Acrylic tank used outdoors?

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House 64

Polypterus
MFK Member
Jun 26, 2006
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An island somewhere......
I own several acryilc aquariums, all of which are housed indoors. I am contemplating picking up a thicker acrylic tank, approx. 200g. (tall) to use as an outdoor tank to house some Gymnogeophagus for the Spring/Summer months. How do you think the tank will hold up in the outdoor/UV light? The perspective area only gets afternoon sunlight and only for a few hours at a time.... that compiled over a few months might take a toll on the bond/seams of the acrylic and overall integrity of the acrylic..... What are your thoughts, suggestions and/or recommendations?

I'm leaning away from glass due to it's inability to insulate and the potential to overheat the water. I'd rather not do a pond bc the last time I did it, it was rather boring since I couldn't view the fish..... what to do....
 
i was wondering the same thing..
 
I would worry about the stress on the acrylic if it gets too cold. What kind of temps are you looking at?
UV will have an effect on the acrylic. Might cause it to has some discoloration.
 
You could insulate the whole glass tank pretty easily, and just leave the front unobstructed.
 
The yellowing thing is a knock against mostly older acrylic tanks and those now that use cheaper materials.

I have had a 10x4 tank outdoors for nearly a year now, and it is as clear as the day I got it.
 
not knockin anyones input on this... but anyone have any other acrylic outdoor setups with or without yellowing issues?
 
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