But before you head out to shop for tanks and fish, take a few minutes to learn the basics of aquariums. First, decide where in your home you will be setting up the new fish tank. Since water weighs a bit over eight pounds per gallon, even a small tank will be heavy. You will also want to cover the bottom of the tank with a layer of gravel, which will displace some of the water, and add to the total weight of the finished aquarium. A small tank could be placed anywhere in your home, but if you are considering a much larger one, such as a 100 gallon tank, think about placing it along an outside, or weight bearing, wall.
Aquariums come in many shapes and sizes.
Curved bow fronts, rectangular and square, round, even tanks designed to fit into a corner, are all available. Choose a design that will best fit into, and complement, your home. Next, think about where you intend to place the tank. Too near a window is not a good idea as the sunlight will encourage excess algae growth. The tank should not be placed in a high traffic area, where it might be bumped.