Choosing Your Aquarium

Size Matters
The aquarium size you choose should be optimal for your fish. Do a little research before you get your heart set on bringing home some Clown Knives just because you think they have the coolest fish name ever. That 150-gallon aquarium your Clown Knives prefer isn't going to fit on your end table.

If you're a first-time aquarium buyer, we recommend starting with smaller fish. Find out the minimum aquarium size your fish will enjoy, and purchase a fish tank aquarium that size or preferably a little bigger. It's also best to buy an aquarium that has both a filtration system and aeration system, key to a well-balanced environment. Larger aquariums are healthier for fish because they become less toxic and maintain temperature and water chemistry better. Remember, once filled, fish tanks are about 10 times their weight in gallons (a 30 gallon aquarium weighs about 300 pounds). Planning the location beforehand is a no-brainer.

Living in a Material Aquaworld
When shopping for aquariums, you will also have a choice between glass and acrylic models. Each material has its advantages and disadvantages.

If cost is a concern, glass aquariums are typically less expensive than acrylic aquariums. They're also scratch-resistant. However, glass aquariums tend to be heavier, and your selection of shapes is primarily going to be square and rectangle.

Acrylic aquariums are more expensive and easier to scratch, but they're lighter and won't shatter (an important consideration if your toddler decides your fish need to escape a la the glorious toppling splash in Finding Nemo).

Other benefits of acrylic fish tank aquariums include:

• clearer view inside
• better insulation and heat retention
• greater variety of shapes and designs
• longer lasting with stronger seams

Getting Warmer
A major consideration in maintaining the health of your fish is water temperature. A properly functioning aquarium heater and thermostat are essential to maintaining a comfortable and stable temperature for your fish.

Watts In
An aquarium heater's strength is measured in watts. A good rule of thumb is to purchase an aquarium heater that provides a little over three watts per gallon of water. So if you have a 30-gallon aquarium, you'd need 100 watts or so from your heater. Remember also to prepare for power outages, which can profoundly and quickly affect your beloved fish.

Explore our site to learn all about this emotionally fulfilling hobby. You'll find everything you need to know about the life aquatic. Once you learn about the rewarding and fascinating world of fish, you'll be "hooked" - so to speak.