Essential Tools needed to start a fishtank

There are many tools needs to start and maintain a healthy environment for your freshwater fish. Some of the tools are obvious while others can often be forgotten. The tools include but are not limited to:

• Fish Tank- Allow one inch of fish per each gallon of water. For example if you have six fish each expected to grow to two inches long you would need at least a twelve gallon tank.
• Filtration System- Be sure to buy the filtration system along with a box of filters making sure they are the right size (usually labeled on the filter box).
• Aeration System- In order to setup a proper aeration system, you will need both air stones,tubes, as well as an air pump. Aeration Systems help to circulate and add oxygen to the water for your fish.
• Substrate (rocks)- Purchase enough rocks to cover the bottom of your fish tank. Putting too many rocks in your fish tank can lead to additional buildup and dirt at the bottom of the tank.
• Structures- These can include castles, fake plants, and other types of approved fixtures. Do not use any live plants or coral as these can contaminate your tank.These structures will give your fish a place to hide and feel secure. 
• Goldfish food- Be sure the food states that it is for goldfish and not tropical fish. The standard food for goldfish usually comes in flake form, however a nice treat for a goldfish is a bottom feeder such as sinking shrimp pellets (Aquarian advanced nutrition). 
• Vacuum Pump- While the filtration system will do a good job of keeping your tank clean, every 3-4 weeks you should use your vacuum pump to do a 1/4-1/3 water change being sure to clean below the rocks and structures. The structures should all be removed and rinsed during this process.
• Water Conditioner & Ammonia Detoxifier
• Bacteria Supplement- A healthy boost for your aquarium.
• PH stablizer- The proper PH of a freshwater aquarium tank is around 7.0.
• Freshwater "Community" Goldfish- Be sure to read the labels of the tanks at the fish store or ask a store associate to ensure your fish are community goldfish and ensure they get along with one another.