Acclimation Guide

Guide to Unpackaging and Acclimating Ornamental Fish, Shrimp, Snails, and Live Foods

Congratulations on receiving your new aquatic companions! Properly unpackaging and acclimating your ornamental fish, shrimp, snails, and live foods is crucial to ensuring their smooth transition into their new environment. Follow these steps to provide them with the best possible start:

Unpackaging:
1. Prepare Your Work Area: Find a clean and well-lit area to unpack your aquatic companions. Ensure you have all the necessary equipment ready, including a clean container, a net, airline, pH tester, thermometer, a camera, and a flashlight.

2. Turn Off Lights: Before opening the packaging, dim the lights in your aquarium to reduce stress on the new arrivals.

3. Begin Filming: Set your camera to film the unboxing in the rare event there is something wrong with the package and you need to file a claim or request a refund/replacement of live animals.

4. Open the Package with Care: Gently open the packaging, being cautious not to disturb the water inside. Avoid using sharp objects to cut open the box as this may puncture the bag(s) containing your aquatic buddies. If the packaging contains a heat or cold pack, remove it carefully and discard.

5. Inspect Your Companions: Use a flashlight to check the condition of your fish, shrimp, snails, or live foods. Look for any signs of damage, stress, or illness. Pay attention to their behavior and appearance. You may stop filming now.

6. Float the Bag: For fish, shrimp, and snails, place the closed bag gently on the surface of your aquarium water. Allow it to float for about 15-20 minutes. This helps the water temperature in the bag adjust gradually to your tank.

7. Open the Bag: After floating, open the bag and let a small amount of water from your aquarium slowly mix with the water in the bag. Repeat this process a few times over 5-10 minutes to help the aquatic companions acclimate to your tank's water chemistry. Dump the contents of the bag into the aquarium or use a net to transfer your animals from the bag into the aquarium and discard the bag water.

As an alternative, you have the option of utilizing the drip acclimation method to ensure a proper match of temperature and water parameters. This method is particularly recommended for shrimps, and it involves a gradual process over the span of an hour. Here's how you can go about it:

1. Relocate the Animals: Place your new aquatic companions and their water into a larger container than the bag they arrived in. Position this container below the water level of their intended new tank.

2. The Dripper: For the drip acclimation, you can fashion a simple setup using a scrap piece of airline tubing. Knot one end of the tubing or attach an air valve to the end. This will facilitate a slow and controlled drip of water from your aquarium into the container.

3.Drip Drip Drip: Allow the drip to proceed for about an hour. This gradual introduction of water from your tank will help your new aquatic friends acclimate comfortably.

4. Measure: Once the temperature and pH levels have harmonized between your aquarium and the container, you're ready to proceed.

5. Make the Move: Use a net to carefully transfer your animals from the container to their new tank. This method ensures a smooth transition, promoting the well-being of your new companions as they settle into their fresh aquatic environment. Discard the water in the secondary container.

5. Observation: After acclimation, closely observe your new arrivals for any signs of stress, illness, or compatibility issues with existing tank inhabitants. Keep the lights dim for the first few hours to help reduce stress. It is encouraged to film any suspect behavior within the first 48 hours after arrival.

Remember, each species may have specific acclimation requirements, so research their needs beforehand. Providing a stress-free transition will give your aquatic companions the best chance for a healthy and successful introduction to their new home.

If you have any questions or concerns during the unpackaging and acclimation process, feel free to reach out to us at [customer support email]. We're here to help ensure the well-being of your aquatic companions and provide a rewarding experience for both you and your new aquatic friends.

Quarantine Procedure

At ADHD Aquatics, we care about the health and well-being of your aquatic companions. To ensure a smooth transition and the best possible environment for your new fish and shrimp, we recommend following this quarantine procedure:

1. Isolation Tank Setup: Prepare a separate quarantine or isolation tank that is fully cycled and equipped with a heater, filter, and hiding spots. Ensure the tank parameters match your main tank as closely as possible, including temperature, pH, and water hardness.

2. Quarantine Duration: Introduce your new fish or shrimp to the isolation tank and allow them to acclimate for a minimum of 2 to 4 weeks. This period helps to identify any potential health issues and prevent the introduction of diseases into your main aquarium.

3. Observation: During the quarantine period, closely observe the behavior, eating habits, and appearance of your new aquatic additions. Look for signs of stress, disease, or any abnormalities. It's crucial to catch and address any issues before introducing them to your main tank.

4. Medication and Treatment: If you notice any signs of illness, consult with a veterinarian or aquatic expert to diagnose and treat the issue. Administer any necessary medications or treatments in the isolation tank to prevent the spread of disease.

5. Water Changes and Testing: Perform regular water changes and monitor water parameters in the isolation tank. This helps maintain optimal water quality and reduce stress on your fish or shrimp.

6. Compatibility Testing: If you plan to introduce new fish or shrimp to an existing community tank, observe their behavior in the isolation tank to assess compatibility. This step helps prevent aggression and maintains harmony in your main aquarium.

7. Gradual Introduction: After the quarantine period, gradually acclimate your fish or shrimp to your main tank using methods like drip acclimation. Monitor their behavior during introduction to ensure a smooth transition.

By following this quarantine procedure, you provide your new fish and shrimp with a safe and healthy environment, minimizing the risk of disease and stress. This practice contributes to the overall well-being of your aquatic ecosystem and enhances your enjoyment of your aquarium hobby.

For any questions or guidance during the quarantine process, feel free to reach out to our dedicated support team at adhdaquatics.com. Your aquatic companions' health is our top priority.