Hi.
Does anyone out there have an acrylic aquarium? I know they weigh quite a bit less than glass aquariums, but do you think there are distinct advantages or disadvantages to having one over glass? And do they turn cloudy over time?
Have my eye on a 46 gal acrylic bowfront to replace the 29 gal glass aquarium I have now.
I'd like to hear what you think.

Donna

I had two acrylic tanks over the years, both were 55 gallons, one had the blue acrylic back and one had the black acrylic back.
They scratch easily, but you can buff out the scratches on the outside. Really though, you will probably be the only one to know where your scratches are, and really, nobody really cares much if they notice them anyway.
Mine never turned cloudy, both were the SeaClear brand.

They are much clearer than glass and are very beautiful.
Some other points to consider:
Acrylic is stronger than glass. Not really something to worry about, but its good to know.
The openings on the top may prevent you from placing very large decorations or rocks into the tank, the openings are smaller than a comparable size glass tank. You may also be limited to the amount of filters and accessories you may hang on the back, as you will also loose some of the width in the back, its not totally open like on a glass tank. So just look close at the top of the tank when you go to buy it, make sure it will suit your needs. Also, you will need new hoods or a wood canopy as the glass hoods from your glass tank won't fit.
I use a great product to polish the outside of the tank, its Nature's Miracle Plexiglass Cleaner:

(just took a photo of mine for you )
If you can find it, get it, its great.

I say go for it, its quite nice, and the bowfront must be really beautiful, must feel almost like you are inside the water with the fish

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