Tropical Fish Tanks & Aquariums

Tropical water fish are fish that are often brightly coloured and require a heated tank. There are a wide variety of tropical fish available and these fish have a range of characteristics. In comparison to fresh water fish, tropical fish can be found in more colours and varieties. They also require less water space per fish, meaning that you can keep more fish in your tank.

Types of Tropical Water Fish Tanks & Stands

There are a range of different size and shape of tanks available. The classic style of fish tank is a rectangular tank. Some of the rectangular tanks have curved glass fronts. Other common shapes of fish tank include square tanks, pentagonal and hexagonal shapes. Triangular shaped fish tanks have been designed to fit into the corner of a room.

There are modern designs of acrylic tanks available in different shapes, and some have coloured acrylic sides. Another innovative design of fish tank is the wall mounted aquarium. Wall mounted fish tanks are available in panoramic, round or square shapes. They are created to look like a painting or large screen TV, and to provide a striking focal point to a room.

Stands are an important addition to fish tanks, as the tanks need to be level. The most common stand is a wooden cabinet, as this provides a sturdy level base, looks good as a piece of furniture, and provides storage for fish keeping accessories.

Glass or Acrylic

Most fish tanks are constructed from glass that has been glued together with silicone. Glass is difficult to scratch and stays in good condition over many years. Glass is quite a strong material and will require less support on the base and top compared to acrylic tanks. Glass can crack or shatter, but a lot of force would be needed to result in cracking. Glass is a heavier material than acrylic, and is more rigid. The rigidity means that most glass tanks have straight sides, although some tanks do have a curved front glass panel. Glass tanks are cheaper than acrylic tanks.

Acrylic fish tanks are an alternative to glass tanks. The acrylic tanks are lighter than glass, and can be made in a range of shapes. Acrylic tanks can scratch very easily, although these scratches can be polished out. Acrylic tanks are harder to crack than glass, but the base and top of the tank need more support. Acrylic is thought to be more suitable for very large tanks, but acrylic can miscolour with age.

Buying a Tank

Fish tanks need to recreate a natural environment for your fish and provide for all of their needs. The tank and stand will also need to look good in your home and fit in with your furniture and décor.

Tropical water fish tanks are available in a range of different sizes and shapes. The size of the tank you buy will be determined by the type of fish that you will house, and how many fish you want. The amount of space you have for the tank and the size of your budget are also important factors. Remember that larger tanks are easier to look after, as any contamination will be diluted and have less effect in a larger tank.

It is necessary to set up your tropical water fish tank and run it for a while before introducing any fish. Some of the tanks are sold with all necessary fittings included in the price. The main fittings for a tropical fish tank are filter, heater, thermometer, lighting and air pump. The filter is needed for clear and healthy water in the tank. If the filter does not work the fish can die, so it must be cleaned regularly to ensure that it does not become blocked. The heater is required to heat the water to a consistent warm temperature, and the thermometer will enable you to check the temperature at all times. The lighting needs to be on during daylight hours and is good for the fish and plants in the tank. The lights can be controlled manually or by a timer. The air pump aerates the water, but you will need to ensure that the actual pump does not come into contact with water as it is connected to the electrical supply. You can also use air stones to add a stream of bubbles to the tank for decorative effect.

Additional items that will be needed are a fish net and fish food. There are several kinds of fish food available, so ensure that you are feeding the correct diet for your fish. Tanks will also require a water conditioner and bacteria starter, as healthy bacteria is needed in the tank. The final element to add will be the tropical fish. Ensure that the fish you purchase are compatible as some will not get along. Some fish will need to be bought in a group. It is important to introduce fish to the tank slowly, so buy a few fish at a time.

Tropical Tanks & Aquariums - Top Shops

These stores are recommended for their ranges of tropical fish tanks and supplies in addition to good prices and service.

PetPlanet

A good selection of fish tanks for tropical fish from PetPlanet. Take a look at the range now.