Imagitarium 6.8 Gallon

Everything You Need to Know About This Compact and Stylish Fish Tank

The Imagitarium 6.8 Gallon aquarium is a popular small tank perfect for beginners looking to add a touch of aquatic life to their home or office. With its sleek, modern design and range of included accessories, this affordable mini aquarium has a lot to offer.

But before you run out and buy one, there are some key facts you’ll want to know. In this in-depth guide, we’ll cover everything about the Imagitarium 6.8 Gallon tank from its dimensions and features to setup, maintenance, reviews and more.

Whether you’re wanting to keep a betta fish or a small community of tetras, this nano tank has you covered. Let’s dive in!

An Overview of the Specs and Features

First up, let’s look at exactly what you get with the standard Imagitarium 6.8 Gallon setup:

• Tank dimensions – 24 x 8 x 11 inches (length x width x height).
• Glass or acrylic – Made from sturdy glass.
• 6.8 gallons total volume.
• Sleek blue LED lighting built into hood.
• Included filter with adjustable flow.
• Decorative rock cave ornament.
• Sample packet of Imagitarium Aquarium Plant Food.

At just under 7 gallons, this aquarium provides ample room for a small fish community without taking up too much space. The slim 24 inch length makes it perfect for desktops, countertops and other small areas.

Some key features worth highlighting are the integrated blue LEDs and included filter. The lighting provides a cool shimmering effect and the filter keeps the tank sparkling clean.

Compared to tanks of similar size, the Imagitarium 6.8 Gallon comes equipped with most accessories you need right off the bat. This is a great starter kit!

Ideal Fish Tank Mates for the 6.8 Gallon

Now let’s talk about which fish are best suited to live happily in this cute little tank.

Due to the modest 6.8 gallon capacity, you’ll want to choose tank mates wisely and avoid overstocking. Here are some great options:

• Bettas – A single colorful betta is the classic choice. Males must be kept alone, but you could try a female betta community.
• Small tetras – Neon tetras, ember tetras, glowlight tetras and cardinal tetras can work well. Shoot for 8-10 maximum.
• Pea puffers – A trio of these quirky dwarfs are perfect for the 6.8 gallons.
• Endler’s livebearers – A dozen or so makes for an active community.
• Chili rasboras – 10-12 of these tiny fish make for a stunning nano shoal.
• Snails/shrimp – Nerite snails, ghost shrimp and cherry shrimp make for peaceful tank mates.

For any community tank, choose fish with similar temperaments and water parameter needs. Avoid aggressive or territorial fish.

Be mindful not to overstock the 6.8 gallon capacity. Follow the “one inch of fish per gallon” rule as a general guideline.

Setting Up the Imagitarium 6.8 Gallon Tank

Setting up a new aquarium properly is critical to the health of your fish. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get the Imagitarium 6.8 ready for its new aquatic residents:

Assembly and Placement

• The tank comes together quickly. Just attach the included LED hood and you’re good to go!
• Place on a sturdy, level surface that can support the tank weight when filled (around 60 lbs). A dedicated aquarium stand is recommended.
• Make sure electrical outlets are nearby to plug in equipment.

Rinsing the Tank

• Rinse the empty tank, ornaments and decor thoroughly before filling. This removes dust and debris.
• Do NOT wash anything with soap. This leaves harmful residue. Water only!

Adding Substrate and Decorations

• Add 2-3 inches of aquarium gravel, sand or soil substrate. Gently rinse first.
• Position cave ornament and live/artificial plants to your liking.
• Allow any driftwood or rocks to soak in a bucket for a week before using to leach out tannins.

Filling the Tank

• Use room temperature dechlorinated water only. Never use un-treated tap water.
• Imagitarium makes water conditioner that instantly removes chlorine and metals.
• Go slowly and avoid stirring up substrate. Fill to within an inch or two of the top.

Installing Equipment

• Hook up the included filter as per instructions, then let run to stabilize water flow.
• Adjust filter flow to avoid too much turbulence. Bettas prefer gentle current.
• Place heater and thermometer to maintain 78-80°F water temp.

Cycling the Aquarium

• Allow the tank to cycle for 1-2 weeks before adding any fish. This builds up beneficial bacteria.
• You can speed up the nitrogen cycle by adding bottled bacteria supplements.
• Test water parameters daily and do partial water changes as needed.

Take your time setting up the Imagitarium 6.8 Gallon tank for best results! Patience will pay off.

Caring for Your Imagitarium Aquarium

Once your mini ecosystem is up and running, just a few simple maintenance practices will keep it looking pristine:

• Perform 25% partial water changes weekly. Use a gravel vacuum to remove waste.
• Check filter monthly and rinse media as needed to remove gunk.
• Wipe down tank walls with an algae scrubber or soft cloth to prevent buildup.
• Prune or replace plants as they outgrow the space. Remove decaying plant matter.
• Supplement live plants weekly with Imagitarium plant food included with tank.
• Replace filter cartridges every 6-8 weeks.
• Test water parameters like pH, ammonia, nitrites monthly and adjust as needed.
• Don’t overfeed! Remove uneaten food to avoid waste buildup.

The compact 6.8 gallon tank size makes maintenance quick and easy compared to larger aquariums. Just a few minutes per week is all it takes to preserve a clean, healthy environment.

Reviews and Impressions from Imagitarium 6.8 Gallon Owners

This attractive little nano tank has earned largely positive reviews across the web. Here’s a look at what fellow aquarists have to say about it:

• Great starter tank for kids – Many mention this tank is perfect for getting children interested in the amazing world of fishkeeping. The interactive LEDs and compact size appeal to young hobbyists.
• Perfect betta tank – Owners report that a single betta truly thrives in the 6.8 gallon tank. Plenty of room to swim and explore compared to tiny 1-2 gallon tanks.
• Quiet, efficient filtration – The included filter keeps water sparkling clean and runs very quietly. Owners are impressed with the quality given the low price point.
• Easy routine maintenance – Thanks to the small tank and filter design, most report upkeep is quick, easy and not at all tedious like larger tanks can be.
• Sturdy build quality – Constructed from durable glass, this mini aquarium can support the weight of 6.8 gallons of water without bowing or leakage.

For an affordable nano aquarium, the Imagitarium 6.8 Gallon performs admirably well and makes fishkeeping fun and approachable. It’s no wonder it garners such great reviews!

Where to Buy the Imagitarium 6.8 Gallon Tank

This popular little tank is carried exclusively by PetSmart both in-stores and online. Prices typically range from:

• $70-90 in-store – Check at your local PetSmart. Price may vary.
• $80-100 online – Order online at PetSmart.com and have it shipped right to your door.

The tank is PetSmart’s bestselling aquarium for good reason. The included filter, ornament and plant food provide value other basic 6.8 gallon kits lack.

You’ll also find all needed accessories like heaters, lights, plants and more at PetSmart to complete your mini ecosystem. Shop their weekly sales and promotions to save on setup costs.

With the Imagitarium 6.8 Gallon tank’s affordable price, compact size, attractive design and included accessories, it ticks all the boxes both beginners and experienced hobbyists look for in a nano aquarium.

Prepping Your Imagitarium 6.8 Gallon for Fish

Once you bring your Imagitarium tank home, you’ll need to prepare it for the exciting day your new fish move in!

Here’s a quick 6.8 gallon setup checklist:

• Rinse tank, ornaments and gravel thoroughly before use.
• Add cleaned substrate and decorations like caves, plants, wood.
• Install filter as directed and allow to run for 24 hours to stabilize.
• Add heater and thermometer to maintain stable 78-80°F temperature.
• Fill tank with dechlorinated water to within an inch or two of top.
• Let the aquarium cycle for 1-2 weeks before adding any fish.
• Test water parameters and make any adjustments needed.
• Acclimate fish slowly by floating bag to equalize temps before release.
• Start with just a few hardy fish. Slowly increase numbers over time.

Taking the time to properly setup and cycle an aquarium is extremely important before introducing fish. But the effort pays off with a healthy, thriving mini ecosystem!

FAQ About the Imagitarium 6.8 Gallon Aquarium

Let’s wrap up with answers to some frequently asked questions about the Imagitarium 6.8 tank:

Q: What size heater is needed?

A: A 25-50 watt submersible heater is ideal for the 6.8 gallons. The Aqueon Mini is a popular choice.

Q: Does the tank come with a lid?

A: Yes, the included LED light doubles as a full hood to prevent fish jumping out.

Q: Can different fish species live together?

A: You can mix certain species, but research compatibility and avoid aggressive fish.

Q: How often should I feed the fish?

A: Once or twice daily in small amounts. Only feed what they can eat in a few minutes.

Q: Do I need to replace the filter cartridge?

A: Replace the included cartridge every 6-8 weeks. Use aquarium sponge instead for a reusable option.

Q: Why are my fish gasping at the surface?

A: This likely indicates poor oxygenation or water parameters. Test and correct any issues.

And that wraps up this complete guide to the versatile, affordable and beginner-friendly Imagitarium 6.8 Gallon aquarium kit! From setup to stocking to maintenance, we’ve covered everything you need to know about this fantastic nano tank.