6 Types of Aquarium Tanks and How to Maintain Them
If you’re looking to set up an aquarium/fish tank for the first time, it can be challenging to know what to do. With so many different requirements and types of tanks, it can be difficult to decide. In this article, we are going to take a look at six different types of aquariums, and how you can maintain them. Sound interesting? Then let’s get started!
Freshwater Tank
Unlike saltwater tanks, freshwater tanks are much easier to set up, and the focus is more on the fish than other organisms. The first thing you need to do is decide on the type of fish you will be using, and if they will live well together. The last thing you want is for them to attack each other.
Once you’ve chosen your fish, maintenance from there is pretty straightforward. You will need to clean the tank regularly, replace the media when needed, and test the water levels to keep your fish happy and healthy. For more advice on how to maintain your tanks, check out Aquanswers.com.
Saltwater Tank
Saltwater tanks have to be treated much more differently than the others, as you are looking after not just fish, but other living organisms as well, such as rock and coral. If you do choose to have fish only, you will have to spend quite a bit of time setting up the tank, due to the absence of aquarium plants and other organisms.
If you decide to set up a tank with a reef, it requires extensive experience. In fact, you will probably spend more time taking care of the coral than the fish. This process can be expensive, and requires a lot of maintenance, frequently checking the water quality and cleaning.
Coldwater Tank
Coldwater tanks are most common for beginners and children, as they require little maintenance. You may have had one that you won from a show or were given as a gift. The fish don’t require a heater and can also live in an outdoor pond. As long as the temperature remains between 15-20 degrees, they will be just fine!
When caring for coldwater fish, you need to ensure they have plenty of space and places to hide. Although you don’t need a heater, you will need a filter and thermometer to check the temperature.
Betta Fish Tank
While some people believe that betta fish can be put in any old bowl, this is actually far from the case. Most betta fish enjoy being in a larger space, as they can exercise, swim, and stretch. They will also be much happier with a filtration system to take care of all their needs.
When setting up a tank, make sure to include some decorations that don’t take up a lot of room. Since they have fragile fins, they can tear easily on sharp objects. You also need to keep an eye on the temperature of the water, as they are a tropical fish.
Brackish Tank
A brackish aquarium is a specific type of tank that caters to fish that live in unique bodies of water containing both saltwater and freshwater. They are not that common; however, some experts with in-depth knowledge may decide to set one up.
Due to the unusual living conditions of brackish fish, setting up and maintaining a tank is quite complicated. It requires a lot of measuring, testing, and is quite an expensive process.
Breeder Tank
Breeder tanks are not commonly used in households but can help you improve your numbers if you are upgrading your tank. They are designed to be shallower and smaller than regular tanks so that the fish can get easily get to the surface. Traps can also be placed in the tank to keep them separated and stop them from eating their young.
These tanks require a lot of special maintenance, as you are not only caring for adult fish but young as well. If you are thinking of using one of these, it’s vital to do your research, and take extra caution when you are cleaning it out.
And that’s it! These were six types of aquarium tanks and how you can maintain them. It’s essential that you purchase the right tank for the right fish so that they can thrive and grow. Make sure you do your research first and remember to seek help if you need it. Aquariums require a lot of hard work, but the results are definitely worth it.
