Discus Fish Aquariums- Should I Buy a Glass or Acrylic Aquarium?

Once you've decided what size discus fish tank to purchase, the next question is whether to buy a glass or acrylic aquarium. Many discus owners are clueless when it comes to knowing the pros and cons of each type of aquarium. Before parting with your hard earned dollars, take some time to research whether an acrylic or glass discus fish aquarium is best for your home.

Glass Discus Fish Aquariums

Pros: - A glass discus fish tank is usually a lot less expensive than an acrylic aquarium of equal size. For those on a budget, a glass tank may be the only reasonable choice. Glass is also more scratch resistant than acrylic. If you have young children, you may want a glass discus aquarium for this reason alone.

Unlike acrylic, glass tends to maintain its appearance over time. Unless your tank becomes accidentally cracked from a strong impact, your aquarium should provide you with years of viewing pleasure.

A glass aquarium allows you more flexibility when choosing a stand. This is because glass is able to withstand more weight pressure than acrylic. As long as the aquarium stand sits level and is sturdy enough to support the weight of the tank, you should have no problems with splitting seams.

Cons: - A glass aquarium is much heavier than an acrylic tank. If you have to move your discus fish tank, transporting a glass aquarium is a bit more strenuous.

The standard shape for a glass aquarium is rectangular. Since glass is not highly flexible, most aquarium manufacturers opt to produce this style. If you've got your heart set on a less traditional shaped aquarium, you may need to purchase an acrylic aquarium instead.

If your glass aquarium does suffer severe damage, the end result can be shattered glass or water damage to your home. Although incidents like this are rare, you'll want to carefully select where you decide to place your glass aquarium.

Acrylic Discus Fish Aquariums

Pros: - Want a uniquely shaped aquarium as the focal point of your den or living room area? If so, an acrylic tank is the way to go. In fact, acrylic can be molded into almost any design you desire.

An acrylic aquarium is a great choice for discus owners who are concerned about image distortion. With an acrylic tank, you'll see the true color and shape of your discus fish.

Although an acrylic aquarium can become cracked, it takes a much stronger force than that required to crack glass. Most likely, avoiding scratches to the outside surface will be your main concern.

Cons: - One of the main disadvantages of an acrylic tank is cost. If you're serious about keeping discus fish though, you may want to invest in the added expense.If you've ever looked through a pair of scratched lenses, you know how annoying it can be.

If you plan on buying an acrylic aquarium, you'll need to be extra cautious in order to avoid scratch marks to the tank. This also includes taking extra care when cleaning your tank.

Although lighter than a glass discus fish tank, acrylic aquariums require a great deal of support. Be sure the stand you select provides optimum support to both the top and bottom of the tank. Failure to choose a sturdy stand can result in splitting seams and bowing of your discus fish aquarium.