Are Rimless Tanks Better? Pros and Cons of Rimless Aquariums

With all the different styles of fish tanks available, aquarium-owners need to decide on which is best for their homes. One of the most popular types of tanks is the rimless glass aquarium, a tank that eliminates the braces where the panes of glass meet. Be aware of the pros and cons of rimless aquariums to make the most informed purchase you can.

The Benefits of Going Rimless

The most immediate advantage of rimless glass aquariums is their aesthetic appeal. With no braces, these tanks have a crisp, clean look to them. Rims and braces can be eyesores that can ruin the visual appeal of your tank, but rimless tanks allow viewers to appreciate the fish and foliage with an unobstructed view.

Because of the lack of a rim, the glass of a rimless tank needs reinforcement to ensure it doesn’t crack under the pressure of the water. To do this, these tanks utilize a mixture of thick glass and silicone to strengthen the aquariums’ walls. As a result, the glass doesn’t have the greenish tint that rimmed tanks tend to have, improving the look of your tank.

The Challenges of Going Rimless

The advantages of the rimless tank add to its visual charm, but there are some practical challenges that rimless tank–owners must get over. The first is the lack of a cover for the top of the tank; owners cannot place covers because there are no rims. This may not seem like a significant issue, but some species of fish tend to jump out of the water; without a cover to keep them inside, they could end up on the floor.

To prevent your fish from escaping the tank, you can put netting on top in place of a cover, but that can take away from the clean, minimalist look you want for your tank.

The Best Tank for You

Every tank has its benefits and drawbacks, and you need to know whether the potential challenges are worth the benefits. The pros and cons of rimless aquariums make them unique additions to any home or office space. Know what to expect during the purchasing process to avoid any unforeseen complications.