Abstract: An aquarium for maintaining fish or the like characterized by an upper transparent container means that has its side wall, bottom and a valve body integrally formed together to prevent leaks. The transparent container sits on a base. An air pump, air conduit, and air flow control valve are disposed out of sight interiorly of the base. The valve body contains the check valve and serves as an air inlet for bubbling air upwardly through the water at a controlled rate provided by the air flow control valve. The check valve prevents leaking back into the air inlet passageway in the event the power is interrupted and prevents leaking a substantial quantity in the event that the hose, or air conduit, is inadvertently disconnected. Also disclosed is a kit embodiment which is sold on the retail market in which all the elements are provided.