6 Great Benefits of Having Fish

Fish might not be as popular as dogs or cats, but the aquarium hobby is quickly gaining on them. Having an aquarium or an outdoor pond can be a very worthwhile, rewarding, and educational experience. Not only are fish beautiful and graceful to look at, but they can provide an emotional boost as well. Here are six reasons you might enjoy some fish in your home, brought to you by Aquatic Warehouse, a leading provider of pond equipment and saltwater and freshwater aquarium supplies.

1. Relieves Stress

One of the biggest benefits of owning fish is the stress relief that comes with watching them. Maybe it’s because humans are hardwired to be soothed by the gentle sounds of water, or perhaps it has something to do with the peaceful nature and mesmerizing movements of the fish themselves. Either way, you’re guaranteed to reduce your daily stress by having a fish tank or pond.

2. Lowers Blood Pressure

Many doctors and dentists have fish tanks in their offices. We know because we’ve installed hundreds of them. Everyone knows going in to have your teeth drilled can get your anxiety running amok, but it’s been proven that having an aquarium in a waiting room reduces stress. The subtle and fluid movements of fish can help you lower your blood pressure and regulate your heart rate. Even if your thoughts are running a million miles per hour, your body will be calmer and more relaxed when spending time around fish, and your long-term health will thank you for it.

3. Decreases Anxiety and Aggression

If you find yourself enjoying the calm, repetitive motions of fish moving around a body of water, you aren’t alone. A study focused on people with Alzheimer’s revealed that tanks full of brightly-colored fish reduced disruptive behaviors like pacing, yelling, and aimless walking. The study subjects didn’t feel the urge to do these things any more after a few minutes with the fish. Aquatic Warehouse has also installed many aquarium setups in retirement facilities.

Children also greatly benefit from having an aquarium in the household. Learning to care for their new house-buddies and discovering that aquariums are a microcosm of our world gets them a head-start in science. There have been hundreds of Junior Jacques Cousteaus that started with an aquarium at home.

4. Stimulates Appetite

The same study on people with Alzheimer’s also revealed that watching fish can lead to a bigger appetite. If you have a problem with forgetting to eat when you’re anxious or depressed, spending some time next to a koi pond can help you get back on track. It’s unknown why this happens, but it might be related to certain stress responses inhibiting hunger in the body. When stress is removed, you’ll have an appetite again.

5. Boosts Mood

The National Marine Aquarium conducted a study of their fish and coral displays. Participants were shown pictures and asked to describe their moods afterward. After viewing the big, diverse fish tanks, they reported feeling happier and more “restored.” The less vibrant displays also helped, but the true champions were the tanks full of bright colors and dynamic ecosystems.

6. Provides a Sense of Purpose

Last but certainly not least, owning a pet can give you a real sense of purpose. Fish offer many of the same benefits as taking care of a cat or dog. You might not be able to cuddle your fish, but you’ll feel responsible for them, and taking care of their needs will give your days value and meaning. Many fish are very intelligent and know the difference between you and other people, and some can even learn subtle tricks.

Whether you need tips on caring for a freshwater or saltwater aquarium or are curious about the types of koi pond supplies you might need for an outdoor pond, the friendly and knowledgeable staff at Aquatic Warehouse are here to help. Give us a call today at 858-467-9297.