Fish Acclimation

How to Acclimate New Fish

Getting a new fish home is exciting, but a simple acclimation process helps reduce unnecessary stress during the move into its new aquarium. Wet Pets recommends the Float & Drop Method.

Wet Pets Recommended Method: Float & Drop
Float the sealed bag to equalize temperature, then transfer the fish directly into the aquarium without adding the transport water.
1
Dim the Lights Reduce stress
2
Float the Bag Match temperature
3
Transfer the Fish Do not add bag water
4
Let It Settle Give the fish time
1

Dim the Aquarium Lights

Turn the aquarium lights off or dim them before introducing the new fish. A darker aquarium can help reduce stress and may also reduce attention from established tankmates.

Make sure the aquarium is ready before opening the transport bag.

2

Float the Sealed Bag

Place the sealed bag in the aquarium and allow it to float. This gradually brings the temperature of the transport water closer to the aquarium temperature.

Float approximately 15–20 minutes
Keep the bag sealed while floating. There is no need to repeatedly add aquarium water to the transport bag.
3

Open the Bag & Transfer the Fish

After the temperature has equalized, open the bag and transfer the fish into the aquarium.

DO
Transfer the fish into the aquarium while leaving the transport water behind.
DON'T
Pour the transport water from the bag into your aquarium.
Once the bag is opened, complete the transfer promptly. Avoid leaving the fish sitting in an opened transport bag for an extended period.
4

Let the Fish Settle In

Keep the aquarium lights dim or off for a while after introduction and give the new fish time to find a comfortable place in the aquarium.

Hiding, being cautious, or showing little interest in food immediately after introduction can be normal. Avoid repeatedly disturbing the fish while it settles in.

Why does Wet Pets recommend Float & Drop?
The goal is to equalize temperature and move the fish out of transport water without unnecessarily extending the time it spends in the bag. Keeping the process simple also reduces handling and prevents transport water from being added to the aquarium.

The First 24 Hours

A newly introduced fish may behave differently while becoming accustomed to its new surroundings.

Hiding Can Be Normal Give the fish time to become comfortable and explore on its own.
Don't Overfeed Offer a small amount of appropriate food after the fish has had time to settle. Do not continually add food if it does not eat.
Watch Tankmates Observe established fish for chasing or excessive aggression toward the newcomer.
Watch for signs that something may be wrong:
  • Persistent rapid or labored breathing
  • Loss of balance or inability to swim normally
  • Severe or continuous aggression from tankmates
  • White spots, unusual coating, sores or other visible abnormalities
  • Fish remaining at the surface and struggling to breathe

Acclimation cannot correct unsuitable aquarium conditions. Before bringing home new livestock, make sure the aquarium is fully cycled and that temperature, salinity or freshwater chemistry are appropriate for the species being introduced. If you are unsure whether a fish is appropriate for your aquarium, ask Wet Pets Aquatics before taking it home.