Bring Your Own Aquarium Freshwater Starter Kit - 5 Gallon

A Starter Kit Ideal for Standard 5 or 5.5 Gallon Aquariums

• Just add Your 5 Gallon Aquarium (not included)
• Includes Reliable Equipment Chosen by Experienced Aquarists
• Perfect for First-Time Aquarium Hobbyists
• Easy to Set Up and Maintain

The Bring Your Own Aquarium Freshwater Starter Kit is the perfect launchpad for anyone ready to dive into freshwater aquariums using a standard 5-gallon glass tank from a local pet store. We handpicked reliable, beginner-friendly components that make it easy to establish and maintain a stable freshwater environment without the headaches of researching and selecting individual components.

What's Included?

Internal Corner Filter: Compact filter that provides mechanical and biological filtration with gentle flow. Ideal for shrimp and small fish.

Why we picked it: It fits neatly in the corner of the tank, keeps things quiet, and maintains clean water without disturbing delicate livestock.

AquaReady Preset 22W Heater: Pre-set to 77°F and designed to keep temperatures stable in smaller aquariums.

Why we picked it: There’s no need to dial in settings. Just plug it in and trust it to hold the right temperature for most tropical freshwater fish.

Gold Pearl Bio-Substrate (5 lbs): Smooth natural gravel that contains live beneficial bacteria. No rinsing required and will not alter water chemistry.

Why we picked it: It helps jumpstart the cycle, looks great, and is safe for most bottom-dwelling fish.

Spider Wood (6-12 Inches): Natural driftwood with branching shapes that add depth and shelter to your aquascape.

Why we picked it: It’s both decorative and practical. It gives fish and shrimp places to hide and makes a great anchor for moss and plants.

MicroBacter7 (125 ml): Biological additive that seeds your aquarium with beneficial bacteria to establish the nitrogen cycle.

Why we picked it: It helps your tank cycle faster and promotes long-term biological stability right from the start.

Prime Water Conditioner: Removes chlorine and chloramine while detoxifying ammonia and nitrite.

Why we picked it: It instantly makes tap water safe for fish and is one of the most trusted water conditioners in the hobby.

Stick-On Thermometer: Quick and easy way to monitor tank temperature. No batteries or calibration required.

Why we picked it: It’s simple to use, easy to read, and gives you peace of mind at a glance.

Pellet Fish Food: Staple diet formulated for popular freshwater fish.

Why we picked it: It’s a reliable starter food that works well for a wide variety of beginner-friendly species.

Frequently Asked Questions

What about lighting?

Lighting is one of the most personal and important choices in any aquarium, especially if you're planning to grow live plants. That’s why we’ve left it out of this kit. Whether you're setting up a simple fish-only tank or aiming for a planted aquascape, your lighting needs will vary depending on the types of plants, tank layout, and your goals for growth and aesthetics. From basic LED fixtures to full-spectrum plant lights with timers and dimming features, the best light for your setup is the one that supports your specific vision. By leaving the light out of this starter kit, you have the flexibility to choose the fixture that fits your goals without paying for something you might not use.

Confused about lighting? Check out: Guide to Aquarium Lighting: Beginner, Intermediate & Advanced

Can I keep live plants with this kit?

Absolutely. The included substrate and hardscape are plant-friendly, and the gentle filter flow is ideal for small planted tanks. Just make sure to choose a light that supports plant growth and consider using a basic liquid fertilizer or root tabs if needed for the types of plants you select.

Is it normal for the spider wood to float?

Yes, it’s completely normal. Spider wood is naturally buoyant and may float when first placed in your tank. We recommend soaking it in a bucket of water for a few days before setup to help it become waterlogged. If you need to place it right away, you can weigh it down with rocks or other decor until it sinks on its own.

Do I need to cycle my tank before adding fish?

Yes, cycling your tank is an important first step. It allows beneficial bacteria to grow and establish a biological filter that processes harmful ammonia. This usually takes a few weeks, but using the included MicroBacter7 can help speed things up.