How to Choose the Perfect Aquarium for Your Home

Choosing the right aquarium for your home is more than just picking a glass box full of water. It is about creating a stable, healthy and visually pleasing ecosystem that fits your lifestyle, your available space and your budget. A well‑selected aquarium will not only highlight the beauty of fish and plants, but also become a calming centerpiece in your living space. In this guide, you will learn how to choose the perfect size, shape and equipment so that your new aquatic world can thrive for years. MB Store supports aquarists at every level, offering carefully selected aquariums, accessories and professional advice.

Understanding Your Goals and Space at Home

Before you start comparing models, it is crucial to clarify what you actually expect from your future aquarium. Ask yourself whether you dream of a lush planted tank, a lively community of schooling fish or maybe a species‑only aquarium with one particularly interesting species. Your goals will influence not only the size of the tank, but also the type of equipment, lighting and even the furniture around the aquarium.

Equally important is a sober assessment of the space in your home. An aquarium should not be treated like a random decoration that can stand anywhere. It is a heavy and delicate installation that needs a stable surface, access to electricity and, ideally, proximity to a water source. Avoid places in direct, intense sunlight, as this causes uncontrolled algae growth and strong temperature fluctuations. Stay away from radiators, air conditioners and spots with draft. Think about everyday use: you need free space not only in front of the aquarium, but also above it, to carry out maintenance such as water changes, cleaning the glass and trimming plants.

Another aspect is how much time you can devote to maintenance. Smaller aquariums may seem easier, but they require very regular observation, because any change in parameters occurs much faster in a small volume of water. Conversely, larger aquariums are more stable, but require more time for water changes, substrate care and pruning lush vegetation. The ideal solution is to choose a tank that realistically fits your schedule, not only your dreams. MB Store helps in this decision by presenting various sets with different degrees of automation and filtration efficiency, tailored to beginners and more experienced hobbyists.

Choosing the Right Aquarium Size and Shape

One of the most common beginner mistakes is reaching for the smallest available aquarium “just to try”. In practice, a very small tank is more difficult to maintain than a medium one, because any error in dosing food, sudden death of a fish or slight overheating of water immediately affects the entire ecosystem. A good starting point for a freshwater community aquarium is a capacity of 60–100 liters. Such a volume already allows the creation of a stable environment and provides some freedom in choosing fish and decorations.

When planning stock, remember that fish grow, and information printed on shop labels often refers to juveniles. Think long‑term and check the target size of each species. Some seemingly small species, such as certain catfish or cichlids, need a lot of swimming space or complex rock structures. In MB Store you can find detailed descriptions of fish and suggested minimum tank sizes, which greatly facilitates selecting a proper aquarium.

The shape of the aquarium also matters. Classic rectangular tanks are the most universal: they offer good light distribution, easy filtration and convenient interior arrangement. Long tanks with a relatively small height are excellent for active, fast‑swimming species, such as barbs or danios. Higher tanks can look very impressive in the living room, but require stronger lighting so that plants at the bottom receive enough energy. Corner aquariums allow creative use of difficult spaces, although their interior can be slightly more demanding to decorate and clean due to curved glass or unusual dimensions.

An interesting option is nano aquariums, i.e. small tanks, often under 30 liters. They are ideal for shrimp, small snails or single micro‑fish species, but require more advanced knowledge and discipline. If you are just starting, treat a nano tank rather as a second, experimental project, and not as the main aquarium in your home. MB Store offers both classic and nano tanks, as well as dedicated accessories such as appropriately scaled filters, heaters and covers, so that every arrangement – large or small – remains functional and aesthetic.

Freshwater, Planted or Biotope? Selecting the Aquarium Type

The type of aquarium you choose will dictate your equipment list, maintenance style and even decorating approach. A standard community freshwater aquarium is the most popular option for home use. It allows you to keep a variety of peaceful species that share similar water requirements, such as tetras, rasboras, livebearers and small catfish. This type of tank works great for beginners because it offers a lot of flexibility. Moderately hard tap water is often sufficient, and many resilient species will forgive occasional mistakes.

A planted aquarium, especially in the so‑called nature style, focuses on the composition of stones, roots and dense vegetation. Fish play a supporting role, while the main decorative element is a living underwater garden. This style requires strong lighting, fertile substrate, regular fertilization and often CO₂ injection. Plants, however, repay the aquarist by stabilizing water parameters, competing with algae and creating natural shelter for fish and shrimp. MB Store offers specialized substrates, fertilizers, CO₂ sets and powerful LED lamps designed for advanced plant cultivation, which significantly facilitates building such a tank.

For more experienced enthusiasts, a biotope aquarium may be attractive. It recreates a specific natural environment, such as an Amazonian creek, an Asian riverbank or an African lake. In such a setup, you not only choose fish from a given region, but also use typical plants, roots and stones, and even adjust water parameters (pH, hardness, temperature) to natural conditions. Biotope aquariums are extremely educational and aesthetically coherent, but require precise selection of equipment and stock. The offer of MB Store includes decorations and technical elements that help reproduce specific water conditions, including reverse osmosis systems, peat filtration and buffers.

Regardless of the type of aquarium, keep in mind that stability is the key to success. When choosing a tank, imagine its future several months ahead: how large will the plants grow, how active will the fish be, will you plan to add more demanding species? It is much easier to design a slightly more spacious and better equipped aquarium at the start than to rebuild everything after a few months due to overcrowding or the need to upgrade filtration and lighting.

Essential Equipment: Filter, Heater, Lighting and More

A good aquarium is not only about the tank itself; it is primarily about reliable equipment that will keep the ecosystem stable. The basic element is the filter. Its task is not only to mechanically remove particles of dirt, but above all to provide a place for beneficial bacteria that convert toxic ammonia into relatively safe nitrate. When choosing a filter, pay attention to its efficiency, expressed in liters per hour, and the type of media inside. External canister filters offer large volume for media and easy maintenance, but require more space in the cabinet. Internal filters are compact and simple to install, which makes them popular for smaller tanks.

The heater is another critical component, especially in rooms where temperature significantly drops at night. Most tropical fish feel best in water around 24–26°C, although some species prefer slightly warmer or cooler conditions. Choosing a heater with a thermostat and appropriate power (usually 1 W per liter as a rough guideline) allows you to maintain stable conditions throughout the year. MB Store offers modern heaters with precise regulation and built‑in protection systems, which is important for safety and animal comfort.

Lighting determines not only how the aquarium looks, but also whether the plants will grow properly. LED lamps have become the standard due to energy efficiency, long life and the ability to select color spectrum. A planted tank needs stronger lighting than a fish‑only tank with artificial decorations. When purchasing a lamp, check whether its power and luminous flux are suitable for the depth of the aquarium and the needs of your plants. Many models available in MB Store allow regulation of light intensity and programming day–night cycles, which helps limit algae and reduce stress in fish.

Do not forget about smaller, but extremely useful accessories: a water conditioner for neutralizing chlorine and heavy metals, tests for basic parameters (pH, hardness, nitrite, nitrate), a gravel cleaner, nets, algae scrapers and thermometers. These elements make everyday aquarium care more predictable and less time‑consuming. It is worth planning their purchase together with the aquarium, so that from day one you are ready to set up and maintain the tank at the right level.

Substrate, Decorations and Layout Planning

The interior of the aquarium is not just decoration for your eyes; it is also the environment in which fish live, feed and hide. Choosing the right substrate affects plant growth, water chemistry and the overall appearance of the tank. For purely decorative aquariums without live plants, simple gravel with rounded edges is enough. For planted tanks, however, it is better to invest in specialized enriched substrates or multi‑layer solutions, where under the top layer of sand or gravel there is a nutrient base. MB Store offers a wide range of substrates of various grain sizes and chemical properties, which allows you to match them to the planned arrangement and plant species.

Stones and roots are not only aesthetic accents, but also natural barriers that divide the space between territorial fish and create hiding places for shy species. When choosing them, pay attention to whether the material does not undesirably alter water parameters. Certain types of rock can increase hardness and pH, which is beneficial for African cichlids, but not necessarily for Amazonian fish that prefer soft water. Safe, aquarium‑tested decorations available at MB Store eliminate the risk of poisoning or uncontrolled clouding of water.

Before pouring water into the tank, it is worth planning the entire layout on dry ground. Think about perspective: higher elements at the back and sides, open swimming area at the front. By using stones and roots, you can create natural composition lines that lead the viewer’s eye deeper into the aquarium. Consider how large the plants will grow and leave them enough space. A well‑thought‑out arrangement will make daily maintenance easier, because you will always have access to the glass panes and the substrate for cleaning.

For fish, the layout has behavioral significance. Species that form territories, such as many cichlids, need clearly separated zones with visual barriers. Shoaling fish feel safer in open central areas, while bottom species appreciate shaded nooks under roots and stones. By designing the interior with consideration for the natural habits of the stock, you minimize stress and aggression, which directly translates into better health and coloration of your animals.

Stand, Placement and Safety Considerations

An often underestimated element of choosing an aquarium is the right stand. Water is heavy: one liter weighs about one kilogram, so even a modest 100‑liter aquarium with substrate and decorations can exceed 130 kilograms. The furniture on which you plan to place the tank must be designed for such a load, evenly distributing the weight and protecting against twisting. Dedicated aquarium stands, available in MB Store, take into account these requirements and additionally provide space for a filter, cables and accessories.

It is important that the surface under the aquarium is completely level. Even slight unevenness can cause long‑term stress on glass joints and, in extreme cases, lead to leaks or cracks. Most tanks should be placed on a special mat that compensates for minor irregularities and protects the base from damage. When planning the location, make sure that there is enough space around the aquarium to freely access the back for connecting hoses, cleaning the cover or adjusting the filter.

Safety also includes electrical installation. All devices such as filters, heaters and lighting must have access to sockets located above the level of the water line to reduce the risk of flooding during possible leaks. It is recommended to use surge protectors and create a so‑called drip loop on cables, i.e. let the cable first drop below the level of the socket and then go up. This simple procedure prevents water from flowing directly into the socket in the event of accidental dripping. Many accessories in MB Store are designed with safety in mind and have appropriate certificates and protections.

Remember that the aquarium will attract the curiosity of children and pets. A solid stand and stable placement protect against tipping, and a tight cover or canopy prevents objects from falling into the water and fish from jumping out. By thinking about these issues before buying, you will ensure peace and comfort for yourself, your household members and the animals living in the aquarium.

Budgeting: Hidden Costs and Smart Shopping

When planning to buy an aquarium, it is easy to focus only on the price of the tank itself. Meanwhile, the total cost of launching and maintaining a healthy aquatic ecosystem is the sum of many elements. Apart from the aquarium, you need to purchase a filter, heater, lighting, substrate, decorations, water conditioners, tests, as well as fish and plants. It is worth preparing a complete list and assigning approximate amounts to each item. MB Store makes this easier by offering complete sets and clearly presented equipment categories.

Also consider running costs: electricity for filter, heater and lighting, regular purchase of food, conditioners, fertilizers for plants and replacement filter media. While many of these expenses are relatively small monthly payments, over the year they add up to a significant amount. Thoughtful selection of energy‑efficient equipment and choosing feeds and supplements in larger, economical packages helps reduce long‑term spending without sacrificing quality.

Do not save on critical components that directly affect the health of fish. A too weak filter, an unreliable heater or poor‑quality lighting will quickly result in problems such as disease, algae blooms or plant die‑off. It is better to invest a bit more upfront in solid, proven devices, especially those recommended by specialists. In MB Store you will find products selected with reliability in mind, at various price levels, which allows you to adjust the setup both to your expectations and your budget.

Another smart strategy is to buy with future upgrades in mind. For example, choosing a slightly more powerful filter than currently needed will allow you to later increase the aquarium’s stock or switch to more sensitive species without replacing equipment. This approach reduces the risk of having to sell or store devices that quickly become inadequate.

Why Choosing MB Store for Your Aquarium Makes Sense

When you decide to set up an aquarium at home, you gain not just a decorative object, but a living ecosystem that requires knowledge, attention and appropriate tools. Cooperation with a specialized supplier significantly simplifies the entire process. MB Store offers a wide selection of aquariums in various sizes and shapes, from classic rectangular tanks to nano and designer models, as well as complete sets ready for installation. Thanks to this, you can choose a solution tailored to your space, experience level and aesthetic preferences.

Equally important is the range of additional accessories. In MB Store you will find modern aquarium filters, efficient heaters, advanced LED lamps, specialized substrates, high‑quality foods and tested water conditioners. All products are selected so that they work well together and allow the creation of a stable, healthy environment for fish and plants. Professional descriptions and parameters help you understand what and why you are buying, instead of forcing you to experiment blindly.

Support does not end at the moment of purchase. By using the MB Store offer, you gain access to expert knowledge, guides and advice on setting up, stocking and maintaining the aquarium. Properly selected equipment and materials reduce the risk of typical beginner mistakes, such as overstocking, poor filtration or inadequate lighting. As a result, your path in the hobby becomes more satisfying, and the aquarium sooner turns into a truly thriving underwater landscape, not just a glass box of water.

FAQ

How big should my first home aquarium be?
For most beginners a tank of 60–100 liters is an optimal choice. Such a size is large enough to ensure stable water parameters and allow keeping a small community of peaceful fish, yet still easy to place in a living room or bedroom. Smaller tanks react faster to mistakes, while much larger ones require more work and higher initial costs.

Where is the best place to put an aquarium at home?
Place the aquarium on a sturdy, level stand away from direct sunlight, radiators and strong drafts. Access to electrical sockets and enough space for maintenance are essential. Avoid narrow corridors or spots where the tank could be bumped. Ideally, the aquarium should be in a calm, frequently used room, where you can enjoy observing it every day.

Do I need special equipment to start, or is a basic set enough?
A good starter set with a tank, filter, heater and basic lighting is usually enough for a simple freshwater aquarium with undemanding fish. Over time, you may add stronger lighting, better filtration or CO₂ if you decide on a planted tank. Choosing a quality set from a proven store reduces the risk that you will need to immediately replace key components.

How long after setup can I add fish to the aquarium?
After filling the tank and starting the filter, you should allow time for biological filtration to mature. This cycling process usually takes 3–4 weeks. During this period, beneficial bacteria colonize the filter media and substrate, converting toxic compounds into less harmful ones. Adding fish too early significantly increases the risk of poisoning and disease outbreaks in the new aquarium.

What basic accessories will make aquarium maintenance easier?
Essential accessories include a water conditioner, liquid or strip tests for key parameters, a gravel vacuum, algae scraper, net and thermometer. These tools help you perform weekly water changes, control water quality and quickly react to problems. Having them from the very beginning makes regular maintenance predictable, short and much less stressful for both you and your fish.