Your plan should start with the type of fish you want to keep. A good choice for beginners would be goldfish or guppies because they are fish that are tolerant of the varying conditions that are common in new aquariums. It is important to start with just a few fish in the beginning because the new fish tank needs time to cycle. The bacteria that is needed by the aquarium to change the toxic ammonia that is produced by the fish and decaying plant and waste matter into harmless nitrate needs time to multiply and grow. This is the cycle a new tank must go through and it takes about eight weeks.

The size of the tank is the next thing to think about because almost everything that is put into the tank is tank size specific. Most people buy the biggest aquarium that they can afford. I would suggest starting with a small tank and then move to a bigger one latter on when you better know what you want after some experience with the new fish. This will save you buying stuff that a basic aquarium dose not need.

Decorating the aquarium is more than just for looks. The fish will be happiest in an environment that best mimics their natural habitat. Fish need places to hide for sleeping or to get away from other aggressive fish in the tank. They also need enough open space to swim, play and feed. Just like people a stressed out fish will be susceptible to illness and disease. The plants, gravel and decorations come in every color. Your personal taste is all that really matters as far as color goes. Take into consideration the colors and style of the room that the fish tank is in and the colors of the fish. You can look at pictures of other peoples aquariums and get a good idea of what you want before buying a bunch of stuff that does not look good together and winds up wasting you money and being taken out and replaced.

There are a few things the fish need for their happy environment. Things like a filter, air pump, air stone and a heater are all things that may be required. Do some research about these items. Ask people you know that have an aquarium what they use. Most people you will talk to will tell you that they started with a complete aquarium kit that came with everything included and that they had to upgrade some of the equipment making the kit a not so great deal. This is where a good plan will save you money and time. Buying something like a heater that is inadequate for your situation will not work. On the other hand a heater for a larger tank than yours will not work any better it will only cost you more. Only buy what you need no more.

Taking care of fish takes less time effort and expense than almost any other pet. They can be kept in any size apartment, condo or house and they do not stink, make a mess, bark, squawk or do anything except make you comm and happy. The key to setting up a new fish tank is a well thought out plan. A good place on the Internet to look for information about and pictures of all kinds of pets is JimsPets.com. Good luck with your new aquarium.