This is the freshwater gear I use or recommend in the Chaos Aquatics fish room in Colorado, where our tap water runs hard. It covers the filters, heaters, substrate, foods and extras that keep my tanks running, plus a few fun pieces. Product details and prices change, so check the listing before you buy.
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Filtration & Air
Fluval 407 Performance Canister Filter
A canister filter that sits outside the tank and runs mechanical, biological and chemical media for larger aquariums.
hygger Sponge Filter (20–55 gal)
An air-driven sponge filter. Gentle flow and safe for fry and shrimp, which makes it a breeding-tank staple.
Heating
hygger 100W Aquarium Heater
A small submersible heater with an external controller and LED display, sized for tanks up to about 20 gallons.
Substrate
CaribSea Super Naturals Premium Substrate
A natural-looking gravel and sand substrate for a clean, natural look.
CaribSea Super Naturals Sand: Moonlight White
A bright white sand for a clean, light-colored bottom.
Food
Hikari Vibra Bites Blood Worms
A bloodworm-shaped food for fish that love worms but where you’d rather skip frozen.
Fluval Bug Bites Bottom Feeder
Sinking insect-based granules made for cories and other bottom feeders.
Water Care
Extras
Zoo Med Betta Leaf Hammock
A leaf that suction-cups near the surface so bettas have a place to rest.
Thrills & Chills Ghost Bubbler
A ghost ornament that runs off an air pump. Pure fun, especially around Halloween.
Support the Fish Room
If you enjoy following along and want to help the fish room grow, my Amazon wish list has the things I’m saving up for. Every bit helps, and thank you!
