Tetra STEM Kit Activity Guide

Safety Instructions & Warranty

WARNING: To guard against injury, basic safety precautions should be observed.

DANGER: To avoid possible electric shock, special care should be taken with aquarium equipment. Do not attempt repairs yourself; return the appliance to an authorized service facility or discard it.

• If an appliance falls into water, do not reach for it. Unplug it first, then retrieve it. If electrical components get wet, unplug immediately.
• If the appliance shows any sign of abnormal water leakage, unplug it immediately.
• Examine the appliance after installation. Do not plug it in if water is on parts not intended to be wet.
• Do not operate if the cord or plug is damaged, or if it is malfunctioning, dropped, or damaged.
• To prevent the plug or receptacle from getting wet, position the aquarium and tank to one side of a wall-mounted receptacle. Arrange a "drip loop" for each cord connecting an appliance to a receptacle. The drip loop is the part of the cord below the receptacle's level, preventing water from traveling along the cord. If the plug or receptacle gets wet, do not unplug the cord; disconnect the fuse or circuit breaker first, then unplug and check for water.
• For LED lights, attach the included hanger to the aquarium frame using double-sided tape and insert the cord into the hanger to create a drip loop.
• Close supervision is necessary when any appliance is used by or near children.
• Avoid contact with moving parts or hot parts like heaters or bulbs.
• Always unplug appliances when not in use, before attaching/removing parts, or before cleaning. Grasp the plug, not the cord, to disconnect.
• Use appliances only for their intended purpose.
• Do not install or store appliances where exposed to weather or freezing temperatures.
• Ensure appliances mounted on a tank are securely installed.
• Observe all important notices on the appliance.
• Use extension cords with proper ratings; cords rated lower may overheat. Arrange cords to prevent tripping.
• The appliance has a polarized plug; insert it only one way into a polarized outlet. If it doesn't fit, reverse it. Contact a qualified electrician if it still doesn't fit. Never use with an extension cord unless the plug can be fully inserted.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

For warranty information and product registration, visit www.tetra-fish.com/warranty-registration.aspx. For a free copy of warranty terms, call (800) 526-0650 or mail a request to Spectrum Brands Pet LLC, Attn: Consumer Relations, 3001 Commerce St., Blacksburg, VA 24060.

This warranty is limited to products sold by authorized sellers who adhere to Spectrum Brands' quality control standards. It is not available for products purchased from unauthorized sellers.

LED Light FCC and ICES-005 Compliance: This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to two conditions: (1) it may not cause harmful interference, and (2) it must accept any interference received. Modifications not expressly approved by the responsible party could void the user's authority to operate the equipment. This equipment has been tested and found to comply with Class B digital device limits per Part 15 of the FCC Rules, designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in residential installations. If interference occurs, try reorienting the antenna, increasing separation, connecting to a different circuit, or consulting a dealer/technician.

LED Light Stick Model Numbers: 10 Gallon - AQ-78640; 20 Gallon - AQ-78641

Introduction to Aquatics

Welcome to the amazing world of aquatics! This guide will teach you how to set up an aquarium, care for fish, and test your water. You will learn the science and technology behind aquarium fish, including Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Mechanical Engineering, and how to troubleshoot problems using the scientific method.

Setting up an aquarium involves several steps, and their order is important. This guide outlines what to expect in the first month.

Three Phases of Tank Setup:

• Research
• Setup
• New Tank Cycle

The process involves:

1. Gather supplies
2. Decide what fish to buy
3. Set up aquarium
4. Buy and add fish
5. Monitor aquarium
6. Tank cycles
7. Begin monthly maintenance

Each BOLD word represents an important step in scientific research.

Timeline for First Month:

• Day 1: Read the manual and create a MATERIALS LIST for supplies (gravel, décor, food, water care).
• Day 1: Research fish choices (see page 9 for suggestions).
• Day 1: Set up the aquarium following step-by-step guides, adding water, conditioner, and beneficial bacteria. Test water parameters.
• Day 2: Add fish. Waiting a day allows the aquarium to stabilize temperature and bacteria to colonize.
• Day 4: Test water with a strip and log results. If ammonia is high, perform a small water change and monitor fish for stress.
• Day 7: Retest water. If ammonia is high, replace about 3 gallons (10-gallon tank) or 6 gallons (20-gallon tank).
• Day 7-14: Water may become cloudy as beneficial bacteria bloom; this is normal and should settle.
• Day 10: Retest water and check pH. Perform a water change if levels are high.
• Day 14: Monitor fish. Check the filter cartridge. Begin your growth chart and log DATA.
• Day 30: Test water. Change the filter cartridge. Replace ~3 gallons (10-gal) or 6 gallons (20-gal) of tap water treated with Tetra® AquaSafe®. Add Tetra® EasyBalance® and Tetra® Cleaning Bacteria. Repeat monthly.

Get to Know Your Kit

The Tetra STEM Kit provides essential components for setting up your aquarium. Additional items are needed and are not included.

10 Gallon Kit Contents:

20 Gallon Kit Contents:

Other Items Needed (Not Included):

• Gravel
• Water
• Fish
• Décor
• Bucket
• Siphon
• Additional Medium or Large Cartridges
• Tetra® Food
• Tetra® EasyBalance®
• Tetra® SafeStart™
• Tetra® Cleaning Bacteria
• Tetra® AquaSafe®
• Additional Tetra® EasyStrips™

Spare parts are available through consumer care for Aquarium Filter and LED components.

The experiments in this book are designed to teach basic aquarium keeping and the science behind it. Follow directions closely, and ask an adult for help if needed. Not intended for children under 13. Keep out of reach of children.

Video guides are available on the Tetra® YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/user/TetraFishProducts.

Aquarium Setup Instructions

1. Unbox

   Please recycle packaging if available.

2. Find a Location

   Choose a flat, level, water-resistant surface near an electrical outlet. Avoid placing near heat sources, air conditioners, or direct sunlight to maintain proper temperature and prevent algae growth. Ensure the location can support the aquarium's total weight (a 10-gallon tank can weigh ~100 lb, a 20-gallon ~200 lb when filled). Route all cords correctly.

3. Add Gravel

   Place 1 to 1.5 inches of rinsed gravel in the bottom of the aquarium. This is typically 10 lb for a 10-gallon tank and 20 lb for a 20-gallon tank. Slope the gravel bed from back to front for depth.

4. Add Heater, Air Stone, or Bubble Wand (Optional)

   Route cords near the outlet but do not plug them in yet. Heaters are recommended for tropical fish. Air pumps provide oxygenation. Follow appliance instructions for installation.

5. Fill Aquarium

   Fill the aquarium 2/3 full with room temperature water treated with Tetra® AquaSafe® (5 mL for 10-gal, 10 mL for 20-gal). Use a clean dish on the gravel to avoid disturbing it while filling.

   DO NOT PLUG APPLIANCES IN UNTIL THE AQUARIUM IS FILLED.

6. Add Plants and Décor

   Rinse all plants, rocks, and ornaments before adding them. Place taller plants at the back and shorter ones at the front. Never use household soaps or chemicals.

   Once equipment is installed, fill the aquarium to within 2-3 inches of the top rim with treated water.

7. Final Setup Tips & Adding Fish

   Plug in all equipment, ensuring drip loops are made. Allow the filter to run. Water temperature should stabilize before adding fish.

   Ideal Water Temperatures: Goldfish: 68°F - 72°F; Tropical Fish: 76°F - 82°F.

   Before Adding Fish: Add Tetra® SafeStart™ solution to cycle the aquarium. This introduces beneficial bacteria to reduce fish loss from ammonia and nitrite toxicity.

   Adding Fish: Submerge the transport bag for ~30 minutes to equalize temperature. Gently pour fish into a net, then into the aquarium, discarding bag water. Top off water with treated water.

   Test aquarium water with Tetra® EasyStrips™ and use the Tetra My Aquarium Connected app for recommendations.

Aquarium Maintenance

Water changes remove impurities like waste, uneaten food, and ammonia. A 30% water change takes about 30 minutes every 30 days.

Supplies Needed:

• Bucket
• Siphon
• Clean Cartridge
• Tetra® EasyBalance®
• Tetra® Cleaning Bacteria
• Tetra® AquaSafe®

How to Do a Water Change:

1. Unplug all aquarium equipment.
2. Use a siphon to clean gravel and remove 30% of the water (approx. 3 gallons for a 10-gal tank, 6 gallons for a 20-gal tank).
3. Dump water into a toilet or flower garden. Note: Never dump aquarium water into a sink used for food preparation, a storm drain, or a natural waterway. Ask an adult for help if carrying is difficult.
4. Rinse plants and décor if needed, and return them to the aquarium.
5. Refill the bucket with clean, room temperature water and treat with 1 tsp Tetra® AquaSafe® (5 mL) per 10 gallons (38 L).
6. Add 1 tsp Tetra® EasyBalance® (5 mL) per 5 gallons of aquarium volume and 1 tsp Tetra® Cleaning Bacteria (5 mL) per 5 gallons of aquarium volume (use 10 mL for 10-gal, 20 mL for 20-gal tanks).
7. Change filter media (use Medium Tetra® Stay Clean™ cartridges for 10-gal, Large for 20-gal).
8. Plug aquarium equipment back in.

How to Choose Fish for Your Aquarium

Fish size impacts aquarium needs and food requirements. Tracking growth helps ensure fish are thriving.

Fish Types & Stocking:

• Betta Aquarium: 1 male betta or 2 female bettas. Do not mix males.
• Community Aquarium: 8-10 fish for a 10-gallon tank; 15-20 fish for a 20-gallon tank.
• Goldfish Aquarium: 1 common goldfish or up to 2 for a 20-gallon tank.
• GloFish® Aquarium: 8-10 fish for a 10-gallon tank; 15-20 fish for a 20-gallon tank.

TIP: Ensure at least 1 gallon of water per inch of fish. You may need a larger aquarium as fish mature.

Biology

Nutrition

Fish nutrition varies; some need more protein or algae. Generally, fish require a balanced diet with vitamins, minerals, proteins, carbs, and fat.

Did You Know?

Fish mouth shape determines where they eat: upward-facing mouths eat at the surface, downward-facing mouths eat at the bottom, and middle-positioned mouths eat in the middle of the tank.

Types of Food:

Choose food based on where fish prefer to eat:

• Floating food: For top-feeders.
• Slow-sinking food: For mid-feeders (e.g., Granules, Flakes, Pellets).
• Sinking food: For bottom-feeders and grazers (e.g., Tablets, Wafers, Crisps, Sticks, Gel Food).

Fish Anatomy:

Did You Know?

Overfeeding is a common cause of dirty water and fish death. Feed only what fish can eat in 2-3 minutes. Fish have distinct personalities.

The Nitrogen Cycle:

Chemistry

Water

Tap water contains minerals but also chlorine, which is toxic to fish and bacteria. Chlorine must be removed before adding water to the aquarium. Follow dechlorinator instructions carefully.

Did You Know?

Well water may lack necessary minerals or have incorrect pH levels, potentially requiring pH adjusters or freshwater aquarium salt.

The Science Behind Test Strips:

Regular water testing maintains a healthy environment. Use Tetra® EasyStrips™ during monthly maintenance. Test weekly if needed.

How to Use a Test Strip:

1. Remove one strip, holding the end with no pads. Close the lid tightly.
2. Dip the strip into water for one second and remove.
3. Hold the strip level for 60 seconds for colors to develop.
4. Compare colors to the included scale to determine water safety.

Using a Test Strip with Our Water Care App:

The Tetra My Aquarium Connected app simplifies tracking and understanding water test results. Select your aquarium type and water source, then follow instructions for using the Tetra® 6-in-1 EasyStrips™. Use the app's timer for accurate processing and enter results for recommendations.

Physics

Converting Electricity into Heat

Aquarium heaters use electrical current passed through a coil to generate heat, which is transferred to the water via convection. An internal thermostat regulates temperature.

Types of Heat Transfer:

• Convective: Heat transfer via fluid movement (e.g., water circulation).
• Conductive: Heat transfer through direct particle contact (e.g., across the aquarium wall).
• Radiation: Energy emission via waves or particles (e.g., from high-intensity lights).
• Evaporation: Heat loss through evaporation.

What's a Watt?

A watt measures power, or the rate of energy transfer. A 50-watt heater consumes energy at 50 watts.

Did You Know?

Fish are cold-blooded; their body temperature matches the aquarium water. Room temperature affects the required heater wattage (e.g., cooler rooms need higher wattage). Good circulation maintains uniform water temperatures.

Mechanical Engineering

Why Maintaining Correct Temperature is Important:

Stable temperatures strengthen fish immune systems. Temperature affects nutrition (higher temps increase metabolism), beneficial bacteria health, and ammonia toxicity. High temperatures reduce dissolved oxygen.

Tropical fish typically need water around 78°F. Heaters are rated by gallon size; a general rule is 5 watts per gallon.

What is a Hertz (Hz)?

A hertz is one cycle per second. Rotational frequency is often measured in Revolutions Per Minute (RPM). At 60 Hz, impeller blades spin at 3600 RPM.

How a Filter Works:

1. Electrical current creates a magnetic field.
2. The magnetic field causes the impeller to rotate, drawing water in.
3. The impeller pushes water up through the filter.
4. Water flows through floss, trapping debris.
5. Water flows through carbon, removing odors and discoloration.
6. Filtered water exits.

Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting Your Aquarium:

• Filter Fails to Pump/Flow Slows: Check if the cartridge is clogged (replace if so) or if the water level is adequate. Ensure the power outlet is working and restart the impeller. Check the impeller for debris.
• Filter Makes Noise: Ensure the pump is not running dry (check water levels). Check for clogged cartridges or if the motor is against a wall. Clean or replace the impeller if needed.
• Fish Appears Sick: Isolate sick fish to prevent infection. Remove the filter cartridge when medicating, as carbon can adsorb medication.
• Water Flowing Over Filter: Change the cartridge.
• LED Light Seems Dim: Wipe the LED light cover with a clean, wet cloth.
• Water Appears Cloudy: Cloudy water after two weeks is normal (beneficial bacteria bloom). If it persists after a week, replace the cartridge or perform a water change. Test water for issues.

Using the Scientific Method:

When encountering problems like fish disease or algae, use the scientific method:

1. Identify the problem: E.g., ICH (white spots on fish).
2. Research the topic: Consult books, online resources, or retailers.
3. Hypothesis: Predict the cause of the problem.
4. Experiment: Test the hypothesis (e.g., use medication, remembering to remove carbon filter media).
5. Analysis: Observe and record results.
6. Conclusion: Determine if the problem was resolved. Repeat the process if necessary.

Tetra Care Support: Call 1-800-423-6458 for free online and phone support, advice, and reminders.

Aquarium Maintenance Log

A log is provided to track maintenance tasks such as unplugging equipment, siphoning water, rinsing décor, adding treated water, testing water, adding supplements, changing filters, and turning equipment back on. Includes a notes section.

Growth Chart

A chart is provided to track fish growth over weeks, allowing for drawings/descriptions and recording total inches of fish.

Water Test Log

A log is provided to record water parameters like Nitrate, Nitrite, Hardness, Chlorine, Alkalinity, pH, and Ammonia. Includes a guide for safe ranges.

Notes

Blank pages for personal notes and observations.