By weeebooo70@gmail.com 
Aquariums are more than just homes for fish—they are living works of art, designed to bring nature into our living spaces. While traditional rectangular aquariums are the most common, modern aquarists are increasingly turning to unique shapes to make their aquatic displays stand out. Among these, the hexagon aquarium has become a favorite choice for those who want elegance, functionality, and a striking design.
A hexagon aquarium features six equal sides, creating a tall, tower-like appearance. This distinctive design offers a 360-degree view of your aquatic pets, making it a centerpiece in any room. Whether placed in a corner, on a stand, or as a free-standing display, a hexagon aquarium adds sophistication while maintaining practicality.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about hexagon aquariums—their advantages, challenges, setup, best fish and plants, maintenance tips, design ideas, and frequently asked questions.
What is a Hexagon Aquarium?
A hexagon aquarium is a six-sided fish tank that provides a unique viewing angle compared to standard rectangular or square aquariums. These tanks typically range from 20 to 60 gallons, though smaller desktop versions (5–10 gallons) and large custom models (over 100 gallons) are also available.
Hexagon aquariums are usually taller than they are wide, giving them a vertical profile. This makes them perfect for corners, small spaces, or areas where you want a striking floor-to-ceiling effect.
Benefits of a Hexagon Aquarium
1. Unique Aesthetic Appeal
The six-sided design stands out, transforming a simple fish tank into a conversation piece.
2. 360-Degree Viewing
Unlike flat-sided aquariums, hexagon tanks allow multiple viewing angles, perfect for living rooms or offices.
3. Space Efficiency
Tall and compact, hexagon aquariums fit neatly into corners or tight spaces.
4. Great for Aquascaping
The vertical layout allows creative designs with driftwood, tall plants, and rock formations.
5. Showcase Fish Elegantly
Tall-bodied fish or species that like swimming in mid-to-upper levels look particularly striking.
Challenges of a Hexagon Aquarium
While stylish, hexagon aquariums come with some challenges:
- Reduced Surface Area: Less oxygen exchange compared to wide rectangular tanks.
- Vertical Swimming Space: Not all fish thrive in tall tanks; horizontal swimmers may feel cramped.
- Harder to Clean: The tall, narrow shape can make maintenance more difficult.
- Lighting Limitations: Taller tanks require stronger lighting for plants at the bottom.
Choosing the Right Size
Hexagon aquariums come in different sizes, and your choice will depend on your space and the fish you want to keep.
- 5–10 Gallons: Suitable for bettas, shrimp, or snails.
- 20–30 Gallons: Great for small communities of guppies, tetras, or dwarf gouramis.
- 55–60 Gallons: Spacious enough for angelfish, cichlids, or larger communities.
- Custom Large Tanks: Can house more diverse fish species, including saltwater setups.
Best Fish for a Hexagon Aquarium
Because hexagon aquariums are tall, choosing fish that adapt well to vertical spaces is important.
Freshwater Fish
- Angelfish – Their tall bodies fit perfectly in vertical tanks.
- Betta Fish – A single betta can thrive in smaller hex tanks.
- Guppies – Hardy, colorful, and lively.
- Tetras (Neon, Cardinal, Ember) – Schooling fish that look stunning in groups.
- Dwarf Gouramis – Peaceful and vibrant.
- Corydoras Catfish – Keep the bottom clean.
- Mollies & Platies – Easy to care for and breed.
Saltwater Fish (for larger hex tanks)
- Clownfish – Hardy and beginner-friendly.
- Gobies – Small and entertaining.
- Blennies – Great personalities.
- Dwarf Angelfish – Add vibrant colors.
Best Plants for a Hexagon Aquarium
Live plants enhance the beauty and stability of any aquarium. For tall hexagon tanks, prioritize species that grow upward.
- Amazon Sword – Perfect centerpiece for tall aquariums.
- Vallisneria – Grass-like leaves that grow vertically.
- Anubias – Hardy, low-maintenance plant.
- Java Fern – Attaches easily to rocks and driftwood.
- Hornwort – Great oxygenator, floats or roots.
- Dwarf Hairgrass – Creates a carpet at the base.
Essential Equipment for a Hexagon Aquarium
- Filter
- Choose a filter rated for your tank size. Canister filters or internal filters work well.
- Heater
- Essential for tropical fish, typically set between 75–80°F.
- Lighting
- Opt for high-powered LEDs if keeping plants, since tall tanks reduce light penetration.
- Air Pump
- Improves oxygenation, especially in deeper tanks.
- Substrate
- Gravel, sand, or aquascaping soil depending on your setup.
- Stand
- Hexagon aquariums require specially designed stands for stability.
Setting Up a Hexagon Aquarium
Step 1: Choose Location
Pick a stable spot away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and high-traffic areas.
Step 2: Add Substrate
Lay 2–3 inches of gravel, sand, or aqua soil.
Step 3: Place Hardscape
Arrange rocks, driftwood, or decorations for natural appeal.
Step 4: Add Plants
Root tall plants at the back and smaller ones in the foreground.
Step 5: Install Equipment
Attach filter, heater, and lighting.
Step 6: Fill with Water
Use dechlorinated water. Fill slowly to avoid disturbing the setup.
Step 7: Cycle the Tank
Allow 3–4 weeks for beneficial bacteria to establish before adding fish.
Step 8: Add Fish
Introduce species gradually, avoiding overstocking.
Maintenance of a Hexagon Aquarium
Daily
- Feed fish in small amounts.
- Check water temperature and equipment.
Weekly
- Test water parameters.
- Wipe glass to remove algae.
Bi-Weekly
- Perform a 20–30% water change.
- Vacuum substrate to remove debris.
Monthly
- Deep clean decorations and filter media.
- Inspect plants and trim as needed.
Hexagon Aquarium Design Ideas
- Minimalist Betta Setup
- Single betta, moss balls, and smooth stones.
- Community Freshwater Tank
- Schooling tetras with lush plants.
- Tall Aquascape
- Use driftwood and tall plants like Vallisneria.
- Marine Reef Setup
- Corals, clownfish, and small marine invertebrates.
- Corner Display Tank
- Perfect for small spaces, with a hexagon tank on a custom stand.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overstocking – Leads to stress and poor water quality.
- Ignoring Tank Height – Choose species that can thrive in vertical tanks.
- Inadequate Lighting – Plants at the bottom may suffer without strong lighting.
- Skipping the Cycle – Causes ammonia spikes and fish deaths.
- Improper Stand – Always use a stand designed for hexagon tanks.
Advantages and Disadvantages of a Hexagon Aquarium
Advantages
- Unique and stylish design.
- 360-degree viewing angles.
- Great for tall plants and vertical aquascaping.
- Fits well in corners or small spaces.
Disadvantages
- Reduced surface area for gas exchange.
- Harder to clean due to depth.
- Limited swimming space for some species.
- Requires special stand and stronger lighting.
FAQs About Hexagon Aquariums
1. Are hexagon aquariums good for beginners?
Yes, but beginners should start with at least a 20-gallon hex tank to avoid water instability.
2. What fish are best for a hexagon aquarium?
Angelfish, bettas, guppies, tetras, dwarf gouramis, and corydoras are excellent choices.
3. Can I use a hexagon aquarium for saltwater fish?
Yes, but it requires more advanced equipment and frequent maintenance.
4. Do hexagon aquariums need special stands?
Yes, the unique shape requires stands specifically built for hex tanks.
5. Are hexagon aquariums harder to maintain?
They can be slightly more challenging due to their height and reduced surface area.
6. How many gallons is a typical hexagon aquarium?
Most standard models range from 20 to 60 gallons, though custom sizes exist.
7. Can I keep live plants in a hexagon aquarium?
Absolutely! Just ensure strong lighting reaches the bottom.
8. Are hexagon aquariums expensive?
They are generally more expensive than standard tanks due to custom design and special stands.
Final Thoughts
A hexagon aquarium is a stunning alternative to traditional rectangular tanks. Its six-sided design makes it both stylish and practical, offering a unique viewing experience and allowing for creative aquascaping. While it has some challenges—such as reduced surface area and cleaning difficulties—the rewards far outweigh the drawbacks for aquarists who want something truly special.
Whether you’re keeping a single betta in a small hex tank or designing a large community aquarium, a hexagon aquarium can become the centerpiece of your home or office, blending nature with art and architecture.