What is an Aquarium?

An aquarium is a specially designed device that acts as an artificial habitat for water-dwelling animals. Although most people associate an aquarium with tropical fish, aquaria can also be used to house amphibians or large marine mammals. In addition, many aquaria contain a variety of plant species.

Public aquaria are popular tourist attractions throughout the world and frequently found in zoos or marine parks. They are made from reinforced concrete and plastics to create a tank that is large enough to hold an entire underwater ecosystem. For example, the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago, Illinois has a capacity of approximately two million gallons (7,570,823.6 liters). The Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta, Georgia is the world's largest aquarium with more than eight million gallons (30,283,294.4 liters) of marine and fresh water.

Most public aquaria can be considered biotopes, ecotypes, or ecotopes since they house plants, fish, and invertebrates that would only live together in a natural habitat. Sharks and whales are some of the most common species found in public aquaria, although otters, penguins, and other semi-aquatic animals are often quite popular. An aquarium that is designed to hold dolphins is called a dolphinarium.

If you want to enjoy observing fish and other marine life on a daily basis, you may wish to purchase a small home aquarium. Over 60 million people around the world own home aquaria, with almost 40 percent of hobbyists maintaining more than one aquarium. The smallest aquarium that is practical for home use is three gallons (11.36 liters), although you may choose to purchase a larger aquarium if you have the necessary space. Novelty aquaria designed to look like coffee tables, sinks, or other household items are another option to consider. If you wish, you can even make your own “MacQuarium” out of an old Apple Macintosh computer.

A home aquarium typically contains a water filtration system, a climate control device, and an artificial light. Most also have a hood available to reduce water evaporation and prevent debris from entering the tank. A home aquarium is typically made from glass panels joined with silicone, although acrylic and laminated glass aquaria are becoming increasingly popular since these materials are both durable and lightweight.

Home aquaria in a variety of styles can be purchased from any pet store. Prices will vary according to the size of the aquarium, the quality of materials used, and whether or not a stand is included. The store employees are typically trained to provide any assistance you need in selecting compatible fish for your aquarium.

An aquarium serves multiple purposes, including being a hobby for enthusiasts who enjoy keeping and observing aquatic life, a tool for scientific research and education, and a means of conservation for various species. Public aquariums also provide educational opportunities for visitors to learn about marine ecosystems and the importance of preserving them.

There are several types of aquariums, including freshwater, saltwater, and brackish aquariums. Freshwater aquariums are the most common and are easier to maintain, while saltwater aquariums house marine species and require more complex care. Brackish aquariums contain a mix of fresh and saltwater and are home to species that thrive in this unique environment.

Maintaining an aquarium involves regular water changes, monitoring water quality parameters like pH and nitrogen levels, and ensuring the tank is clean. It's also crucial to provide proper filtration, maintain a consistent temperature suited to the species kept, and ensure that the aquatic life has adequate food and space to thrive.

Having an aquarium can offer therapeutic benefits, such as stress reduction and relaxation. It's also educational, providing insights into aquatic life and ecosystems. For children and adults alike, it fosters a sense of responsibility and care for living creatures, and it can enhance the aesthetic appeal of a home or public space.

Aquariums cannot support all types of aquatic life due to the varying needs of different species. Each species requires specific water conditions, temperatures, and companions to thrive. It's essential to research and understand the needs of the aquatic life you wish to keep to ensure a healthy and sustainable aquarium environment.

The largest aquarium in the world, according to the Guinness World Records, is the Chimelong Ocean Kingdom in China. It features a tank with a volume of 48.75 million liters of water. Visitors can find a vast array of marine life, including whale sharks, manta rays, and a plethora of fish species, offering a spectacular window into the underwater world.