Guidelines on setting up The Offish tank

Setting up a desktop aquarium is a rewarding project that brings life and tranquillity to any workspace. Here’s a detailed, easy-to-follow guide to help create a beautiful and healthy mini-aquarium.

Choose the Right Location

Select a stable, flat surface that can support the tank’s weight when filled with water. Position it away from direct sunlight and heat sources to prevent temperature fluctuations and algae growth. Once the aquarium is filled, moving it can be difficult and risky, so pick the perfect spot from the start.

Gather Essential Supplies

You’ll need the following items:

• Aquarium tank

• Filter and/or air pump

• Substrate (gravel or sand)

• Heater and thermometer (for tropical fish)

• Lighting

• Water conditioner

• Aquarium-safe décor and Plants (live or artificial) if you want

• Net, water test strips, and fish food.

Clean and Prep the Tank

Wipe the tank thoroughly with clean water to remove dust or residue. For used tanks, a solution of vinegar and warm water works well. Avoid soaps or detergents, as these can harm fish.

Install Equipment

Set up the filter according to the manufacturer’s instructions, but don’t turn it on yet. Install the heater if needed, and place the thermometer on a spot easy to view. If using an air pump and air stone, assemble and position them in the tank.

Add Substrate and Décor

Add about 3 - 5 centimetres of pre-rinsed substrate (gravel or sand) to the bottom. Arrange plants and decorations, making sure roots of live plants are buried enough to stay in place. Place décor to hide equipment and make shelter for fish.

Fill the Aquarium

Fill the tank with water. Pour slowly onto a plate or bowl placed on the substrate to prevent disturbing it. Use water conditioner to neutralize chlorine and other harmful chemicals from tap water.

Start Filters, Heater, and Lights

Plug in the filter, heater, and light. Allow the equipment to run and stabilize the tank for about a day. Set the heater to the appropriate temperature for the selected fish species (usually 22–26°C for tropical fish) and check for leaks.

Cycle the Tank

Before adding fish, the tank must establish beneficial bacteria through a process called cycling. Add filter starter or bottled bacteria if desired, and allow the tank to run (without fish) for 3–5 weeks. Test ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels regularly—only introduce fish when ammonia and nitrite reach zero.

Add Fish Carefully

Float the sealed bag with fish on the water’s surface for 15–20 minutes to equalize temperature. Gradually mix tank water into the bag every 5 minutes for another 15–30 minutes. Gently release the fish with a net, discarding bag water.

Maintenance Tips

• Feed fish sparingly, removing any uneaten food after a few minutes.

• Perform 20–30% water changes weekly.

• Clean the glass and décor as needed without harsh chemicals.

• Monitor water parameters regularly.

Setting up a desktop aquarium is straightforward if each step is carefully followed, resulting in a vibrant, low-maintenance aquatic environment perfect for a desk or office.