TanninLab

Start Here

New to the hobby? Pick your path and we will route you to the right guides. No prior knowledge needed.

New Betta Owner

You just got a betta (or you are about to) and want to do it right.

  1. 1 Read: Betta Fish Tank Setup Guide
  2. 2 Read: What Size Tank Does a Betta Need
  3. 3 Browse: Best Betta Tanks We Tested

Aspiring Aquascaper

You want a tank that looks like the photos. Start here.

  1. 1 Read: Aquascaping for Beginners
  2. 2 Read: Planted Tank Setup (Low-Tech)
  3. 3 Browse: Best Substrate for Planted Tanks

Future Shrimp Keeper

You want to start a shrimp colony. Get the parameters right first.

  1. 1 Read: Neocaridina Shrimp Care Guide
  2. 2 Read: Water Parameters for Shrimp
  3. 3 Browse: Best Shrimp Food (Tested)

Curious About Blackwater

You have heard about tannins and want to try the natural method.

  1. 1 Read: Catappa Leaves Guide
  2. 2 Read: Blackwater Aquarium Setup
  3. 3 Browse: Botanicals Hub

The First Things Every Beginner Should Know

  • Tank size matters more than tank shape. Longer is better than taller.
  • Cycle your tank before adding fish. This takes 4-6 weeks and prevents most early deaths.
  • Bettas need heaters. Room temperature is too cold.
  • Plants are not optional. They improve water quality and reduce fish stress.
  • Test your water with a liquid kit, not strips. The API Freshwater Master Test Kit is the standard.
  • Feed less than you think. A betta stomach is about the size of its eye.

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