One must not overlook the importance of solidly built aquarium stands for each home aquarium.  In addition to the weight of the aquarium itself, the weight of the water will add an additional 8.35 pounds per gallon to the total weight of the fish tank.  For even small fish tanks, this water weight will quickly add up, with most tanks weighing well over 100 pounds. A 55 gallon tank will contain more than 450 pounds of water alone.  This, coupled with the weight of the tank’s contents and the tank itself, can overwhelm a table resulting in tank instability and increasing the chance of a tank toppling over or cracking.  Designated fish tank stands can be purchased through most aquarium dealers, as well as being carried by many of the major furniture suppliers.  Before purchasing an aquarium stand, it is important to ascertain the exact dimensions of your aquarium to ensure a perfect fit.

This is an amazing DIY aquarium stand made from bricks.

The material from which your tank is made will help determine the style of fish tank stand you will need.  Metal aquarium stands that do not support the bottom of the tank, but rather make contact only at the edges, should be used exclusively with glass tanks.  The bottom of an acrylic aquarium is often unable to support the weight of the water unaided, and therefore must be fully supported at its base by your stand of choice.  For lighter tanks, this will be less of an issue, but for owners of large acrylic tanks, the stand will do much of the work in maintaining the integrity of the seal.

Glass tanks that hold less than 20 gallons of water are the easiest in terms of stand selection.  A high quality table in a shaded area may be all that is necessary.  Before setting up your tank, place a level on the surface of the table to make sure it is perfectly flush.  Even the slightest incline will make a big difference in water levels and shifting substrate in the tank.  One should also test the general strength of the table.  Tables that are at all wobbly or are positioned in high traffic areas that make them prone to being bumped should not be used.  Secure corner tables that are positioned away from exposure to direct sunlight and will contain nothing but the aquarium can be repurposed as a DIY aquarium stand (a do it yourself aquarium stand).

This is a metal aquarium stand.

When the volume of a tank reaches 20 gallons or more, designated fish tanks stands are a necessity.  Most retailers offer them in a number of finishes that can match the décor of a room or the trim of the tank.  Metal stands tend to be less expensive, and are generally available in matte or glossy blacks or whites.  For further customization, stands may be easily painted before being added to a room in a color that will complement existing furniture or artwork.  Inexpensive aluminum stands are designed for smaller tanks, while thicker steel should be used with heavy tanks that require additional heft.

Wood aquarium stands have enjoyed an increase in popularity and are widely available in all the finishes that are standard for any kind of wood furniture.  Their solid construction makes them an ideal 55 gallon aquarium stand.  Choose a stand with a completely level top to ensure full contact with the bottom of a tank, as well as thick supporting legs to increase the surface area that touches the floor.  This will mitigate any unevenness in the floor, and make water levels throughout the tank consistent.  Wooden fish tank stands with enclosed drawers are especially helpful in storing cleaning materials, fish food, and hiding all wires associated with filters and lights.

75 gallon aquarium stands are made to hold over 1,000 pounds.  These aquariums should never be placed on tables or any other piece of furniture that is not sold for this express purpose.  Most stands designed to hold 75-90 gallon tanks are typically made of wood and will require some home installation before use.  Stand walls will be reinforced with brackets to reduce the chance that the wood will buckle under the weight and a screw driver or drill may be necessary to properly complete the cabinet.  As an alternative to a stand-alone table, which can take up a lot of space in a room, large tanks may be built into walls.  While this will require a major commitment for installation, tanks can be viewed from multiple rooms and floor space is spared.

Aquariums stands are an important factor in protecting your fish tank from cracks and leaks, as well as maintaining stability for the fish and plants that live inside it.  The initial investment in a high quality stand will ensure that your first tank will last a lifetime.

Related posts:

1. Aquarium Light Guide
2. Accessories for Fish Tanks