Freshwater Fishes

Freshwater Acclimation Guide
(Please read all steps before beginning.)

Because patience and proper acclimation are the most critical elements in ensuring the survival of your new

Georgia Aquarium - Fresh Water Tropical Fish Tank

arrivals, it is essential to read and understand all steps before beginning.

NOTE: Water in the fish bags will naturally be high in fish waste created during transport, therefore no water from the bags should ever enter your quarantine tank or aquarium.

The following steps must be precisely for success. All fish must be acclimated as follows. Many species will act sluggish or dead due to the stress of shipping. They will frequently rebound quickly and will flourish.
1. Never rush the acclimation process! Take a minimum of one hour to allow the fish, corals, and invertebrates time to adjust to their new home. Two to three hours is not unusual and allows the specimens the best chance for survival.
2. The inhabitants of the quarantine tank or aquarium that will be receiving the new animals should be fed. After feeding, turn the aquarium lights off for the remainder of the day. Room lights should also be dimmed to reduce stress.
3. The UNOPENED bags should be floated in the quarantine tank or aquarium for 20 minutes.
4. It is critical not to open the bags until after the shipping water has had time to match the quarantine tank or aquarium water temperature. If opened prematurely, the water will quickly lose dissolved oxygen causing possible suffocation. Air stones must never be added to the shipping bag. The aeration process will rapidly raise the pH and cause an increased ammonia level, each of which is toxic to the fish.
5. Carefully cut the shipping bag as close to the stainless steel clip as possible.
6. Roll back the edges of the plastic to form a float ring. Continue floating the now open bags. For heavier items that are prone to sinking, such as corals, place the items and all of the shipping water in an acclimation container. An empty bucket or Rubbermaid container works well for this.
7. Add 2 ounce (approx a shot glass) to a couple of ounces of quarantine tank or aquarium water, depending on the size of the shipping bag, into the bag or acclimation container containing the new item. Add no more than 20% of aquarium water into bag at any time. For fish that ship in smaller bags, the amount should literally be six to eight drops. A more gradual water exchange ensures the best chance for a successful transition.
8. Repeat Step 7, adding the small amount of water every 10 minutes.
9. When the bag is nearly full, dispose of half of the water from the bag.
10. Repeat Steps 7 and 8.
11. Your new specimens are now ready to be transferred to the quarantine tank or aquarium. Again, remember that no water from the shipping bags should enter your quarantine tank or aquarium. Use a net or a cup to transfer your new animals from the bag your quarantine tank or aquarium.