You may wish to add some or all of the items below to your aquarium. Although none of them are absolutely essential, you should remember that you are making a home for your fish: some fish like to hide amongst plants or rocks and most fish will benefit from having a layer of aquarium gravel over the bottom of their tank. These items of decoration will also enhance the natural appearance of your aquarium.

Plants

Plants provide shelter and resting places for fish, and some fish spawn amongst aquatic plants.

You can choose between real or artificial (plastic or silk) plants for your aquarium. Artificial plants are generally best for goldfish tanks, as goldfish tend to nibble and destroy real ones. But if you keep freshwater tropical fish, then real plants are best and many species are easy to grow: consult your aquatic dealer for advice on selecting and growing real plants in an aquarium.

Wood

Wood is a popular and attractive addition to many aquaria, but you should be very careful what you use; bacteria can be carried into your aquarium in the wood, and this can damage your fish. Only use 'bog-wood', which can be found in most aquatic retailers.