Biorb tanks are different, in several ways, from standard aquariums. So, even if you have set up a fish tank before, if you are a first time Biorb or Biube owner, you will need to know some basic differences before you set up your tank.
Biorb and Biube tanks now come in many sizes and different shapes. Whether you are starting a small one, or a larger one, these instructions will help you treat your Biorb or Biube correctly. One of the best things about these tanks is how lightweight and surprisingly durable they are.

Acrylic is much lighter than glass, but at the same time less breakable. Carrying your Biorb or Biube tank full of water is actually possible. Even the 16 gallon tank full of water is only 132 pounds, a weight that can be carried by most men.

The Biorb or Biube tank comes with filter, air pump, halogen light, water conditioner, ceramic media and fish food all included. Check to make sure that, as listed in the instructions, all pieces are there. Start by treating the water. It usually needs to sit overnight.

Put the air stone where the instructions indicate and gently press it in. Then, the filtration unit needs to be placed over the air stone. Tighten this by turning it counter-clockwise until it is firmly placed.

Then, make sure the ceramic media has been rinsed and place that around the filter on the bottom. Place some of the treated water into the tank, just above the bottom, so you can still place your decorations.

Pour in the bottom decoration you have chosen, like stones or pebbles. But gravel and sand are not appropriate for the bottom filter, in a Biorb or Biube, as they could clog it. Now you can place your decorations and finish pouring in the water. After about 24 hours running, you can test the pH and see if it is safe to add your fish.

Biorb and Biube fish tanks are well-known for their aesthetic appeal. While they have additional benefits of being more self-maintaining and easier to clean than other tanks, most people are drawn to these unusual tanks because they are so much more attractive than a typical tank. Biorbs and Biubes can be a focal point and conversation piece in any room.

With its aesthetic qualities being so important to a fish owner, decorating your Biorb or Biube fish tank can either be the pinnacle of your new visual centerpiece, or look like a decorating disaster, depending on your choices. Start with the basic look you are going for.

Keep this plan in mind when you select plants for the tank. What color scheme would you like for your substrate? You could choose natural colors like browns, blues, and greens, or perhaps monochromatic decorations with black and white.
One thing to remember is that even decorating isn’t just about beauty. Using gravel as a substrate, for example, can help maintain healthy bacteria in the water. Fish thrive in a well-decorated tank because their environment feels more natural. Lower stress and more comfort lead to healthier fish. Fish feel exposed and in danger when they dwell in a sparsely decorated tank.

Real plants can add natural filtration while colorful pre-made decorations can add personality. Avoid using real shells, as they can slowly raise the pH level of the water. It is recommended that you only use items manufactured especially for aquarium use.

As long as you provide sufficient cover for your fish (with about one 1/2 to 3/4 of the tank floor providing shelter) the color choices are up to you. And once you have placed the decorations, remember to treat the water and let it sit for 24 hours before introducing any fish.

Lighting is a part of setting up a Biorb or Biube tank to which many people do not give sufficient attention. All lights are created equal, right? Well, with fish tanks, light is more than just a way to view the fish. Light actually affects the temperature and even the algae growth in the tank.

There are different types of lighting you can choose from, for your fish tank. Starting with LED lighting, these bulbs rarely require replacement. The light from an LED lamp is usually dim enough that it can be used overnight. Nocturnal fish will feel at home with the night-like atmosphere. Lunar LED lights mimic the look of moonlight over the water.

Fluorescent bulbs are perhaps the most common lighting used in fish tanks. They will not generally cause a problem with heat, and can be found readily when replacement is required. Fluorescent lights, like LEDs, save energy over other types of bulbs.

However, fluorescent lights can encourage algae growth. Those tank owners who leave their aquarium lights on may be surprised that only days after cleaning, they are noticing algae spots and murkier water. It is recommended that this type of lighting be turned on only for the periods of time it is used and left off most of the day.

Finally, specialty lighting is available for those who want to actually house a miniature reef inside their aquarium. Metal halide aquarium lighting provides superior intensity for maintaining coral, than LED or fluorescent lights. Coral requires so much light, that owners should plan on one bulb for every 4 square feet of tank water.

With metal halide aquarium lights, the heat produced can significantly raise the temperature of the water. So, using a fan system designed for tanks with this lighting will help. Also, turning the lights off for the recommended 12 hours per day (or night) can help keep the tank from overheating. Planning the right lights for your tank can save you a great deal of cleaning, frustration, and expense.