Small aquarium buying guide

You may have heard horror stories about major retailers selling so-called decorative household items containing live fish. So, what's the problem? Simple: this type of habitat is not at all suitable for fish for a number of reasons:

• An insufficient volume of water will quickly become a source of boredom and distress for the fish.

• Less water means filthier water, as ammonia from waste will quickly build up.

• Fish living in tiny tanks may suffer from hypoxia, when poorly oxygenated water forces them to the surface to breathe.

• Small bowl tanks are prone to extreme temperature fluctuations, yet another source of distress for the fish.

• Small bowls are tough to clean and the water will become dirty againin no time.

So long as the size and set-up of the aquarium meet the needs of your fish, any shape will do. You can choose from rectangular, square or round models that come with or without a stand or mirror background. You'll also have to select a tank material: glass, plastic or acrylic. Keep in mind that plastic walls streak and that acrylic is less pressure-resistant than glass.

As a decorative element, an aquarium can bring a room to life – just don't forget that it's also a habitat for your fish!

Before settling on a model, you'll need to decide which type of fish you're going to put in it.Whilst a betta fish (Siamese fighting fish) can thrive in a 20-litre tank, the same volume of water would be insufficient for certain species of goldfish, which can grow to up to 30 centimetres.

To ensure your fish stay healthy and happy in their new habitat, you'll need to have a clear idea of the species' specific needs and its maximum size.

Young or inexperienced fishkeepers should opt for an all-in-one aquariumwhich includes:

• A filter pump.

• Lights.

• A heater (to maintain an optimum temperature for the species).

For starters, a 50-75-litre model can suffice, since the average goldfish requires a minimum of 50 litres. If you're planning on having two goldfish, you'll need to double the size and opt for a 100-litre aquarium. When calculating the volume of water your fish will require, you'll also want to take into account the weight of the fish: the bigger they are, the more space they'll need!

Note: small tropical fish will do fine in a smaller (50-litre) aquarium.

Miniature aquarium plants are a must for the inside of your tank, as they release oxygen into the water through photosynthesis.

You'll also want to add a substrate, either sand or gravel, which will help anchor aquatic plants. Added bonus: many fish like to forage for food by dredging up the substrate.

Small decorative elements with holes will provide a stimulating environment and a few quiet 'resting nooks'. So don't forget to add a treasure chest, vase, or hollow rock suited to the size of your aquarium!

No matter how large or small the bowl or aquarium, the survival of your fish ultimately comes down to maintaining proper levels of oxygen.

It is essential is to keep a well-cycled aquarium in which the nitrogen cycle process will break down ammonia-based waste into less toxic nitrates. In fact, seasoned fishkeepers recommend running your fully equipped aquarium for a month before putting fish in it. This will allow for the growth of bacteria involved in the nitrogen cycle.

Tanks with larger surface areas allow for greater interaction between air and water. Believe it or not, the smaller the tank, the harder it is to maintain!

Fish raised in an unfiltered bowl have a very short lifespan. So, if you love your fish, give them a healthy, stimulating habitat and then sit back and watch them thrive!

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