DIY All-in-One Aquarium

The term ̶0;all-in-one aquarium̶1; refers to a complete aquarium setup that typically includes everything but fish, water and live plants. These kits make it easier for first-time aquarium buyers and for buyers who don̵7;t want to have to figure out everything that̵7;s needed and then buy each item separately. While the convenience is a plus, you can create your own all-in-one aquarium by assembling all the components on your own.

  1. Basics

    • The most essential part of your aquarium kit is the tank. You can start with any size and style of tank that suits you and use it as the basis of the rest of your all-in-one aquarium. In addition to the tank, you need an aquarium hood that has wires for lights. Some tanks have these built on as an integral part of the tank, but they also come separately. The third of the basic elements is a stand that fits the tank exactly. Smaller tanks don̵7;t always have stands, but larger ones, especially those that are 20 gallons or more, often do.

    Essential Equipment

    • An all-in-one aquarium needs light bulbs or LED lights that are the right size to fit the hood. A filtration system keeps the water clear, but you can choose from an under gravel type, a corner canister unit or an exterior filter that hangs on the back of the tank and provides a constant flow with a power head. If the filter needs an air pump to operate, that is also included in the kit. In most cases a heater is necessary, and for some types of fish, a water chiller may also be required. All of these items need to be the correct size for the tank to work properly.

    Other Essentials

    • It is important that you add a good dechlorinator, water conditioner and a general-purpose tropical fish food. Other items to include are an air line, if required, a net for handling the fish, and filter media such as charcoal, filtration packs or filter floss as necessary. A thermometer for monitoring the water temperature and a testing kit to track water quality are also important.

    Options

    • In most cases you will need a suitable amount of aquarium gravel or other substrate material for the bottom of the tank. An all-in-one aquarium also typically contains decorations and plastic plants for inside the tank. Depending on the type and size of the aquarium, you may need to add an air pump and an air stone to provide additional aeration for the water, though often the filter will handle this. If the kit is to be a gift, you may want to add a guidebook for beginners and a gift certificate to purchase some fish to make the kit complete.