What's Common:
* Aquarium Controllers: These are specialized devices, often with touchscreens, that monitor and control various aspects of your fish tank, like temperature, pH, lighting, and even feeding. They might have a built-in computer system.
* Raspberry Pi: This small, inexpensive computer is popular for DIY projects, and can be used to create custom aquarium control systems. You can program it to monitor your tank's conditions and even send you alerts on your phone.
What's Less Common (and Risky):
* Putting a Regular Computer in a Tank: This is not recommended! Computers are delicate and prone to water damage, and the water in a fish tank is incredibly corrosive. You'd be risking your computer's lifespan and potentially harming your fish if it leaked.
Why You Might Want a Computer in Your Tank:
* Precise Control: Computers offer precise control over your tank's environment, leading to healthier fish.
* Automation: They can automatically adjust things like lighting and feeding schedules.
* Data Collection: You can record temperature, pH, and other data over time to track your tank's health.
* Remote Monitoring: Some controllers and DIY systems can send data to your phone, allowing you to monitor your tank even when you're away.
The Bottom Line:
* Specialized controllers: These are the safest and most reliable option for computer-assisted fish tanks.
* DIY with a Raspberry Pi: This is a good option for those who are comfortable with technology.
* Regular computers in tanks: Avoid this at all costs.
If you're interested in incorporating technology into your aquarium, research the available controllers or learn more about the Raspberry Pi. Remember, safety should always be your priority!