Putting a new fish into a tank safely primarily involves a crucial process called acclimation, which helps the fish adjust to the water chemistry and temperature of its new home.
Introducing a new fish requires careful steps to minimize stress and prevent illness. The most common method involves gradually adjusting the fish to your aquarium's water parameters before releasing it into the tank.
Safe Fish Introduction: The Acclimation Process
Acclimation is vital because abrupt changes in water temperature, pH, and other parameters can severely stress or even kill fish. By slowly introducing the fish to the aquarium water, you allow its system to adapt smoothly.
Step-by-Step Guide to Acclimation
Before you even bring your new fish home, ensure your aquarium is fully set up, cycled, and at the correct temperature and parameters for the species you're adding. Once the tank is ready and you have the fish, follow these steps:
- Dim the Lights: Turn off the aquarium lights to create a calming environment and reduce stress for the new arrival.
- Float the Bag: Place the sealed bag containing the fish on the surface of your aquarium water. This allows the water temperature in the bag to slowly equalize with the aquarium water temperature, preventing temperature shock. Let it float for about 15-20 minutes.
- Begin Water Exchange: After temperature equalization, open the bag and fold the edges over the rim to keep it floating. Now, begin the process of gradually mixing your aquarium water with the water in the bag. According to the reference provided:
- Add about a cup of your aquarium water into the bag to help introduce the fish to the pH of your aquarium and wait 10 minutes.
- Repeat this process twice more. This step-by-step addition over time allows the fish to slowly get used to the pH, hardness, and other parameters of your tank water.
- Transfer the Fish: Now carefully net the fish out of the bag and into the aquarium. Use a clean fish net for this.
- Dispose of the Water: Dispose of the bag & store water. Remember – do not release the water in the bag into your aquarium. The water the fish came in from the pet store or breeder may contain parasites, diseases, or different water chemistry that you don't want to introduce into your established tank.
After releasing the fish, keep the aquarium lights off for a few more hours to allow the fish to explore its new environment without added stress. Observe the fish over the next few days to ensure it is eating and behaving normally.
Following this acclimation process significantly increases the chances of a successful and healthy introduction of your new fish to its tank.
