Why Is It Mandatory to Invest in High-Quality Fish Aquariums
Fish are incredible animals that can delight us with their beauty, bring us closer to nature, and prepare us for more challenging pets. However, although fish do not require as much daily interaction as dogs and cats, they need specialised accessories to survive and lead a long, healthy and carefree life. In this regard, keeping our scaly friends in fish aquariums is a must, and the accessories you buy for them will be essential for their proper development. But when it comes to large or small fish tanks, you have many options to choose from, and you probably want to know more.
The process of choosing fish aquariums will depend very much on your financial possibilities, the particularity of the fish you have chosen, and the accessories you want to buy. Have you always been a fan of Goldfish? In that case, you should invest in larger fish aquariums, as they can grow to unmanageable sizes. Are you interested in customising your small fish tanks? Then you should choose a substrate and aquatic plants that can harmonise their overall look. But these are all general aspects, and you are a person who deserves to know more details. So, in the next few minutes, we will list the accessories that should not be missing from an aquarium, we will present the elements you should pay attention to when choosing it, and we will also enumerate some fish species that are suitable for the size of your newly acquired fish tank.
What to Look for in a Tank?
The world’s oceans, rivers and lakes are home to over 30,000 fish species, but only a tiny proportion of these are suitable for living in large or small fish tanks. Are you someone who wants to ensure a good existence for your aquatic friends? Then first, you need to choose an aquarium that is large enough for their size. When you buy fish from local pet shops, they are likely still young and have not yet reached their full dimensions. It is essential to choose a tank that is spacious enough for the fish and accessories you buy while also allowing for expansions in the future.
When it comes to materials, most aquariums are made of either glass or acrylic. Glass fish aquariums are the classic option, being cheaper and more resistant to scratching. On the other hand, acrylic tanks are suitable for larger applications, being lighter and more resistant to shocks. You also have to choose between aquariums with lids or tanks that are uncovered. As a general rule, lid tanks are preferred, as the water will remain purer, and your fish will not be able to leave their enclosure. The price of aquariums may differ and will be influenced by their compartmentalisation. Fixed tanks are usually cheaper, while modular aquariums with removable panels can be slightly more expensive, as they can be upgradable according to your preferences. However, these types of aquariums are often made of acrylic, which might not be suitable for all use cases.
What Accessories Should I Buy?
Whether you are interested in large or small fish tanks, the accessories you buy will often be the same and will have a significant effect on keeping your aquatic friends healthy. Any quality aquarium should feature a premium filtration system that removes nitrite and ammonia concentrates from the water and prevent algae growth. Then you need to invest in an air pump. Fish live underwater, but they need oxygen, and if the water is not constantly recirculated, the percentage of O2 in it could drop, which will undoubtedly lead to the death of your scaly pals. If your fish are accustomed to tropical temperatures, you will need to invest in a heater, and if you want to have marine plants, you will need to buy a high-quality substrate and a lamp that provides ample light.
When it comes to customising your aquarium, the options available to you are almost limitless. From rocks and hiding spots to artificial plants and props, large or small fishing tanks can be accessorised in any way you like. However, it is imperative not to bring objects of unknown origin into the tank, as they may contain bacteria that can spoil the PH balance of the water. Before placing your fish in the tank, you will need to use a conditioner to introduce beneficial bacteria into the environment, and you will need to use distilled water that has no added chlorine or fluoride. These last steps are crucial, and without them, your fish will not be able to adapt to their new environment.
What Fish Should I Choose?
For starters, choosing fish suitable for your aquarium’s size is essential. If you want to invest in a small aquarium, a handy option might be to buy Livebareares or Corydoras, which generally do not grow to more than four centimetres. Have you purchased a larger aquarium? Then you could stock it with Swordatils or Rainbowfish, which can grow to over ten centimetres. Whatever species you choose, it is important to buy more than a few individuals. Ideally, the fish should live together in banks bigger than ten; otherwise, they could become territorial and self-destructive.
You should also take into account the nutritional preferences of the purchased fish. Have you bought some Cherry Barbs and Pufferfishes and put them in the same tank? Then the next day, you will wonder where your Barbs disappeared. Carnivorous and herbivorous fish cannot live together, nor can species that prefer high temperatures with those that are more comfortable in cold water. It’s crucial to do your homework beforehand and choose species that can live together and don’t require extensive care. In this case, Guppies and Tetras might be a good option, as they can be kept together without any problems. It’s your decision which species you choose, but as a general rule, if you are a beginner, it is best to go for fish that are considered easy to care for, such as Mollies, Rasboras and Minnows, and that can be kept in small fish tanks.
An Investment Worth Making
High-quality fish aquariums are necessary for your fish to develop healthily. Not sure whether to go for small fish tanks or larger ones? Then you need to ask yourself what you want. A larger aquarium can mean more responsibility, but at the same time, it can be a good option if you want your fish to be the central piece of your aesthetic interior design. Are you just looking for the company of pets that don’t require extra care? Then a tiny aquarium could be perfect for your needs.
Why choose fish? Because they are underrated pets that are easy to care for, don’t require frequent interaction, and can offer you moments of relaxation and tranquillity after the intense moments you may experience at work. An aquarium full of brightly coloured fish could bring us closer to nature, delight the little ones, and, last but not least, empower us. Fish may not be truly aware of our presence, but they can be companions to look at when you need a break from everyday existence. And their vivid colours and simplicity might make you appreciate the miracle of life and the impressive originality of Mother Nature.