How to Transfer a Fish to a New Tank With New Gravel

When it becomes necessary to purchase a new tank for your pet fish, take certain procedures to ensure that the fish are comfortable during the transfer as well as in their new environment.

Things You'll Need

  • Gravel
  • New fish tank
  • Bowl or secondary tank
  • Small fish net
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Instructions

    • 1

      Rinse the new gravel and tank with water. Layer the new gravel on the bottom of the new tank. Ensure that the gravel does not contain any harmful chemicals that could dissipate into the water and harm your fish.

    • 2

      Fill the bowl or secondary tank with water from the fish's old tank. Many fish are extremely sensitive to changes in water's pH and other chemicals and can die of shock quickly if the difference is too great or if they are poisoned by chemical additives, so it is best to use water from the old tank.

    • 3

      Remove your fish from their old tank with a small fish net and quickly place them in the small bowl or secondary tank. Drain and clean the old tank.

    • 4

      Check your tap water or the water you use to fill the tank for added chemicals like chlorine, which can harm your fish. If you find these chemicals in your water, allow the water to sit out at room temperature for a few days preceding the change to dissipate the chlorine. Fill the new tank with the dechlorinated water.

    • 5

      Using the small fish net, lift your fish and place them in the new tank.