Recently, the fascination with aquariums has been growing daily. You can spend hours gazing at this “home underwater world” with a childlike innocence. It captivates with its beauty, and people are always drawn to nature. A whole new field has even developed—zootherapy—which recognizes the healing power of animals. Psychologists say aquariums help combat stress, irritability, and aggression; and there are plenty of negative situations in everyday life.
But before you go to the nearest pet store and buy an aquarium, you need to decide where the future “fish house” will be located.
Where's the best place to place it? Generally speaking, the living room, study, bedroom, hallway, or even the kitchen can all serve as the location for this “underwater kingdom.” The main requirement is that it shouldn't be exposed to direct sunlight. In fact, it's best to place it in the darkest part of the room. Bright light is only necessary for fish during spawning and vitamin deficiency periods, so special lighting should be installed. During the rest of the year, excess light will only cause harm, as strong light causes microscopic green algae to proliferate in the aquarium water. They coat the glass, the plants become “clad” in green growth, and the water begins to bloom.
Bright sunlight is also not a reliable companion for fish sensitive to overheating. It can negatively impact their health and even lead to their death. Another problem is that an aquarium exposed to sunlight will heat up considerably during the day, but at night, especially early in the morning, the water temperature can drop by as much as ten degrees. Even the most undemanding fish cannot tolerate such a sudden temperature change. For this reason, aquariums should not be placed on windowsills or near windows.
The east side of the apartment is a great location for a fish tank. Keep in mind that the aquarium should be placed a significant distance from the window, so that light falls on its front and sides – against a wall perpendicular or opposite the window. The worst option would be a room with a south-facing window; in this case, the “fish house” should be placed at least 2-2.5 meters away. If your window faces north, place the aquarium next to it; if it faces west, place it a little further away.
Artificial aquarium lighting shouldn't be overlooked. Fluorescent lamps are the key here. What's the advantage of artificial lighting? It's easier to regulate and adapt it to the aquatic inhabitants; bright sunlight, on the other hand, can alter fish behavior and even cause physiological changes.
Heating appliances, smoke-filled rooms, and drafts near the “underwater kingdom” can also cause stress. It should also be avoided near a piano, television, or stereo system—fish do not tolerate electrical fields and unnatural vibrations well. Aquatic inhabitants will be much more comfortable in a quiet corner of the room. It's best if the aquarium's height is at eye level for a seated (or standing) person. After all, the “fish house” should be accessible for both working and observing.
A traditional aquarium can be placed on a nightstand, table, or special stand. It should be stable and not wobble.
When it comes to aquarium paintings, they are hung on the wall or secured with special stands. Shelves for essential equipment can be placed nearby for convenient storage.
Built-in aquariums look very beautiful. They can be custom-fitted into bookcases, bars, and office furniture.
A long aquarium can also look impressive, dividing a room into two parts. However, remember to keep the algae in the center to provide the fish with a sense of security.
Whatever your chosen “fish house,” be sure to choose the right location. The main criterion shouldn't be where you personally find it most convenient to place it among your furniture, but how comfortable the aquatic inhabitants will be in the chosen area of the apartment. After all, healthy fish are a joy to watch. Moreover, they can bring harmony, peace, and positive emotions—something often so lacking in everyday life.
