FAQs About Types of Aquariums

Different types of aquariums are suitable for different animals. Aquariums were originally used to house fish, but today reptiles, spiders, hamsters and other creatures are also housed in aquariums.

Q: How are different sized aquariums used?

A: Aquariums come in a variety of sizes from as small as a quart to over 100 gallon. A large aquarium is used to house many very small fish or fewer large fish. Just remember that you should have no more than an inch of fish to each gallon of water. Other animals, when housed in an aquarium should have room to move around freely, and have separate areas for playing, defecating, eating and sleeping.

Q: Are all fish tank set ups essentially the same?

A: No. Reef, saltwater and freshwater fish all have very different needs. Research the kinds of fish you are going to get and find out if they need lots of open space to swim, or lots of crevices to hide in. Read about how much salt they need for survival. Surprisingly, even freshwater fish often do well with a certain level of brine in their water. Find out if they need aeration and filtration or if they prefer a still environment. This is all essential to their care.

Q: What is needed to set up a reptile tank?

A: Reptiles each have specific personal needs. A wire mesh, rather than a glass, top on the aquarium allows for sufficient air circulation.The mesh should keep the reptile's live food from escaping. Reptiles typically need a warming light, so the aquarium needs wiring for bulb installation. Other modifications in the aquarium depend on the kind of reptile.