Aquariums are a great source of entertainment, provide hours of restful enjoyment and relaxation, and can also be beneficial in educating people or fascinating them. Keeping an aquarium at home or in any other space is a tough job as it requires planning, handling, and commitment.

Commitment does not imply only the financial aspect, but it also means ensuring proper care and attention is directed towards the aquarium so as to maintain a healthy aquatic environment for the fishes to live within.

One should consider the following key points before buying an aquarium.

The installation cost is a start-up cost, which usually appears to be low. But it may not necessarily be less, as the equipment cost, cost of the fish, and placement cost together sum up to a huge amount.

The size of the aquarium depends mostly upon the number and type of fishes which will be housed in it. Also, it may vary with the placement area. Whatever the size may be, you need to be sure that you will be able to maintain it efficiently. The placement area should be well supported, and located far away from the door and windows so as to avoid unnecessary hassle. Also keep the tank away from exposure to too much light or temperature changes.

The choice of equipment depends largely upon the nature of fishes kept in the aquarium. Equipment such as filters, heaters, thermometer, lights, and pumps for oxygen supply needs to be installed in general depending upon the atmospheric conditions. Prepare a gravel bed and add natural and artificial plants to give fishes a realistic aquatic environment.

The nature of fish you choose will majorly depend upon the water quality of the aquarium. This is because some fishes may or may not be able to survive in saline water or in freshwater. Depending upon the water, the selection of fishes can be done with ease. The number of fish will be influenced by the size of your tank. Depending upon the nature of the fish, various food supplies are available in the market. Choose food wisely as a healthy diet will keep the fish healthy. To avoid illness due to fungal and bacterial infections, use additives on time. Also, avoid overfeeding as it may affect the fish’s health in a serious manner.

The most important part of maintaining an aquarium is to keep it clean and fresh always. Be very careful with your fish. Avoid lifting of a half-filled or fully-filled aquarium. Always remember to maintain the appropriate water level and temperature in your aquarium.