Water Conditioner
Seachem Prime makes new tap water safe before it enters the aquarium. Use it at setup and every water change.
Freshwater Aquarium Care
New tank chemicals: what to use and when.
Start with safe tap water, a plan to cycle your aquarium, and regular testing. Use medicines only for a known problem and follow every label.
Quick Reference
Set up safely. Maintain simply.
Save this guide for water changes, new-tank setup, and when you are not sure what belongs in your aquarium.
Important: Always use products according to their labels. Do not mix medications or add treatments without checking compatibility with your fish, plants, shrimp, snails, and filtration. Ask Gigi if you are unsure.
Shop The Poster
New-tank chemical essentials.
Use one conditioner and one bacteria starter. The remaining products are only for the situations listed below.
Water Conditioner
API Stress Coat is another water-conditioner choice. Use it instead of Prime, not as a required second conditioner.
Beneficial Bacteria
Seachem Stability supports biological filtration while a new aquarium is cycling.
Beneficial Bacteria
API Quick Start is another bacteria-starter option. Choose it or Stability for your new-tank plan.
Water Testing
API Freshwater Master Test Kit checks ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, and pH so you can see what is happening during cycling and maintenance.
Emergency Ammonia Help
Seachem AmGuard is for a tested ammonia emergency. It is temporary support, not a replacement for water changes and fixing the cause.
pH Adjustment
Use API pH products or Seachem buffers only after testing and only when your fish need it. Stable water is usually better than chasing a number.
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