Aquarium

Aquariums are aquatic enclosures, transparent on at least one side, designed to keep and exhibit water-dwelling plants and animals.

Aquariums may be public, taking the form of zoos that research, raise and exhibit fish, aquatic mammals and various other underwater organisms. Many people also keep smaller salt or fresh water aquariums in their homes to house pet fish.

Fast Facts

1. Estimated 60 million aquarists worldwide
2. 40% of U.S. aquarists keep more than one tank
3. Second most popular hobby in the U.S., next to Stamp Collecting
4. 2006 survey showed that Americans own 9.6 million saltwater and 139 million freshwater fish
5. Types of home aquariums:
   1. Freshwater: Most common due to low cost and easy maintenance
   2. Saltwater: Increasing in popularity because of improved technology
   3. Brackish: Imitates ecosystems comprised of both salt and fresh water

Home Aquariums

Usually made of glass or high-strength plastic, modern home aquariums are available in a variety of shapes and sizes. Through the use of various filtration, heating, aerating and pumping systems, aquariums can be tailored to provide a wide array of underwater environments for fish and other aquatic creatures.

A Note of Caution

Aspiring aquarium keepers, or "aquarists," are encouraged to do thorough research before taking up the hobby, as there are many factors that determine what size and type of tank is appropriate for each individual. The aquarium ecosystem is a delicate one, and can easily be damaged by the wrong lighting, food, or the introduction of incompatible species.

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