Hello everyone,
I've been hooked on keeping fish for a while now, and I must admit, it's got a bit of an addictive streak to it. Once I've wrapped up a project, I almost instantly start itching for the next one.
I've been trying to get to the bottom of what drives me to set up new tanks. I do enjoy the relaxing aspect of watching my fish, but I think the part that really gets me going is the planning process – all the research, learning, and decision-making that comes with it, not to mention the anticipation of something new.
I'm starting to think that this urge might be a constant companion, no matter how many projects I take on.
This brings me to my question...
I've recently got it in my head to set up a large planted tank, around 6 feet in length. It's a big step up from what I'm used to, but I do have the space for it.
I'd love to hear from those who have taken the plunge with a much larger tank. What motivated you to make the jump? Did it live up to your expectations? Was it a disaster waiting to happen? Did it finally quench your thirst for something new?
Looking forward to hearing your thoughts.
Best,
Adam.
Is a bigger tank the solution to your aquarium itch?
Re: Is a bigger tank the solution to your aquarium itch?
I think that as long as you're confident you'll still be motivated to maintain a large tank in a few years' time, it's a good decision. The initial excitement of setting up a new tank is always great, but it's the long-term commitment that's key. If you're still enthusiastic about the project once the excitement has worn off and you're no longer adding new fish, then I think you'll find it's a worthwhile investment.
Re: Is a bigger tank the solution to your aquarium itch?
The itch is curiosity, and I hope it never goes away. You can channel it into birdwatching, gardening, tidal pools - whatever aspect of nature has your imagination, but now that you've developed an aquarium hobby, it will probably come back around to fish over and over again.
From my experience, I've found that when responsibilities and work limited my project creating ambitions, I did deep dives on learning about every aquarium project I undertook, which slowed me down while educating me. This approach allowed me to stay engaged and curious, even when I couldn't start a new project.
You will finish the project, but I've found that big tanks can have less staying power than smaller ones. For instance, in an 80 ltr tank, you can have a project like breeding a fish for many generations. This type of project plays to curiosity, as you learn with every batch the tank produces. Getting that to work poses endless problems you have to find solutions for, which keeps you engaged.
However, a large tank can still be engaging if you focus on creating a habitat for generations of fish. If you can arrange it so it gets out of control and natural, and leaves you with something to observe once the set up is done, you may give yourself a target for that curiosity. Alternatively, you could end up with a lot of tanks, like me. I've managed to do both, and I've found that having multiple tanks allows me to explore different projects and ideas, keeping my curiosity satisfied.
From my experience, I've found that when responsibilities and work limited my project creating ambitions, I did deep dives on learning about every aquarium project I undertook, which slowed me down while educating me. This approach allowed me to stay engaged and curious, even when I couldn't start a new project.
You will finish the project, but I've found that big tanks can have less staying power than smaller ones. For instance, in an 80 ltr tank, you can have a project like breeding a fish for many generations. This type of project plays to curiosity, as you learn with every batch the tank produces. Getting that to work poses endless problems you have to find solutions for, which keeps you engaged.
However, a large tank can still be engaging if you focus on creating a habitat for generations of fish. If you can arrange it so it gets out of control and natural, and leaves you with something to observe once the set up is done, you may give yourself a target for that curiosity. Alternatively, you could end up with a lot of tanks, like me. I've managed to do both, and I've found that having multiple tanks allows me to explore different projects and ideas, keeping my curiosity satisfied.
Re: Is a bigger tank the solution to your aquarium itch?
MTS - we've all been there, and I'm no exception. I've had my fair share of tanks, driven by an insatiable desire to try new things and keep certain fish. But the reality is, it can be overwhelming. I found myself struggling to maintain them all, and when things didn't go as planned, it became a chore. The love and motivation that once drove me started to fade, and I eventually broke them all down. I took a couple of years off, but the itch never truly went away. It came back, and I found myself setting up a 240l tank in the lounge. Before I knew it, I was making plans for more tanks. But I had to take a step back and be realistic - I have other responsibilities that come first. So, for now, I'm content with just one tank. If circumstances were different, I'm sure I'd have multiple tanks scattered around the house.
Re: Is a bigger tank the solution to your aquarium itch?
I started with a small 10-gallon tank on a whim and before I knew it, I'd upgraded to a 220-gallon setup in just two years. Along the way, I set up four 125-gallon tanks and seven smaller ones, totaling 13 tanks in all. The 220 is probably the largest I'll go, unless I come across an incredible deal on a bigger tank that I can use to replace one of my smaller 125s.
I have all 13 tanks set up in my living space upstairs, and to be honest, there's just not enough room for any more. I could potentially move some to the lower level, but I love having them where I can see them every day. My only real regret is that I didn't get into this hobby sooner - I've truly fallen in love with my fish.
I have all 13 tanks set up in my living space upstairs, and to be honest, there's just not enough room for any more. I could potentially move some to the lower level, but I love having them where I can see them every day. My only real regret is that I didn't get into this hobby sooner - I've truly fallen in love with my fish.
Re: Is a bigger tank the solution to your aquarium itch?
A large tank can be a fantastic addition to your space, but there is one major consideration you should keep in mind - the logistics of moving it. If you're a homeowner with no plans of relocating in the near future, then a big tank might be just what you're looking for. On the other hand, if you're renting, I would advise against it, as the hassle of moving a large tank can be overwhelming.
As for the itch, I think it's safe to say that for most of us, it never truly goes away. I mean, think about it - unless you're forced to give up the hobby entirely, you'll likely continue to feel the urge to set up new tanks and try new things. This is often referred to as MTS, or multiple tank syndrome, and it's a common affliction among aquarium enthusiasts.
As for the itch, I think it's safe to say that for most of us, it never truly goes away. I mean, think about it - unless you're forced to give up the hobby entirely, you'll likely continue to feel the urge to set up new tanks and try new things. This is often referred to as MTS, or multiple tank syndrome, and it's a common affliction among aquarium enthusiasts.
Re: Is a bigger tank the solution to your aquarium itch?
I took the plunge and upgraded to a larger tank, and I have to say, there was no going back for me. Once those limitations of smaller tanks were lifted, the possibilities seemed endless and I found myself with so much more freedom to plan and create. I was initially worried about the maintenance, but to my surprise, I found it easier and more enjoyable with bigger tanks. Gone were the days of lugging bucket after bucket, and I was able to focus on the aspects of the hobby I truly loved. As for the itch, I'm not convinced it's something that can be fully scratched - I think it's just a part of who we are as aquarium enthusiasts.