More info about acrylic tanks

[Laurence]

Within the next few months I plan to order a 200-gallon acrylic
aquarium, specially built, from a manufacturer. Anyone have any experience with large acrylic tanks? Any problems? I have read a lot of pro and con remarks about acrylic tanks, especially in regard to scratching, and would like to know if anyone has any helpful tips about them.

 

[BigJim]

Acrylic:
- Lighter than glass
- More expensive than glass
- Can be formed into complex shapes
- Less likely to leak because the seams are actually chemically welded
- Scratches easily
- Transmits light better than glass. Starphire (low-lead) glass may come close.
- Very easy to drill

I'd be all over a big acrylic tank if I had the space and the money.