How Set Up a 50-Gallon Fish Tank

A healthy, properly set up aquarium can be a very rewarding hobby. The sound of trickling water and the sight of a wall of bubbles behind vibrant fish and plants has a calming effect on even the busiest of minds. Setting up a 50-gallon aquarium is not much different from setting up a smaller tank. Start with the proper equipment and a well-chosen location to ensure a smooth process.

Things You'll Need

  • 50-gallon aquarium
  • Substrate (gravel or sand)
  • Plastic bucket
  • Aquarium heater
  • Aquarium thermometer
  • Filtration system
  • Water conditioner
  • Decorations and plants
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Instructions

    • 1

      Choose your aquarium's location. Your 50-gallon tank will weigh approximately 500 pounds once it is filled with gravel and water, so make sure to choose a sturdy base and a location that you will be happy with. Make sure that the tank is close to an electrical outlet for the heater and filtration system. Pick a spot that is fairly quiet and without too much foot traffic so that your fish will not be disturbed. Be sure to keep the aquarium out of direct sunlight to minimize the growth of algae.

    • 2

      Set up the equipment. Most equipment comes with instructions. Filtration systems either hang on the back of your tank or are placed on the bottom below the substrate. Heaters often have suction cups, which you attach to the back wall inside the aquarium. Position the thermometer on the front or side wall where it will be clearly visible.

    • 3

      Clean and position the decorations. Cleaning removes any dust, chemicals or cleaners that could harm aquarium life. Wash the substrate in a five-gallon bucket under running water. Rinse all other decorations thoroughly. Add two or three inches of clean substrate, then place your decorations. Be sure to provide plenty of hiding spots for your fish. Position the decorations to hide any equipment and create a more natural look. Fill the tank with water and add any needed water conditioners.

    • 4

      Let the tank run for a few days before adding your fish. This will allow you to make sure that your aquarium equipment is working properly, there are no leaks and the temperature is stabilized.

    • 5

      Choose fish that are compatible with one another and with your tank setup. Check fish compatibility charts to make sure the fish you choose will get along. Know how big your fish will get as adults so your tank does not become overcrowded. A good rule of thumb for selecting smaller fish is one inch of fish per one gallon of water. However, larger fish, messier fish (such as cichlids, which produce more waste) and cold water fish require three gallons of water per one inch of fish.