Are round fish bowls bad for fish?
Often, people feel that a round fish bowl is the best choice for aquatic pets. However, this is just one option that you could implement. People often look at them as charming and simple, great for beginners or merely as decoration. Though aesthetically pleasing, many fish lovers and experts say round fish bowls can negatively affect the health of your aquarium fish. In this article, we are going to discuss the various reasons that state why round fish bowls are not the best options for your finned friends and also some alternatives that are better.
The Science Behind Fish Health
Before we get into the particular problems with round fish bowls, it is important to understand the basic needs of fish. Fish need space to live with enough oxygen and clean water to survive. Every fish species has particular needs, but some general rules apply.
Oxygen levels
Fish feed by taking oxygen from the water through their gills. In a small round fish bowl, oxygen exchange is restricted due to the limited surface area of the water. The rounded design may also reduce surface agitation, which can mean less oxygen gets dissolved into the water. If the oxygen levels in water are low, the fish will get stressed and ill.
Water Quality
The water quality will always play a vital role in keeping the fish healthy. Because a round fish bowl has a smaller volume of water, it can be difficult to create a stable environment. Toxins can quickly increase as fish waste collects in water. Fish require clean water and they also require a place to hide and swim around. In the absence of proper filtration, the water can get dirty very quickly which can compromise your fish’s health.
Limitations of Round Fish Bowls
Now that you understand the basic needs of fish, let’s have a look at the specific limitations round fish bowls come with.
Space Limits
One of the biggest drawbacks of fish bowls that come round in shape is that the space is limited. Fish need room to swim and exhibit natural behaviors. Fish in a small space get stressed, which can make them aggressive, sick, or even dead. Also, a lot of fish can be bigger than the small size of a fish bowl.
Shape and Stress
The round shape of these bowls can make fish stressed as well. Fish are used to swimming in bigger and natural spaces. A round bowl does not have corners or hiding spots. As a result, fish feel exposed or vulnerable. This can lead to anxiety and stress.
Heating and Cooling Issues
Temperature is important for the health of the fish. Round fish bowls have less water volume, which means that the temperature can change more quickly than in a larger tank. Fish are sensitive to temperature changes. Stress due to changing temperatures can make them ill.
What Fish Can Go in a Fish Bowl?
If you already have a round fishtank and are not keen to upgrade it, you may be wondering whether there are any fish that can survive in it. Some people suggest the Betta fish, Goldfish and Guppies which are tiny size fish. Nonetheless, these species have been discovered to use more space than a round fish bowl can provide if they are to remain healthy in the long-term.
Betta Fish
Betta fish are often marketed as fishes for bowls. However, they do best in 5 gallon tanks or larger, with a filter, and a heater for temperature stability.
Goldfish
Goldfish are another popular one, however they are famous for being bigger than anyone expects.
Guppies
Guppies are small, colorful fish that are perfect for beginner fishkeepers. They only need around one gallon of water to thrive. However, they produce quite a bit of waste. So, you will need to clean their bowl often. But they will also require more space than a round fish bowl has to offer for reproduction and healthy development without overcrowding.
Alternatives to Round Fish Bowls
If you are looking for something better than a round fish bowl, get a rectangular or square aquarium. These shapes offer more space for the oxygen exchange and help in keeping the water quality stable.
Aquariums
Aquariums are available in many different sizes that you can choose according to your requirements and budget. Most fish species do best in a minimum of 20-gallon aquarium for a more healthy environment. Moreover, they often include filtering systems to help keep the water clean and oxygenated.
Heaters and Filters
It’s worth investing in a good quality heater and filter. Aquarium heaters keep water temperature at right levels while filters help remove unwanted waste and toxins from the water. In addition to that, adding decorative elements and aquatics plants will help your fishes hide and find enrichment.
Aquatic plants do also help with enhancing dissolved oxygen and uptaking excess nutrients.
Common Misconceptions About Fish Bowls
Despite overwhelming evidence against round fish bowls, there are several misconceptions that still remain true for new fish owners.
- “Fish Don’t Need Much Space” is probably the more widespread myth. Fish need adequate swimming space to explore and thrive. Restricting their movement, a small bowl may stress them out and cause health issues.
- “Fish Can Live in Any Water” Another misconception is fish can survive in any water. This is far from the truth. Fish need a specific temperature, pH and hardness of water that is hard to maintain in a small bowl without adequate equipment.
Conclusion
Thus, a round fish bowl may look attractive, but a round fish bowl cannot provide a suitable environment for fish in the long run. When there is not enough space, oxygen or good quality water, that can lead to stress and diseases in your fishes. If you really want to keep fish, get a proper aquarium that suits them according to space, filtration and temperature control. By doing this, you improve the quality of life for your fish and the environment will be a more colourful and healthy one too.
