In this article you will learn how to choose the right size fish tank. Including the importance of choosing a fish tank of the right size, how to calculate the right size, and what size fish tanks should correspond to common fish species. Let’s get started.Click here to learn how to choose the right betta fish tank size.
1. The importance of choosing a fish tank of the right size
Choosing a fish tank of the right size for your pet fish is crucial to the health of your fish and your experience of keeping fish. Imagine if you lived in a small space, you would definitely feel depressed and uncomfortable. The same is true for fish. Choosing a fish tank that is too large will take up too much space, which will have a little impact on the layout and beauty of your home. Therefore, remember to choose according to your actual situation and fish keeping needs.
The right size fish tank, more stable water quality
A fish tank of the right size is like providing a spacious “home” for fish. In this “home”, the water quality can be better maintained. Because the larger the water body, the more evenly toxic substances such as ammonia and nitrite will be diluted, and the concentration of harmful substances will be lower. In this way, fish can live in a safer and healthier environment.
Reduce stress and show fish natural behavior
In addition, the right size of the fish tank can also reduce the stress of the fish. If the fish tank is too small, the fish will feel crowded. This may make the fish aggressive because of the competition for territory. But in a spacious space, the fish can swim freely and even interact socially. Thus showing more natural behaviors of the fish. This not only makes the fish happier, but also gives you more opportunities to experience the natural behavior of fish.
Easier maintenance and more beautiful landscape
In addition, the right size of the fish tank can make it easier for you to maintain the water quality of the fish tank. In a larger fish tank, the water quality changes are relatively stable. You don’t need to change the water frequently. Moreover, a spacious fish tank can arrange more bottom sand, reefs and plants, making your fish tank look more beautiful.
2. How to calculate the appropriate size of the fish tank
When calculating the size of the fish tank. There is a simple method to refer to: the principle of “one gallon of water for every inch of fish”. This means that for each fish you plan to keep, calculated by every inch of its body length, you have to add at least one gallon of water to the fish tank. But remember, this is just a rough guide!
In fact, different types of fish have different requirements for the size of the fish tank because of their size, how fast they grow, how much waste they produce, how active they are, whether they bully other fish, and the water temperature and water quality they need.
For example, although small guys like guppies may not need a too large tank according to the above principles, it is best to use a fish tank of at least 10 gallons so that they can swim freely and the water quality is good.
For another example, angelfish need at least a 20-gallon fish tank to swim freely. And big guys like map fish not only have large bodies but also produce a lot of waste, so they need a fish tank of at least 50 gallons.
As for koi and dragon fish, you also need to prepare a large fish tank of more than 200 gallons. Here is our recommendation for a 200 gallon large fish tank.
In short, if you want to find a home of the right size for your fish, follow the principle of “one inch of fish for one inch of water.” Think about the specific needs of each fish, so that they can live in a safe and comfortable place.
3. What size fish tanks should be used for common fish species
Below I will briefly list the size of fish tanks that common pet fish need
Small fish
Guppy: This small fish does not need a very large fish tank. A fish tank that can hold about a few gallons of water (such as about 5 gallons) can keep 10 to 20 fish. But if you plan to keep more, you have to change to a larger fish tank.
Red and green light fish, zebra fish, etc. are also small fish, and a small fish tank (about a few gallons of water) is enough.
Medium-sized fish
Parrot fish, map fish: These fish grow faster, so they need to be given a spacious place. A fish tank that can hold about 10 to 20 gallons of water is quite suitable. Especially for map fish, you need a fish tank that can hold at least 30 gallons of water.
Silver Arowana: This fish swims very vigorously, so you need a larger fish tank for them to swim freely. You need a fish tank that can hold more than 30 gallons of water.
Big fish
Arowana: Arowana is large and imposing, so you need a large fish tank. The fish tank should hold at least 50 gallons of water.
Lohan fish: This is also a large fish, and it also needs a large fish tank, which can hold about 50 gallons of water.
Koi: Koi can grow very large, so it is best to use a large fish tank or simply dig a pond in the yard to raise them. You need a fish tank that can hold at least 100 gallons of water.
Special fish
Discus: This fish requires high water quality and environmental conditions, so you need to choose a suitable fish tank. If you raise medium-sized or adult fish, the fish tank should hold more than 50 gallons of water. If you are raising breeding fish, you have to adjust the size of the fish tank according to the specific situation. But you also have to ensure that they have enough space.
That’s all for this article. In general, the fish tank you choose should be based on the type and size of the fish. Each fish has its own needs, and you need to give them enough space to swim and clean water. Don’t forget to change the water and clean the fish tank regularly! The number of gallons here is just a rough estimate. When you actually buy a fish tank, you need to choose the right one based on the actual size and shape of the fish tank.
In the next article, we will introduce how to choose a fish tank stand.
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