Indoor aquarium

Types of indoor aquariums

An indoor aquarium is a tank or a series of interconnected tanks for keeping fish and other aquatic animals. It is a popular hobby among people who want to bring a piece of the natural water environment to their home or office. It can also serve as a focal point or a decoration, providing a calming and soothing effect. There are different types of indoor aquariums to suit different needs and preferences.

• Freshwater aquariums

  Freshwater aquariums are the most popular type of indoor aquarium. They are easier to maintain than saltwater aquariums. They have a wide variety of fish and plants. Common fish for freshwater aquariums include tetras, guppies, and goldfish. They can also keep freshwater plants like Anubias and Java fern. Freshwater aquariums only need a water conditioner to remove chlorine and chloramine from tap water. They have a range of pH levels and hardness.

• Saltwater aquariums

  Saltwater aquariums require different care from freshwater aquariums. Owners need to use marine salt mix to create a saltwater solution. They can keep a variety of colorful fish such as clownfish, tangs, and angelfish. They can also have corals, anemones, and other saltwater plants. Saltwater aquariums need more equipment than freshwater aquariums. They must have protein skimmers, live rock, and water testing kits.

• Brackish aquariums

  Brackish aquariums are a hybrid of freshwater and saltwater. They are suitable for fish and plants that can thrive in brackish water, which has a salinity between freshwater and saltwater. Some common brackish fish include mollies, scats, and archers. Brackish aquariums can be a challenge because the salinity can change depending on the evaporation of water.

• Planted aquariums

  Planted aquariums are indoor aquariums that have live aquatic plants. They create a natural habitat for fish and other animals. Some common plants for planted aquariums include water wisteria, Amazon sword, and hornwort. Planted aquariums provide oxygen, shelter, and food for fish. They also help maintain water quality. They need fertilizers, CO2 systems, and appropriate lighting for the plants to grow well.

• Marine reef aquariums

  Marine reef aquariums focus on creating a coral reef ecosystem. They have live rock, corals, and a variety of marine fish. Owners need to maintain a stable water quality and a proper temperature for the corals and fish. They also need to use a protein skimmer and a calcium reactor to keep the water clean and the calcium levels balanced.

• Terrariums aquariums

  Aquarium terrariums combine elements of aquariums and terrariums. They can have fish, plants, and land animals like frogs and turtles. They create a more diverse environment for different species to interact. Some common plants for aquarium terrariums include ferns, mosses, and bromeliads. They provide a natural habitat for fish, land animals, and plants.

Design of indoor aquariums

Indoor aquariums have various designs to meet different aesthetic and functional demands. Some common designs are:

• Tank style

  This is the most common and simplest type. The aquarium is a rectangular or square tank made of glass or acrylic, often with a metal or wooden frame. It can be freestanding on a stand or mounted within furniture.

• Wall-mounted aquariums

  These aquariums are mounted on walls like paintings. They save space and create a stunning focal point.

• Column aquariums

  Column aquariums are tall and vertical. They are ideal for showcasing fish that swim at different water levels.

• Bow front aquariums

  These tanks have a curved front glass panel, providing a 180-degree view of the underwater landscape. It reduces distortion and offers a wider view. They come in different sizes and shapes, including rectangular, hexagonal, and round.

• Cube aquariums

  As the name suggests, square and equal in all dimensions, providing a balanced view from all sides. They are suitable for small spaces and require less maintenance.

• All-in-one aquariums

  Also known as integrated aquariums, all-in-one tanks come with built-in filtration, lighting, and heating systems. They simplify setup and maintenance, making them ideal for beginners.

• Custom-built aquariums

  These are designed and constructed to fit a specific space or to meet specific requirements. They can be any shape or size and often incorporate unique features like overflow systems, sumps, or built-in cabinetry.

• Aquarium coffee table

  These are designed to be the centerpiece of a living room. They can be a rectangular tank encased in a wooden or metal frame. They may have a flat glass top that allows viewing fish and underwater decor from above.

• Aquaponics systems

  These are integrated systems that combine aquaculture (fish farming) and hydroponics (growing plants without soil). The fish waste provides organic fertilizer for the plants, and the plants filter the water for the fish.

• Desktop and nano aquariums

  These are small aquariums, typically less than 10 gallons. They are designed for limited spaces like desks or countertops. They often have minimalist designs and require less maintenance.

Scenarios of indoor aquariums

• Residential Living Rooms:

  Indoor fish tanks are popular in living rooms. They make the place look nice and peaceful. Watching fish swim can reduce stress and make the room look more welcoming.

• Office Spaces:

  Aquariums in offices make the space feel less formal. They can make the environment more friendly. Looking at the fish can also help workers relax during busy times.

• Healthcare Facilities:

  Hospitals and waiting areas benefit from aquariums. Patients who watch the fish may feel less anxious. This can help reduce stress, which is good for healing.

• Educational Institutions:

  Schools and colleges use aquariums for lessons about aquatic life. Students learn about fish, plants, and ecosystems. Having a live tank makes learning more interesting.

• Restaurants and Cafés:

  Food places with aquariums create a nice atmosphere for diners. It adds to the decor and makes eating more enjoyable. Some places even have large tanks with lobsters or crabs so customers can see their food alive before cooking.

• Retail Environments:

  Stores with fish tanks catch customers' attention and make them feel relaxed. This may encourage shoppers to stay longer and possibly buy something. Aquariums also fit well in pet shops where people come to choose pets.

• Senior Living Communities:

  Senior centers often install aquariums as a calming activity for residents. Watching fish swim by provides a low-key form of entertainment. It can also spark social interaction among seniors who discuss what they see together.

• Indoor Gardens or Sunrooms:

  Those who have indoor gardens like having aquariums nearby too. The tank adds water elements that complement plants nicely. Both garden features provide diverse stimuli for the senses.

How to choose an indoor aquarium

• Size and Space:

  Before choosing an indoor aquarium, users must consider how much space they have at home. They should ask themselves questions like, "How big can my tank be without it being too small or too big?" "What size tank can my budget accommodate?" "What size of tank will my fish need to live comfortably?" A fish tank needs to be at least 20 gallons for beginners. However, users may want to choose a larger tank because they are more stable and easier to take care of.

• Filtration and Heating:

  Most indoor fish tanks need filters to clean the water and remove dirt. Some also need heaters to keep the water warm enough for the fish.

• Aesthetics and Integration:

  People want their fish tanks to look nice. They should pick tanks that have pretty designs and colors that match their home. Fish tanks come in many colors like black, white, and silver. They should choose one that goes well with where they live. Aquascaping supplies like gravel, rocks, plants, and decorations also make fish tanks look nicer.

• Material and Durability:

  Indoor aquariums are made from glass or acrylic. Glass tanks are less expensive, but they are also heavier and can crack if dropped. Acrylic tanks weigh less but cost more and may develop small holes over time. People should consider the pros and cons of each material before buying their tank.

• Accessibility and Maintenance:

  Indoor aquariums need to be easy to reach so fish can be fed and the water changed regularly. Smaller tanks are usually easier to care for than bigger ones.

• Cost and Budget:

  Indoor aquariums cost between $50 and $400 on average. People should ensure they have enough money to buy their desired fish tank and pay for the items needed to care for it.

Q&A

Q1: Does an indoor aquarium need sunlight?

A1: No, it shouldn't have direct sunlight as it will raise the temperature and encourage algae growth.

Q2: How often should the water be changed in an indoor aquarium?

A2: Change 10-15% of the water weekly to maintain water quality; do a complete water change monthly for a tank without fish.

Q3: What fish are easy to keep for beginners?

A3: Start with hardy species like bettas, guppies, or tetras that adapt well to new environments.

Q4: How long does it take to cycle a new aquarium?

A4: The nitrogen cycle takes about 4-6 weeks to establish beneficial bacteria in a new tank.

Q5: What should the temperature be in an indoor aquarium?

A5: Most tropical fish prefer 75-80°F (24-27°C); use a heater and thermometer to maintain it.