A new aquarium can be an enjoyable and relaxing experience. However, all too often, the standard 10-gallon aquarium is purchased out of convenience or on a whim, filled with water and plastic plants and packed with fish the same day. The result is frustration, regret, and dead fish. Choosing the right tank and allocating an appropriate amount of time for proper set up is the best way to ensure a positive experience. The more research that you can do beforehand, the greater chance of success and enjoyment of your new aquarium and its inhabitants.
Size matters
If you are going to keep just a few fish that are not goldfish, a standard 10-gallon aquarium will likely be the perfect tank for you. If you plan on having smaller fish or will keep larger species of fish, choose the largest tank that will fit both your budget and your space. The larger the aquarium, the better it is for its occupants. A larger water volume will dilute toxins more efficiently and is more resistant to sudden changes in water chemistry which can negatively affect fish and live plants. Larger tanks also establish a stable nitrogen cycle faster making it less stressful for fish. The general guideline of “one inch of fish per gallon of water” works in most situations; however, you must consider body size as well as length though. Oscars, goldfish and similar species can reach considerable sizes and would do poorly in smaller tanks.
Tanks come in several types: regular, long or show tanks. Each have their own pros and cons. The type of fish and space requirements typically determine the type of tank you will purchase. Regular tanks are the conventional tanks you see on store shelves or online. They can house large or small schools of fish depending on size. A standard 10-gallon tank is convenient to keep as an isolation or hospital tank for sick fish. Long tanks are, as named, longer and shallower than conventional tanks. These require more space and are typically used for breeding and for schooling fish. Show tanks are tall and narrow. Aptly named, they are strictly for showing off a small population of fish with their large glass or acrylic panes.
Location, location, location
The location will play a large role in tank selection. A tank should be placed on a level surface, away from air vents or heaters and out of direct sunlight. An outlet should be nearby to provide power for lighting, heating and filtration. When choosing a location for a tank, it is important to consider the weight of the final set up. A filled10 gallon tank can weigh over 100 pounds. Larger tanks weigh significantly more, so the flooring or tank stand must be sturdy enough to support such weight. To facilitate water changes and tank cleanings, the tank should be close to a water supply. Be sure to leave enough room around the tank for cleaning and other maintenance activities.
Glass or acrylic
Glass aquariums are generally less expensive than acrylic and tend to be more scratch resistant. Acrylic tanks are less resistant to scratching but can be repaired if necessary. Because acrylic tanks are more flexible than glass, they are less likely to break or shatter. If you move often or rearrange décor, an acrylic tank may be your choice because they are lighter. Glass tanks, while heavy, are considered more scratch-resistant than acrylic. Glass tanks can support more weight than acrylic and can be placed on a stand that is open on top, unlike acrylic tanks that require placement on a flat, continuous surface. Acrylic tanks have been known to become cloudy over time, while glass will maintain its clarity for much longer. If you decide on a marine tank, a glass tank is less likely to be scratched by corals, rocks and substrates and will also have the strength and rigidity to support the weight of these items.
Kit or custom?
Most beginners will be attracted to kits containing a complete aquarium. This typically includes a tank, filter, filter media, lighting, a heater and a cover or canopy. Purchasing a kit is a good option if you’re not sure what you need. If you’ve done your research, a kit may not give you the type or brand of equipment you desire. A custom set-up will require a larger, budget but you can customize components to support the fish and other inhabitants. Many beginning aquarists find themselves upgrading certain pieces of equipment soon after they gain a little experience, resulting in more money spent in the end as compared to starting with a custom set-up.
To provide the optimal environment for fish, a tank should include at a minimum: a mechanical/chemical filter, a heater, thermometer, lighting and an appropriate substrate such as gravel or sand and décor (live plants, plastic plants, hides, etc.). More complex setups can require additional components such as special lighting, CO2 systems, protein skimmers, canister filters, etc.
Shape
Once upon a time, a rectangular tank or fish bowl were the only options. Today, with technology and new materials, tanks can take on almost any shape imaginable. Squares, hexagons, cylindrical tanks, bow fronted tanks and even coffee table tanks are all available. Rectangular and hexagonal shaped tanks are the most popular shapes currently. When choosing a shape, confirm it will fit in the location and will not impede traffic flow through a room or get accidentally bumped by passersby. Rectangular fish tanks are best for better water quality and overall fish health. This is due to the larger surface area between air and water which allows for more efficient gas exchange. A nontraditional tank may do well and look just as nice, however you may spend more time monitoring and maintaining water quality.
Consider the inhabitants when selecting a shape. Fish require adequate space per their shape and natural behavior. Taller fish, such as freshwater angelfish, will do better in tanks that are higher rather than long. They require height to avoid feeling cramped in a shorter space and to avoid potential fin damage. Long fish that swim quickly, such as zebra fish, or schooling fish like tetras will do better in tanks that are longer rather than tall because these tanks give them the horizontal space to swim.
Conclusion
Choosing the proper aquarium is critical to the survival of the tank’s inhabitants and their ability to flourish under your care. Size, space, budget, and population should all be considered. Make a list of options and choose what fits these requirements. Your fish will be constrained to the environment you provide for them. Joining an online community is an excellent way to gain and share knowledge. Doing your research beforehand will certainly save you time and money and make your new hobby much more enjoyable and allow your fish to thrive.