Temperature
Control Can
you name the one substance in all
of the universe that can absorb or
release the most thermal energy?
The answer, of course, is water,
and managing its temperature is a
basic part of keeping a healthy aquarium. Most
tropical marine systems and organisms
do best between 74 and80 degrees
F, optimally around 75 degrees F
for most. The real key to successful
marine aquarium keeping in terms
of temperature is stability. Tank
(and possibly sump) construction,
as well as size and shape, are all
important. Acrylic is about five
times better in thermal insulation
property than glass. Bigger is also
better, larger volumes contain more
heat energy and are therefore more
stable. Additionally big tanks have
thicker-walled panels that are better
insulators. Tank
placement is also a factor. Don’t
locate your tanks in direct sunlight
or against outside walls. I’ve
seen tanks significantly heated and
cooled by exterior walls, as well
as by the more obvious doors, windows
and heating ducts. |
