Choosing the right size aquarium can be a daunting task. You may not know what size fish you want to keep and how big they will grow. Therefore, before choosing the aquarium, you should research the type of fish you plan to keep.
If you know, you will stock a large fish. Then it is advisable to take a large aquarium of 300 liters and find the right configuration.
As expected, large aquariums are preferable to small aqua ones as they help the fish grow better in their environment. In addition, the larger water volumes help dilute toxins better and allow for better air circulation. Larger aquariums have a faster cycle, less stressful for the fish. Here are some tips for choosing a large aquarium.
Availability
It’s not easy to find large aquariums at an affordable price. So you need to find suitable sources for the purchase. For example, you can try to find someone looking to get rid of a used aquarium. You can check eBay, craigslist, local classifieds, or community sites dedicated to pet fish care. You may have to be patient and retrieve the aquarium from the owner, as having it delivered can be expensive.
Setting up a 300-liter aquarium
A large aquarium may be enough; however, you need to provide a better environment for the fish to survive. This includes a water filter, lighting, hood, aquarium heater, and a stand to hold the aquarium. If you don’t have a stand that can support the weight of the large aquarium, you can start by placing it on the ground. However, it is essential to consider whether the floor can support the weight. A professional can determine by calculating the weight your floor can handle using pounds per square foot (PSF).
Condition of the large aquarium
You’ll need photos of the large aquarium before you buy. Be sure to get photos with good lighting, as this will help you identify any damage. For example, a large aquarium that has a crack towards the bottom will crack in no time due to water pressure.
Acrylic or glass
When buying a large 300-liter aquarium, both glass and acrylic are suitable. Acrylic tends to scratch more efficiently; however, it is less likely to develop leaks. An acrylic aquarium would be best, considering the water in a large aquarium, as you are less likely to have leaks. Plus, you won’t have to worry about the maintenance of leaks that you might encounter in large aquariums.
Additional Parts
Buying the large aquarium is just the tip of the iceberg compared to the other parts you need. Some of the tanks you buy may have parts such as lights and reflectors, thermometers, timers, filters, extension cords, and heaters. Ensure they work properly, as some of these parts can be expensive. A large aquarium will undoubtedly require more maintenance than a smaller one. Therefore, be sure to invest both time and money to get the proper environment your fish need.
A large aquarium requires less maintenance because its size allows for more excellent oxygen and carbon monoxide circulation. In addition, toxins are also removed more easily. However, it’s always good to be prepared if you’re raising many fish in a large tank. Using this buying guide, you will get an excellent quality aquarium.
The freshwater Bala shark (Balantiocheilus melanopterus) or silver shark needs a large-capacity freshwater aquarium. A 300-liter aquarium is sufficient, with the average aquarium size being 143.5cm h x 120.5cm w x 39cm d, equivalent to 102 square feet. The Bala shark, which is a little over a foot long, will be more than fine in an aquarium of this size, but for the best health of the shark, it is advisable to keep it alone or in pairs.
Bala sharks can be semi-aggressive in temperament, but when kept alone or in pairs, they are generally not a problem. They require moderate care at temperatures of 72 to 79 degrees Fahrenheit. Farm-raised (usually) in Thailand, they are highly visible fish in the daytime with their metallic silver bodies, yellow and black tails, and dorsal fins. They are omnivorous and must be fed on flake food, frozen bloodworms, tubifex, and other vegetable-based foods.
Bala sharks like an environment filled with driftwood, rocks, and dense vegetation. Make sure they have a place to hide and a place to swim freely. When it comes to choosing driftwood and rocks, natural is best. There are several types available.
These incredible sharks are usually purchased relatively small, either in the range of ¾ to 1 ¼ inch or 1 ¼ – 2 inches. They will look pretty wasted in a tank size of 300 liters, but plenty of space will encourage their growth.
Meeting the challenge of keeping a 300-liter aquarium full, clean and beautiful is no small task. You will need to be experienced in maintaining and monitoring water levels and fish health and keeping an eye on the lives of each fish.