This is the thing I never understand is when people say it could be a lot worse.
Yes a 75 is a lot better than a 40 breeder,but is a 75 the right size tank to recommend for a 10 to 12 inch fish?I don't think so,not when the width of the tank is the same as the Length of the fish.
Even the length is restrictive and the fish would not be able to swim anywhere near full speed in it.
So yes things could and often are worse for these fish but that does not mean we should be recommending a compromise when we could be recommending something ideal.
Lots of new hobbyists read these threads and I personally feel that recommending bigger tanks is a good thing for the welfare of these animals.
It's an all to common affair to hear these stories of oscars in 55 gallons,Pangasius catfish in 75's pacu in 120's and so on.
The choice of fish species are endless,there is something for every size of tank and every budget. The excuse "It's the only size tank I can afford or the only size tank I can fit in my house,or the promise of adequate filtration or extra large water changes is irrelevant.
If that's the case keep rams or blue acaras or something that can thrive in the size tank you have.
I love veija species,they are probably my favourite genus but I won't keep them anymore.
The space I can provide for them is not enough for a species that can exceed 14 inches.
Sometimes you just have to go with out and choose a species that you can meet half way with its needs for space,stimulation and exercise.
I am under no illusion that what we can provide for our fish is anything like what they have in the wild,I do however feel that not enough hobbyists are meeting their fish half way.
The trouble is most people seem to decide on a species they like and buy it regardless. Tank size being not so important as long as they have that Oscar or dovii or midas or gt.
I'm sure most on this forum will be board stiff of reading me harping on again about tank size,and I don't blame them,I do it a lot. If i make one new hobbyist think again about cramming that poor jag in a 75 then it's worth bearing the crap out if you all.