

Fluval Aquarium Kit, 16-gal
Fluval Aquarium Kit, 16-gal
Rated 3.6 out of 5 stars
3.6
10Reviews
$239.99Chewy Price
Tetra Glass Aquarium, 29-gal
Out of Stock
Tetra Glass Aquarium, 29-gal
Rated 4.2 out of 5 stars
4.2
18Reviews
$136.79Chewy Price
View Item Details
Fluval Spec Aquarium Kit, 5-gal
Fluval Spec Aquarium Kit, 5-gal
Rated 4 out of 5 stars
4.0
59Reviews
$124.99Chewy Price

Aquarium filter

In addition to generating essential water movement, an aquarium filter provides your water with three important types of filtration, each one offering important benefits:

  • Mechanical filtration: This happens when the water passes through a fish tank filter pad. It’s designed to trap debris.
  • Chemical filtration: This occurs as the water flows through activated carbon, which removes toxins.
  • Biological filtration: This occurs as the water comes in contact with a medium that’s colonized by healthy, nitrifying bacteria. It breaks down ammonia and makes the tank water safe for your freshwater fish.

The ideal filter will largely depend on the size of your tank. For larger tanks, canister filters are a good option. Hang-on filters (aka power filters) are best for medium-small tanks, and sponge filters are good for small tanks such as a single betta enclosure.

Recommended Products

Eheim Pro 4+ 600 Aquarium Canister Filter
Eheim Pro 4+ 600 Aquarium Canister Filter
Rated 4.1 out of 5 stars
4.1
7Reviews
$255.57Chewy Price
Fluval Aquarium Power Filter, 50-gal
Fluval Aquarium Power Filter, 50-gal
Rated 3.9 out of 5 stars
3.9
186Reviews
$41.31Chewy Price
SunGrow Betta Fish & Turtle Sponge Small Aquarium Tank Water System Filter, up to 10-gal
SunGrow Betta Fish & Turtle Sponge Small Aquarium Tank Water System Filter, up to 10-gal
Rated 3.9 out of 5 stars
3.9
44Reviews
$5.41Chewy Price

Substrate

Fish tank substrate (material that rests on the aquarium’s bottom) doesn’t just look good—it’s also functional. In its simplest form, the substrate on the bottom of your fish tank offers another surface for good bacteria to grow. If you plan to grow aquarium plants that require covered roots, you’ll need the proper substrate for this as well.

Polished gravel is a good option for many freshwater aquariums. You can also opt for bioactive substrate (like this planted aquarium substrate), which acts as a habitat for “good” bacteria and invertebrates. This can be a great way to jumpstart plant growth if you’re planning to keep live plants for aquascaping in your tank.

Recommended Products

Pure Water Pebbles Coated Aquarium Gravel, Jet Black, 5-lb bag
Pure Water Pebbles Coated Aquarium Gravel, Jet Black, 5-lb bag
Rated 4.2 out of 5 stars
4.2
306Reviews
$5.49Chewy Price
Activ-Flora Planted Aquarium Substrate, Lake Gems, 20-lb bag
Activ-Flora Planted Aquarium Substrate, Lake Gems, 20-lb bag
Rated 4.1 out of 5 stars
4.1
101Reviews
$24.99Chewy Price
CaribSea Eco-Complete Planted Aquarium Substrate, Black, 20-lb bag
CaribSea Eco-Complete Planted Aquarium Substrate, Black, 20-lb bag
Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars
4.4
114Reviews
$27.86Chewy Price

Aquarium lighting

There are loads of aquarium lighting options for fish tanks, and they vary in size, price and appearance. Options include:

  • Incandescent
  • Various fluorescent (e.g. standard, compact and high output)
  • Metal halide
  • Light Emitting Diode (LED) bulbs

While LED lights are a larger initial investment, they tend to last much longer than traditional compact fluorescent (CF) bulbs. LED aquarium lighting also generate less heat than other bulbs and use minimal energy.

As with the substrate, figure out what works for your overall tank appearance and your wallet. Learn more about the different types and recommended usage.

Recommended Products

Current USA Satellite Freshwater Plus Aquarium LED Light, 48 - 60 in
Out of Stock
Current USA Satellite Freshwater Plus Aquarium LED Light, 48 - 60 in
Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars
4.5
68Reviews
$129.70Chewy Price
View Item Details
Aqueon Optibright LED Aquarium Light Fixture, 30-36-in
Out of Stock
Aqueon Optibright LED Aquarium Light Fixture, 30-36-in
Rated 4.2 out of 5 stars
4.2
36Reviews
$54.86Chewy Price
View Item Details
Spaces Places Remote Control Submersible LED Fish Aquarium Light Set
Out of Stock
Spaces Places Remote Control Submersible LED Fish Aquarium Light Set
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
5.0
1Review
$44.08Chewy Price
View Item Details

Aquarium heater

Most pet fish are tropical fish and are normally kept at a water temperature of 75-79 degrees Fahrenheit, which means you’ll need an aquarium heater in your fish tank.

There are some cool water-tolerant pet fish that might not need a heater, like zebra danios, goldfish, koi, and rosy barbs. However, if the ambient temperatures around the tank drop below the range they tolerate, or frequently fluctuate, an aquarium heater should be considered.

Common types of heaters include:

  • Hanging heaters: Hanging heaters (these usually come with aquarium kits) sit outside the tank wall and are great for beginners since they’re inexpensive and easy to set up
  • Immersion heaters: Immersion heaters, aka submersible heaters, are commonly used, but keep in mind they could hurt your fish if they come too close (consider building a barrier out of PVC pipe to protect them).
  • In-line heaters: In-line heaters are another type of external heater that is built into external plumbing. It’s considered the safest, as no fish will accidentally come into contact with the heater.

To figure out the best size aquarium heater for your tank, follow manufacturer’s recommendations. A too-big heater won’t be a problem if it fits, but a too-small heater might be insufficient.

Purchase a thermometer to ensure your heater is working properly.

Recommended Products

Fluval Submersible Glass Aquarium Heater, 50-watt
Fluval Submersible Glass Aquarium Heater, 50-watt
Rated 4 out of 5 stars
4.0
55Reviews
$30.99Chewy Price
SunGrow Betta & Turtle Submersible Aquarium Tank Water Heater with Thermostat, 10-watt, up to 5-gal
SunGrow Betta & Turtle Submersible Aquarium Tank Water Heater with Thermostat, 10-watt, up to 5-gal
Rated 4.2 out of 5 stars
4.2
142Reviews
$10.91Chewy Price
Eheim Jager Thermostat Aquarium Heater, 100-watt
Out of Stock
Eheim Jager Thermostat Aquarium Heater, 100-watt
Rated 4.2 out of 5 stars
4.2
152Reviews
$25.49Chewy Price
View Item Details

Air pump

An air pump can be an important addition to your tank. It keeps the water oxygenated, which makes it easier for your fish to breathe. It also aids in making sure the water is heated evenly instead of just pockets of stagnant, warm water around the heating element.

If you have adequate water circulation, though, an air pump might not be necessary. Filters that create water movement, like a hang-on filter, can agitate the water’s surface enough to promote an adequate exchange of gas. Sponge filters also already come with an air pump to help oxygenate the water.

Recommended Products

Marina Air Pump for Aquariums, Size 50
Marina Air Pump for Aquariums, Size 50
Rated 4.1 out of 5 stars
4.1
104Reviews
$10.99Chewy Price
Eheim Air Pump 200 Aquarium Aerator
Eheim Air Pump 200 Aquarium Aerator
Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars
4.6
10Reviews
$41.73Chewy Price
Eheim Air Pump 100 Aquarium Aerator
Eheim Air Pump 100 Aquarium Aerator
Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars
4.5
11Reviews
$33.99Chewy Price

Everything You Need for Fish Tank Maintenance


To maintain an aquarium, most pet fish in a tank need a partial water change every 1-2 weeks to remove their waste products from the water they breathe. If water changes aren’t conducted for several weeks, waste products can build up to harmful levels.

Every month, plan to do a full cleaning of your tank.

Water conditioner

Water conditioner removes the following from tap water to make it safe for fish to swim in:

  • Chlorine
  • Chloramines
  • Ammonia
  • Heavy metals such as copper, lead and zinc

These can be toxic for your fish, so it’s super important to use this solution when setting up your aquarium and changing the water.

Recommended Products

API Stress Coat Aquarium Water Conditioner, 16-fl oz bottle
API Stress Coat Aquarium Water Conditioner, 16-fl oz bottle
Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars
4.8
597Reviews
$10.99Chewy Price
Aqueon Tap Water Conditioner, 16-fl oz bottle
Aqueon Tap Water Conditioner, 16-fl oz bottle
Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars
4.7
127Reviews
$10.95Chewy Price
Fritz Complete Full-Spectrum Aquarium Water Conditioner, 16-fl oz bottle
Fritz Complete Full-Spectrum Aquarium Water Conditioner, 16-fl oz bottle
Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars
4.9
38Reviews
$13.59Chewy Price

Fish aquarium test kits


Test your aquarium water for ammonia, nitrite and pH to make sure they’re at optimal levels for your fish. Aquarium test kits also enable you to measure the water nitrate, hardness and alkalinity.

In about 60 seconds, the included test strips will give a good overall picture of what’s happening in your freshwater fish tank. This information is critical to maintaining a healthy system.

Test your water as you wait for your aquarium to cycle before adding your freshwater fish and at least every month after that. It’s also a good idea to test your water if a fish dies or gets sick.

When reading the test strip results, nitrite should be undetectable, nitrate should be as low as possible and a neutral pH is generally safe. That being said, freshwater fish can thrive in a pH range from 5.5-7.5 depending on the species.

Make sure pH test kits produce results with a pH range from below 5.0-8.5.

Recommended Products

Tetra EasyStrips 6-in-1 Freshwater & Saltwater Aquarium Test Strips, 100 count
Tetra EasyStrips 6-in-1 Freshwater & Saltwater Aquarium Test Strips, 100 count
Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars
4.6
126Reviews
$19.12Chewy Price
API Freshwater Aquarium Master Test Kit, 800 count
API Freshwater Aquarium Master Test Kit, 800 count
Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars
4.7
264Reviews
$28.79Chewy Price

Siphon

Having a siphon (aka a gravel vacuum) is essential for draining and filling water in the tank as well as removing debris from the bottom of your aquarium.

An algae scraper or magnet, like the Algae Free Tiger Shark Float Plus Cleaning Magnet, can also keep your tank clean by helping remove algae that has built up on the side of the tank.

You’ll also want to have a bucket handy when performing water changes.

Recommended Products

Python No Spill Clean & Fill Aquarium Maintenance System, 50-ft
Python No Spill Clean & Fill Aquarium Maintenance System, 50-ft
Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars
4.5
486Reviews
$81.49Chewy Price
Python Pro-Clean Gravel Washer & Siphon Kit for Aquariums, Small
Python Pro-Clean Gravel Washer & Siphon Kit for Aquariums, Small
Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars
4.3
219Reviews
$7.49Chewy Price

Once you decide what kind of finned friends you plan to keep in your fish aquarium, the rest of your system requirements will fall into place. One of the most important things is to research the types of fish you want. Find out:

  • Where they’re indigenous to
  • Their ideal water parameters
  • The best fish food for them
  • How much space they need
  • How well they get along with other fish

This information makes it much easier to create the right habitat.

Keeping aquarium fish can be very rewarding, especially if you’re prepared. Take it slow, do your research and enjoy the ride! And when you’ve finally brought your new aquarium fish home, check out our list of 200+ fish names to inspire your new friend’s moniker.

Expert input provided by Dr. Jessie M. Sanders, DVM, certified aquatic veterinarian and over of Aquatic Veterinary Services in the California Bay Area; Dr. Ben Rosenbloom, DVM, veterinarian and founder of Wet Pet Vet in New York City; and Dr. Richmond Loh, DVM, certified aquatic veterinarian at The Fish Vet.

Attributions


Samantha Schwab

Samantha Schwab

Samantha has been crafting content for half a decade across several national brands covering a wide range of lifestyle topics. She’s
Related articles
  • Freshwater Aquarium Tank Cycling: How To Cycle a Fish Tank With Fish
    Freshwater Aquarium Tank Cycling: How To Cycle a Fish Tank With Fish

  • 14 Live Aquarium Plants To Beautify Your Fish Tank
    14 Live Aquarium Plants To Beautify Your Fish Tank

  • When To Use Sponge Filters for Fish Tanks
    When To Use Sponge Filters for Fish Tanks

  • Why Is My Fish Tank Cloudy?
    Why Is My Fish Tank Cloudy?
  • Our experts are available 24/7:We're here 24/7:
  • 1-800-672-4399
  • United States
  • About
  • Investor Relations
  • Affiliates
  • Jobs
  • FAQs
  • Learn
  • Give Back
  • Gift Cards
  • Sell on Chewy
Download iOS appDownload Android app
Go to ACHC pharmacy accreditationLegitscript ApprovedCompounding Pharmacy Approved
  • Copyright © 2025, Chewy, Inc.
  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy (Updated Oct 8, 2024)
  • Interest-Based Ads
  • Accessibility
  • California Supply Chains Act
  • Vendor Compliance
Download phone image
Get the Chewy app
Download iOS appDownload Android app
We're here 24/7
1-800-672-4399
United States
Copyright © 2025 Chewy, Inc.
Terms-Privacy (Updated Oct 8, 2024)-Accessibility
California Supply Chains Act-Vendor Compliance
About-Investor Relations-Jobs-Learn
Give Back-Gift Cards-Sell on Chewy
Skip to searchSkip to main content
Not in the U.S?

Not shopping in the U.S. or plan on shipping to a Canadian address?

Continue to Canada site
Use App
24/7 HelpHelp
Get help from our experts 24/7
1-800-672-4399
    • Track Order
    • -
    • FAQs
    • -
    • Contact Info
    AccountAccount
    Sign InNew Customer? Start here
    • Account
    • Orders
    • Manage Autoship
    • Favorites
    • Buy Again
    • Prescriptions
    • Pet Portal
    • Connect with a Vet
    • Pet Insurance Dashboard
    • My Rescues
    • Create a Pet Profile
    CartCart
    Your cart is empty.
    Something missing? Sign in to see items you may have added from another computer or device.
    Not in the U.S?

    Not shopping in the U.S. or plan on shipping to a Canadian address?

    Continue to Canada site
    Use App
    24/7 Help
    Get help from our experts 24/7
    1-800-672-4399
      • Track Order
      • -
      • FAQs
      • -
      • Contact Info
      AccountAccount
      Sign InNew Customer? Start here
      • Account
      • Orders
      • Manage Autoship
      • Favorites
      • Buy Again
      • Prescriptions
      • Pet Portal
      • Connect with a Vet
      • Pet Insurance Dashboard
      • My Rescues
      • Create a Pet Profile
      CartCart
      Your cart is empty.
      Something missing? Sign in to see items you may have added from another computer or device.
      Food
      • Dry Food
      • Wet Food
      • Fresh Food & Toppers
      • Veterinary Diets
      • Shop by Health Condition
      • Puppy Food
      Treats
      • Bones, Bully Sticks & Naturals
      • Soft & Chewy Treats
      • Dental Treats
      • Biscuits & Cookies
      • Long-Lasting Chews
      • Jerky Treats
      • Freeze-Dried & Dehydrated
      Toys
      • Plush Toys
      • Chew Toys
      • Fetch Toys
      • Treat Dispensing Toys
      • Puzzle Toys
      • Rope & Tug Toys
      Supplies
      • Crates, Pens & Gates
      • Beds
      • Leashes, Collars & Harnesses
      • Bowls & Feeders
      • Clothing & Accessories
      • Carriers & Travel
      • Training & Behavior
      • Tech & Smart Home
      Dog DealsSummer ShopPet Parent SuppliesShop all Dog
      Grooming
      • Brushes & Combs
      • Shampoos & Conditioners
      • Grooming Tools
      • Paw & Nail Care
      • Ear Care
      • Skin Care
      Cleaning & Potty
      • Pee Pads & Diapers
      • Poop Bags & Scoopers
      • Cleaners & Stain Removers
      • Vacuums & Steam Cleaners
      Health & Pharmacy
      • Flea & Tick
      • Anxiety & Calming Care
      • Allergy & Itch Relief
      • Vitamins & Supplements
      • Heartworm & Dewormers
      • Pharmacy & Prescriptions
      • DNA Testing Kits
      Gift Cards
      Popular Brands
      Purina Pro Plan
      Hill's
      Blue Buffalo
      Frisco
      Royal Canin
      Bark
      Craveable, frozen raw meals. Serve up fresh nutrition with Stella & Chewy's.
      Food
      • Wet Food
      • Dry Food
      • Everyday Favorites
      • Shop by Health Consideration
      • Veterinary Diets
      • Highest Quality Food
      • Food Toppers
      Litter
      • Clumping
      • Scented
      • Unscented
      • Natural
      • Lightweight
      Treats
      • Crunchy Treats
      • Lickable Treats
      • Soft & Chewy Treats
      • Dental Treats
      • Catnip & Cat Grass
      Toys
      • Interactive & Electronic Toys
      • Teasers & Wands
      • Balls & Chasers
      • Catnip Toys
      • Plush & Mice Toys
      Cat DealsPet Parent SuppliesShop all Cat
      Supplies
      • Litter Boxes & Accessories
      • Cat Tech & Smart Home
      • Beds
      • Carriers & Travel
      • Bowls & Feeders
      • Collars, Leashes & Harnesses
      • Grooming
      Trees & Scratchers
      • Trees & Condos
      • Scratchers & Scratching Posts
      • Wall Shelves
      • Window Perches
      Health & Pharmacy
      • Flea & Tick
      • Anxiety & Calming Care
      • Allergy & Itch Relief
      • Vitamins & Supplements
      • Urinary Tract & Kidneys
      • Pharmacy & Prescriptions
      • Test Kits
      Gift Cards
      Popular Brands
      Tiny Tiger
      Shop Blue Buffalo
      Shop litter robot
      Shop Temptations
      Shop Hill's Science Diet
      Shop Purina Pro Plan
      Mix up their menu. Stock up on Friskies variety packs. Shop now.
      Horse
      • Feed
      • Treats
      • Health & Wellness
      • Vitamins & Supplements
      • Fly Control
      • Prescription Medications
      • Vaccines
      Chicken
      • Feed
      • Treats
      • Nesting & Egg Supplies
      • Coops & Runs
      • Feeders, Waterers & Deicers
      Livestock
      • Cattle
      • Goat
      • Pig
      • Sheep
      • Llama & Alpaca
      Wild Bird & Wildlife
      • Wild Bird
      • Squirrel & Critter
      • Duck & Waterfowl
      • Deer
      Small Pet
      • Rabbit
      • Guinea Pig
      • Hamster
      • Ferret
      Pet Bird
      • Food
      • Treats
      • Toys & Perches
      • Litter & Nesting
      • Cages & Accessories
      Fish
      • Tanks & Aquariums
      • Food
      • Filters & Media
      • Decor & Substrate
      • Water Care
      Reptile & Amphibian
      • Live Feed
      • Food & Treats
      • Tanks & Terrariums
      • Heating & Lighting
      • Substrate & Bedding
      Gift Cards
      Popular Brands
      Shop Buckeye
      Shop Animed
      Shop Cosequin
      The Horse Shop. Your one-stop shop for everything they need to be their best.
      Prescriptions
      Order your pet's prescription items.
      How it works
      Shop all Pharmacy
      Health Services
      Chewy Vet Care
      Chat free with our vet team
      CarePlus Insurance & Wellness Plans
      Compounded Medications
      Choose from a variety of flavors, strengths, and forms for your pet or horse.
      Learn about compounding
      Dog
      • Prescription Flea & Tick
      • Heartworm Prevention
      • Pain Relief & Arthritis
      • Antibiotics & Antifungals
      • Allergy Relief
      • Anxiety & Calming
      • Ear & Skin Conditions
      • Eye Drops & Ointments
      • Urinary & Kidney
      • Diabetes Care & Insulin
      Cat
      • Prescription Flea & Tick
      • Dewormers & Parasiticides
      • Eye Drops & Ointments
      • Antibiotics & Antifungals
      • Allergy Relief
      • Anxiety & Calming
      • Urinary & Kidney
      • Thyroid & Hormone
      • Pain Relief & Arthritis
      • Diabetes Care & Insulin
      Horse
      • Anti-inflammatory & Musculoskeletal
      • Vitamins & Electrolytes
      • Skin & Coat Care
      • Antibiotics
      • Metabolic & Endocrine
      • Allergy & Immune
      • Behavioral Support & Sedatives
      • Reproductive Care
      Expert Health Tips
      • PetMD
      Connect with a Vet
      Free chat or live-video advice from our licensed veterinary team.
      Learn more
      CarePlus Insurance & Wellness Plans
      Give your pet the best possible health coverage with wellness and insurance plans.
      Learn more
      Chewy Vet Care
      Exceptional in-person routine and urgent care from our compassionate veterinary teams.
      Schedule a visit
      Learn
      How We Give Back
      We've donated more than $100M in products to rescue animal centers.
      Learn more
      Donate to a Rescue
      You can help us make an impact by donating items to your local shelter.
      Find a Rescue
      Find Pets to Adopt
      Search thousands of pets from shelters and rescues in Chewy's network.
      Find Pets
      Join Our Network
      Join our network to access benefits and resources that’ll help more pets.
      Join Now
      Today's Deals
      Shop Flea & TickFlea & Tick