Types

There are two basic types of home aquariums: fresh water and salt water. Fresh water mimics the environment found in fresh water lakes, ponds and streams, while salt water aquariums mimic the ocean environment. Different fish prefer different environments.

Size

Choose a home aquarium that holds at least five gallons of water. The larger, the better. The fish will have a bigger environment and owners can add more fish to a larger tank. A stand is optional, or a tank may be placed on a sturdy table or book case.

Features

To start a home aquarium, certain features are needed. Aside from the tank itself, a filtration system is very important. Filters that hang outside the tank pump water through a carbon cartridge and a filtration pad to remove waste material, keeping the water healthier for fish. Circulating water also adds oxygen.

Considerations

Salt water aquariums must have special salts added to the water to create the same environment that the fish have in the wild. Purchase kits at the pet store, including kits to test the water. Fresh water aquariums can use tap water, but let the water stand 24 hours before adding it to the tank or placing fish in the water. This allows chlorine to evaporate from the water. Drops can be added to the water to condition it more quickly.

Essentials

In addition to the tank, water and filtration system, other essentials include a light. Aquarium lights come with covers to keep dust, dirt and household pets such as cats out of the home aquariums. Rocks, gravel and plants add to the fish's habitat. A net is useful to catch fish or remove dead fish.

Choosing Fish

The last part of starting a home aquarium is the most fun; choosing the fish! Select either salt water or fresh water fish, depending on the type of aquarium setup. The rule of thumb is one to two fish per gallon of water. Purchase a container of fish food along with the fish to ensure that they have the right nutrition.