THE AQUARIUM BUILDING 15 



the time of installation of the heating system. A final 

 consideration is the frequent need to maintain differ- 

 ent temperatures in different tanks. 



A hot water heating system is probably more satis- 

 factory for smaller buildings while steam heat would 

 be most satisfactory for larger installations. A hot air 

 system would be a very poor choice. Whether steam 

 or hot water heat is chosen, the heat radiating units 

 should extend along all walls and should include zone 

 control. 



Electrical Service 



The electrical service to an aquarium room 

 should be of high capacity. As an approximation each 

 400 square feet of floor space should have an inde- 

 pendent, 110 volt, number 10 wire circuit. Con- 

 venience outlets should be placed approximately 5/2 

 feet from the floor ( See Figiu:e 1 for location various 

 services ) . Wiring should be in conduit and special at- 

 tention should be given to proper grounding. All out- 

 lets should accommodate a grounding wire from the 

 appHances. Tank stands, air hues, and all other metal 

 objects should be thoroughly grounded. The danger 

 of electrical shock in an aquarium room is obvious. 



Lighting 



Information on the light requirements of fishes is 

 limited. We know little or nothing about their quanti- 

 tative or quahtative needs. They, of course, require 

 a minimum amount of hght for vision and may utilize 

 light in the synthesis of certain vitamins. In regard to 

 the latter, however, a vitamin fortified diet would con- 

 stitute a suitable substitute. There are several good 



