Aquariums, Fish tanks, and Supplies
Welcome to aquariumselection.com. Here you’ll discover everything you need to know to set up and maintain an underwater wonderland in your home. There is nothing to buy here, only free information. Whether you are looking into an aquarium or an experienced marine aquarist, aquariumselection.com can help.
Aquariums, or aquaria, have been around for centuries. The Romans were the first people to bring fish out of the sea and into the home more than 2,000 years ago. The first fish tanks were nothing more than marble bowls filled with saltwater and anemones. The anemones didn’t do very well, so Romans went for fresh water. Carp-like fish called barbells were often kept in tanks under guest beds. Around 50 A.D. glass became part of the design and is still the standard today.
Modern home aquaria became trendy about 200 years ago in Europe. Glass boxes, usually with steel frames were the standard. The first public aquarium opened at the London Zoo in 1853. It was known as the Fish House and it was a big hit. Until that time aquariums were known as “vivariums”. Philip Henry Gosse coined the term “aquarium” in 1854. About a hundred years later in the United States aquarium popularity exploded again. Home saltwater aquariums and reef aquariums became especially fashionable.
These days, freshwater aquariums are much more popular than marine aquaria. Fish, plants and other aquarium supplies are more accessible and less expensive for freshwater tanks. Fish tank supplies are cheaper and maintenance is much less involved with a fresh water fish tank. For anyone just getting into the hobby of fish-keeping, fresh water is the way to go.
The first essential piece of equipment when starting an aquarium is the tank itself. Start with the size, the bigger the tank, the more natural it will look. Of course, large tanks are spendy and not everyone has a huge room to keep one in. So, don’t go overboard, evaluate the space in which the tank will be kept and choose a size which will fit comfortably and tastefully.
Next you will need to choose the material, glass or acrylic. Glass fish tanks are the standard but acrylic aquariums are on the rise. The best part about acrylic is that it does not break as easily as glass. Even when it does break it becomes large dull chunks rather than small sharp slivers. A disadvantage of acrylic is that it is softer and scratches more easily than glass. Manufactures have developed scratch-resistant coating to eliminate the issue.
Along with the tank, there are several other necessary items you’ll need to procure. A filtration system is essential unless the tank is so small water can be replaced often. The best type of filter will clean the water mechanically and chemically. A heater and thermometer will also be needed unless it is to be a cold water tank. Aquarium lighting is also necessary, not only to view the fish, but to keep them healthy. The type of lighting needed will be contingent on the style and size of the aquarium as well as the creatures inside. Aquarium hoods are typically included with the tank. If not, you’ll have to buy one separately or build it yourself.
After the aquarium is up and running, the fun part begins. Do some research before choosing aquarium fish and shop around. Be sure all species are compatible and fish look and act healthy before purchasing them.
If aquarium plants are to be included make sure they will not be harmful to the fish. Finally, spruce the place up with some aquarium décor and enjoy. Come back to aquariumselection.com often for all your aquarium needs.
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