Go Fish: Are Apartment Aquariums a Good Idea?

Apartment aquariums can liven up any decor and provide you with some company in even the smallest of living spaces. Both saltwater fish and freshwater fish are relatively simple to take care of and can make attractive, compelling pets. When you’re short on time and space, fish can make an excellent pet. However, like all pets, fish do require special care.

Pro: Adaptable to Living Space

Apartment aquariums are especially designed to take up a minimum amount of space and can find a home in even the most crowded of apartments. Wherever you have shelf space away from a window, you have space for saltwater fish or freshwater fish. You should consider setting up the aquarium somewhere near an electrical outlet so that you can run a water pump and heating lamp.

Pro: Few Restrictions

Even apartments with “no pets” policies often allow apartment aquariums, so fish may be the only option you have if you want a pet. Just be sure to check with your landlord before you bring any home.

Pro: Decoration and Ambiance

Fish may not have the same effect as a cat or dog who cuddles on your lap or goes with you on a walk, but their beautifully-decorated aquatic environments are both attractive and relaxing.

Con: Extensive Care

There’s more to taking care of fish than throwing some fish food flakes into the water. It’s important that you give apartment aquariums thorough cleanings once to twice a week, but keep a small amount of previous water to keep bacteria present and your fish’s immune system healthy. You must also keep temperature regulated, depending on the individual fish’s needs. Saltwater fish, who require a specialized salt mix, must not be mixed with freshwater fish. Always have water-testing kits on hand.

Con: Problems Happen Quickly

Small apartment aquariums don’t allow fish much room to move and are more difficult to keep regulated at healthy temperatures and bacteria levels. The smaller the tank, the faster problems can lead to fish fatalities. If your fish appears to be acting strangely, it’s probably too late to save it. Preventative care is the best solution.

Con: Mini Aquarium

These days buying fish has almost become a gimmick. “Low maintenance” aquariums of under one gallon give people the false impression that fish can be fed a few flakes a day and never have their water changed. This is an extremely unhealthy way to raise fish, as they are unable to eat a balanced diet, are more susceptible to disease because of non-fresh water and are more liable to die due to unregulated water temperature. You can see evidence of the poor health of these fish at pet stores. Walk any isle with these mini aquariums and you are sure to see dead fish among them.

Aquarium apartments can make for great apartment pets, but you must be willing to keep careful watch over your pets. If you decide on keeping fish, purchase the biggest aquarium you have room for, as this will increase their chance of long-term survival.