Acclimatization instructions

Acclimatization instructions for livestock

Properly acclimating new animals is essential for their health and successful introduction to your aquarium. Read the steps below carefully and follow them precisely when receiving live stock such as fish, corals, shrimp, anemones, and other marine life.

Have you received livestock?

Have you received livestock? Please first read our receiving instructions , which are also included with your shipping confirmation email. These instructions explain how to inspect the shipment and what to do if you have any questions or notice any discrepancies. To safely acclimatize your animals, follow the steps below.

1. Allow the packaging to warm up

Place the closed transport bags in your sump or aquarium for 30 to 45 minutes (if possible in a dark corner).
Do not allow the bags to float in direct light or in an environment with large temperature fluctuations.

2. Open the packaging carefully

Carefully open the bag over a bucket or clean collecting container.
For now, leave the animal in the water in the bag.

3. Mix drop by drop with aquarium water

Use a hose or drip hose (e.g. air hose with clamp or tap) and:

• Start a siphon from your aquarium to the bucket.
• Let aquarium water flow drop by drop (approx. 2-4 drops per second) into the bucket.
• Allow the volume to slowly double over 30 to 60 minutes.

For sensitive animals (e.g. shrimp, starfish) it is better to take more time (60-90 minutes).

Important: Not all animals are allowed above water!

When acclimatizing, it's crucial to consider the specific needs of certain species. Some animals, such as starfish and sea urchins, should not be kept above water. Exposing these animals to air can damage their sensitive tissues and even be fatal.

Therefore, always carefully release these animals underwater into the aquarium. Use a collection container, for example, or slide them directly from the transport bag underwater without lifting them out of the water.

4. Move the animal to the aquarium

Use a scoop net or cup and place the animal in the aquarium without the transport water.
Never pour the transport water into your aquarium. This water may contain contaminants or stress hormones.

5. Leave the lights dimmed or off

It is best to keep the lighting dimmed or switched off during the first few hours after installation.
This helps reduce stress and gives the animal time to get used to it calmly.

❗ Important tips

• Acclimatize one species per bucket to prevent stress or aggression between animals.
• Observe the animal closely for any abnormal behavior during the first 24 hours.
• If necessary, use a breeding cage or floating tank to prevent aggression from other inhabitants.

Do you have questions about acclimatizing a specific animal?

Please feel free to contact us at info@ocean-store.nl