How to Choose an Aquarium – Things You Must Know Before Purchasing an Aquarium

Aquarium keeping is one of the most inspiring things you can do in your life. But how to choose an aquarium? There are several things to consider when you are selecting a fish aquarium. Go through the below steps carefully. It will help you to choose the right fish tank for you.

Step 01: Identify the Fish Species You Want to Keep (How to Choose an Aquarium)

Firstly, you need to identify the fish species you mostly like. There are several fish species in the ornamental fish world. Here, I suggest you be familiar with fish species. Visit your nearest aquarium shop. Study the fish tanks, identify them and study their characteristics. Even google and youtube may be helpful. 

Fish species are different from each other.   

1. Aggressive/ Non-aggressive
2. Active (need more swimming spaces)/ Inactive
3. Bottom feeders
4.  Freshwater fish/ Marine water fish
5. Coldwater fish/ Tropical fish

Their niche requirement varies according to their characteristics. After selecting the fish species, you need to choose the right tank suitable for the chosen species.

Step 2: Determine the Tank Size (Your Budget and Available Space for an Aquarium)

A large aquarium is possible if you have ample space. But a large aquarium costs more in several ways. Your budget flies for accessories.

If you have the funds and the area, choose a large aquarium. A larger tank brings you some plus points. It supports maintaining the water quality. Swimming space and more hiding places help to reduce stress. 

As a newbie, don’t purchase a tiny tank below 20 gals. Small tanks are cheap and economical. But not easily maintain the water quality. 

Important:

1. If you don’t have enough money, stop for a moment.
2. Don’t go for an economic aquarium tank.
3. Collect cash of at least 300$ to 350$.  
4. Purchase a giant aquarium.

Step 3: Location

The area where you want to keep the aquarium is a considerable fact.

Aquarium size depends on your location type and size. A large aquarium in your dining or living room is an excellent idea. For your bedroom aquarium, avoid using a vast aquarium. A tiny aquarium with neon lights is ideal for your office table as a decoration.

Step 4: Determine the Tank Material (Glass or acrylic)

Usually, aquariums create using glass, acrylic, and plastic. Glass tanks are inexpensive and popular. Transparency is perfect, but only standard designs are available. There are no curve shapes in glass. 

Acrylic tanks are available in several custom shapes, and their weight is lighter than glass. However, it is more expensive than glass.

Acrylic is very readily scratched. I suggest obtaining an acrylic tank if you want a larger one. It is preferable to purchase glass tanks that are less than 130 gallons.

Step 5: Choose the Tank Type/Shape.

Several types of tanks are available in stores or on the internet. Those are cabinet aquariums, wall aquariums, mini aquariums, fish bowls, etc. When you enter the store, you will be perplexed about which aquarium to purchase. 

Fishbowls

If you bought a fishbowl, you wouldn’t keep more fish in it, usually two goldfish or some tetras stock in fishbowls. Fish has a high growth rate not suitable here. Fishbowl, on the other hand, is an excellent table decorator.

Fishbowl is a terrible choice if you have kids or pets in your house. Due to its shape, it can’t install a filter. So, supervision of water quality is a must. 

Wall Aquariums

The aesthetic of a wall aquarium in your dining room is excellent. You can stock large species, highly grown species, and a high amount of fish. You have enough space in the tank to add decorations like slinked ships, houses, and wooden ornaments.

Any filtration system can install in-wall aquariums. Setting up a wall fish tank is an expensive and complicated task for a beginner. There are some extra works on the wall before installing it. It isn’t easy to clean due to its covered nature. 

Cabinet Aquariums

The most popular aquarium among hobbyists is the cabinet aquarium. These aquariums are relatively simple to set up. You can install it in your dining room, living room, or bedroom.

The cabinet below the tank provides some extra space and can be used as a storage area. You can use your cabinet aquarium as a planted aquarium. We can maintain it efficiently rather than other tank types due to its open nature.

Several fancy shapes are available, like corner shapes, curves, etc. You can decide the shape with the location you set up the tank. 

Wrapping Up – How to Choose an Aquarium

Before purchasing an aquarium, you must consider the fish species you want to care about. Then decide the tank size according to your budget. Tank material, tank type and location you will place it are significant. 

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