Beginner’s Guide: Setting Up Your First biOrb Freshwater Aquarium

Whether you’re new to fishkeeping or transitioning from a traditional tank, the biOrb freshwater aquarium offers a stylish, all-in-one solution that’s perfect for beginners. With their distinctive globe or cube design, built-in filtration, and modern aesthetics, biOrb tanks are both functional and beautiful. In this beginner’s guide, we’ll walk you through every step of setting up your first biOrb freshwater aquarium—from unboxing to adding your first fish.

Why Choose a biOrb Aquarium for Freshwater Fish?

biOrb aquariums are known for their sleek, minimalist designs and user-friendly features. Whether you’ve chosen the biOrb CLASSIC, TUBE, FLOW, or LIFE, each model includes:

• Integrated 5-stage filtration

• LED lighting for visual appeal and plant growth

• Durable acrylic construction, which is 10x stronger than glass

• Modular design with plug-and-play setup

Ideal for beginners, biOrb tanks simplify fishkeeping without compromising quality or beauty.

Step 1: Unboxing and Identifying Components

Once your biOrb tank arrives, inspect the box contents. You should find:

• The acrylic tank (globe or square depending on model)

• Air pump and airline tubing

• Filter cartridge and media (ceramic)

• Air stone and bubble tube

• LED lighting system (standard or MCR remote control version)

• Power adapter and connectors

• Instruction manual

✅ Tip: Handle the acrylic surface with care to avoid scratches. Use only biOrb-approved cleaning pads.

Step 2: Choosing the Right Location

Placement is crucial. Follow these guidelines to choose a safe, stable home for your tank:

• Flat surface away from direct sunlight (to reduce algae growth)

• Near a power source for the pump and lighting

• Avoid areas with vibration or high foot traffic

• Use a biOrb stand or robust piece of furniture—ensure the surface can support the full weight when filled

Step 3: Setting Up Your biOrb Freshwater Aquarium

1. Rinse the Ceramic Media

• Place the ceramic media at the bottom of the tank

• Rinse gently with tap water to remove any dust—do not use soap

2. Install the Filter

• Attach the air stone to the bubble tube

• Insert the filter cartridge over the bubble tube, seated snugly in the centre of the media

3. Add Décor and Plants

• Choose lightweight, non-sharp décor suited for biOrb tanks

• biOrb’s own ornament collections are designed to fit around the bubble tube

• Use plastic or silk plants or carefully chosen live freshwater species

🌿 Tip: Avoid heavy stones or décor not designed for acrylic tanks—they may scratch or damage the base.

Step 4: Filling with Water and Treatment

• Fill the aquarium with room-temperature tap water, slowly to avoid disturbing the filter media

• Add a biOrb Water Conditioner to remove chlorine and harmful chemicals

• Optionally, add a biOrb Beneficial Bacteria Booster to accelerate tank cycling

Let the water stand for 24–48 hours with the pump and filter running to allow it to reach a stable temperature and begin the nitrogen cycle.

Step 5: Plug In and Check Systems

• Connect the air pump to the airline and check for gentle bubbling

• Power on the LED light unit (use MCR remote to adjust modes if available)

• Observe for even circulation—this promotes oxygenation and filter efficiency

Step 6: Understanding the Nitrogen Cycle

Before adding fish, your biOrb needs to cycle—this means allowing beneficial bacteria to grow, which helps convert toxic ammonia into safer nitrate.

• Add fish food sparingly to kick-start the cycle (if no bacteria booster is used)

• Test ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate using a freshwater test kit

• Wait until ammonia and nitrite levels are at zero before adding fish—this may take 1–3 weeks

🧪 Add fish slowly—1–2 at a time—to avoid overwhelming the filter during the early weeks.

Step 7: Adding Your First Freshwater Fish

When your cycle is complete:

• • Guppies

  • Neon Tetras

  • White Cloud Mountain Minnows

  • Cherry Shrimp or Snails (in smaller tanks)

    Start with hardy beginner fish such as:

    
    

     

• Avoid overstocking—use the general rule: 1 inch of fish per gallon (4.5L)

🐟 biOrb 15L tanks suit nano fish or shrimp. For communities, 30L–60L models offer more options.

Step 8: Regular Maintenance Tips

Even low-maintenance setups need care:

• Weekly:

  • Top up evaporated water with dechlorinated water

  • Check pump airflow and lighting

   

• Every 4–6 weeks:

  • Replace the filter cartridge

  • Rinse ceramic media gently in tank water

  • Use a biOrb-safe acrylic cleaner to wipe the inside walls

   

• Every 2–3 months:

  • Partial water change (20–30%)

  • Trim live plants or rearrange décor as needed

   

Common Setup Mistakes to Avoid

Conclusion

Setting up a biOrb freshwater aquarium is a rewarding experience, especially for beginners looking for a simple, stylish, and effective aquarium solution. By following this guide step by step, you’ll create a thriving aquatic environment that’s both beautiful and healthy for your fish.