The Best Fish Bowl Size and Aquarium for Happy, Healthy Fish

When it comes to keeping fish, the fish bowl is becoming an outdated and often harmful option. Not only are fish bowls too small to provide the proper environment, but they are also a status symbol of an era that is better left behind. In this article, we will discuss the drawbacks of fish bowls and the advantages of investing in an aquarium.

Why Fish Bowls Aren't the Best Choice

Fish bowls are too small to provide the necessary living conditions for fish to thrive. They are also difficult to maintain and can pose health risks to your aquatic pets. In many places, it is even illegal to keep fish in bowls due to the poor living conditions they present. Not only do they lack proper filtration and heating, but the movement of the fish itself can cause the water to becomes unbalanced and dirty. Therefore, we strongly recommend avoiding fish bowls and opting for an aquarium instead.

Rectangular Tanks: The Optimal Choice for Viewing and Care

Rectangular fish tanks offer an undistorted view of your fish and any planted decorations, providing you with a more enjoyable experience. They are also easier to clean and maintain, with better placement for substrate filters and out-of-tank filters. Additionally, aquarium lighting is more effectively utilized in rectangular tanks, allowing for a more natural and vibrant environment for your fish.

Minimum Tank Size Recommendations

Which tank size you should choose depends on your budget and the type of fish you plan to keep. While a 10-gallon tank can be useful for quarantine purposes and breeding certain fish, we strongly advise starting with a minimum of a 50-gallon tank if your budget allows. This will provide ample space for fish to grow and thrive without the stress of overcrowding. It is also important to note that even smaller tanks can be beneficial in certain situations, such as when you need to quarantine sick or new additions to your tank.

The Realistic Tips on Maintaining a Healthy Aquarium

When setting up your aquarium, it is crucial to inquire from the fish store about necessary equipment such as filters, aerators, and heaters. The knowledgeable staff can also advise you on the appropriate plants to include and how to care for them. Proper equipment and plant selection are key to a healthy and balanced aquarium environment.

The Exception: The Walstad Method Shrimp Bowl

There is one exception to the recommendation against fish bowls: the Walstad method shrimp bowl. If you choose to use a bowl for shrimp, you can maintain a healthy and thriving ecosystem. However, it should be noted that even in this case, the bowl should still be properly set up to ensure the well-being of the shrimp.

This Is Not the End of the Story

While fish bowls may no longer be the best choice for keeping fish, they will likely continue to find their place in certain niche markets. However, for the majority of fish owners who prioritize the health and happiness of their aquatic pets, an aquarium remains the best option. By investing in a properly set-up aquarium, you can ensure that your fish have the best possible living conditions, leading to a long and healthy life full of vibrancy and color.

Keywords: fish bowl, aquarium, fish care, tank size