Prepare Before Delivery
The receiving aquarium should be cycled, stable, temperature-appropriate, and ready before the shipment arrives. Avoid major maintenance or last-minute water changes while the fish are in transit.
Bring the Box Inside
Receive the package promptly and move it indoors away from direct sunlight and temperature extremes. Keep the environment calm while you inspect the shipment.
Match the Method to the Shipment
Acclimation practices can vary with transit time, bag water condition, species, and the instructions provided with the shipment. Avoid unnecessarily extending time in opened shipping water.
Reduce Stress
Dim aquarium lighting, minimize handling, and give new fish time to settle. Watch respiration, posture, swimming, and interactions rather than expecting immediate normal feeding behavior.
Observe Closely
Continue monitoring during the first several days. Stable water quality and a quiet environment are more valuable than repeatedly chasing water parameters.