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Choosing and Buying a Freshwater Aquarium

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The main difference between aquariums is whether they are made from glass or acrylic. Glass aquariums are the traditional aquarium material, and they are still the cheapest and easiest to clean. On the other hand, acrylic (e.g. plexiglass) aquariums are stronger and easier to see into than are glass aquariums, and they come in multiple non-traditional shapes and styles. Most glass aquariums have the traditional rectangular design, but acrylic aquariums come in cubic, cylindrical, and octagonal shapes, among others.

Many people, however, opt for the ease of a glass bowl or vase. While these items adequately house your fish, they do not include a filter or have good aeration, so you should only purchase fish such as beta fish that can breathe at the surface. In addition, you should change the water frequently in your bowl or vase.

In general, freshwater fish experts say that the bigger aquarium you have, the better it is for the fish. When choosing the size of your aquarium, consider the number (and expense) of fish you want to house, as well as your available space. In addition, remember that aquariums are very heavy. A twenty-gallon tank, for example, weighs more than two hundred pounds, so make sure the spot you plan for the aquarium can support that weight. A ten-gallon freshwater aquarium is standard, but many experts recommend a twenty-gallon tank. You can also purchase small, two to five gallon tanks, but these tanks will only support a few fish.

Fortunately, freshwater aquariums are fairly inexpensive. At a pet store, a ten-gallon glass aquarium might cost only ten dollars and a twenty-gallon tank would cost approximately thirty-five dollars. Acrylic aquariums are more expensive, but you can buy them online. For a real deal, you can check out garage sales, but at pet stores you can likely purchase a pre-assembled aquarium, complete with all the aquarium accessories, such as a filter and pump. These features add significantly to the price, but it makes your set-up process much easier.

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