A bubbling aquarium can provide hours of calming ambience and entertainment. While huge aquariums full of large fish and plants make a bold statement, those who are looking to house pet fish and keep their maintenance at a reasonable level should consider starting with a 20 gallon fish tank.
The Tetra Aquarium 20 Gallon Fish Tank Kit is an excellent value for those interested in adding an aquarium to their home. From the filter to the heater, this high quality glass tank includes everything you need to comfortably house a small collection of tropical fish.
The most important factor when it comes to deciding on an aquarium is making sure that it will be large enough to provide adequate living space for your fish. Many new to aquariums are surprised to learn that even small fish need a lot of room to live happily. A 20 gallon tank should only be expected to accommodate very small fish, frogs or shrimp. Be sure to keep in mind that many fish sold in stores are babies or juveniles that may quickly outgrow a 20 gallon fish tank.
It’s critical to select a location in your home where your 20 gallon fish tank can be permanently and safely set up. Avoid locations that receive prolonged, direct sunlight and be sure that your tank is within reach of the power outlets necessary to run its filter, heater and lights. Even these relatively small aquariums become very heavy once filled with water and tank decorations. Place your tank on a sturdy piece of furniture that is strong enough to bear the weight.
20 gallon fish tanks are available in both glass and acrylic. Generally, glass is the preferred material because it provides great visibility and resists scratching. Acrylic is lighter and less expensive to produce, but great care must be given to prevent the tank sides from accumulating unsightly scratches and abrasions from cleaning.
Glass aquariums should be tightly built and sealed. They should have a plastic rim around the top to accommodate lighting fixtures and should not have excess glue smeared onto the viewing glass. Acrylic tanks are sometimes built as a single piece as opposed to panels. If you prefer an acrylic tank, select one that is crystal clear with no cloudiness or scratches from the manufacturing process
Starting a new aquarium requires you to invest in the equipment that you will need to keep your fish healthy. Filters, heaters, tank decorations, thermometers and more are just the tip of the iceberg. An aquarium kit that includes useful accessories will save you money, as well as prevent you from having to spend more time selecting each piece individually.
Traditional aquariums are rectangular. However, modern fish tanks are available in a variety of different shapes. Some are octagonal and others feature curved sides. The shape of the tank you select is largely up to your personal taste, although some consideration should be given to the species you intend to keep and how your tank will fit into your intended location.
You can purchase a 20 gallon fish tank for as little as $30 for the aquarium alone. Kits that include additional accessories cost $130-$150, and those that are available in unique shapes can cost $200 or more.
A. Every species of fish will have unique requirements regarding the space and water conditions it needs to thrive. It’s important to thoroughly research your fish to ensure that it can be appropriately kept in a 20 gallon tank.
A. Yes. Like fish, live plants need special consideration when it comes to their temperature and water quality. Be sure to select plants that are able to survive in the same conditions as your pet fish.
A. Yes, depending on the turtle’s size. A 20 gallon fish tank can comfortably house a baby turtle or two, but these animals grow quickly and require a great deal of space. If you choose to keep a turtle in a 20 gallon fish tank, be sure to provide it with the UVB light and heat requirements that reptiles need to prevent death from diseases that occur under inadequate living conditions.
A. Tap water contains chlorine and other chemicals that can harm or kill fish. To make sure that your aquarium is safe, select the appropriate water treatment solution from your favorite pet or fish store. Different fish species have different preferences when it comes to water acidity that you will need to familiarize yourself with. Test your water after treatment and allow your aquarium’s filter and heater to run for at least 24 hours before adding any plants or animals to your tank.
Tetra Aquarium 20 Gallon Fish Tank Kit
What you need to know: A kit that includes useful equipment to help new aquarium owners get started quickly and easily.
What you’ll love: With its included lights, heater, filter, tank decoration and water treatment solution, this 20 gallon glass aquarium bundle saves time and money. This model is built in the USA.
What you should consider: Some users report that the accessories included in this tank kit are not high quality with some needing to be replaced after failure.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
What you need to know: A 20 gallon fish tank bundle that includes bright LED lighting on its lid and a useful starting guide.
What you’ll love: With a heater, filter, net and more, this aquarium kit is an excellent value for beginners.
What you should consider: Some users have replaced the filter that comes with this kit with one they purchased separately, citing that the included model is loud and hard to clean.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon and Chewy
SeaClear Acrylic Aquarium Combo Set
What you need to know: An acrylic fish tank that’s a unique shape that is sure to be a conversation piece.
What you’ll love: This aquarium’s hexagonal design provides a unique viewing experience and opens up interesting placement and decoration options. Acrylic construction is light and crystal clear.
What you should consider: No accessories are included with this tank aside from a lighted hood.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon and PetSmart
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Derek Walborn writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
