Magical underwater world

Summer vacation, assuming it even took place as planned this year due to the pandemic, is long over, and outside the window the sky is growing grayer and gloomier. But for those who don't mind the effort or are looking for a new hobby, it's possible to bring the perfect ocean view into your living room – with a decoratively designed underwater landscape.

An aquarium isn't just an attractive focal point; scientists have discovered that watching fish also has a positive effect on our well-being, as it calms us and lifts our mood. But what do you need to consider if you want to keep fish in a species-appropriate manner? And what location is suitable for "fish TV"?

Perhaps the most important question to answer beforehand is which fish will live in the aquarium. For beginners, easy-to-care-for species such as neon tetras, guppies, mollies, catfish, or butterfly cichlids are suitable. To ensure the fish get along well, they should at least come from the same continent. A knowledgeable pet store owner will know which fish can live together in pairs or schools and how quickly the respective species reproduce.

How big should the tank be? Small aquariums are only suitable for freshwater shrimp and snails. For fish to thrive, the tank should hold at least 100 liters of water. As a rule of thumb, you should allow at least one liter of water per centimeter of fish up to four centimeters long. Therefore, a 100-liter aquarium could house a maximum of 100 centimeters of fish. Generally speaking, the larger the tank, the more stable the aquarium's closed ecosystem. The water depth should not exceed 60 centimeters, otherwise too little light will reach the bottom.

And where should it go? Before the water can be added, a suitable location with a stable base for the aquarium must first be found. This should be chosen so that you can comfortably observe the new inhabitants from the sofa. To ensure the fish are also relaxed, the location should be quiet and stress-free – so the spot next to the stereo is out. The aquarium shouldn't be placed directly by the window either, as direct sunlight promotes algae growth and can overheat the water. An equally attractive and elegant solution would be to place the colorful tank as a room divider between the living and dining areas.

For further information on technology, planting, and water treatment, if you're a beginner in aquariums and want to immerse yourself in the fascinating underwater world, you can find tips and accessories in specialist shops and online. We wish you much enjoyment with your new hobby!