Aquariums

Written by joseph on April 20th, 2011

A fish tank, also known as an aquarium, is a tank, bowl or other water-filled enclosure in which aquatic plants and animals – typically fish, and sometimes invertebrates, including amphibians, marine mammals and reptiles – are kept in captivity. Fish tanks are typically made of glass or high-strength plastic.

 

Fish tanks were well loved in ancient Rome, Egypt, and Asia. Ancient Sumerians were well-known to have wild-caught fish in pools, before preparing them for meals. In China, selective propagation of carp into today’s desirable koi and goldfish is thought to have started over 2,000 years ago. The original fish tank to have been constructed of glass (dating to 1853) is on exhibit in Regent’s Park, London.

 

Fish tanks commonly contain fresh or salt water at tropical or cool temperatures. The conditions and characteristics of the fish and other residents help the owner to choose what class of water or plants need to be in the tank.

 

A mindful aquarist at all times tries to keep a fish tank in a way that resembles its inhabitant’s natural habitat. The water quality is very vital, and this means controlling the inflow and outflow of nutrients. The upkeep of a fish aquarium also requires the delicate regulation of temperature, light, and oxygen, controlling the waste produced by aquarium residents, acceptable species variety, management of biological loading, and favorable physical plot.

 

Aquarium keeping is now a common leisure activity around the world. The fish tanks differ in size from a plain bowl housing a single fish to complex simulated ecosystems with conscientiously engineered support systems. A typical home aquarium contains a filtration system, an artificial lighting system, air pumps, and a heater. Also, some freshwater tanks (and a large amount saltwater tanks) utilize power heads to expand water circulation.

 

Various universities, aquatic stations, and wildlife commissions often sustain large freshwater and saltwater fish tanks for research and propagation purposes.

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