From 5 Gallons to 16 Gallons: My Journey Upgrading to a Bow Front Fish Tank

As a passionate aquarist, I’ve always been fascinated by the vibrant ecosystems that can thrive within the confines of a glass tank. There’s something truly magical about watching colorful fish glide gracefully through the water, their movements creating a mesmerizing dance. Recently, I found myself contemplating a transition from my trusty 5-gallon tank to a more expansive 16-gallon bow front aquarium. This shift not only promises to enhance the visual appeal of my aquatic setup but also opens up a world of possibilities for creating a diverse and harmonious underwater habitat. In this article, I’ll share my insights on the transition from a smaller to a larger tank, exploring the unique advantages of the bow front design and the exciting journey that awaits anyone considering this upgrade. Whether you’re a seasoned aquarist or just starting out, the leap from a compact 5-gallon to a spacious 16-gallon aquarium can truly transform your fish-keeping experience.

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1. Aquatop Vertical Bowfront Glass Aquarium, 5-Gallon – All-in-One Tank with Filter and LED Light, High Clarity Glass for Freshwater & Saltwater

As an aquarium enthusiast, I can confidently say that the Aquatop Vertical Bowfront Glass Aquarium, with its 5-gallon capacity, stands out as an exceptional option for both novice and experienced aquarists alike. The first feature that caught my attention is the high clarity glass construction. Made from low iron glass, this aquarium provides superior visibility, allowing me to enjoy an unobstructed view of my aquatic life. The clarity enhances the overall aesthetic of my setup, making it a beautiful centerpiece in any room.

One of the great advantages of this aquarium is its versatility. It is designed to accommodate both freshwater and saltwater environments, which is a significant plus for someone like me who enjoys experimenting with different aquatic species. This flexibility means that I can easily switch between freshwater plants and fish or explore the vibrant world of saltwater creatures without the need for a completely new setup. This adaptability opens up a world of possibilities for creating diverse and thriving ecosystems.

Maintenance is often a concern for aquarium owners, but the Aquatop Vertical Bowfront Aquarium addresses this with its built-in filtration system. I appreciate how this feature simplifies the upkeep of the tank, ensuring that the water remains clean and healthy for my aquatic friends. The hassle-free maintenance allows me to spend more time enjoying my aquarium and less time worrying about the logistics of keeping it clean. This is particularly beneficial for busy individuals or families who may not have the time to dedicate to extensive aquarium care.

The compact and stylish design of this aquarium is another standout feature. Its vertical bowfront shape not only looks modern and sleek but also makes it an excellent choice for desktops or smaller spaces. I love how it seamlessly fits into my living area without taking up too much space, while still providing a stunning display of underwater life. This is ideal for anyone looking to add a touch of nature to their home or office without overwhelming the environment.

Durability is crucial for any investment, and the Aquatop Vertical Bowfront Aquarium does not disappoint. Constructed with high-quality materials, it promises reliability and long-lasting performance. Knowing that I have a sturdy and well-built aquarium gives me peace of mind, allowing me to focus on creating a flourishing aquatic habitat rather than worrying about the tank’s integrity.

Feature	Description
High Clarity Glass	Made from low iron glass for superior visibility of aquatic life.
Versatile for Fresh and Saltwater	Compatible with both freshwater and saltwater species.
Easy to Maintain	Built-in filtration system for hassle-free upkeep.
Compact and Stylish Design	Vertical bowfront shape ideal for smaller spaces.
Durable Construction	High-quality materials ensure long-lasting performance.

the Aquatop Vertical Bowfront Glass Aquarium is an impressive choice for anyone looking to enhance their space with a beautiful and functional aquatic setup. With its high clarity, versatility for different aquatic environments, easy maintenance, stylish design, and durable construction, it ticks all the boxes for a fantastic aquarium. If you’re considering bringing a slice of the underwater world into your home, I highly encourage you to take the plunge with this aquarium. It may just be the perfect addition to your living space!

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2. Aquatop Pisces Curved Bowfront Aquarium, 5-Gal Nano Tank – 53 GPH Flow Rate – Semi-Circle Glass Aquarium Kit with Touch Sensitive LED Light & Filter

As I delve into the world of aquariums, I find myself particularly drawn to the Aquatop Pisces Curved Bowfront Aquarium. This 5-gallon nano tank is not just any ordinary aquarium; it combines aesthetic appeal with functional efficiency, making it a perfect choice for both beginners and experienced aquarists alike. The semi-circle glass design stands out and elevates the ambiance of any room, whether it’s a cozy living space, an office, or even a child’s room. Imagine the tranquility of watching your fish swim gracefully in such a beautifully crafted environment!

One of the standout features of the Aquatop Pisces is its impressive 53 GPH flow rate, which ensures optimal water circulation and filtration. This is crucial for maintaining a healthy aquatic environment, as it prevents stagnation and keeps the water crystal clear. With this built-in filter system, I can have peace of mind knowing that my fish are swimming in clean, well-oxygenated water. It’s a significant advantage, especially for those who may not have the time for extensive maintenance routines.

Lighting is another vital aspect of any aquarium, and the touch-sensitive LED light on this model is a game-changer. I appreciate the ease of adjusting the lighting with just a gentle touch, allowing me to create the perfect ambiance for my aquatic life. Whether I want to simulate the bright sunlight of a tropical paradise or provide a more subdued setting for my fish to relax, this feature provides versatility that many other aquariums lack. Plus, it enhances the visual appeal of the tank, making the colors of my fish and plants pop!

Durability is also a critical factor when choosing an aquarium, and the Aquatop Pisces doesn’t disappoint. Constructed from high-quality glass, this tank promises not only style but also resilience. I can trust that it will withstand the test of time, offering a long-lasting home for my aquatic ecosystem. This durability is particularly important as it reduces the risk of breakage and the associated stress of potential leaks or spills.

Feature	Description
Size	5-Gallon Curved Bowfront Design
Flow Rate	53 GPH for Efficient Filtration
Lighting	Touch Sensitive LED Light for Custom Lighting
Material	High-Quality Durable Glass

the Aquatop Pisces Curved Bowfront Aquarium is an exceptional choice for anyone looking to introduce a beautiful and functional nano tank into their home or office. With its elegant design, efficient filtration system, customizable lighting, and durable construction, it truly ticks all the boxes. If you’re considering enhancing your living space with an aquarium, I highly recommend giving the Aquatop Pisces a closer look. It’s an investment that promises not only aesthetic pleasure but also the joy of caring for aquatic life, making it a decision you won’t regret!

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3. Marineland Portrait Glass LED Aquarium Kit, 5 Gallons, Hidden Filtration,Black

I recently had the pleasure of exploring the Marineland Portrait Glass LED Aquarium Kit, and I must say, this product truly stands out in the realm of home aquariums. With its sleek design and innovative features, this 5-gallon aquarium is perfect for both beginners and seasoned aquarists alike. As someone who appreciates aesthetics and functionality, I found this aquarium to be a delightful addition to any living space.

The first thing that caught my attention was the aquarium’s sleek design, featuring rounded corners and a clear glass canopy. This thoughtful design allows for multiple viewing angles, which means I can enjoy the beauty of my aquatic life from various positions in the room. It’s not just about having a tank; it’s about creating a captivating centerpiece that adds elegance to my home. The visual appeal of the aquarium is further enhanced by the bright white LEDs that simulate a shimmering sunlight effect. Additionally, the blue LEDs provide a serene moonlit glow, creating a tranquil ambiance, especially during the evening hours.

One of the standout features of the Marineland Portrait Aquarium is the easy access it provides. The hinged LED lighting and sliding glass canopy make it incredibly convenient for me to feed my fish and perform maintenance tasks without any hassle. This ease of access is essential for maintaining a healthy environment for my aquatic pets. Furthermore, the aquarium is designed to accommodate Marineland Rite-Size Z Filter Cartridges, which ensures that I have everything I need for proper filtration right at my fingertips.

The hidden filtration system is another impressive aspect of this aquarium. The advanced 3-stage filtration is discreetly tucked away, allowing for uninterrupted viewing of the beautiful underwater ecosystem I’ve created. I appreciate how this design choice enhances the overall aesthetic of the aquarium, making it more enjoyable to watch my fish swim and interact with their environment. The dimensions of 9.5″ x 9.5″ x 14″ make it compact enough to fit in smaller spaces while still providing ample room for my aquatic friends to thrive.

In terms of assembly, I found the Marineland Portrait Aquarium Kit to be straightforward and user-friendly. It’s designed for individuals like me who may not have extensive experience setting up aquariums. This ease of assembly means I can quickly get my aquarium up and running, allowing me to focus more on enjoying the beauty of the fish rather than getting bogged down in complicated setup processes.

the Marineland Portrait Glass LED Aquarium Kit offers an incredible blend of style, functionality, and ease of use. Whether you’re a novice looking to start your first aquarium or a more experienced aquarist wanting to enhance your collection, this aquarium is definitely worth considering. Its design not only enhances the beauty of my living space but also provides a serene environment for my fish to thrive. If you’re looking to add a touch of aquatic beauty to your home, I highly recommend taking the plunge with the Marineland Portrait Aquarium Kit. You won’t regret it!

Feature	Description
Sleek Design	Rounded corners and clear glass canopy for multi-angle viewing.
Daylight/Moonlight Lighting	Bright white LEDs for sunlight effect; blue LEDs for moonlit glow.
Easy Access	Hinged LED lighting and sliding glass canopy for convenient maintenance.
Size	5-gallon capacity, compatible with Marineland Rite-Size Z Filter Cartridges.
Hidden Filtration	Advanced, 3-stage filtration system for unobstructed viewing.
Aquarium Dimensions	9.5″ x 9.5″ x 14″ – perfect for small spaces.
Ease of Assembly	Designed for quick and easy setup.

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4. Penn-Plax Water World Luxury Large Bow Front Acrylic Aquarium with Built-in Stand and Storage Top (LM2) – 360° View – Great for Freshwater and Saltwater Fish – 58 Gallons

As someone who has always been fascinated by aquatic life, I can confidently say that the Penn-Plax Water World Luxury Large Bow Front Acrylic Aquarium is a remarkable investment for anyone looking to enhance their home with a stunning aquatic display. With a capacity of 58 gallons, this aquarium is not just a tank; it’s a centerpiece that transforms any space into a serene aquatic environment, providing an eye-catching view of both freshwater and saltwater fish. The modern design of this aquarium seamlessly complements contemporary home décor, thanks to its glossy black base and top cover, accented with a sleek gold line. This attention to detail means that it will fit beautifully into any room, whether it’s a living room, office, or even a dedicated fish room.

One of the standout features of this aquarium is its space-saving design. Unlike traditional aquariums that tend to occupy a lot of horizontal space, the Penn-Plax Water World takes a more vertical approach. This innovative design allows me to enjoy a full 360° view of my aquatic environment without sacrificing valuable floor space. It means I can create vertical aquascapes that not only maximize the volume of water but also add a unique aesthetic appeal to my living space. I can easily imagine planting lush aquatic plants and providing ample swimming room for my fish, all while keeping my floor area free for other uses.

Convenience is another key element of this aquarium. The built-in storage top is a fantastic feature that caught my attention. It cleverly conceals the filtration and aeration systems while providing a storage compartment for essential equipment like the electrical power strip and air pump. This means I can maintain a neat and organized look without compromising on functionality. The transparent lid not only allows easy access to the filtration system but also ensures that everything remains securely in place, which is a significant plus for me.

The package includes everything I need to get started, which adds incredible value. Along with the tank itself, I receive a bottom stand, top cover, customizable filtration column, filtration media, dual outlet air pump, integrated tubing system, bubble wall, water pump, and even a remote-controlled multi-color LED light. This comprehensive set of features makes it so much easier for beginners like me to set up a thriving aquatic ecosystem. I appreciate the thoughtful inclusion of a remote-controlled light system, allowing me to create the perfect ambiance in my space, whether it’s a soft glow for relaxation or vibrant colors for a lively display.

the Penn-Plax Water World Luxury Large Bow Front Acrylic Aquarium is a fantastic choice for anyone who appreciates the beauty of aquatic life and desires a functional yet stylish addition to their home. It strikes the perfect balance between aesthetics and practicality, and I believe it can bring joy and tranquility into my life. If you’re looking to create a stunning aquatic environment that doesn’t compromise on space or design, I genuinely recommend considering this aquarium. Its modern features and included accessories provide an all-in-one solution that makes it worth every penny. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to elevate your space with this luxurious aquarium.

Feature	Description
Capacity	58 Gallons
Design	Modern bow front design with glossy black finish and gold accents
View	Full 360° view of aquatic life
Space Efficiency	Vertical design saves floor space
Storage Top	Conceals filtration and aeration systems; includes storage for electrical equipment
Included Items	Tank, stand, top cover, filtration system, air pump, water pump, LED light

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Why a 5 Gallon to 16 Gallon Bow Front Fish Tank is Beneficial for Me

As an avid fish enthusiast, transitioning from a 5-gallon tank to a 16-gallon bow front tank has significantly enhanced my aquarium experience. The larger capacity not only provides more space for my aquatic friends but also allows for a more stable environment. I’ve noticed that the water parameters remain more consistent, making it easier for me to maintain a healthy habitat for my fish. This stability means less stress for my fish and, ultimately, a more vibrant display of colors and behaviors.

The aesthetic appeal of a bow front tank is another reason why I love this upgrade. Its curved glass design creates a stunning visual effect that draws the eye and makes my living space feel more inviting. I find myself spending more time admiring my fish as they swim gracefully in their spacious home. Additionally, the larger tank gives me the opportunity to create a more complex aquascape with various plants and decorations, which not only benefits my fish but also satisfies my creative side.

Lastly, the increased volume of water allows me to keep a wider variety of fish species. I’ve been able to introduce new friends into my aquarium community, which has been incredibly rewarding. The

Buying Guide for 5 Gallon to 16 Gallon Bow Front Fish Tanks

When I decided to get a bow front fish tank, I was captivated by their elegant design and the way they enhance any room. The curved front provides a unique viewing experience that straight tanks just can’t match. If you’re considering a tank between 5 and 16 gallons, this guide will help you make an informed decision.

Size Considerations

Choosing the right size is crucial. I found that a 5-gallon tank is perfect for beginners or limited spaces, such as a desk or small apartment. On the other hand, a 16-gallon tank offers more stability in terms of water quality and is better suited for a wider variety of fish. I recommend assessing the space where you plan to place the tank to ensure it fits comfortably.

Material and Durability

Most bow front tanks are made of glass or acrylic. I learned that glass is more scratch-resistant and offers a clearer view, while acrylic is lighter and less likely to break. Each material has its pros and cons, so I weighed my options based on how I intended to use the tank and where I planned to place it.

Filtration and Maintenance

Effective filtration is essential for maintaining a healthy environment for your fish. I found that smaller tanks often come with built-in filtration systems, but I prefer a separate filter for better water quality. Maintenance is another factor to consider. Make sure the tank has easy access for cleaning, as I’ve learned that regular maintenance is vital for the well-being of my aquatic pets.

Lighting Options

Lighting plays a significant role in the aesthetics of my tank and the health of my plants and fish. I’ve experimented with different types of lighting, from LED to fluorescent. I recommend considering the needs of your fish and plants when selecting lighting, ensuring it provides the right spectrum and intensity.

Aquascaping and Decor

Creating a beautiful environment for my fish has been one of the most enjoyable aspects of owning a bow front tank. I’ve found that the curved glass allows for creative aquascaping. Whether I choose live plants, rocks, or driftwood, it’s essential to make sure that the decor is safe for my fish and doesn’t overcrowd the space.

Fish Selection

The size of the tank influences the type and number of fish I can keep. In my experience, smaller tanks are better suited for smaller fish or a few larger ones. I’ve also learned about the importance of compatibility among species. Researching fish types and their requirements has helped me create a harmonious aquatic community.

Price Range

The cost of bow front tanks can vary significantly based on size, material, and included features. I’ve noticed that while smaller tanks are generally less expensive, investing a little more for a larger tank can lead to a more enjoyable experience in the long run. It’s worth considering what fits my budget while also meeting my needs.

Purchasing a bow front fish tank between 5 and 16 gallons has been a rewarding journey for me. By carefully considering size, material, filtration, lighting, decor, fish selection, and price, I’ve created a beautiful and healthy habitat for my aquatic friends. I hope this guide helps you make an informed decision as you embark on your own fish-keeping adventure.

Author Profile

Steve Bunch

Hi, I'm Steve Bunch. Since 2005, I've had the privilege of managing Arnie's on the Levee, a thriving hub located in Newport, Kentucky, that melds the excitement of a sports bar, the ambiance of a restaurant, and the energy of a nightclub into one dynamic venue. Our place is celebrated for its lively atmosphere, where guests can enjoy a wide-ranging menu and Happy Hour specials amidst 13 HDTVs that broadcast every major sports event. Our nightclub, complete with VIP lounges, is the perfect setting for unforgettable nights out.

Embarking on a new journey in 2025, I've leveraged my extensive background in hospitality to start a blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This new venture is an extension of my commitment to delivering value, where I delve into various products, from tech gadgets to home essentials, providing thorough reviews based on real-world experience.

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