Setting Up Your First Big Aquarium
If you’ve recently decided to take the plunge and get a big aquarium, congratulations! You’re about to join the ranks of millions of hobbyists around the world who have made fishkeeping a part of their lives. But before you can settle in and enjoy your new hobby, there is some work to do. Let’s look at a few things you need to consider when setting up your first big aquarium.
- Size Matters – When it comes to big tanks, size does indeed matter. The larger the tank, the more room your fish will have to swim around and explore. A bigger tank also means less frequent water changes, as it will take longer for contaminants and debris to build up. When shopping for an aquarium, keep in mind that bigger isn’t always better; if your tank is too large or too deep, it could be difficult or even dangerous for your fish to navigate.
- Choose Wisely – Not all tanks are created equal; there are many different types available on the market today. Glass tanks are usually more expensive but they come with several advantages; they’re easy to clean and maintain and they don’t scratch easily like acrylic tanks can. Acrylic tanks offer great value but they require more maintenance due to their susceptibility to scratches. When choosing a type of tank, think about what kind of environment you want for your fish—a shallow or tall tank? An open-top or closed-top? All these decisions will impact how successful your setup is in the long run.
- Get Equipped – Before you can fill up your aquarium with water, there are some essential items that you’ll need first. These include an aquarium filter (or two!), an air pump (to oxygenate the water), a heater (for tropical species), thermometers (both air and water), gravel/substrate (depending on which type of tank you have) and plants/ornaments (for decoration). Don’t forget lighting either – bad lighting can lead to algae growth which can quickly turn into an ugly problem! Once all these pieces are properly installed, then you’re ready to add water and start stocking up with fish!
Setting up a big aquarium may seem intimidating at first but it doesn’t have to be! With careful planning and consideration of what type of environment you want for your fish as well as having all the necessary equipment on hand before filling up with water, any beginner aquarist should be able set up their own big tank with relative ease. So don’t get discouraged – if you take things step by step and plan ahead, setting up a big aquarium could be one of the most rewarding experiences for any hobbyist! Good luck!
