“Slow Drip, Stress-Free” Method For Saltwater and Freshwater Fish
⚠️ Attention Customers:
coralSLover® fish come from trusted sources:
Saltwater fish arrive directly from the wholesaler in natural ocean water, which has lower salinity and different conditions than your aquarium. This water is not like the controlled conditions in a home tank. If fish are not properly acclimated, they may die.
Freshwater CaptivFish® and Saltwater CaptivFish® species are typically shipped in water with slightly different parameters than your home aquarium. Improper acclimation can cause stress, disease, or death.
Freshwater fish (imported fish) often come from water conditions very different from your aquarium. These fish require the Slow Drip, Stress-Free Method, the same acclimation process recommended for saltwater species. Following these acclimation steps carefully is essential for the health and survival of your new fish.
Purpose:
Gradually adjusting your fish to your aquarium’s water parameters (temperature, salinity, pH) ensures they thrive in your tank without shock or stress.
coralSLover® Recommendation
Always acclimate in a separate container, not directly in the aquarium.
Delicate or wild-caught species may require longer drip times.
Keep lights low and minimize disturbances during acclimation.
You’ll Need
A clean bucket or container
Airline tubing or small siphon
Clamp or knot to control drip rate
Timer or watch
Step 1: Float & Match Temperature
Float the sealed shipping bag in your aquarium for 10–15 minutes.
This allows the fish to gradually adjust to your tank’s temperature.
Step 2: Prepare the Drip Setup
Transfer your fish into a clean bucket with water from the shipping bag.
Start a siphon using airline tubing from your aquarium to the bucket.
Adjust the drip to 1 drop per second (~2–4 mL/min).
Step 3: Slow Drip Acclimation
Slowly add aquarium water to the bucket over time.
Goal: Double the bucket volume gradually over 1–3 hours, depending on fish sensitivity.
Important: Monitor fish closely. Signs of stress include clamped fins, rapid swimming, or gasping.
This process allows your fish to adjust to higher salinity and aquarium conditions safely.
Step 4: Transfer to Aquarium
Once fully acclimated, gently net the fish into the tank.
Do not pour bucket water into the aquarium—this protects your tank from possible contaminants.
Step 5: Post-Acclimation Care
Observe your fish for 24–48 hours.
Avoid feeding immediately; let your fish settle into their new environment first.
Freshwater CaptivFish®
Float the Bag
Float the sealed bag in your aquarium for 5–10 minutes to match tank temperature.
Gradual Water Addition
Slowly add small amounts of aquarium water to the bag every 2–5 minutes.
Total acclimation time: 15–30 minutes, depending on sensitivity.
Transfer
Gently net the fish into the tank.
Do not pour bag water into the aquarium.
Observation
Monitor for stress: hiding, clamped fins, or unusual behavior.
Provide hiding spots if needed.
Saltwater CaptivFish®
Float the Bag
Float the sealed bag in your saltwater aquarium for 5–10 minutes to match tank temperature.
Gradual Water Addition
Slowly add small amounts of aquarium water to the bag every 2–5 minutes.
For delicate or sensitive species, consider using the Slow Drip, Stress-Free Method instead.
Transfer
Gently net the fish into the tank.
Avoid pouring bag water into the aquarium.
Observation
Monitor for stress: clamped fins, rapid swimming, or gasping.
Provide hiding spots and keep lights low during the first 24 hours.