Setting Up Your First Aquarium in Egypt

Getting Started with Fishkeeping in Egypt

Aquarium keeping is one of Egypt's most popular pet hobbies, with a vibrant community of fishkeepers in Cairo and Alexandria. Here's everything you need to know to set up your first tank.

Equipment Checklist

• Tank: Start with 60-100 liters minimum. Local glass tanks from Shubra fish market: 300-800 EGP
• Filter: Hang-on-back (HOB) filter for beginners. 200-500 EGP
• Heater: Not always needed in Egypt's climate, but useful for winter. 150-300 EGP
• LED Light: Planted tanks need good lighting. 200-600 EGP
• Air Pump: For aeration, especially important in Cairo's warm water. 100-250 EGP
• Substrate: Gravel or sand. 50-200 EGP
• Water Conditioner: Essential to remove chlorine from tap water. 80-150 EGP

Total startup cost: approximately 1,500-3,500 EGP

Dealing with Cairo Tap Water

Cairo's tap water is heavily chlorinated and has high mineral content. Always:

• Use a water conditioner (like Seachem Prime) before adding tap water
• Let water sit for 24 hours before use if you don't have conditioner
• Test pH regularly — Cairo water tends to be alkaline (pH 7.5-8.5)
• Consider an RO (Reverse Osmosis) filter for sensitive fish species

Best Beginner Fish Available in Egypt

• Guppies - Colorful, hardy, breed easily. 10-30 EGP each
• Platies - Peaceful community fish. 15-40 EGP each
• Corydoras Catfish - Bottom cleaners, very peaceful. 30-80 EGP each
• Bristlenose Pleco - Algae eater. 50-150 EGP each
• Angelfish - Beautiful but need larger tanks. 30-100 EGP each

Where to Buy in Cairo

• Shubra Fish Market (Souq El Samak) - Largest variety, best prices
• Aqua Pet shops in Nasr City - Good selection with advice
• Online: Aleef - Order supplies with home delivery