Aquarium thermometers: what are they and how to choose?
One of the main conditions for the successful keeping and breeding of aquarium fish at home is the optimum water temperature. For most species of ornamental fish, body temperature depends on the temperature of the aquatic environment. It is considered comfortable in the range of 23-28 degrees. Many exotic tropical fish are sensitive enough to temperature fluctuations, which can lead to their death. Thus, a quality thermometer is essential for both hobbyists and experienced aquarists.
Aquarium Thermometer Models
The wide range of aquarium thermometers comes in a variety of models, each with its own pros and cons. Depending on what is used as a temperature indicator, the following varieties are distinguished.
- Alcoholic appliances consist of a glass flask with a tinted alcohol solution inside. In fact, they resemble thermometers for measuring the air temperature outside. They are attached to the inside of the aquarium using suction cups. This model should be placed away from the heater, in the place where it is convenient to monitor the thermometer readings. When buying, it must be borne in mind that it is problematic to install it in a round aquarium. However, this model is the most common and has good accuracy rates.
- Liquid crystal are thin plastic stickers, on which, on one side, there is a thermochemical paint with a scale that changes its color when the temperature changes, and on the other - an adhesive substance for attaching to the outside of the aquarium wall.Since re-sticking the thermometer to another place is fraught with damage to the scale markings, it is better to carefully choose a place for location. These devices are suitable for all types of aquariums.
Accuracy is greatly affected by the thickness of the glass, direct sunlight and heating appliances if they are nearby. Thus, the data of this type of thermometer may be inaccurate due to the fact that it is influenced not only by the temperature of the water in the aquarium, but also by the air in the room.
- Spiral thermometers determine the temperature of the water by compressing and straightening a special sensitive spring.
- Electronic temperature meters... A distinction is made between electronic thermometers with a built-in measuring sensor and an external one. They are the most accurate, comfortable and expensive. The batteries last for several months. Models with a remote sensor consist of two parts - the sensor itself, which is immersed in water, and a digital display, it can be positioned as you wish.
With its help, you can determine the temperature not only of water, but also of the soil in different parts of the aquarium.
The versions with a built-in sensor are completely sealed and are fixed directly inside the aquarium with suction cups. Changes in water temperature in the aquarium are signaled by an audible signal.
Types by type of attachment
Such devices can be fixed on the outer or inner surface of the wall of aquariums. using suction cups or adhesives, and can also be on the surface of the water, like a float. Besides, there are models, in the form of a hookthat cling to the edge of the aquarium, which avoids cases when the suction cup is detached and the thermometer floats.
Indeed, over time, a silicone sucker is less fixed on the surface, loses its qualities in water. And some curious fish may even try to peel off the thermometer. There are also special mini thermometers for small aquariums, created so as not to spoil the appearance and not interfere with admiring the aquarium inhabitants. All this must be taken into account when choosing a suitable device.
General location guidelines
In addition, certain rules for the placement of thermometers must be followed in order for their readings to be correct. For example, they must be placed on the opposite wall from a heater or lamp. Liquid immersion thermometers should be fixed to the inside of the aquarium wall in the middle layer of water. Many types of aquarium heaters have a built-in instrument for measuring temperature fluctuations. But these data can be with a large error. That's why the presence of an autonomous thermometer is a necessary tool for monitoring the temperature regime.
Experienced aquarists advise using at least two thermometer models for better temperature monitoring. Indeed, depending on the volume of the aquarium and the power of the heater, the difference in performance can be significant. For example, you can purchase one glass liquid and stick it on the bottom level, and another as a sticker, securing it closer to the surface.
This way, you will be able to control the temperature readings as closely as possible, because the correct temperature will keep the inhabitants of the aquarium healthy and may even contribute to the treatment of diseased fish.
An overview of the sticker thermometer for the aquarium awaits you further.
