Cold water aquariums vs warm water aquariums

Cold water and warm water aquariums are not one better than the other, they are just different systems and in any of the cases, we must commit ourselves to providing the appropriate conditions and care in order to preserve the life of fish and fish in optimal conditions. crustaceans that live there.

For beginners who are starting in the world of aquariums, one of the most important aspects to take into account is the type of aquarium that you want to install; since the requirements between one and another model could vary according to the environmental conditions, the environment where it is to be located and the time available for its maintenance and care.

However, the main factor to consider is the type of fish to incorporate, since depending on it we must adapt the ecosystem; the idea is to recreate its natural environment as best as possible. In this sense, the aquarium water plays a fundamental role for the adaptation of the species. Although many specimens survive the change of water, other very specialized require the control of parameters, such as the pH (acidity) of the water and the DH (hardness).

Aquariums are classified according to the type of water they contain. For this reason, there are those of cold fresh water and those of salt water; within the latter you will find warm saltwater aquariums and tropical saltwater aquariums. Being those of tropical water one of the best aquariums , thanks to the fact that it offers spectacular replicas of the seabed.

cold water aquarium

These aquariums are characterized by keeping the water temperature low, around 18ºC; however, if it is lower, the fish are forced to reduce their activity and lower their metabolism in order not to lose heat. Likewise, they need a good filtering system that allows the properties of the water to be preserved and, in this way, guarantee both the survival of the animals and optimal oxygenation.

Since their assembly and maintenance is less complex than other aquariums, they are an excellent option for beginners in aquariums. Cold water retains more oxygen and therefore, it is advisable to introduce natural aquatic plants, with a suitable substrate so that they can carry out their photosynthetic process and thus contribute to oxygenating the ecosystem. Among the plant species, among the most suitable for this type of aquarium, is the Vallisneria, due to its tolerance to low temperatures.

However, a clear disadvantage that can occur in these fish tanks is that in regions where summer tends to increase the temperature of the water, the fish could suffocate. For this reason, it is convenient that we install a column of bubbles or aerator, in order to increase the movement of the water surface and increase the availability of oxygen.

Know the species that you can include

There is a diversity of fish that can be housed within this type of ecosystem, among them the koi carp (Cyprinus carpio) and the varieties of Carassius auratus stand out, since they are very striking due to their variety of colors: red, blue, orange, white or black.. In turn, there are subspecies with distinctive morphological characteristics, such as the telescopic fish or the lionhead.

warm saltwater aquarium

These ponds are home to a great biodiversity of species, from fish, invertebrates, to hermit crabs and even marine plants of different types. However, they are aquariums that require careful control of parameters, both physical and chemical. Controlling the salinity, the pH, the temperature, the concentration of phosphates and nitrites, entails a very high cost. Likewise, given the complexity regarding the maintenance and care of some species, it is important to acquire the accessories and special systems in stores with qualified personnel for adequate advice.

For its part, the tropical saltwater aquarium is an attraction from the decorative point of view, as it houses a great variety of corals, fish, gorgonians and crustaceans of color and physiognomies of unparalleled beauty. In addition, they provide people who love seascapes with pleasant sensations and health benefits.

The warm saltwater marine aquarium is recommended because it does not strictly require a high-performance filter, calcium reactors, or fluid beds, since they do not contain corals or sponges; In addition, the species for this environment are more robust and resistant. Among the fish that are best suited to this type, are damsels, butterflies or clowns.

warm freshwater aquarium

There are also warm and fresh water aquariums, which are easier to maintain. They are aquariums that stand out for their wealth of ornamentation and are characteristic of different spaces, given their beauty and appeal to the public. They are distinguished by being provided with a heating system that allows the cold water to be tempered and kept at an optimal temperature between 22º and 27ºC.

Among the most outstanding advantages of warm freshwater aquariums are the simplicity of assembly and ease of maintenance, in relation to those of warm marine water. For this reason, no previous experience is necessary and, in addition, they allow the introduction of a wide variety of fish of shapes and colors.

Although they can host many species, it is essential to be careful when introducing them to the ecosystem. In this sense, we must look for compatible specimens in order to avoid confrontations, given the territorial and aggressive nature that some of these aquatic animals show.

On the other hand, integrating natural aquatic plants will always be the best alternative, since in addition to decorating, they provide an ideal marine environment. Similarly, they contribute to the biological cycle of the aquarium and serve as food and protection for many species.

Greater variety of species

Stores dedicated to the trade of this type of fauna can offer a wide selection of species, from the most resistant that can tolerate variations in pH and temperature levels, to the most delicate with more specific requirements and care.

Among the most common warm water fish are Guppies, Mollys, Platys, Zebra, Harlequin, Blue Guramy and Betta, among many others of great color and dynamism.