I like glass because I'm paranoid about plastic particle leach. I know some containers like sterlite are REALLY bad at leaching plastics particles and I've seen bettas die in them.. I know they claim they're safe but I've seen real tests that show how much really leaches... heck if you have doubts just sniff one.. Also, I know that's not the same plastic is used in the aquariums, but still.. gotta wonder how long until they break down chemically and if any is leaching on a small level. You can't do the same kind of bleach/vinegar treatment to them either as they will break down faster. Glass is safer, imo.
I prefer glass but there is such a variety of shapes and sizes available in plastic. Plastic scratches very easily so be careful when cleaning and if you buy one that comes in a box be sure to examine it for scrapes before purchase.
I guess I prefer glass. As a college student, I have to move my tanks several times a year for breaks, which includes a three hour car ride - I'd be paranoid that the acrylic would get scratched up pretty badly in transit -.-
I wish they'd make an acrylic tank that didn't scratch so easily, though. The fact that its so much lighter than glass would make moving way easier. Posted via Mobile Device
I would prefer glass over acrylic. But I really like tubber-maid containers like Sterlite and such, never have had a problem with them, easy, light, dont scratch, hardly crack or leak!
I had a 2gal acrylic hex tank that I loved at first, but it scratched up super easy and actually got a big crack in it too. I have it in my closet in case I need a hospital tank, but otherwise I LOVE my glass aquarium. I will say it would be nice if they were lighter though.
I also kind of wonder about the plastic leaching, now that you bring it up callistra. Do they make BPA free tanks for fish?
Starfire Glass, its alot clearer than reg glass, and its not easy to scratch like Acrylic. Also, Acrylic isn't going to leach antying into the water. But every 8-10 years the tank should be taken down to be buffed out, or the scratches will start to get really unruly.
i like glass for big tanks 10 gallon and above. i prefer acrylic for my hosp. tanks. because i clean those in my sink. i just know i'd break a small glass one.
No, not necessarily. You can use glass, but man that thing is going to be braced to all get out, and be heavier than WOW. Big HUGE tanks, yes, Acrylic is needed.
I prefer glass over acrylic. Like a poster mentioned on the previous page, low iron or starfire glass is really clear. Most of my tanks are low iron glass and if your water is nice and clear it looks like there is no glass between the water and you at all.
My older brother had a smaller acrylic tank and I just did not like it at all.
Acrylic is a type of plastic. Most plastic tanks are some variety of acrylic, even the Kritter Keepers.
For strength and scratch-resistance the best "plastic" to make a tank out of would be high-impact polystyrene, as used in modern eyeglasses. You wouldn't be able to afford it though.
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