Nano aquarium

small volume aquariums, generally under 60 litres. They require more attention because the parameters oscillate more rapidly in small volumes.

Detailed explanation

Nano aquariums have become very popular due to their compact aesthetics and low initial cost. The most common formats are 20, 30 and 60 litres. Brands like Dennerle, Fluval, ADA and Waterbox offer nano cubes with elegant designs.

The appeal of nano aquariums is also their challenge. In a small volume every error has amplified consequences. An extra spoonful of food in a 20-litre nano aquarium is like half a glass in a 200-litre aquarium. A heater that gets stuck on can overheat a nano aquarium in a few hours.

Stability is the main problem. The temperature fluctuates more rapidly. Chemical parameters change faster. Evaporation has a larger percentage impact. This is why nanos are not recommended for absolute beginners, contrary to what you might think.

In tropical freshwater aquariums nanos are perfect for shrimp (Neocaridina, Caridina), small fish (Boraras, Microrasbora, Pseudomugil) and plants. A 30-litre nano aquarium densely planted with a colony of shrimp is quite a sight.

Nano reefs are an exciting challenge. You can keep soft corals, LPS and even some SPS corals in 40-60-litre nano aquariums with the right equipment (mini skimmer, ATO, LED lighting). The fish should be chosen from the smaller species: gobies, dwarf clownfish, Pseudochromis.

Water changes in nanos must be frequent (2-3 times a week, 10-20% each time) to compensate for the lack of stabilising volume.

Filtration must be efficient but not too powerful. A filter that moves 5 times the volume per hour is sufficient. Too much current in a nano aquarium disturbs small fish.

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