Different aquarium shapes serve different purposes, from aesthetic appeal to functionality. Here’s a quick guide on when to use each type of aquarium shape:
1. Cylindrical (Column Aquarium Shape) Tank
Best for: Tall, open spaces; minimalist aesthetics
Pros:
- Great for vertical aquascaping (e.g., tall plants, driftwood, or rock structures)
- 360-degree viewing
- Small footprint, ideal for tight spaces
Cons: - Limited swimming space for horizontal swimmers
- Difficult to service due to height
Best for: Angelfish, discus, seahorses, and shrimp
2. Wave Tank
Best for: Modern interiors, eye-catching displays
Pros:
- Unique, flowing design
- Good for artistic aquascaping
Cons: - Can distort light and view angles
- Hard to fit standard lids and filters
Best for: Community fish, planted tanks, and nano setups
3. Racetrack Tank (Oval or Circular with Flat Ends)
Best for: Active fish that enjoy long swimming distances
Pros:
- Encourages natural swimming patterns
- Smooth flow for water circulation
Cons: - Harder to place against walls
- Custom filtration may be needed
Best for: Fast swimmers like tetras, barbs, or danios
4. Bow Front Tank
Best for: Panoramic viewing
Pros:
- Greater depth perception
- Stylish choice to rectangular tanks
Cons: - Light distortion
- Slightly more expensive than standard rectangular aquarium shape
Best for: General community tanks, planted tanks
5. Concave Aquarium Shape Tank
Best for: Unique aesthetics, making a wall look larger
Pros:
- Elegant look
- Can create a tunnel-like effect for fish
Cons: - Hard to fit standard hoods and lighting
- Limited in commercial availability
Best for: Slow-moving fish, bettas, or artistic aquascapes
6. Corner Tank (Pentagon or Triangle Aquarium Shape)
Best for: Maximizing small spaces
Pros:
- Fits neatly into corners
- Efficient space use for apartments or offices
Cons: - Limited swimming space
- Hard to find custom lids
Best for: Small fish species, shrimp tanks, or nano reefs
7. Square Tank
Best for: Symmetry, balanced aquascaping
Pros:
- Equal dimensions allow for even growth of plants
- Good for aquascaping competitions
Cons: - Limited length for swimming
Best for: Betta fish, shrimp, or cube-style reef tanks
8. Rectangular Tank
Best for: Most setups, general fishkeeping
Standard Rectangular Tank Sizes for Stock Aquariums
Pros:
- Best for swimming space
- Compatible with most filtration and lighting systems
Cons: - Takes up more horizontal space
Best for: Any fish, from goldfish to cichlids
9. Tall Tank (High Aspect Ratio)
Best for: Vertical aquascaping, rooms with limited floor space
. Pros:
- Great for fish that prefer height
- Visually impressive
Cons: - Limited swimming space for horizontal swimmers
- Harder to service due to depth
Best for: Angelfish, discus, or paludariums
10. Long Tank (Low Aspect Ratio)
Best for: Active swimmers, territorial fish
Pros:
- Provides more swimming room
- Easier to light and service
Cons: - Requires more space
Best for: Schooling fish, cichlids, or marine fish
Aquarium Volume Calculator for different aquarium shapes
Each aquarium shape has its pros and cons. Choosing the right one depends on space availability, the species you want to keep, and your aesthetic preferences.