Is a Nano Aquarium right for me?

The popularity of the nano aquarium segment of the aquarium hobby is on the rise in recent years. With many small fish becoming more available in the hobby, increased popularity of shrimp and other inverts, and even a few striking new discoveries in the last several years, the appeal has never been higher. A small home aquarium can be very convenient for many people. But, there are some issues to consider.

Every person has a different definition of a nano aquarium. This article will focus on tanks between five and twenty gallon. Five gallon aquariums can only house a few species. Aquariums with fish smaller than five gallon are not suitable for aquatic creatures and should be avoided. As salt water is not within my realm of expertise, I will be referring only to freshwater aquariums.

Let’s begin by acknowledging the challenges of a smaller aquarium. If you have been in the aquatics hobby for any amount of time, you have probably have heard the saying “bigger is always better” in reference to aquarium size. Like many other sayings, this is true. You have more room to make mistakes if there is more water in an aquarium ecosystem. Many people are aware that water changes are essential to ensure proper water chemistry. It is important to remember that smaller tanks are more likely to experience temperature swings. You should not place them near a heat vent, or near a drafty entrance that can cause them too cold. When choosing the right type of light fixture to use, heat is also important. Some light fixtures can generate enough heat to heat nano aquariums. You must take into account the adult size and aggression of each species when deciding which species to keep. This is important for all aquariums. However, small aquariums are less tolerant to overstocking because there is less space for fish to escape from each other.

But, there are real benefits to maintaining and setting up a nano-aquarium. Most people start with smaller aquariums due to the low cost. Nearly all the required components can be purchased at a low price, including filters and heaters. Many places even offer all in one kits for an affordable price. It is also possible to get smaller quantities of many aquarium necessities such as substrate and chemicals. This allows you to reduce initial costs. Due to their small size, these aquariums can fit in just about any home. You should place them somewhere that can withstand at least some moisture and the aquarium’s weight.

When it comes to what to keep in a nano aquarium, the possibilities are endless. If you love schooling fish, stock with many of these rasbora and smaller danio species. You can also keep a variety of apistogramma fish in 20 gallon tanks if you are looking for a focal point fish. The freshwater shrimp of the genus neocaridina can be kept by even novice hobbyists. They are also available in almost every color imaginable. Certain types of snails such as mystery or nerite snails can be used to add color and cleanliness to the nano aquarium. If you are looking for a fun breeding project for the whole family, many type of livebearers, such as guppies or endlers, can thrive in smaller tanks.

A nano aquarium is a great place to add live plants. Aquatic plants are a great asset in these petite environments as they assist hobbyist in removing nitrate and other pollutants from the water, keeping the tank in better balance. Nano aquariums make it easier to create high-light environments for live plants because they have shallower depths for light to penetrate. Even though they are the most cost-effective option, there are some all-in-1 co2 kits that can be used to create a high-tech environment.

Regardless of if you are new to the hobby or an experienced fish keeper, a nano aquarium can be very rewarding. There are many benefits, but also some drawbacks. A nano aquarium is a great option if you are limited on space or want to enjoy aquarium hobby with a lower budget.

– Josh Phillips