50 Gallon Hexagon Fish Tank – The Ultimate Guide To Vertical Aquascapi
If you have ever found yourself staring at a standard rectangular aquarium, feeling like something is missing, you aren’t alone. Many hobbyists crave a display that draws the eye upward rather than just across the room.
That is where the 50 gallon hexagon fish tank shines. It provides a unique, architectural focal point that transforms a corner of your home into a living, vertical pillar of nature.
While these tanks are visually stunning, they do present unique challenges regarding water flow, gas exchange, and fish selection. Don’t worry—this setup is perfect for beginners and pros alike, provided you understand the physics of a tall column of water.
In this guide, I will walk you through everything you need to master this unconventional aquarium shape.
Understanding the Physics of Your 50 Gallon Hexagon Fish Tank
The most important thing to remember about a hexagon tank is that it is a vertical environment. Unlike long, shallow tanks, a 50 gallon hexagon fish tank has a smaller surface area relative to its total volume.
This is critical because gas exchange—where oxygen enters the water and carbon dioxide leaves—happens primarily at the surface. Because the footprint is smaller, you must ensure your equipment is up to the task of keeping the water oxygenated.
Choosing the Right Filtration
Because these tanks are deep, water can sometimes stagnate near the bottom if you aren’t careful. I highly recommend using a canister filter with a spray bar directed toward the surface.
This creates the necessary agitation to keep the oxygen levels high for your fish. Avoid under-powered hang-on-back filters, as they often struggle to push water down to the lower reaches of a 50-gallon column.
Aquascaping Secrets for Deep Vertical Tanks
Aquascaping a 50 gallon hexagon fish tank requires a different mindset than a standard setup. You aren’t just designing a foreground, midground, and background; you are designing for vertical layers.
Building the “Hardscape Pillar”
To make the tank look natural, use tall, sweeping pieces of driftwood like Malaysian or Spider wood that reach toward the surface. This draws the viewer’s eye upward and creates “shelves” for your plants.
Stack your volcanic rock or seiryu stone to create a central mountain effect. This provides a solid foundation for your plants and gives your fish plenty of nooks and crannies to explore.
Plant Selection for Height
Don’t waste space with short carpeting plants unless you have extremely high-intensity lighting. Instead, focus on tall, stem plants like Vallisneria or Ludwigia.
These plants thrive in deep water and will eventually reach the surface, creating a beautiful, lush curtain of greenery that makes your tank feel like a slice of a deep riverbed.
Selecting the Perfect Inhabitants
The 50 gallon hexagon fish tank is a playground for fish that enjoy vertical swimming space. Avoid bottom-dwelling fish that prefer wide, horizontal territories, as the small floor space might cause territorial disputes.
Schooling Fish
Small schooling fish like Rummy Nose Tetras or Cardinal Tetras look spectacular in a hexagonal setup. They will move in tight, synchronized patterns, utilizing the entire height of the water column.
Centerpiece Options
For a centerpiece, consider a pair of Angelfish. Because they are naturally tall, slender fish, they look absolutely magnificent in a deep tank. They appreciate the vertical swimming room and will become the “kings” of your hexagonal domain.
Maintenance and Cleaning Considerations
Let’s be honest: reaching the bottom of a 50-gallon hex tank can be a workout. Since these tanks are often quite deep, you will likely need a pair of long aquascaping tweezers and a dedicated pair of shoulder-length aquarium gloves.
The Gravel Vacuum Struggle
Standard gravel vacuums can be tricky here. To keep the substrate clean, look for a vacuum with a narrow tube. This allows you to get into the corners of the hexagon without disrupting your entire aquascape.
I personally recommend doing smaller, more frequent water changes—perhaps 15-20% weekly—rather than one massive monthly change. This keeps the water parameters stable, which is crucial for sensitive species.
Lighting Your 50 Gallon Hexagon Fish Tank
Lighting a deep tank is a common pitfall for many hobbyists. Standard LED strips might not have the “PAR” (Photosynthetically Active Radiation) value to penetrate 20+ inches of water to reach your plants at the bottom.
Invest in High-Output LEDs
Look for high-quality, full-spectrum LED fixtures that offer adjustable intensity. You want a light that can focus its energy downward. If you choose high-light plants, you will need a fixture capable of strong penetration, or you will find your plants struggling to survive near the substrate.
Common Problems and Solutions
Even experts run into hurdles with unique tank shapes. Here are two common issues you might face with your 50 gallon hexagon fish tank.
1. Dead Spots in Flow
If you notice debris settling in one specific corner, your filter output is likely not hitting that area. Try adjusting the angle of your spray bar or adding a small, discreet powerhead to ensure the water is constantly circulating.
2. Algae on the Glass
Because you have tall, vertical glass panels, algae can be more visible. A long-handled magnetic algae scraper is your best friend. Make sure it is safe for your glass or acrylic type to avoid unsightly scratches.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is a 50 gallon hexagon fish tank good for beginners?
Yes, absolutely! While the shape is unique, 50 gallons is a great volume. Larger volumes of water are inherently more stable, meaning temperature and chemical spikes are easier to manage than in a small 5- or 10-gallon tank.
What is the best substrate for this tank?
If you are growing live plants, use a nutrient-rich aquarium soil. If you prefer a low-maintenance look, a fine, inert sand works well and is easy to vacuum during your routine maintenance.
Can I keep goldfish in a hexagon tank?
I generally advise against it. Goldfish produce a high amount of waste and require significant horizontal swimming room. The limited footprint of a hexagon tank makes it difficult to maintain the water quality required for a healthy, thriving goldfish.
How do I stop the water from looking cloudy?
Cloudy water is often a sign of a bacterial bloom or overfeeding. Ensure your filtration media is clean, avoid over-cleaning your filter (which kills beneficial bacteria), and always feed your fish only what they can consume in two minutes.
Conclusion
The 50 gallon hexagon fish tank is more than just a place to keep fish; it is a centerpiece of interior design that brings a unique, vertical perspective to the hobby. By focusing on vertical aquascaping, proper flow, and selecting fish that thrive in deep water, you will create a stunning environment that will be the envy of every visitor.
Don’t be intimidated by the shape. Treat it with the same respect you would a standard tank, keep up with your maintenance, and enjoy the process of watching your underwater pillar come to life.
Ready to get started? Grab your glass cleaner, pick out your favorite tall plants, and enjoy the journey of setting up your new hexagonal oasis!
