The complete guide
The freshwater aquarium guide
Welcome! This guide brings together everything we know about freshwater aquariums, laid out as a journey. Just starting? Follow the steps in order, from setup to fish. Already have a tank? Jump straight to the section you need. At each step you'll find our detailed guides, honest gear comparisons and fixes for common problems.
Follow the path in order, or jump straight to the step that's blocking you.
Which tank for which fish?
You often pick the tank based on the fish you want.
Setup & cycling
Cycling, filling, tank size: the foundations.
Problems & fixes
Algae, cloudy water, green water… solved simply.
Gear & comparisons
Filters, heaters, lights: for every budget.
Aquascaping & decor
Natural layouts: plants, soils, rocks, wood.
Species care
Which tank, how many, who to mix.
Latest guides
Gear
Best aquarium heater
Read the guide →
Aquascaping
Best aquasoil / nutrient substrate
Read the guide →
Aquascaping
Aquascaping for beginners: the basic tools
Read the guide →
Species
How many Neocaridina to start a colony in 30L?
Read the guide →
Species
Can guppies and shrimp live together?
Read the guide →
Species