Why Should You Get a Larger Aquarium?

Bigger may not always be better, but a larger size tends to be ideal when buying an aquarium. After deciding which types of fish you want, take your time to find the right size tank. A larger space may be the difference between a happy, healthy environment or a stressful one with insufficient water quality. Below are a few great reasons you might want to consider heading home with a bigger aquarium.

It’s a Good Idea to Leave Room for Growth

A small tank (when we say small, we’re talking about 5-15 gallons for freshwater and less than 20 gallons for a saltwater reef) can stunt the development of your fish. As a rule of thumb, it’s best to do research on different fish species before buying anything. Goldfish, a household favorite, will continue growing when uncrowded and under the right conditions, which means your 2-inch goldfish could grow to a foot or more. Even the colorful and usually tiny guppies can grow up to 3 inches when cared for properly.

No One Likes Confined Spaces

Some fish may become aggressive when placed in tight spaces, especially when crowded by plants and other fish, which can lead to one fish attacking the others, or your fish may become sick as a result of stress. Even when aggression isn’t part of the problem, stress can lead to a plethora of issues. A few common signs to look out for include a lack of appetite, awkward or erratic swimming habits, and hiding. Researching the healthy habits of each fish you bring home will help you to know what to expect in advance. Ask the helpful technicians at Aquatic Warehouse for some sound advice when you come by. We’re here to help.

Smaller Aquariums May Require More Care Than Larger Aquariums

Larger aquariums are easier to maintain. Sure, the initial work and costs may be a bit higher, but they’re easier to enjoy once they’re set up (especially a freshwater aquarium). Aquariums larger than bowls and under 10 gallons require more time (and sometimes money) to maintain. The work can be so demanding that plenty of first-time owners give their tanks up. A few problems include an exponential buildup of chemicals, temperature fluctuations, and low dilution rates of waste.

Larger Aquariums Are Aesthetically Pleasing

Installing an aquarium can be a beautiful and natural way of adding color and energy to a home. Hobbyists who don’t mind regular maintenance may want to consider a saltwater tank filled with coral, and approximately 50 to 120 gallons is the minimal size to help these tanks flourish. While this may seem shocking for first-time aquarium owners, fewer problems arise in larger saltwater tanks because they’re more stable than smaller ones. Also, a larger tank filled with fish and invertebrates is a lovely addition to any home.

No matter what size tank you choose, if you need high-quality freshwater or saltwater aquarium supplies, reach out to Aquatic Warehouse. Check out our website, stop by our store in Kearny Mesa, or give us a call at 858-467-9297 to speak with one of our aquarium experts.