Buying your first aquarium

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It is important that you are able to look after your aquarium and some thought is necessary to decide which is the right one for you. Your local OATA retailer will always be happy to help.

Some points to consider:

how much space do you have in your home for an aquarium?
if floor space is a problem, could you have a deeper tank?
remember the larger the volume of water that the aquarium holds, the more stable is the chemistry of the water, thereby making it easier to manage what sort of stand do you need/want?
have you a suitable stand which can withstand the weight of the water?
make a list of all the equipment you will need

Buy your aquarium from a reputable source. OATA members display our logo in their shop windows and will probably stock OATA approved aquariums. Please note that this means that a similar tank has undergone specific tests initiated by OATA. There is no British Standard. The approval only applies to the tanks themselves and not the hoods, stands or any other associated equipment.

OATA retailers, and manufacturers have agreed to abide by our Code of Conduct, this should assure you of the quality of the fish and aquaria sold, and the advice available from the retailer.

When purchasing an aquarium, look for quality 'branded' products. Manufacturers putting their name on products are unlikely to risk their reputation by supplying inferior goods.

The retailers will, if requested, give advice about the aquarium suitable for you and your home. Follow their advice closely on the siting and installation of the aquarium.

The correct thickness of glass used in the construction of aquaria is determined by many factors, including the depth of water it will be holding and the length of the aquarium. As aquaria get longer, thicker glass will be required.

Moving your aquarium

When you have purchased your aquarium, it is important not to damage it.

Remember not to remove the manufacturers packing before you arrive home. If the packaging has been removed by the retailer for display purposes, then ask for it to be repackaged at the time of purchase.

Only move empty aquaria. NEVER try to lift or move an aquarium that contains ANY water or gravel.

"Setting Up Your Aquarium Poster" PDF download
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