Getting Started - Selecting an Aquarium

So you've decided to get an aquarium - now the fun begins! My first tip for beginners is to avoid choosing a small aquarium. Mini tanks are very trendy these days, but in a small volume of water any mistake can prove lethal. A twenty to thirty gallon tank is large enough to house a nice selection of fish and is easier to keep stable. However if you decide later it's not your cup of tea you haven't invested as much as you would for a large tank. Before you buy the aquarium think about where it might be placed in your home. The aquarium needs to be supported well, which means you'll have to invest in a stand (often more expensive than the tank), or find a location where there is already adequate support. A filled 20 gallon tank will weight about 225 pounds, so don't assume a bookshelf will hold it! I'd advise opting for a stand made specifically for holding an aquarium. If your budget is tight, you might consider building your own stand. To justify the expense of a good stand remember that an attractive tank and stand can be a delightful centerpiece to a room (you probably spend as much on end tables, lamps, wall hangings etc.)

Location is Everything
To illustrate this, I've included pictures of a used 20 gallon hex tank and matching stand that I recently inherited and set up in my formal dining room. Although I have many other tanks in my house, this one has already become a favorite among my visitors. The dining room leads to an upper living room in one direction and a lower recreation room in the other. Because of the way the room is designed there was a "dead" corner by the stairway that was of little use. Because the corner shelters the tank from direct sunlight and breezes it was an excellent location. A hex tank is a good match for the space, although one of the newer style "corner" tanks would also have been a good choice. It happened that I had a group of freshwater lobsters that were not displayed very well in their black backed rectangular tank. I elected to move them to the hex tank where they would be shown to advantage by the design of the tank and the light colored surroundings. My hunch paid off, and my guests spend more time looking at the aquarium than they do their dinner.

When choosing the location for your tank remember that it should not be in direct sunlight for any length of time, or be placed where it would be subjected to drafts which can adversely affect the temperature of the tank. Also consider the general decor of the room. Will the tank be easily seen? Is the surrounding decor and lighting going to show it off to advantage? These are all good questions to ask yourself before you go make your purchase. Knowing where you will place the tank will help you make a decision about the size and shape that is best. Now that you've got an idea of where to place your tank and the size and shape you want, it's time to go to the pet shop.

Tip: Take measurements and write them down... then you wont' risk getting a tank that doesn't fit in the space you have.

Acrylic or Glass?
Aquariums may be made of glass or acrylic. Each has advantages and disadvantages (see links below for details). My personal preference is for glass aquariums because they cost less, don't scratch as easily, and only need to be supported on the edges unlike acrylic. Since most shops carry the same brands of aquariums, I recommend price shopping before buying. If you have a favorite pet shop, but their prices are higher, ask them to match their competitors prices. Usually they will accommodate you - after all, they want to keep your business. If your budget is limited, you might watch the swap sheets and newspapers for used tanks. As long as the tank doesn't leak or have scratches, it's basically as good as a new one (the hex tank in this feature is a used one). Before you purchase the tank look it over carefully for scratches or cracks. Don't load heavy items such as gravel in it for the trip home, or you'll risk breaking it. Last but not least - never purchase fish at the same time you buy your tank. It takes time to get the tank set up and stabilized. Plan to purchase the fish another day after your tank is all set up and running smoothly.

Links:

Aquarium Suppliers Basic Aquarium Sizes Before You Buy an Aquarium Working with Acrylic

* Art and photos are the property of Shirlie Sharpe. If you use them please write for permission.