Aquariums are offered in numerous sizes and shapes. Therefore, you will certainly find an aquarium that you like and that fits well into your home. However, an important aspect for the choice is that the creatures living in your aquarium feel completely happy. The aquarium should offer them plenty of room to swim around and plenty of places to hide.
When it comes to freshwater aquariums, a differentiation is made between tropical and coldwater tanks. The standard room temperature of 18 – 21°C is fine for fish and invertebrates in coldwater aquariums, whereas those from the tropics and subtropics require a minimum temperature of 22°C.
The right site
Aquariums are always fantastically eye-catching and can be positioned in almost any room in your home. Despite this, there are a few things you should consider when choosing the right spot. Although most fish are silent creatures, they are still life forms that recognise and respond to their environment on the basis of the water flow, noises and visual perception. This is what makes it so important to take care when choosing where to place your aquarium! The less your fish come up against the unexpected, the more relaxed and healthy they will be.
Your aquarium must be placed on a level, vibration-free, sturdy and horizontal base. Please also consider the weight, and not just that of the empty tank, but also of the stones and the substrate. Each litre of water also adds an extra kilogram to the overall weight. Even a relatively small 60-litre tank can therefore end up weighing nearly 80 – 90 kg. The base cabinet has to be able to take this weight! Aquariums without a frame furthermore require a safety mat or polystyrene sheet to balance out any uneven areas.
Never place your aquarium in direct sunlight. This can encourage the growth of unsightly algae and heat up the water. As the technical equipment used will require electricity, you need to ensure that there are power sockets nearby. The aquarium should also be freely accessible for the regular care activities such as partial water changes and filter cleaning.
Pay attention:
• Avoid direct sunlight
• Do not place by a door as agitation might disturb the fish
• Make sure there are power sockets nearby
• Your aquarium will look more impressive in a darker spot
• The base cabinet and floor must be able to bear the weight
• Once filled, the aquarium will be too heavy to be moved
Source: Tetra
