Aquarium Sizes For The Fish

Aquarium sizes for the fish can be difficult to figure out. These tanks don’t come with a chart guide. The following information however, may prove useful.

Size Guide

Fish tank dimensions are classified as small, medium and large. The small ones range from 2 1/2 gallon, 12″ x 6″ x 8″ up to 15 gallon High, 20″ x 10″ x 18″. The midsized tanks start at 20 gallon High, 24″ x 12″ x 16″ up to the 40 gallon Long, 48″ x 12″ x 16″. The large tanks begin at 50 gallon, 36″ x 18″ x 19″ and go up to 180 gallon, 72″ x 24″ x 25″.

How Many Fish Can Fit in My Aquarium?

There are several factors that come into play. But the most common rule is the one inch per gallon rule. This means you can put one inch of fish for every gallon of water. This might seem a bit generous. But the truth is some owners end up stuffing their tanks
with fish.

Another factor that has to be considered is the fish size and shape. Putting in full-bodied goldfish is not the same as putting in slender shaped zebras. The bigger the fish, the more waste will be produced. Naturally this will need more water.

When looking for aquarium sizes for the fish, think of the fish when it is full grown. Many people buy fish young, which can be deceiving. A small fish tank looks adequate for a baby catfish. But these can reach lengths of six inches or more. To be safe, calculate the tank based on the potential adult fish size. This will eliminate a lot of problems.

Other Considerations

The tank size is not equal to the gallons of water they contain. For instance, a 10 gallon tank with plants, rocks, gravel and other accessories will not contain ten gallons of water. The volume will be 10% to 15% less. Also make sure the surface area calculation is accounted for.

For a better oxygen exchange, a greater surface area will be required. A tall, thin tank may contain the same number of fish as a wide, short one. However, their surface area will be different. You can determine the surface area by multiplying the length and width.

Most people searching for aquarium sizes for the fish use the one inch per gallon rule. Although it isn’t perfect, it will be sufficient for beginners.