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Many people like to use the "glass box" argument. "How would you like to live in a glass shoebox? Huh?"

You have to admit this is a flimsy argument. Many fish are territorial animals, and if they knew any different they would likely be quite happy having their very own space, free from predators or intruders. There are many cases where aquarium fish are indeed kept in cruel conditions, and it certainly is immoral and absolutely wrong to do such a thing.

However, it is quite possible and not difficult or expensive to keep aquarium fish happy and healthy. All they really need is clean water, space, and food.

Some, such as bettas, have the unfortunate reputation of being too easy to look after, able to survive any conditions. This has led to the terrible little betta bowls and "betta starter kits", which really are cruel. They often consist of a tank that holds less than a gallon of water, and since these fish don't need filtered water to survive it is all too common that the water isn't changed enough. The key word is survive. A fish can survive in minimal conditions, but if you want your aquarium fish to really thrive that's a whole different story, and that's where the cruelty disappears.

The important thing to remember is that fish are animals like any other pet, and require proper knowledge and care to look after, especially since they can't whine, bark, meow, or screech for attention when they need it.

Besides, fish that live in properly filtered aquariums with the right combination of tank-mates, and are well fed and looked after are probably far better off than their relatives in our polluted oceans anyway. They have plenty of food, their own space, and no threat of becoming lunch for a bigger fish. They live happily in their territory as long as the owner maintains it, since nature cannot.

Aquarium fish are exempt from the food chain and can live much longer than they would in the wild, and I'm sure someone will say "Yes, but why would they want to? Their lives are so boring!" This is why it's a good idea to keep a nice community tank. Fish are usually social creatures and even aggressive fish like bettas benefit from having the right tank-mate. My betta has lived happily with a Siamese algae eater for over four months now. However research is important when building an aquatic community, as some fish live well with some species but are aggressive with others.

Aquariums can indeed be cruel to fish if the owner is uneducated on the needs of their underwater pets. Research and advice in the pet store is mandatory in order to build a happy, healthy aquatic community that you and your fish will enjoy.

Learn more about this author, Katelyn Weel.
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