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Picking a new aquarium is not difficult if you consider a few factors, which includes the size, the construction material and the shape. We’ll look at all these factors so that you are able to select the best aquarium for you and your pets.

Size of Your Aquarium

Even though a lot of people imagine that it is right to begin with a small aquarium, this isn’t really the best choice as a smaller tank is not so easy to keep in good condition and need much more effort to keep healthy. This is because smaller amounts of water are rapidly affected by any changes, therefore if the temperature outside the tank changes severely, for example, there will be an almost immediate change in the water conditions in your tank. A bigger aquarium will be a lot more stable. In addition for a bigger aquarium the toxic wastes from the fish, will be dispersed through a much larger volume of water and consequently will be less likely to affect your fish.  You should start with a 40 gallon tank at a minimum.

Should you Choose Acrylic or Glass

Now you should think about the material and decide between an acrylic or the traditional glass tank. This also needs to be considered with the shape of the aquarium you fancy in mind as a number of shapes, round for instance, are only available in acrylic. Glass fish tanks are generally much cheaper than acrylic tanks but are usually heavier. They also tend to leak eventually but this is easily dealt with. They are not made in such a wide variety of shapes as acrylic aquariums. If you are looking for an exotic shaped aquarium you will usually have to choose acrylic.

Acrylic aquariums are higher priced than glass tanks but are lighter in weight and, since they are manufactured in 1 piece, are not so prone to leaking. You need to take care not to scratch the exterior of the tank and not use any harsh cleaners on them as this will cause small scratches on the surface making it less than clear.

Which Shape Should You Choose?

The traditional rectangular fish tank is undoubtedly the best shape for a fish tank because it has a high water to surface area ratio that allows the best gas exchange. Then again if you desire a less common shape then you must ensure you have good aeration so that your fish can get adequate amounts of oxygen. Acrylic fish tanks come in a wide variety of shapes which may include hexagon, round, cylindrical, octagon and also mounted on the wall or made into coffee tables.

What is the Best Location for Your Aquarium?

When thinking about the location for your aquarium make sure you have plenty of room and that the weight can be supported. A fifty gallon filled tank will weigh about 600  pounds so make sure the flooring and any supporting furniture are strong enough. A wall aquarium can be mounted on a dividing wall so that you can view the tank from 2 rooms and is a breathtaking centerpiece to a room.

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