Fish bowls are often many people’s first introduction to fish-keeping and often to keeping pets. With their compact size, simple structure and inexpensive price tag, fish bowls are very popular with novices and especially as children’s pets. Due to their lightness and ability to fit into any space, they are ideal for all rooms including living rooms, kitchens and bedrooms, and are particularly common in studies and offices, providing a source of relaxation as well as a stimulus to creativity.
The designs of fish bowls have developed substantially so one is no longer limited to the traditional style, though it is still hugely popular. These completely round styles are often preferred to the classic drum style fish bowl as the same sizes have a larger water volume capacity. A half gallon bowl is the smallest acrylic fish bowl available, weighing only 3 lbs when full, and costs around $5. A one gallon fish bowl is readily available and costs about $12. Bowls are also easily obtainable as two and three gallon globes and also twelve and sixteen gallons. Plastic versions are much cheaper than acrylic or glass fish bowls.
When choosing a fish bowl, be aware of the size and the type of fish you hope to keep. A disadvantage with the small size is that only a few small fish can be housed. Contrary to popular opinion, goldfish bowls need to be much larger than the typical fish bowl, as they quickly outgrow small tanks and are messy eaters and produce a lot of excrement which adds to the toxic load of the bowl. Good fish to keep in smaller environments are Betta, White Clouds and Guppies as they are small, do not require a lot of space for movement and are fine on their own. Bettas are particularly beautiful in fish bowls with their stunning array of colors and fin detail, and their primitive lungs means they can draw oxygen out of the air from the surface of the water.
Place your fish bowl in a room that is at least 72F and not in an area that will experience temperature fluctuations such as near a draught or direct source of heat. Fish bowls should also be situated near a natural source of light. If you purchase gravel, you will need to buy a small gravel vacuum to keep it clean, and if adding ornaments, be sure not to clutter the bowl as this will reduce the area for the fish. A fish bowl cover can help to minimize evaporation. Fish bowls are generally low maintenance but with no filter, they require frequent water changes of around 20% twice per week. With the right fish and right conditions, fish can be kept in fish bowls successfully for years.