If you’re thinking about your next hobbyist adventure and are seriously considering big fish aquariums, you’ve come to the right place. As avid hobbyists turned professionals ourselves, we understand that undertaking a new tank is an exciting prospect – and you want to make the right choice for something you could be dedicating years or even decades to.
So, what about a large fish tank? Honestly, we highly recommend more significant sizes to hobbyists of all levels, and despite popular belief to the contrary, we think they’re incredibly beginner-friendly!
However, before you dive into your expansively sized project, there are five vital things to know, which we discuss below. Before we delve into those, feel free to take a moment to explore the custom aquarium services offered by Living Art Aquatics by clicking the button below.
1. Big Fish Aquariums Means Bigger Aquatic Livestock Options
Perhaps one of the biggest draws of a larger tank is that your livestock possibilities become even more endless. Smaller tanks don’t have the space for certain species, whether because of their individual size or because they live in larger schools. Those restrictions are removed more and more as you increase the size of your tank.
What species might you be able to keep in your big fish aquariums? A few excellent examples are discussed in the sections below. However, please remember to do your research on the needs of any species you plan to stock in your aquarium. A larger tank will not allow aggressive or incompatible species to live together. Now, without further ado…
Large Freshwater Tank Species
Freshwater tanks are the more common option because they tend to be easier to care for. If you’re a beginner, we highly recommend freshwater big fish aquariums over saltwater options. A few examples of larger freshwater species you could stock in your tank include:
- Silver Arowana
- Banded Leporinus
- Goldfish (which require at least 50 to 100 gallons each)
- Suckermouth Catfish
- Black Ghost Knifefish
- Jaguar Cichlid
- Tiger Catfish
- Tire Track Eel
- Ornate Bichir
- Fahaka Puffer
- Angelfish
- African Leaf Fish
- Oscar
- Common Plecostomus
Large Saltwater Tank Species
If you’re a more experienced aquarium hobbyist, you may want to try your hand at saltwater big fish aquariums. A few examples of larger saltwater species you could stock in your tank include:
- Lionfish
- Blue Tang
- Yellow Longnose Butterflyfish
- French Angelfish
- Picasso Trigger
- Queen Trigger
- Koran Angelfish
- Lipstick Tang
- Snowflake Moray
- Cowfish
- Harlequin Tuskfish
Schooling Fish for Big Fish Aquariums
Schooling fish have varying population needs, ranging upwards of three fish per species. A larger fish tank means you’ll have ample room to start (and possibly grow) your school. Examples of freshwater schooling species include:
- Bala Shark
- Silver Dollar
- Clown Loach
- Tinfoil Barb
Schooling fish live in larger groups to stay safe in the wild.
Examples of saltwater schooling species include:
- Blue Tank (can be a single or school)
- Princess Parrotfish
2. Big Fish Aquariums Could Be Easier to Maintain
Many beginners believe that large fish tanks are harder to maintain simply because of their size. While that can be true in some circumstances (see the section below), big fish aquariums are generally easier to care for than their smaller counterparts for several reasons.
Pollutants Build More Slowly
With more space and gallons of water, pollutants like ammonia and nitrate build up more slowly. Therefore, your larger tank will require less frequent water changes to maintain an ideal environment for your livestock. Big fish aquariums will take longer when you do those water changes, but many people find it easier to change more water less frequently.
Greater Stability
Since pollutants build up more slowly, big fish aquariums also offer greater stability. If you miss a water change by a few days for any reason, it’s much less likely to cause a severe and lasting impact on your livestock’s health. Plus, you’ll have more time to fix issues that might arise. In a smaller tank, problems can become serious quickly – sometimes even before you realize they exist.
Less Fluctuation
Big fish aquariums are less prone to fluctuations in temperature and pH, which further enhances their overall stability. Most aquarium livestock have very specific needs in these two aspects and will become sick or die if your tank falls outside its ideal range. With less fluctuation, this becomes less of a problem.
Livestock Stress Reduction
Fish can become territorial and aggressive if they don’t have enough space. A few fish species can even become territorial if they don’t have a large enough schooling population. Ensuring ample space can reduce livestock stress and decrease the risk of aggression.
3. Big Fish Aquariums Could Be More Challenging to Maintain
We know the title of this section sounds contradictory to the one above, but this section is more of a warning. While big fish aquariums are generally considered easier to maintain, there are some ways they’re more challenging – and there are some ways you may accidentally make them more difficult.
Hard to Reach the Bottom
The deeper (or taller) your tank is, the harder it is to reach the bottom for deep cleaning when necessary. Thankfully, there are several methods for handling this challenge.
One of the most popular options is to stock at least one (or two) bottom-dwelling tank species that feed on algae or waste. Varying species of Pleco are popular, and since they grow to a reasonably large size, they can be pretty efficient. Other potential algae-eating species include Loach, Siamese Algae Eater, Chinese Algae Eater and Oto. Be sure to research how many of your chosen species are required to sustain your tank.
A second option is to find the appropriate tools to help. For example, you might use a brush that has a long handle sufficient to reach the bottom of your specific tank. Or you could try magnetic tank cleaners, which allow you to direct cleaning from outside the tank. Of course, sufficient pumps and filters should help keep algae and debris from building up and becoming out of hand in the first place.
A magnetic fish tank cleaner like this one can be helpful for larger tanks!
Bigger Doesn’t Have to Mean More Complex
Big fish aquariums don’t have to be filled with complex fish requiring complicated ecosystems. Sometimes, simpler is better. For example, a large goldfish aquarium can be beautiful and easy to care for. Remember, goldfish require much more room than most people give them and thrive best when they have 50 to 100 gallons per fish. This logic allows you to create a 300-gallon aquarium ecosystem using just three to six goldfish.
Don’t Be Tempted to Overpopulate
This point goes hand-in-hand with the one above, but it’s so important that it deserves its own section. Even with a giant fish aquarium, you must avoid overpopulation or run into many issues. The goldfish above is an excellent example, but let’s look at a few more population ideals using the 300-gallon fish tank as a reference:
- No more than six to 12 Bala sharks
- A maximum of 15 Angelfish (but we recommend 10 to 12)
- A maximum of one or two Tiger Catfish
- No more than two or three Blue Tang
4. Start Up Costs for Big Fish Aquariums Could Be Significant
Of course, cost is a significant factor in big fish aquariums. The larger the aquarium, the more it will cost – that’s just logic. Plus, the supplies and upkeep will likely be more expensive, too.
Don’t Cut Corners on Costs
When purchasing a big fish tank, buying quality in the beginning is crucial. There are a few reasons for this, including the tank’s overall durability. However, it’s also vital for safety. Those many gallons of water can put a lot of stress on the tank’s seams, making it more likely to burst if it’s of low quality. This poses a safety hazard for your aquarium livestock, home, family and other pets.
Budget Appropriately for All Associated Costs
Remember to budget for everything needed to properly maintain big fish aquariums so you don’t end up shocked at the final price—or, worse, run out of money to get it started. In addition to the tank itself, you’ll also need to budget for the filters, lights, pumps, other supplies, livestock, décor and plant life. We recommend planning to save slightly more than what you think the setup will cost to account for economic fluctuations.
The bigger your fish tank, the higher the total costs.
Ensure Big Fish Aquariums Are What You Want
Since big fish aquariums are a significant investment, take some time to ensure they’re what you want. Remember, the startup and maintenance costs will be higher than if you choose a smaller tank. Plus, you’ll need to ensure you have enough time to dedicate to your tank.
5. The Bigger the Aquarium, the More You Need It Custom-Built
The bigger the aquarium you hope to start, the more you need it custom-built. Many people consider custom aquariums an option when they want something fantastical or uniquely designed. While these are excellent reasons to choose a custom-built fish tank, size should also be a consideration.
Craftsmanship and Durability
Custom aquariums are designed with expert craftsmanship to ensure maximum durability. As mentioned above, larger fish tanks can pose a safety hazard if they’re low-quality. Choosing a custom option from a reputable company can ensure this isn’t an issue.
Biologically Sound from Day One
Companies like Living Art Aquatics can design a custom tank that will be biologically and ecologically sound from the beginning. If you’re looking for a fish tank that’s both beautiful and allows your fish to thrive, custom is the way to go.
Expert Set-Up Assistance
Do you have questions about your fish tank’s build and features? Or do you want to speak with an expert about properly caring for the aquarium life you plan on stocking it with? Then you should know that custom-built aquariums often come with industry experts ready to answer all your questions!
Higher Upfront Costs Offset by Better ROI
It’s true that custom big fish aquariums have higher upfront costs than pre-built options. However, these custom models often last much longer before requiring replacement. This helps you receive a better overall return on investment (ROI), making them a more affordable option in the long term.
Get Started with Big Fish Aquariums in Crystal Lake Today!
Ready to dive into big fish aquariums as your next hobbyist adventure? Do you want not only a big fish tank but one that’s truly awe-inspiring and biologically sound? If you live in Crystal Lake or the nearby Chicago suburbs, then Living Art Aquatics would love to help! Call us at (847) 737-5151 or fill out the contact form below to get started.
