← Module 02 · Tank Setup 101

Lesson 6: Final Setup Checklist Before Adding Fish

Lesson 7 · 5 min · Tank Setup 101

The Final Checklist

You're so close! Before you bring your guppies home, let's make sure everything is truly ready. I've turned this into a checklist you can go through point by point. If everything checks out, you're good to go!

✅ Tank & Equipment

  • ☐ Tank is the right size (10+ gallons recommended)
  • ☐ Tank is on a sturdy, level surface
  • ☐ Tank mat or towel underneath for cushioning
  • ☐ Filter is installed and running (has been running during cycling)
  • ☐ Heater is installed, set to 76-78°F, and verified with a thermometer
  • ☐ Light is installed and on a timer (8-10 hours daily)
  • ☐ Lid or cover is in place (guppies can jump!)

✅ Water Quality

  • ☐ Tank is fully cycled (ammonia 0, nitrite 0, nitrate present)
  • ☐ Water has been treated with conditioner
  • ☐ Temperature is stable at 74-82°F
  • ☐ pH is tested and noted (doesn't need to be perfect, just known)
  • ☐ You've done a large water change after cycling to lower nitrates

✅ Decorating & Plants

  • ☐ Substrate is rinsed and in place
  • ☐ Hiding spots are available (plants, caves, driftwood)
  • ☐ No sharp edges on decorations
  • ☐ Open swimming space in the front/center of the tank
  • ☐ Plants are in place and showing signs of life

✅ Supplies on Hand

  • ☐ Water conditioner (Seachem Prime or similar)
  • ☐ Test kit (API Freshwater Master)
  • ☐ Fish food (high-quality flake or micro pellet)
  • ☐ Gravel vacuum/siphon
  • ☐ Dedicated clean bucket
  • ☐ Small net

✅ Planning

  • ☐ You know how many guppies you're getting (start with 5-6)
  • ☐ You've decided on males only, females only, or a mixed group
  • ☐ If mixed, you have the right ratio (1 male : 2-3 females)
  • ☐ You've identified a good local fish store
  • ☐ You know the acclimation process (float bag, slowly mix water, net fish in)

🎉 You're Ready!

If you checked everything off, congratulations — you've done more preparation than most beginners, and your guppies are going to have a wonderful home. Go pick out your fish and enjoy the moment. You've earned it!

Common last-minute worries:

  • "Is my water perfect?" — It doesn't need to be. Stable and conditioned is what matters.
  • "Did I pick the right plants?" — If they're alive and in the tank, they're fine for now.
  • "What if something goes wrong?" — You have a test kit, conditioner, and this guide. You're prepared.

What's next? Check out the Feeding & Nutrition course to learn exactly how to feed your new guppies, or dive into Breeding Basics when you're ready for baby fish!