Setting up my first tropical tank. Quick novice question!

[Dieu]

Hi. Have spent hours today getting the tank ready for our Siamese fighter (not being picked up for a few weeks). Ruddy hell, I haven't even got him yet, and it's cheaper and easier to own my dog and cat

I just want to get everything right, but my question is this. Now that I have treated the tap water and everything is ready, am I supposed to run the filter and heater 24/7 from now until the fish comes? And what about the lighting for the live plants?

Will eagerly await your replies - thanks!

Tiny pieces of live plant are floating around, which I assume must be ok for the water? This has taken so long that my anal tendencies are creeping in! Don't want anything to mess it up!

Filter and heater need to run non stop now, and the lights need to be on for no more than 8 hours a day. I'd personally leave the floating plants but if they start to discolour then get rid, don't want them rotting! Just make sure you test your water or get a store to do it regularly. Water change around 30% once a week using tap safe. Check the filter once a month and don't over feed and you should be set! Have fun