Software Offers Stress-free Aquarium Sophistication

For those who want to reap the benefits of watching fish swim peacefully in a tank without having to clean up after them, a 3D aquarium might be in order. Almost as good as the real thing, and in many ways better, a 3D aquarium takes advantage of some of the best computer technology to create an image that's serene, colorful and just plain cool to gaze at. What's better is the images can be so realistic, they look like live fish.

Typical 3D aquarium programs run off of Flash-based software. This provides a rich graphic experience that, on the right screen, can make the fish, plants and the entire underwater environment created look more lifelike than a real aquarium. Even the sounds of a pump" are included in some programs so there are plenty of bubbling noises to be heard.

Those who enjoy 3D aquariums, do so for a number of reasons. They include:

* Appearance. The images on a good computer screen with graphics meant to handle Flash or better are smooth, lifelike and very colorful. It almost feels like you can reach in and touch the water as the fish swim by.

* Wacky possibilities. Since it's not a real aquarium, the tank" can include a huge variety of fish. There's no need to worry about salt water or fresh. Fighting never happens and there cannot be too much or too
little food.

* Ease of care. Since there's no actual fish, the aquarium" is easy to clean. Keep the monitor dusted off and your fish tank will look crystal clear and beautiful at all times. There's not even a need to buy an expensive pump.

While not all aquarium programs are alike, some of the most common ones allow users to do a number of things to personalize their fish tank experience. These include:

* Adding and removing fish at whim. This allows for
variety and fun.

* Changing the underwater environment. Want your fish to swim in aqua waters with a castle of their own? No problem. Think a treasure chest, some rocks and maybe a few sea plants would look better? Just change it.

Fish varieties in these programs are pretty vast, but keep in mind they do tend to be the brighter, bolder types. This means Tiger fish, Zebras, gold fish, neons and the like are common.

Beyond looking neat and having a lot of personalization features, these programs also offer some of the benefits actual fish do for their owners. The fish tanks" are fun and relaxing to look at. Research shows that a real aquarium has benefits in lowering blood pressure and helping viewers relax. There's just something very soothing about watching fish in an underwater environment swim in peace. A 3D program is the next best thing if not better.

Considering their benefits and the ease in taking care of them, 3D fish are a great option for those who want the fun of an aquarium without the work. Plus, they're generally cheaper than an entire set up with aquarium, fish, pump and accessories included.