MastahBettaβs 12-Step Drip Acclimation Procedure :
This is what we found was the best acclimation method for all new fish. If you donβt acclimate your fish this way, it may not be covered by our insurance policy.
1. Prepare a clean acclimation container that is large enough for the fish to swim comfortably and make complete turns without touching the sides.
2. Securely cover the acclimation container to prevent the fish from jumping out. Make sure there is enough ventilation and space for the air stone and airline tubing.
3. Carefully open the shipping bag and pour the fish and all bag water into the acclimation container.
4. Add a few drops of aquarium water conditioner to help neutralize ammonia in the shipping water. Follow the conditionerβs label instructions and avoid overdosing.
5. Place an air stone in the acclimation container to provide gentle aeration throughout the entire acclimation process.
6. Use airline tubing to create a siphon from the main aquarium into the acclimation container.
7. Tie a loose knot in the airline tubing, or use an airline control valve, to adjust the flow to approximately one drop per second.
8. Allow water from the main aquarium to slowly drip into the acclimation container for 3 hours. Check the fish periodically for signs of stress and make sure they remain securely contained.
9. After 3 hours, compare the temperature of the acclimation water with the temperature of the main aquarium.
10. If the main aquarium is heated or the temperatures are noticeably different, place the fish and enough acclimation water to comfortably cover them into a clean fish bag. Seal the bag and float it in the main aquarium for an additional 20 minutes.
11. Gently net the fish from the acclimation container or floating bag and place them into the aquarium.
12. Add the recommended dosage of beneficial bacteria, such as Seachem Stability, directly to the main aquarium according to the productβs label instructions.
Aftercare Instructions :
Keep the aquarium lights off for the first 24 hours to help reduce stress.
Do not feed the newly introduced fish for the first 24 hours.
Never pour shipping bag water or acclimation container water into the aquarium. Discard all remaining water after the fish have been transferred.
Quarantine and Health Notice :
Introducing new fish directly into your main aquarium is done at the customerβs own risk.
MastahBetta Fish Shop quarantines, fasts, observes, and treats all fish before they are sent to customers. However, the stress caused by prolonged transportation, transfer, acclimation, and adjustment to a new environment may weaken a fishβs immune system.
Stress-related illnesses, including ich and bacterial infections, may appear after the fish have been introduced into your aquarium, even when the fish appeared healthy before transport.
For the health and protection of your existing fish, we strongly recommend placing all newly received fish into a separate, fully cycled quarantine aquarium for at least one week before transferring them into the main aquarium.
The quarantine aquarium should include :
β’ Fully cycled biological filtration
β’ Stable and appropriate water temperature
β’ A secure lid to prevent jumping
β’ Enough space for the fish to swim and turn comfortably
β’ A layer of aquarium-safe sand. Make sure the sand used in the quarantine tank is the same sand used in your main tank. Be mindful that coral sand can raise pH. If you dont have coral sand in your main tank, use inert aquarium sand that wont alter pH.
β’ Aquarium-safe ornaments, caves, or other structures that provide shelter and reduce environmental stress
Live plants are not required in the quarantine aquarium because medications may need to be used during the quarantine period.
Closely observe the fish throughout quarantine for changes in appetite, behavior, breathing, coloration, swimming, or physical appearance. Do not transfer the fish into the main aquarium if any signs of illness are present.