Pro & Cons of Acrylic Aquariums

Choosing the material is the first major decision for anyone buying an aquarium. The two most popular aquarium materials are traditional glass and modern acrylic. Acrylic has been gaining momentum as the material of choice for aquarists, but whether or not it is the right material for you depends on your needs.

  1. Shapes &Sizes

    • Glass aquariums come in a range of sizes and go beyond the basic rectangle. Acrylic is more malleable than glass, making it easier to find rare shapes and sizes. The ability to mold acrylic means that an aquarium can be customized into any imaginable shape.

    Seams

    • Acrylic bonding creates a seamless union at the corners, so the aquariums can be shaped without unsightly seams disrupting the view. The nature of the bonds makes the aquarium virtually leak-proof. The reinforced joints in glass aquariums are also strong, but they are still more likely to leak than the acrylics bonds.

    Clarity

    • The clarity of the view is greatly improved in acrylic aquariums. Glass has subtle imperfections and refractions that alter the view. However, acrylic can discolor with prolonged exposure to UV. Acrylic also scratches more easily, so some traditional cleaning methods -- abrasive sponges and razor blades -- cannot be used. Without these effective cleaning tools, the acrylic aquarium may be dirtier than a glass tank, which will hinder the view

    Durability

    • Acrylic aquariums are much stronger than glass. It would take a sharp localized impact to damage an acrylic aquarium beyond a scratch, so it is the better choice around children. For reef aquariums, acrylic may be the better choice, because a glass bottom cannot support the weight of heavy rocks and décor. Acrylic aquariums are also optimal if you wish to cut holes in the tank to customize the plumbing routes. Glass tanks can also be cut, but it is more difficult.

    Support

    • Acrylic aquariums are lighter than glass tanks, so they do not need as much support on the bottom. However, an acrylic aquarium will need more support on the sides, because the flexibility of acrylic may cause the aquarium to bow under the water pressure.

    Insulation

    • Acrylic aquariums have better insulation than glass tanks. If you are raising tropical fish, better insulation will lower the heating costs. If you are raising temperate fish or have a reef, you will not want the extra insulation.

    Purchasing

    • Acrylic aquariums are more expensive than glass tanks. However, it is more difficult to find a glass aquarium online because of the risks involved in shipping.