Best Fish Backgrounds

Decorating an aquarium with vinyl decals might turn into a challenging experience for many fish owners. Multiple fish safety protocols must be followed by the film to ensure the safety of aquatic life. 

However, an adhesive background can add color and depth and make your tank quite pleasing to the eye. Below, you will find our top choices for the best fish backgrounds.

We’ve gathered some really beautiful options that will certainly catch everyone’s attention and will also boost the mood of your fish. Let’s take a look at them.

Our Choices For The Best Fish Backgrounds

Winner: BannersNStands Stone Aquarium Background

Key Specs

• Type: Tape Adhesive
• Size: 21″ x 48″
• Material: Laminated Paper

Overview

If your tank lacks a soothing rocky terrain atmosphere, our editor’s choice, BannersNStands Stone Aquarium Background, will suit your tank just fine. The background features an HD image of a realistic-looking stone scene on thick laminated paper. The rock elements are reminiscent of the stones these fish usually call home. 

Each 21″ x 48″ roll has a tear and scratch-resistant background for seemingly rugged use. Buyers can actively focus on affixing the vinyl in the most error-free way, rather than worrying about cuts or tears. The tape fixture allows people to stick this laminated background behind the tank with just a few tape pieces. 

If your apartment has a 5-gallon tank, this is a perfect match. Additionally, the thick matte finish does not allow too much light to seep from the back while maintaining a natural depth to the tank. We were impressed by the manufacturer’s speedy delivery as the seller ensures that each order gets shipped the same day. However, the price is slightly steep, but the quality makes up for it. 

Pros

• Realistic looking
• Matte finish for a rich feel 
• Speedy shipment delivery 
• Non-messy application
• No chances of uneven application

Cons

• Noticeable grainy spots
• Adhesive tape application

Runner-up: ELEBOX Fish Tank Background

Key Specs

• Type: Double-Sided With Adhesive Tape
• Size: 20″ x 48″
• Material: Thickened PVC

Overview

A spectacularly bright, coral-filled background to entertain the fish for hours is what every tank needs. Our following product, the ELEBOX Fish Tank Background, can light up any plain fish tank with its bright HD sceneries. Buyers have an excellent option to select between multiple themes as per the pet’s liking. 

Each sheet comes with a double-sided print enabling users to choose between two scenes at any time. In addition, the product is manufactured using the most thickened PVC build to withhold water and glare. Spotting a glare-free aquarium background is scarce as most manufacturers churn our high glossy vinyl that may look unnatural at times. 

Another feature worth noting is its durability and non-fading properties. The vinyl can last an extended period without an inch of fading, all thanks to its high-quality printing. These double-sided vibrant vinyl sets will add a realistic touch to your tank without drilling, washing, or buying something expensive. Its sharp yet busy design favorably hides filters and hoses that may add visual barriers to your aquarium. 

Pros

• Manufactured using thickened PVC.
• Each unit is glare-free and waterproof
• Buyers can easily install with tapes
• A double-sided scene for multiple choices
• Available in various background themes

Cons

• Might arrive crinkled up

Best Value For Money: HI TOP Double-Sided Aquarium Background

Key Specs

• Type: Double-Sided With Tape Adhesive
• Size:31.5” x 15.7”
• Material: Plastic Film

Overview

Our following selection, the HI-TOP Double-Sided Aquarium Background, is one of the most easy-to-use products offering many features at a considerably affordable price. Buyers can choose from three stickers, each background featuring two sceneries, allowing them to switch through multiple scenes. 

Moreover, you can expect the product to have high-definition pictures with a natural color palette for a seemingly aesthetic appeal. Its innovative design expertly covers messy cables, equipment, and other damages. 

The manufacturer ensures that each background vinyl is made using high-quality film that shall last long without fading for years. Its 31.5″ x 15.7″ size is more than a perfect fit for most aquarium sizes. Buyers can also cut the piece to their tank size for a more precise cut and fit. 

Lastly, the product doesn’t come with sticky gum that can leave a messy residue after use. Individuals can stick the wallpaper using a sticky tape of their choice and cause minimal damage to the tank. One cannot miss a great deal offering six designs at such a price point. 

Pros

• It is the best value for money product.
• Buyers get three dual-print wallpapers with six designs.
• The product has a high-definition image for a crisp look.
• The natural color palette hides messy cabling.
• It leaves no residue behind.

Cons

• In regular lights, the backside image becomes visible.

Alternative: Fantasy Star Aquarium Background

Key Specs

• Type: Self Adhesive
• Size: 12.4″ x 30.4″
• Material: PVC

Overview

This 12.4″ x 30.4″ Fantasy Star Aquarium Background is an ideal product for people who wish to invest in an unapologetically offbeat tank wallpaper. We highly recommend this vintage wash American flag for people looking for something different than typical ocean scenery. 

This self-adhesive sticker is made using the highest quality waterproof PVC for prolonged usage. The vibrant colors and detailed images make the background real to the highest degree. Other options include a fog forest scene and a pastel sunflower illustration for a minimal charm.

Furthermore, the peel-and-stick formula is ideal as relatively easy to apply and remove without leaving any sticky residue. To conclude, we can say that the material feels sturdy, so the background will ideally last for a long time. 

Pros

• Available in multiple size options 
• Easy peel-and-stick formula
• Unique, unconventional design
• High-quality waterproof PVC
• Assorted design options 

Cons

• Error in size due to manual measurement
• The haphazard application can result in vinyl bubbles

Alternative: TOPINCN PVC Adhesive Undersea Backdrop

Key Specs

• Type: Self Adhesive
• Size: 91cm x 41cm
• Material: PVC

Overview

Aquarium owners searching for a perfect sticker that looks indubitably amazing under the blue light can now rejoice. This TOPINCN PVC Adhesive Undersea Backdrop is a high-resolution, realistic poster that will make any tank look glorious within minutes. Its non-fading and durable quality allow aquarium enthusiasts to set up a beautiful underwater scene that looks incredible under the blue light.

The manufacturer has made the sticking easy by using self-adhesive glue at the back of each vinyl. To activate the adhesive, peel and stick the backdrop on your tank and watch it transform. Its reasonably strong gum will hold the background on the tank’s surface for years. 

Another feature is its immersive 3D design that will keep your little fishes entertained for hours. Lastly, the product is easy to clean and features multiple sizes, perfect for any aquarium tank on the market. 

Pros

• Available in multiple sizes
• Looks ideal with blue light
• 3D design for added effect
• Easy peel-and-stick action
• Non-fading and durable 

Cons

• The picture is a bit blurry

Alternative: Filfeel Aquarium Background Fish Tank Decorations Pictures

Key Specs

• Type: Self Adhesive
• Size: 76cm x 30cm
• Material: PVC

Overview

This 76cm x 30cm desert-themed backdrop can transform any average tank into a feature piece of your house. The self-adhesive cling allows buyers to attach the decoration paper without needing any external glue or sticking agent. 

The thick PVC material is waterproof, glare-free, non-fading, and highly durable. Additionally, individuals can choose between various size choices based on their aquarium. 

Lastly, the sun and desert landscape will keep your fish in an excellent mood while giving the owners an exceptional view at all times. 

Pros

• Glare-free and non-fading
• Durable thickened PVC
• Unique sun and desert landscape
• Easy to install
• Greater adhesion quality

Cons

• The decal may arrive with heavy creases

Alternative: AWERT Vinyl Ocean Aquarium Background

Key Specs

• Type: Tape Background
• Size: 48 in x18 in
• Material: PVC

Overview

Additional to its relaxing tropical theme, the AWERT Vinyl Ocean Aquarium Tropical Island Background comes in 14 size variants for a precise fit. The manufacturer claims this vinyl is softer than any other background on the market and can be reused multiple times. 

Other great features include fade-resistance and glare-free prints for a richer experience. The paper doesn’t leave any sticky residue leaving buyers free to choose their favorite tape for the installation. 

Lastly, aquarium owners can also enjoy customized backgrounds as per their request. Contact their customer service representatives to find out how to do that.

Pros

• 14 sizes for a perfect fit
• Background customization available
• Non-sticky vinyl
• Glare-free and durable
• Excellent fade-resistance

Cons

• Extra steps to de-wrinkle the sheet

Alternative: New Aquarium Background Decoration

Key Specs

• Type: Static Cling Background
• Size: 48″ x 18.5″
• Material: Polymer Sheet

Overview

Our following product is perfect for rock landscape enthusiasts who wish to bring their hobby to the aquarium. This Background Decoration by New is a perfect backdrop featuring double-sided prints for added options.

Both sides showcase an attractive rocky uncut terrain ideal for most fishes and aquatic animals. The application and removal are reasonably straightforward, with a residual-free removal guarantee every time. Moreover, this double-sided backdrop is durable and can be reused multiple times. 

Pros

• Double-sided design wallpaper
• Rocky terrain
• Residue-free removal
• Easy and quick to install

Cons

• The picture is not as vibrant 

Alternative: Lainrrew Aquarium Backgrounds

Key Specs

• Type: Double-Sided With Adhesive Tape
• Size: 12 x 21 Inch
• Material: PVC

Overview

The Lainrrew Aquarium Backgrounds’ double-sided backdrop is manufactured with non-toxic materials making it reasonably safe for all water-based lives. Additionally, the product is waterproof, durable, and fade-free; it also has a vivid and rich color palette with high-definition images for better visual indulgence. Tank owners can choose from two designs that mainly focus on corals and realistic underwater terrain.

The tank backdrop is relatively easy to affix as each order comes with four reusable stickers that leave no residue once removed. In addition, its smartly designed themes easily camouflage stains, cables, and filters, making your tank look spotless and pristine. Lastly, the aquarium vinyl of 12 x 21 inches is ideal for a 10-15 gallon fish tank. 

Pros

• Thick backing material
• Durable and waterproof
• Non-toxic materials
• Double-sided wallpaper
• Ideal for 10-15 gallon tank

Cons

• No stickers or instructions for a smoother application

Alternative: Yosooa Forest Tank Aquarium Poster

Key Specs

• Type: Self Adhesive
• Size: 61cm x 30cm 
• Material: PVC

Overview

The final product on our best fish tank backgrounds list is the Yosooa Forest Tank Aquarium Poster. As the name suggests, this self-adhesive vinyl has a calming forest design for 10-gallon tanks. This thickened PVC paper doesn’t fade and features a residue-free self-adhesive design. It is waterproof and durable, thus keeping your tank looking attractive for a long time. 

As mentioned earlier, the self-adhesive design enables owners to affix the backdrop easily without introducing additional glue, tapes, or gels. This serene forest background comes in five size variants of 61 x 30cm, 61 x 41cm, 76 x 46cm, 91 x 50cm and 122 x 46cm.

Pros

• Size variants available
• Self Adhesive
• HD forest illustration
• Residue-free
• Non-toxic and fade-proof

Cons

• The glue is exceptionally sticky

FAQ

Below, we’ll answer some of the most common questions regarding fish tank backgrounds. Make sure you check them out before deciding which background to purchase for your tank.

Are backgrounds suitable for fish?

Backgrounds are critical because they can directly impact the behavior of your fish and other tank inhabitants. A high-quality background makes the fish less likely to be alarmed by reflections when they aren’t looking directly at them.

As a result of the vinyl, less light enters the tank, reducing algae growth. Also, the close-to-nature images soothe them.

Ultimately, we can also conclude that our fish’s mental and physical health is influenced by their backgrounds. 

How to choose a fish tank background?

An essential thing to consider when picking a tank background is its size. Once you’ve established the dimensions, think about the species you’ll be housing and design the background accordingly.

Choosing a landscape depends on personal preference and the look and feel of the room. Choose a thicker vinyl with a darker appearance if your fish prefer an atmospheric setting that is more ominous.

As a final step, you’ll want to pick a background with good adhesive qualities. Tape adhesive is favored by many because it leaves no residue behind when applied, but self-adhesive is also very popular.

Conclusion

To some, picking a background for your tank might not be an important deal, but we know how untrue that is.

We want to make sure our little friends feel comfortable, and the tank also matches our home’s aesthetic. 

We hope we helped you pick the right one! Let us know in the comments!