Aquariums will be under the tree for many happy new fish owners this year. Unfortunately all too many new aquarium owners make fatal mistakes because they don't know the pitfalls to avoid. Here are top mistakes made when starting a new aquarium, and how to avoid them.

On the first day of Christmas,
my true love sent to me
a purple fish in a pine tree.

Purple fish and more adorn this unique tree. Read the story behind my Fishy Christmas Tree, or skip right to the tree and ornament photos. Either way, it's sure to get you in the holiday spirit.

Come back tomorrow to see what my true love gives me on the second day of Christmas. In the meantime, check out these other Twelve Days of Christmas lists from my fellow Home & Garden Guides. You won't be able to stop singing or smiling!

Cats Fist Day of Christmas
Family Crafts Fist Day of Christmas
Flea Market & Yard Sales Fist Day of Christmas
Laundry Fist Day of Christmas

This time of year everyone is looking for the perfect gift. If you have someone on your list who is a fish lover, maybe an aquarium is just the ticket.

Here's what you should consider, along with a checklist to take with you when you go shopping.

Are you thinking about getting an aquarium, but not sure what size will fit in the space you have available? Or perhaps you already have an aquarium, but you don't know how many gallons it holds. This size, weight, and volume chart will give you the answers to both those questions.