Imagitarium 5.2 Gallon Freshwater Aquarium

Exploring the Features and Benefits of This Starter Tank

The Imagitarium 5.2 Gallon Freshwater Aquarium is the perfect small tank for aquarists looking to add a little life and relaxation to their home or office. With its sleek, modern design and compact footprint, this 5.2 gallon aquarium allows you to enjoy the beauty of a freshwater environment even in limited spaces.

In this blog post, we’ll take a deep dive into everything you need to know about the Imagitarium 5.2 gallon tank. We’ll cover where to buy it, how much it costs, key specs and dimensions, what’s included, how to set it up, maintenance and care, suggested fish and plants, reviews from other owners, and how it compares to similar small aquariums. Whether you’re an experienced fishkeeper or looking to get your very first tank, read on for an in-depth look at this quality starter aquarium from Imagitarium!

Where to Purchase the Imagitarium 5.2 Gallon Tank

The Imagitarium 5.2 gallon freshwater aquarium kit is sold exclusively at PetSmart stores and on their website. It typically retails for $79.99. You can often find it on sale or priced slightly lower from third party sellers on Amazon, Chewy, and Walmart, but PetSmart will have the best availability.

Since PetSmart is one of the largest pet retailers in the United States, you shouldn’t have much trouble finding this aquarium at a location near you. But it never hurts to call ahead or check online for in-store availability before heading out. The tank normally comes in a large cardboard box so make sure you have enough room in your vehicle when transporting it home.

Overview of Features and What’s Included

Here’s a quick overview of what comes included in the Imagitarium 5.2 gallon starter kit:

• 5.2 gallon glass aquarium (roughly 16″ L x 8″ W x 9.5″ H)
• Compact LED lighting with blue and white lights
• Internal power filter
• Adjustable flow filter pump
• Filter cartridges
• Glass thermometer
• Fish net
• Water conditioner sample
• Setup guide

Right out of the box, this nano aquarium comes with everything you need besides decorations, gravel, plants, and fish. The included filter keeps water clean and circulating, while the low-profile LED light allows you to view fish and live plants. For a small 5 gallon tank, it’s packed with great features for beginners.

Helpful Dimensions and Specs

Here are the key technical specs and dimensions for the Imagitarium 5.2 gallon tank:

• Dimensions: 16″ x 8″ x 9.5″ (length x width x height)
• Glass or Acrylic: Made of clear glass
• Capacity: 5.2 gallons
• Lighting: Energy efficient LEDs with blue and white lights
• Filter: Internal power filter with adjustable flow pump
• Accessories: Fish net, thermometer, water conditioner sample

With dimensions under 18 inches long, this nano aquarium can readily fit on a desk, side table, or other small stand. The glass construction gives you crystal clear, undistorted views of fish and aquascaping inside.

Its 5.2 gallon capacity provides ample room for a small community of tiny fish like guppies or tetras, a single betta, or even a planted shrimp tank. The included filter and LED lend added functionality in a small footprint.

Unboxing and Initial Setup Made Simple

Setting up a new aquarium for the first time can seem daunting, but the Imagitarium tank aims to make it as easy as possible. Here’s a quick guide to getting your 5.2 gallon tank running:

1. Unbox everything and make sure all components are present – aquarium, LED light, filter, accessories.
2. Rinse the tank thoroughly with water (no soap) and set on a flat, level stand able to hold 50+ pounds.
3. Add any gravel, plants, decorations, hiding spots for fish.
4. Install the LED light and filter per included instructions.
5. Fill tank slowly with dechlorinated water to avoid disturbing substrate.
6. Turn on filter and LED light and let tank run for several hours to stabilize.
7. Test water parameters like pH, ammonia, temperature to ensure the environment is safe.
8. Gradually acclimate fish to the new tank before adding them to avoid shock.
9. Enjoy your new aquarium! Maintain per instructions to keep fish healthy.

Overall, setting up this complete 5.2 gallon kit takes less than an hour with minimal effort. The internal filter and LED light integrate seamlessly. Just be sure to properly cycle the tank before adding any livestock.

Sleek, Contemporary Styling in Any Space

Another benefit of the Imagitarium 5.2 gallon aquarium is its sleek, modern aesthetic. With crisp glass panels and slim LED lighting, it looks elegant and contemporary placed in almost any space.

The glass construction provides panoramic, seamless views from every angle. You can fully appreciate the colors and movement of fish and plants inside without distortion. This makes it ideal for desktop or counter placement where you’ll be viewing it up close.

The tank’s smaller 16″ x 8″ footprint means you can readily fit it in dorm rooms, apartments, offices, table tops, and other compact areas. The lighting even includes blue LEDs to create a relaxing ambiance. Overall, it’s a sharp-looking aquarium that integrates beautifully into both home and work environments.

Keeping Fish and Planted Tanks

A 5.2 gallon tank provides ample room for a variety of nano aquarium possibilities. Here are some suggested ways to stock it:

• Betta fish – A single male or female betta makes a great centerpiece fish. They’ll have space to swim and explore.
• Small community tank – You can keep several tiny tetra species like ember tetras. Or try a trio of guppies, mollies, or other livebearers.
• Species-only – Stick to a single fish species, like a school of 6 neon tetras or 4-5 male guppies. This reduces aggression and compatibility issues.
• Shrimp/snails – A planted tank with cherry shrimp or other dwarf shrimp makes an engaging setup. Nerite snails help clean algae.
• Nano reef – With intricate saltwater care, a 5.2 gallon nano reef can house a few starter corals and invertebrates.

Make sure to research fish size, behavior, and tank mates carefully when stocking to avoid overcrowding issues. A trio of tiny schooling fish or a single betta offer best results. The possibilities are endless!

Vibrant Live Plants Supported

The included LED light on the Imagitarium 5.2 gallon tank provides the necessary light intensity for keeping live freshwater plants. Having live plants enables your aquarium to become a balanced ecosystem. Here are some great planted tank options:

• Anubias and java fern – These low light plants anchor to decor instead of substrate. No planting required!
• Moss balls – Adding some Marimo moss balls creates interesting textures. They also don’t require special care.
• Carpet plants – Try carpeting a foreground with dwarf baby tears, Monte Carlo, or dwarf sagittaria.
• Stem plants – Plant tall background stems like ambulia, ludwigia, rotala to add height.
• Floating plants – Frogbit, red root floaters, and duckweed float on the surface to provide shade and cover.

With a quality LED light, a nano planted tank is easy with hardy species like anubias. Testing plant fertilizers can help them thrive.

Internal Power Filter Keeps Water Clean

The included power filter may be compact, but it delivers efficient mechanical and biological filtration. Here are some key benefits and functions:

• Flow rate up to 45 GPH provides adequate circulation and oxygenation.
• Adjustable flow pump allows customizing the filter output.
• Internal design eliminates the need for external hoses and equipment.
• Integrated spray bar evenly distributes water throughout tank.
• Mechanical filter pads grab particulate waste and debris.
• Biological filtration housed in the filter cartridge promotes the nitrogen cycle.

For a small 5 gallon aquarium, this internal power filter has all the technology you need. The adjustable flow and spray bar allow customizing water movement based on tank inhabitants and your setup.

Heater Required to Maintain Ideal Water Temperature

The Imagitarium 5.2 gallon kit doesn’t come with a heater, so you’ll need to purchase one separately. A 25-50 watt submersible heater compatible with 5 gallon tanks should work nicely.

Carefully monitor water temperature using the included thermometer when first setting up the tank. Fish require optimal temperature ranges – for example, bettas do best in 78-80°F water. The heater helps maintain a stable environment.

Place the heater horizontally near the filter outlet to encourage efficient water flow and even heating throughout the tank. Always use a thermometer to monitor temperature instead of relying solely on the heater. Perform routine maintenance on the heater as well to keep it running properly.

Built of Durable, Crystal Clear Glass

Glass aquariums have long been the gold standard for home fish tanks. The Imagitarium 5.2 gallon aquarium follows this legacy with its durable glass construction.

Unlike acrylic, glass tanks do not discolor or scratch over time. The clear glass panels provide undistorted panoramic viewing without compromising long-term durability. Seamless silicone seals ensure water stays safely inside.

Small scratches can be polished out of glass during routine cleaning. You’ll enjoy crystal clear visibility for years with proper care. The sleek glass aesthetic also adds elegance to any room it’s placed in.

For nano aquariums under 10 gallons, glass is actually stronger than acrylic, resisting bowing or warping. This Imagitarium tank should hold up nicely to years of underwater pressure and use.

Positive Reviews from Customers

Overall, the Imagitarium 5.2 gallon starter aquarium kit earns consistently positive reviews from hobbyists:

• Simple set up right out of the box. Makes getting started easy.
• Starter accessories like thermometer, net, conditioner prove useful.
• Sleek, modern style with seamless glass panes and slim LED light.
• Provides engaging desktop views of fish, shrimps, or plants up close.
• Compact size perfect for bettas, small fish, shrimp tanks. Doesn’t dominate space.
• Included filter runs very quietly while keeping water clean.
• Lighting provides good brightness for low to medium light plants.
• Extremely affordable entry-level nano tank for beginners.

For an entry-level aquarium priced under $100, it’s impressive how many key features and equipment are included right out of the box. The modern aesthetics and desktop size also make it popular for workplaces or small living spaces.

Maintenance Tips for a Healthy Tank

While nano aquariums don’t require large time commitments, performing routine maintenance is still essential. Here are some easy tips for keeping your Imagitarium 5.2 gallon tank in great shape:

• Weekly 10-20% water changes to replenish minerals and remove nitrates. Gravel vacuuming during water changes keeps substrate clean.
• Wipe down glass algae using soft cleaners or algae scrapers. Clean water promotes fish health.
• Rinse mechanical filter media monthly in old tank water to remove debris buildup.
• Replace filter cartridges every 4-8 weeks to maintain biological filtration.
• Test water 1-2 times monthly with liquid test kits. Monitor levels for pH, ammonia, nitrites, nitrates.
• Remove uneaten food after feeding to reduce waste. Feeding amounts/frequency may need adjusting.
• Prune or thin live plants as needed for optimal growth. Remove decaying plant matter.

Following this schedule prevents issues like algae outbreaks, reduced water quality, clogs, and equipment malfunctions. Making maintenance a consistent habit takes little time and keeps aquariums thriving.

Suitable for Fish, Plants, and Aquascaping Goals

Thanks to its 5+ gallon capacity, built-in filtration, and lighting, the Imagitarium tank can readily support fish, planted tanks, and aquascaping goals for beginners.

Its compact footprint fits where larger tanks can’t, while still providing ample room for tiny schooling fish, bettas, shrimp colonies and snails. Shorter height makes aquascaping the tank bottom easier.

The included LED light works for low to medium light plants like anubias, java fern, moss, carpeting plants, and undemanding stems. Use liquid fertilizers to help plants thrive.

Overall, this starter aquarium kit gives you the essential equipment to enjoy a slice of aquatic life. Take advantage of its nano size to create a unique underwater environment!

Alternatives and Comparisons to Other Brands

The Imagitarium 5.2 gallon aquarium holds up nicely against competitors in the nano tank market. Here’s how it stacks up:

• More affordable than most kits of similar size from Tetra, Fluval, Aqueon.
• Includes filter and lighting, unlike barebones tanks.
• Larger than mini 2-3 gallon acrylic tanks.
• More modern look than plain glass cubes.
• Not as high clarity as some acrylic tanks, but better long-term durability.
• More features than DIY desktop jars/bowls.
• LED lighting accommodates plants better than incandescents on other kits.

For an entry-level 5 gallon tank priced below $100, the Imagitarium kit is tough to beat. While it lacks the high-end features of premium brands like ADA, Fluval, and Dennerle, its balance of size, price, and included equipment makes it ideal for beginners.

Quiet Performance Suitable for Offices

With its slim filter and small aquarium size, the Imagitarium 5.2 gallon tank produces very little noise, making it an excellent choice for offices and work desks.

The gentle hum of the internal power filter is barely audible unless you’re next to the tank. Bubbles from the integrated spray bar provide pleasant, relaxing sounds.

Small tanks obviously house less powerful equipment that large 100+ gallon setups. But this nano aquarium is still impressively quiet and unobtrusive during operation. The soothing trickling water creates a peaceful ambiance for any room or work environment.

Reliable Standard PetSmart Warranty

As an aquarium sold exclusively by PetSmart both online and in-store, the Imagitarium 5.2 gallon kit comes with PetSmart’s standard warranty. This covers defects in materials and workmanship for 90 days after the date of purchase.

To initiate a warranty claim, you’ll need to bring the tank, receipt/order information to your local PetSmart store. Make sure the components are in original condition without any structural damage. Their customer service staff can handle exchanges or parts replacements.

While it does not have the 5+ year warranties of extremely high-end tanks, this policy provides satisfactory protection against premature leaks or damage during those initial critical months. Be sure to inspect everything carefully right out of the box.

Decorating the Tank with Plants, Rocks, and Driftwood

One of the most exciting parts of setting up a new aquarium is choosing fun decorations, plants, substrate, and tankmates! With its 5.2 gallons, the Imagitarium tank offers flexibility for creative aquascaping.

Plants: Good low light options include anubias, java fern, moss balls, Amazon sword, crypts. Floaters like duckweed or frogbit work too.

Substrate: Standard natural gravel provides a classic look. Or use plant-friendly soils for planted setups. Sand and bare bottom also work.

Hardscape: Small pieces of driftwood, rocks, resin caves, and terracotta pots make excellent anchors and hiding spots.

Tankmates: Pick nano schooling fish like ember tetras under an inch long. Or try a single betta, guppies, endlers, celestial pearl danios, chili rasboras.

Take advantage of the nano scale to create a unique underwater world! Vibrant colors and interesting materials contrast nicely with the clean lines of the aquarium itself.

The Perfect Starter Tank for Beginners

For aquarists looking to get started with their very first tank, the Imagitarium 5.2 Gallon Freshwater Aquarium Kit hits the sweet spot.

Its small size makes setup achievable even for complete beginners, without requiring massive equipment. The included filter and LED light provide essential functionality right out of the box.

Despite its compact 5 gallon capacity, there’s ample room for versatile stocking options like a betta, nano school, or shrimp colony. No committing to huge 100+ gallon tanks before you’re ready!

The affordability and stock equipment also reduce initial investment, but the glass tank and quiet filter offer lasting quality to grow into long-term.

For the price, the sleek aesthetics make a wonderful display tank anywhere from dorm rooms to offices.

With proper care and maintenance, the Imagitarium 5.2 gallon starter kit can provide years of aquatic enjoyment. Before you know it, you may be ready to upgrade to a larger tank to continue the journey!