1. Choose the right container: Select a container that is large enough for the minnows to swim around comfortably. A 10-gallon tank or a large plastic storage box with a lid containing air holes works well.

2. Maintain water quality: Fill the container with dechlorinated water, ideally from their natural environment or use tap water treated with a dechlorinator. Replace one-third water every week to maintain cleanliness and reduce ammonia levels.

3. Keep the water well-oxygenated: Ensure proper oxygen levels within the container by using an aquarium air stone connected to an air pump. This will prevent the buildup of harmful gases and help minnows breathe more easily.

4. Maintain appropriate temperature: Ideally, maintain the water temperature between 50°F – 70°F (10°C – 21°C) depending on the species of minnows. Use an aquarium heater with a thermostat to keep the temperature stable.

5. Provide hiding spots: Include plants, rocks, or other decorations in your container to provide hiding places for minnows, reducing stress and promoting natural behaviors.

6. Install adequate filtration: Installing a sponge filter or other gentle filtration system helps to keep the water clean, removing waste and maintaining optimal living conditions for your minnows.

7. Avoid overcrowding: Do not keep too many minnows in one container as overcrowding can lead to poor water quality and increased stress for the fish.

8. Feed a balanced diet: Offer high-quality commercial fish food pellets or flakes, as well as occasional live or frozen foods like brine shrimp or daphnia to maintain their health and energy levels

9. Regularly monitor water parameters: Use test kits to regularly check water parameters like pH levels, ammonia, nitrate, and nitrite levels to ensure a healthy environment for your minnows.

10. Introduce new minnows carefully: When introducing new minnows to your container, acclimate them gradually by floating the bag with the new fish in your container for about 30 minutes. Slowly add small amounts of the tank water into the bag before releasing them, this helps minimize stress.

11. Observe your minnows daily: Keep an eye on your fish and their behavior. Signs of distress include gasping at the surface, lethargic movement, or erratic swimming.

12. Keep the container clean: Regularly clean and sanitize your container, including decorations and filter elements, to prevent disease outbreaks and maintain a healthy environment.

13. Take preemptive measures against disease: Look out for signs of illness such as fin rot, fungus, or parasites like ich and treat them promptly with appropriate aquarium medications. Quarantine any sick fish in a separate container until they recover.

14. NET them gently: When handling your minnows to move them or clean their tank, use a fine mesh net to cause minimal stress and avoid potential injury to the fish.

With these 14 steps in mind, you will be more equipped to keep minnows alive and thriving for an extended period of time, ensuring they remain healthy and happy companions for any aquarium hobbyist.