Tag Archives: fish tanks

Can't decide between an acrylic fish tank or a glass fish tank? Here are the pros and cons of each.

admin    October 3, 2019   CATEGORY: Industry News and Tips

Acrylic Fish Tank or Glass Fish Tank? The Pros and Cons of Each

When you look at the big picture, deciding between a glass fish tank or acrylic fish tank isn’t the most critical choice. At the same time, knowing the pros and cons of each can help you maintain the tank more efficiently, and there may also be a difference in appearance in the long run.

Pros and Cons of Acrylic Fish Tanks

The type of livestock you have in your aquarium may make a difference between choosing an acrylic fish tank or a glass fish tank.1. An acrylic fish tank is significantly lighter than a glass tank, making it easier for you or your aquarium technician to move it if necessary. While this isn’t significant for small tanks, a larger tank can be difficult to move.

On the other hand: Glass tanks can hold more weight.

2. Wear and tear is only natural, but you can buff away scratches on an acrylic tank.

On the other hand: Over time, the wear and tear will inevitably become more prevalent. Additionally, essentially anything can scratch the tank, even the fish themselves.

3. Acrylic tanks are better for temperature control. It’s easier to maintain a consistent temperature inside the tank because acrylic serves as insulation of sorts.

There really is no downside here. This is a tremendous benefit, especially here in Arizona. You want to be able to control the temperature according to your requirements without having extraneous factors to consider.

Maintaining the ideal water temperature leads to a cleaner, healthier, and more comfortable environment for your livestock.

4. They’re strong and durable. They don’t break as easily, creating a safer environment for you and your livestock.

On the other hand: Glass is still stronger overall.

Pros and Cons of Glass Fish Tanks

Ask our aquarium maintenance technician about the differences between glass and acrylic fish tanks.

1. Glass fish tanks tend to be less pricey than acrylic tanks, likely due to their heaviness.

On the other hand: Because of the way light hits the tank and the water, you may be able to see the fish more accurately and more clearly with an acrylic tank.

2. The fish are no match for glass. Glass is less likely to get scratched inside or outside.

On the other hand: When a glass tank does have scratches, it’s more difficult to remove them. Additionally, glass tanks are more likely to completely shatter, endangering livestock and people and possibly damaging furniture.

Emergency services for aquariums are available for Seatech Aquariums clients.

3. Glass tanks are prettier. They look more natural and have a natural shimmer to them.

On the other hand: As mentioned above, acrylic tanks are better for temperature control. Glass itself does get warmer and colder. For this reason, if you do have a glass tank (or acrylic tank for that matter), you should keep it away from direct sunlight.

Contact Seatech Aquariums for more information about the differences between acrylic fish tanks and glass fish tanks.

TAGS: fish tanks,

admin    August 1, 2017   CATEGORY: Industry News and Tips

FOWLR vs Fish-Only Tanks: What’s the Difference?

Aquarium ownership is one of the best ways to add a hobby to your life while adding a decorative touch to your home. For many, it’s an easy choice. Deciding the type of aquarium, however, can be difficult. One debate people often have is FOWLR vs fish-only tanks. If you’re going to own an aquarium, you need a basic understanding of both types so you can choose the right one for your home.

FOWLR vs Fish-Only Tanks: What’s the Difference?

What is FOWLR?

FOWLR stands for Fish Only With Live Rock, which leads to another obvious question: what is live rock? Live rock, which is actually not alive, is made from the long-dead skeletons of coral, which make up the majority of a coral reef. These “rocks” are encrusted with algae, specifically coralline algae, which plays an important role in a reef’s habitat. The live rock can also hold tiny invertebrates and sponges.

The FOWLR aquarium, therefore, has fish and live rock, but no living coral.

FOWLR vs Fish-Only TanksFOWLR Advantages

The primary purpose for having live rock in your aquarium is to add a natural filtration system. The coralline bacteria found on live rock can be useful for naturally filtering the water, creating a healthier environment for your fish. The bacteria also provide nutrition to some fish, but most of all, it creates a more stable marine habitat.

Live rock also adds another layer of visual presentation to the aquarium. While there are certainly some stunning artificial decorations, live rock gives the aquarium a more natural appearance.

Advantages of a Fish-Only Tank

With the advantages of FOWLR aquariums, it seems logical that everyone would simply use live rock in their tanks. However, there are some important benefits to having a fish-only tank. First of all, fish-only tanks are easier to set up and maintain, making them ideal for new aquarium owners. If you are interested in marine life and want to ease into the hobby, starting with a fish-only aquarium is a good idea.

When considering FOWLR vs fish-only tanks, some people also prefer fish-only because the colorful fish remain the center of attention. For some, the fish is really what matters, and a fish-only tank provides a focus that stays squarely on the fish themselves, not the aquarium’s decorations and accessories.

Helping You Understand FOWLR vs Fish-Only Tanks

Contact Seatech today to learn more about FOWLR tanks and fish-only aquariums.

We’ll make sure you have the information, resources, and services necessary for a lively, colorful, and healthy aquarium. Call now at 602-628-7270 and let us create the perfect aquarium for your home or office!

FOWLR vs Fish-Only Tanks

TAGS: fish tanks, FOWLR Aquariums,