We’re going to finally answer the question, “What is a nano aquarium?”. The definition of a micro aquarium has always been a moving objective. The term “nano” has expanded in recent years to embrace larger and larger tanks.
Nano aquariums are tanks that have a water volume of fewer than 30 gallons. Fish, invertebrates, rocks, plants, and/or coral are among the lesser inhabitants. Nano aquariums are miniature aquariums that can be mounted on small stands, tables, or desks. They’re ideal for compact rooms, workplace cubicles, and other spaces where space is limited.
There is no clear industry consensus on what constitutes a nano aquarium. However, you can get a decent idea of what is becoming recognized as a true nano aquarium by looking at what modern aquarium manufacturers are offering as nano tanks.
What Is A Nano Aquarium?
These fish tanks (nano aquariums) exist in a range of shapes and sizes, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. For starters, these nano fish tanks can be utilized for freshwater or saltwater, fish exclusively, shrimp only, invertebrate only, mixed occupants, or corals. Now we will approach this topic for you to know what is a nano aquarium and what are the main nano fish tank types.
1. Nano Cube Aquariums
Nano cube aquariums are basically a glass box divided into six equal squares. Four glass walls and a glass bottom with an open top make up the cube. To deter fish from jumping out of the tank, many come with a cover or a mesh screen.
Some of the most popular nano aquariums on the market are cube-shaped nano tanks. Cube tanks have a sleek and modern appearance and may be stored in small spaces when necessary.
Nano cube aquariums come in a variety of sizes, from 5 gallons to 30 gallons in volume. There are also cuboid tanks that aren’t exactly cubes, but they’re close enough. These cuboid aquariums are commonly referred to as “cube tanks.”
While the clean cube appearance has some important aesthetic advantages, especially in rimless tanks, it also has certain drawbacks (a rimless tank is an aquarium with no enclosed top or cover and only glass edges at the uppermost border of the aquarium walls). One of the major disadvantages of the cube design is that there is not a great surface area for gas exchange given the volume of water in the tank.
In comparison to a nanocube, a rectangular aquarium (think short and wide) would expose more of the water surface to air. This is true even if the water volume in both tanks is the same. At the water’s surface, gas exchange (oxygen absorption and carbon dioxide release) is crucial. The rectangular tank will allow for better gas exchange, which will allow for healthier fish and a more stable aquarium environment.
Another great drawback of nanocube fish tanks is that they may not provide enough space for larger species of fish and invertebrates, especially those that tend to be more active. These species require additional swimming space. In comparison to the cube shape, a shorter and broader rectangular tank will allow for more left-to-right movement. Cubes are ideal for fish who prefer to stay in specific regions of the aquarium. Rock-dwelling fish and those that “hover” in one place at a time are popular choices for anglers.
2. Nano Saltwater Aquarium
If you’re looking to keep saltwater fish, you’ll want to invest in a nano saltwater aquarium, also known as a nano marine aquarium or a nano saltwater tank. Nearly all of these expressions have the same meaning.
A nano saltwater aquarium is a smaller, more compact version of a traditional saltwater tank. These tanks are typically less than 10 gallons in size, which allows you to keep a more manageable number of fish and other marine animals. What’s great about these tanks is that they are much easier to maintain than larger saltwater tanks, as they require fewer water changes and less cleaning.
So if you’re looking for a way to create your own saltwater ecosystem at home, consider investing in a nano saltwater aquarium. Whether you want to keep a few fish or a full-fledged coral reef, there are plenty of options to choose from with these smaller tanks. And with the right care and attention, you can create a beautiful and thriving marine ecosystem in your own home!
3. Nano Reef Aquarium
A saltwater aquarium with reef critters, live rock, and live coral is known as a “nano reef aquarium.” Fish, snails, sea urchins, starfish, feather duster worms, crabs, and other reef species are among the most common.
The number and type of animals that can be kept in a nano reef aquarium safely and humanely are constrained by their size. The species and the number of fish you will keep in your tank should be decided based on their adult sizes. It’s the most effective way to ensure that your new pets are treated as family members. Unfortunately, this severely restricts the number and variety of residents you can have on nano reef fish tanks.
As a result, many aquarists purchase immature fish with the expectation of later purchasing a larger aquarium or turning the fish into their local fish store when they outgrow the tank. This can be a risky undertaking because certain fish, regardless of size, require more freedom to roam, and confining them to a small space might be considered cruel.
Aquarium Equipment For Nano Reefs
1. Lighting and filtration are likely to be included in your nano reef tank’s equipment. Reef aquarium lighting is more demanding than a fish-only tank or a FOWLR tank (Fish Only With Live Rock tank). This is because the corals in reef aquariums have specific needs.
2. Because of their tiny size and low heat generation, LEDs are likely to be the best lighting solution. LED lighting is integrated into several recent nano tank models. These setups are especially useful for newcomers to the hobby or those who want to keep costs down.
3. A hang-on-the-back mechanical filter with filter floss could suffice for mechanical filtration. If your nano reef aquarium is small enough, mechanical filtration may be sufficient to produce all of the water movement required.
4. Reef aquariums require biological filtration in addition to mechanical filtration. Beneficial bacteria that manage the nitrogen cycle in a reef tank can be found in the substrate and rocks.
Final Thoughts
A nano aquarium is a tank that is less than 30 gallons in size. Smaller residents, including fish, invertebrates, rocks, plants, and/or coral, will be housed in these tanks. This is because nano aquariums have a smaller water capacity and more free-swimming space.
When it comes to larger nano aquariums, separate sumps are frequently available where you may hide filtration equipment and other gadgets. These sumps also assist the nano-environment by enhancing water oxygenation and stabilizing water characteristics.
Nano aquariums are miniature aquariums that can be mounted on small stands, tables, or desks. They’re ideal for compact rooms, workplace cubicles, and other spaces where space is limited.
They come in a range of forms and sizes, and you should choose one based on whether you want to use it in fresh or saltwater. What kind of residents do you want in your nano-environment? Will this also influence the tank you buy?
Be sure to do your research before making a purchase. What works for one aquarist might not be the best option for another. Consider your needs and the space you have available before making a decision.
And always remember, when it comes to nano aquariums, less is more!
Thankfish for reading!