Habitat & Supplies

How to Determine the Right Aquarium Size for Fish?

  1. General Volume Calculation Rule

  • The general rule: at least 1 liter of water is needed for every 1 cm of adult fish length.

  • However, this applies only to small and peaceful species.

  • Larger, more active, or aggressive species require significantly more space.

Balıklar İçin Uygun Akvaryum Boyutu Nasıl Belirlenir?

  1. Aquarium Size Examples by Fish Species

  • Guppy: Minimum 40–50 liters (suitable for 5–6 fish).

  • Goldfish: At least 40 liters for one fish, +20 liters for each additional fish.

  • Neon Tetra: A school aquarium of at least 60 liters (for groups of 10–12).

  • Angelfish: Minimum 100 liters, as they can become aggressive as they grow.

  • Betta: A 20-liter tank is enough for a single fish, but it must include a filter and heater.


  1. Other Factors Affecting Aquarium Size

  • The size and maximum adult length of the fish.

  • The species’ social structure (schooling fish or solitary?).

  • Swimming space requirements (active swimmers need larger areas).

  • The space taken up by plants, decorations, and equipment inside the tank.

  • Filtration capacity and frequency of water changes.


  1. Disadvantages of Small Aquariums

  • Water parameters deteriorate more quickly.

  • Ammonia and nitrite levels rise more easily.

  • Filtration and oxygen balance are more fragile.

  • More challenging to maintain for beginners.


  1. Recommended Tank Size for Beginners

  • At least 60–100 liters is recommended.

  • This volume helps keep water parameters more stable and makes maintenance easier.

  • Provides enough room for trying different species and using equipment.


Conclusion
Choosing the right aquarium size is the foundation of creating a healthy habitat. Decisions should be based not only on the fish’s current size but also on its future growth, behavior, and species-specific needs. While larger aquariums may seem more costly at first, in the long run, they are more beneficial both for the fish and for easier maintenance.