Summary of What technique/procedure do you use to acclimate new fish to your tank?
- How long do fish need to acclimate?
- How do I acclimate my fish?
- How long should a fish tank sit before putting fish in it?
Search Results
AI Overview
AI Overview
To acclimate fish, use the Floating Method (float bag for temp, then slowly add tank water to bag over 30-60 mins before netting fish into tank, discarding bag water) or the quicker “Plop and Drop” (float bag for temp, net fish into tank, discard bag water) for hardier fish, ensuring lights are off to reduce stress. The more gradual Drip Method (using airline tubing to slowly add tank water to a separate bucket with the fish) is best for sensitive saltwater species or invertebrates, as it slowly adjusts pH and salinity. Always discard the shipping water to avoid introducing pathogens or ammonia spikes into your tank.
Method 1: Floating & Water Addition (Recommended for most Freshwater)
Turn Off Lights: Dim or turn off your aquarium lights to minimize stress.
Float the Bag: Place the sealed bag in the tank for 15-20 minutes to equalize temperature.
Add Water: Open the bag, roll down the sides, and add about 1/2 cup of tank water to the bag; wait 10-15 minutes.
Repeat: Add another 1/2 cup of tank water every 10-15 minutes (repeat 3-4 times) until the bag volume roughly doubles.
Release: Gently net the fish from the bag into the tank, ensuring you do not pour the bag water into your aquarium.
Method 2: Plop & Drop (For Hardy Fish)
Temperature Acclimate: Float the sealed bag for 15-20 minutes as above.
Transfer Fish: Turn off lights, open the bag, use a net to catch the fish, and place them directly into the tank.
Discard Water: Throw away the shipping water.
This video demonstrates the “Plop and Drop” method for acclimating fish:
52s
Cichlid Bros
YouTube · Nov 8, 2025
Method 3: Drip Acclimation (For Sensitive Saltwater/Inverts)
Set Up: Place fish in a clean bucket, float the bag in the bucket, and set up an airline tube drip line from the tank to the bucket (use a knot to slow flow).
Drip: Let the water drip slowly (2-4 drips per second) for an hour or more, adjusting flow and removing some water from the bucket as needed.
Release: Gently net the fish into the tank (again, discard bucket water).
This video shows how to set up and perform a drip acclimation:
55s
Dmm
YouTube · Oct 10, 2016
Key Tips
Turn off lights: during acclimation to reduce stress.
Never add shipping water: to your tank; it contains waste and can have dangerous pH swings when opened.
Never rush: the process; patience prevents stress and illness.
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