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The
aquarium is one of the most important pieces of aquarium equipment
you'll need. The type of aquarium you select will depend on
how much you want to spend, how much space you have, and the
number and type of fish you plan on putting in it.
Aquariums come in either glass or acrylic, but you can find
an assortment of shapes and sizes in both glass and acrylic.
Here
are some important frequently asked questions about choosing
the right kind of aquarium:
What
is the right size aquarium for me?
The right size of an aquarium depends on many factors: space
available, size and number of fish you want to keep, your
experience in keeping fish, and your budget. If you are just
starting out as a fish keeper, consider either a 20 gallon
or a 29 gallon aquarium. While smaller tanks are less expensive,
as a general rule, the more water you have the easier it is
to maintain stable water chemistry and temperature. Stable
water conditions generally lead to happier and healthier fish.
In
determining where you can put your aquarium don't forget how
much your fully equipped aquarium will weigh. With water,
gravel and decorations your tank could easily weigh 12 pounds
or more per gallon in size. That's 240 pounds for a 20 gallon
tank. You will need a stable base for your aquarium. You should
consider a stand made especially for an aquarium. Furniture
is not always made to hold all this weight.
A
glass aquarium is basically a glass "box" formed
using individual pieces of glass held together with heavy
plastic top and bottom frames. Silicone is used to seal between
the glass pieces and the frame. The silicone seal not only
prevents leaks, but also cushions one piece of glass against
the other, which aids in preventing pressure cracks. Glass
aquariums are warranted against pressure cracks and leaks.
Glass
aquariums are very easy to clean, they don't scratch as easily
as acrylic, and they are generally less expensive than acrylic.
They're made in a wide variety of shapes and sizes - from
5 gallon up to 240 gallons and larger. Traditionally, glass
aquariums came only in square or rectangles. However, new
technologies now make bending of glass possible and glass
aquariums now come in many new and inviting shapes and sizes.
Can
I use a glass bowl to keep my fish?
Glass bowls are very inexpensive, and you don't have to worry
about leaks. However, your fish will be happiest and healthiest
in an aquarium with a filtration and aeration system. If you
decide to keep fish in a glass bowl, choose a fish such as
a betta that can breathe at the surface of the water. Remember
that without a filtration system you will need to change the
water more frequently.
If
you have limited space, consider a 2 gallon or 5 gallon plastic
aquarium. These units typically come as a starter kit with
a filtration system, air pump and light. You can only keep
one or two fish in these tanks but they make a nice addition
to an office, bedroom or kitchen counter.
Why
Should I Consider an Acrylic Aquarium?
Acrylic aquariums are more expensive than glass aquariums,
but there are a number of advantages that account for the
difference in price. Also, remember that in large aquariums
the cost differences between glass and acrylic aquariums are
generally much less.
Acrylic
aquariums are constructed by using a solvent to weld the seams.
This technique assures that an acrylic aquarium will rarely
develop a leak. After the aquarium is assembled, the solvent
evaporates and the seams become stronger than the acrylic
itself. These solvents pose absolutely no danger to the fish
within the aquarium. Silicone seams can discolor with age;
solvent used in acrylic aquariums does not yellow with age.
Acrylic
is 17 times stronger than glass and will flex instead of shatter.
This makes it virtually childproof. Because the seams are
stronger and the aquarium is more flexible, you can count
on having an acrylic aquarium longer. It's also more clear
than glass, and is a better insulator than glass, which means
it takes less energy to heat the aquarium. Acrylic weighs
half as much as glass, and the bent corners and fewer seams
on an acrylic aquarium adds a sleek design to the tank.
One
drawback of acrylic aquariums is the tendency for scratches.
However, scratches can be removed or lightened from acrylic
whereas it is impossible to remove a scratch from glass. Because
acrylic aquariums can scratch easily, only those scrubbers
that indicate "can be used on acrylic" should be
used. Never use an ammonia product when cleaning the outside
of an acrylic aquarium because ammonia will crystallize acrylic.
Use only a vinegar and water solution for cleaning the outside
of an acrylic aquarium.
Because
of their design, acrylic aquariums typically come with a full
hood and fluorescent fixture that matches the particular aquarium.
Therefore, when comparing acrylic aquariums to glass aquariums,
remember to figure in the cost of the hood and light if you
are considering a glass unit.
[Information
compiled by PETsMART.com staff and PETsMART Inc.]
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Information
and advice contained on this site is for your consideration
only. Please consult your veterinarian for specific advice
concerning the care and treatment of your pet.
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