• There are many options for fish tank stands.aquarium fish 8 image by cherie from Fotolia.com
  
  Purchasing an aquarium is not all there is to starting a fish collection. You must also consider where you will put the tank. There are many options out there for housing a fish tank. Just remember, a fish tank generally weighs 8.5 pounds per gallon, so keep that in mind when finding a stand.
  
  

Traditional Stands

• A traditional stand is the most common form of fish stand. Some are built for function and others are built for design. These are the kind of stands that are usually seen at fish and aquarium stores. You know that a stand designed specifically for an aquarium will be able to hold all the weight of a fish tank. These are built to fit all kinds and sizes of tanks, including non-traditional tanks such as hexagonal or vertical tanks.
  
  

Furniture

• It is possible to use a piece of furniture as a fish tank stand. The biggest concern with this is ensuring that the table, dresser, or whatever furniture you use is capable of handling the weight. Typically, if the furniture is solidly built, it will be able to hold most sizes of tanks. Make sure the legs of the furniture are stable so that the tank has no chance of tipping over.
  
  

Household Objects

• Another option for fish tank stands are household objects or things built directly into a house. Bars, countertops, bookshelves, and even windows can often be very suitable locations for smaller fish tanks. If you choose this method for displaying your tank, make sure the surface is smooth, steady, and will support the weight of the tank. If the object sags when you place something heavy onto it, it will not be able to handle the weight of a fish tank. However, most bars and countertops are intended to hold a great deal of weight.
  
  

Custom Stands

• If you are not satisfied with any stand available on the market, you can purchase or find plans to build your own stand. Of course the major issue of weight is still very important, but most aquarium stand plans account for the weight of the tank. Try to find plans that outline the weight for which they are best suited.
  
  

Built-In Stands

• One option for someone with a little more money is to get a custom-built stand at an aquarium supply store. Many stores offer custom installs of aquariums, and some locations will even offer aquariums that can be built right into a wall. This produces a beautiful look, but it may be expensive.