The best 5-gallon fish tank - Chicago Tribune
As stress relievers go, watching fish glide silently through the water is one of the best. Few things are more relaxing than listening to the gentle hum of a fish tank while sleek, brightly colored fish move through plants and skim across gravel. For those who'd like to take advantage of this meditative activity, a 5-gallon fish tank is a great place to start. This size tank won't take up much space in your home but still allows you to bring all of the benefits of fish-keeping into your life.
If you're looking for a 5-gallon fish tank that fits neatly in a small space and comes complete with everything you need to get started, the Marineland Portrait Glass LED Aquarium Kit is best for your aquatic friends.
What to know before you buy a 5-gallon fish tank
If you are investing in your first fish tank, a complete fish tank starter kit can be very helpful. These include everything you need to keep your fish happy and healthy.
Even when everything is included, there are still some options to consider when buying a 5-gallon fish tank.
Material
Choosing the material of your fish tank is the first step. Glass tanks are classic and durable, but they can be heavy. When you consider that water weighs about five pounds per gallon, this can be a consideration. Plastic is more lightweight, but it can become cloudy or scratched over time.
Size
The size of your tank refers to the footprint of the tank. Some tanks have a smaller footprint and take up more vertical space, while a traditional rectangle needs more surface to sit on. The size of the tank's footprint depends on where you'd like to set it up.
Shape
Because many people purchased a 5-gallon fish tank to conserve space, the shape of the tank itself makes a difference. Some tanks are available in a cylinder shape for more vertical height, while others have a classic rectangle shape. Still others are available in a globe or a crescent shape. Which you select is largely a matter of preference, and it will not affect the number of fish you can keep in the tank.
5-gallon fish tank features
Accessories
If you have never owned a fish before, it can be helpful to purchase a 5-gallon fish tank that comes with all of the accessories you'll need. This includes things like a pump, a water filter and a heater.
You'll still need to purchase gravel and any aquatic plants you'd like, but having the basics included with the actual tank makes setting up a home for your fish easier.
Other accessories that may not be included in your 5-gallon fish tank include a thermometer, backgrounds and decorations.
Selecting these separate from your tank allows you to customize and personalize your tank's style.
Easy to clean
Because you'll need to clean your tank to keep your aquatic friends healthy, look for fish tanks and accessories that are easy to clean. Complicated filters and heating systems can trap bacteria, causing illness. Selecting accessories and tanks that are easy to clean can help you keep your tank sparkling and your fish healthy.
Lid with a light
A lid is important, especially if you have curious felines who like to play with your fish. The lid will not be airtight, but it will protect your fish from cat burglars. There are also some species of fish that like to jump. This prevents them from accidentally jumping out of the tank, too.
Look for a sturdy lid that includes a light for nighttime illumination. Some lights are designed to pick up and enhance the neon colors of fish. If you'd like to highlight your fluorescent fish, look for blue LED lights. LED lights also use less energy and don't heat up the water in the tank.
5-gallon fish tank cost
If you are looking for a 5-gallon fish tank with all of the accessories you need for fish, expect to spend between $40 and $150.
5-gallon fish tank FAQ
How many fish can you keep in a 5-gallon tank?
A. As a general rule, think 1 inch of fish for each gallon of water. This holds true for fish that will not grow larger than 2 inches and is a good guideline when shopping for fish.
If you want fish that will grow larger than 2 inches, you'll need to get a bigger tank.
Can you put saltwater fish in a 5-gallon tank?
A. Beginning aquarists will have the most success with freshwater fish, but if you are determined to keep a saltwater aquarium, you'll need a bigger tank. The minimum size recommended for saltwater aquariums is 20 gallons.
Which 5-gallon fish tank should I get?
Best of the best 5-gallon fish tank
Marineland Portrait Glass LED Aquarium Kit: available at Amazon and Chewy
Our take: When you don't have much space, this taller tank is a great option, and it's stylish too.
What we like: The footprint on this tank is smaller, with more vertical space. The pump and filter are designed to be tucked away in the back, and the LED light is bright and perfect for tropical fish. The tank is glass, and the entire unit is easy to assemble.
What we dislike: Cleaning the filter can be challenging.
Best bang for your buck 5-gallon fish tank
GloFish Aquarium Kit Fish Tank: available at Amazon
Our take: This seamless, crescent-shaped tank allows for easy viewing at any angle.
What we like: The aquarium body is plastic, and this kit includes a filtration system and lid with bright blue LED lights designed to bring out the colors of GloFish.
What we dislike: Some users felt the acrylic of the tank and plastic on the lid was flimsy.
Honorable mention 5-gallon fish tank
Fluval Spec Aquarium Kit: available at Amazon and Chewy
Our take: This is an attractive, compact home for your fish with LED lighting and efficient filtration system.
What we like: This aquarium has the traditional rectangular shape of larger fish tanks, but it features a slim footprint that takes up less space. It is best for smaller fish species like guppies and betta fish.
What we dislike: A heater is not included with this fish tank set.
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Suzannah Kolbeck is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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