Bring Your Own Aquarium Freshwater Starter Kit - 40 Gallon Breeder

A Starter Kit Ideal for Standard 40 Gallon Breeder Aquariums

• Just add Your 40 Gallon Breeder Aquarium (not included)
• Includes Reliable Equipment Chosen by Experienced Aquarists
• Perfect for First-Time Aquarium Hobbyists
• Easy to Set Up and Maintain

The Bring Your Own Aquarium Freshwater Starter Kit is the perfect launchpad for anyone ready to dive into freshwater aquariums using a standard 40 gallon breeder glass tank from a local pet store. We handpicked reliable, beginner-friendly components that make it easy to establish and maintain a stable freshwater environment without the headaches of researching and selecting individual components.

What's Included?

LiBERTY 200 Power Filter: Hang-on-back filter that delivers mechanical and biological filtration with adjustable flow up to 200 GPH. Includes filter cartridges and sponges for easy maintenance.

Why we picked it: It’s easy to use, quiet, and effective. The adjustable flow makes it a great choice for a variety of fish, from active swimmers to delicate species.

AquaReady Preset 200W Heater: Pre-set to 77°F, ideal for maintaining stable temperatures without any need for adjustments.

Why we picked it: It’s beginner-friendly, powerful enough for tanks up to 60 gallons, and removes the guesswork of setting your own temp.

Peace River Substrate (40 lbs): Fine gravel-like substrate with natural tones of brown, tan, black, and red. Smooth texture with a 1-2 mm grain size that is safe for bottom-dwelling fish. Includes a packet of live bacteria to support faster cycling.

Why we picked it: It looks great, supports beneficial bacteria, and is gentle on fish like Corydoras or loaches that spend time near the bottom.

(2x) Spider Wood (12-23 Inches): Two pieces of natural driftwood with branching shapes that add depth and shelter to your aquascape.

Why we picked it: It’s both decorative and practical. It gives fish and shrimp places to hide and makes a great anchor for moss and plants.

MicroBacter7 (125 ml): Biological additive that seeds your aquarium with beneficial bacteria to establish the nitrogen cycle.

Why we picked it: It helps your tank cycle faster and promotes long-term biological stability right from the start.

Prime Water Conditioner (100 ml): Removes chlorine and chloramine while detoxifying ammonia and nitrite.

Why we picked it: It instantly makes tap water safe for fish and is one of the most trusted water conditioners in the hobby.

Stick-On Thermometer: Quick and easy way to monitor tank temperature. No batteries or calibration required.

Why we picked it: It’s simple to use, easy to read, and gives you peace of mind at a glance.

Pellet Fish Food: Staple diet formulated for popular freshwater fish.

Why we picked it: It’s a reliable starter food that works well for a wide variety of beginner-friendly species.

Frequently Asked Questions

What about lighting?

Lighting is one of the most personal and important choices in any aquarium, especially if you're planning to grow live plants. That’s why we’ve left it out of this kit. Whether you're setting up a simple fish-only tank or aiming for a planted aquascape, your lighting needs will vary depending on the types of plants, tank layout, and your goals for growth and aesthetics. From basic LED fixtures to full-spectrum plant lights with timers and dimming features, the best light for your setup is the one that supports your specific vision. By leaving the light out of this starter kit, you have the flexibility to choose the fixture that fits your goals without paying for something you might not use.

Confused about lighting? Check out: Guide to Aquarium Lighting: Beginner, Intermediate & Advanced

Can I keep live plants with this kit?

Absolutely. The included substrate and hardscape are plant-friendly, and the gentle filter flow is ideal for small planted tanks. Just make sure to choose a light that supports plant growth and consider using a basic liquid fertilizer or root tabs if needed for the types of plants you select.

Is it normal for the spider wood to float?

Yes, it’s completely normal. Spider wood is naturally buoyant and may float when first placed in your tank. We recommend soaking it in a bucket of water for a few days before setup to help it become waterlogged. If you need to place it right away, you can weigh it down with rocks or other decor until it sinks on its own.

Do I need to cycle my tank before adding fish?

Yes, cycling your tank is an important first step. It allows beneficial bacteria to grow and establish a biological filter that processes harmful ammonia. This usually takes a few weeks, but using the included MicroBacter7 can help speed things up.