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The Tank Buster Aquarium
The Joy Of Keeping Large And Destructive Fish
by Mike McEwan
"Tank Busters" (or Tankbusters) is a term in the aquarium hobby that refers to a different type of fish. That is, a type of fish that is generally too large for the all but the largest of home aquariums. Tank Busters are loved for the attention that they get, and the sheer appeal of owning a fish as large as some cats and dogs.
So where did the term Tank Buster come from?
To my knowledge, the term "Tank Buster" was first used in an aquarium book by Leo Kessler published in 1984 entitled, you guessed it, "Tank Busters!" In 1997 it was expanded upon with a website created by myself called Tankbusters.com, which had information exclusive to this unique type of fish. Much of that information is used today at Aquaria Now.com
Tank Buster fishes and qualifications
While there is no official qualification for a fish being known as a tank buster, it is generally accepted that any fish over a foot in length qualifies. Large cichlids, catfish and oddballs such as Snakeheads and Arowanas are good examples. When I think of a tank buster, I don't necessarily think of an overly-aggressive fish, but more so a fish capable of re-arranging its tank decor or putting a few gallons of water on its owners' floor with one swoosh of its tail.
Some common and classic Tank Busters in the hobby are:
- Oscar Cichlid
- Red Pacu
- Arowana
- African Tigerfish
- Redtailed Catfish
- Giant Mbu Puffer
- Giant Gourami
- Red Devil
- Peacock Bass
- Clown Knifefish
The Tank Buster Aquarium
Destructively-large fish have some obvious special requirements when it comes to tank size, decorations, and generally anything that's going to be in the tank with them. These fish are called Tank Busters for a reason, and will test the durability of heaters, filter intakes and even glass canopies.
The size of the tank really depends on the size and number of fishes you will be keeping. The standard "inch of fish per gallon of water" rule can be completely thrown out the window when it comes to large fish, as, for example, two 15" Cichlids will need much more than a 30 gallon tank! Some might even suggest that a tank of less than 90 or so gallons doesn't qualify as a true tank buster aquarium, but of course that is open to debate. I would recommend an aquarium of at least 100 gallons or more if, it is going to hold two or more 12" fish.
Tank decor must be chosen carefully for the tank buster aquarium. Large fish can cause havoc on nice aquascaping, and so be prepared to have those driftwood and plants moved around regularly, depending of the species you are keeping. A few large rocks and/or securely-anchored driftwood pieces are recommended, while plants (real or artificial) are liable to be ripped from the substrate.
Many large fish such as Arowanas and Oscars can be jumpers, and a secure canopy is an absolute must for these fishes. If you think a glass canopy may be in danger of being smashed, try to find an alternative. Heaters must also be chosen and mounted in the aquarium with caution, as many stories have been told of glass heaters being smashed by large fish. Be sure to secure the heater firmy to the side wall to keep it from banging around in the tank buster aquarium.
Research, research, research
While some fish are very large and thus require the largest of aquariums, there are fish that should really not even be sold in the hobby at all. Be prepared for your fish to grow to its full adult size, and ask yourself if you are going to be able to care for the fish when it reaches maturity. Finding a new home for a 24" Iridescent Shark because it outgrew your 250 gallon tank may be difficult when it's still only reached half its full potential size! Research what you are getting into, and try to imaging your tank a year or two down the road.
Good luck!
These fish known simply as Tank Busters have special places in the hearts of those who keep them. They aren't just a school of nameless fish swimming back and forth, they are the centerpieces of our largest show tanks, and capture the attention of anyone who comes in contact with them. Good luck with your tank busters and all the joy that they will bring!
