Fish Tanks

A fish tank, also known as an aquarium, is a tank, bowl or other water-filled enclosure wherein aquatic plants and animals - typically fish, and sometimes invertebrates, as well as amphibians, marine mammals and reptiles - are kept in captivity. Fish tanks are ordinarily made of glass or high-strength plastic.

Fish tanks were popular in ancient Rome, Egypt, and Asia. Early Sumerians were known to keep wild-caught fish in pools, before preparing them for meals. In China, selective propagation of carp into today’s admired koi and goldfish is said to have started over 2,000 years ago. The earliest fish tank to have been constructed of glass (dating to 1853) is on display in Regent’s Park, London.

Fish tanks customarily contain fresh or salt water at tropical or cool temperatures. The conditions and characteristics of the fish and other residents help the owner to decide what kind of water or vegetation need to be in the tank.

A conscientious aquarist invariably tries to keep a fish tank in a way that resembles its inhabitant’s usual surroundings. The water quality is particularly important, and this means controlling the inflow and outflow of nutrients. The maintenance of a fish aquarium also requires the delicate regulation of temperature, light, and oxygen, controlling the waste produced by tank inhabitants, suitable species assortment, management of biological loading, and favorable physical design.

Aquarium keeping is now a common hobby around the globe. The fish tanks range in size from a simple bowl housing a solo fish to composite replicated ecosystems with conscientiously engineered support systems. A typical home aquarium contains a filtration system, an artificial lighting system, air pumps, and a heater. Additionally, some freshwater tanks (and most saltwater tanks) utilize power heads to enhance water circulation.

Lots of universities, marine stations, and wildlife commissions often maintain large freshwater and saltwater fish tanks for research and propagation purposes.