How to Use 50 Gallon Fishtanks

It isn't difficult to set up and maintain a 50-gallon fish tank, but you will need to invest in a number of tools and supplies. You will also want to carefully consider the type of fish you want to keep. Almost any pet store will have everything you require to keep fish in a tank this size. An aquarium needs clean water and good filtration to be the best possible environment for the fish you plan to keep.

Things You'll Need

  • Aquarium stand
  • Aquarium filtration system
  • Aquarium heater
  • Gravel
  • Plants
  • Aquarium decorations
  • Anti-chlorine solution
  • Fish
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place your 50-gallon fish tank on an aquarium stand designed for a fish tank that size. It is important to use a sturdy stand and not just a piece of furniture because 50 gallons of water weighs about 417 pounds, according to YourDictionary.com.

    • 2

      Install an aquarium filtration system. The All About Aquarium Fish website lists two types of filters that you can use in a 50-gallon tank. An overhead/submerged power filter pulls the water through a filter screen and pumps it back into the aquarium. An undergravel filter sits under the aquarium gravel and pulls the water through with a pump.

    • 3

      Install an aquarium heater. A heater is necessary to keep your fish tank at the right temperature for the fish living there. Different varieties of fish require different water temperatures. You can also install many types of thermometers to monitor the temperatures in your tank.

    • 4

      Rinse gravel and pour it into your fish tank. You can make the gravel floor rise and fall or remain flat. Rinse and add any plants or aquarium decorations you want to use.

    • 5

      Add water slowly. 50 gallons is a lot of water, and it will take time to fill your tank. Treat the water for chlorine before you add fish to make it safe. The All About Aquarium Fish website recommends using an anti-chlorine solution available at pet or aquarium stores.

    • 6

      Operate your aquarium without fish for 12 to 24 hours. The Animal World website reports that this will stabilize the temperature in the fish tank and add oxygen to the water.

    • 7

      Add the fish to your tank. The type of fish you keep is up to you. Be sure that the fish you choose get along with each other, and require the same water conditions and temperature. The All About Aquarium Fish website reports incompatible tank mates as a common mistake of aquarium owners.