Tank question

[sawcat]

Hi, I just joined the forum her. I have 3 bettas and one panda cory for the moment. I've been considering setting up a divided 10 gallon so I could have a betta on each side, and the cory with one of them and space to add another cory when I can.

Now we have an old 10 gallon glass aquarium that we used for various pets my brother and I had when we were younger. Is there any reason why I couldn't use this one instead of buying a new tank, provided it hasn't gotten any cracks and holds water? Is there any difference in tanks sold as reptile tanks (which my mom says it is) versus fish tanks?

Once I'm at the point of setting up the tank, I'll need to cycle it, which I've never done. Now I've read a bunch of articles on why to do it, but I don't think I've seen one on how to do it, as in step by step instructions for fishless cycling. If I am missing some place, could you point me in the right direction please?

Thanks

[amanichen]

Reptile tanks aren't guaranteed to hold water. They also have a different construction than fish tanks, whereas the tops of the glass walls aren't all at the same level. This causes the tank to have a different stress distribution when it's filled with water. Basically, I wouldn't try it.

As for fishless cycling, you can probably find some results on google for it. I can give you some links, but not right now.

[twoluvcats]

and FYI cories like buddies. Most people reccomend keeping them in groups of at least 3, but 6 is ideal.

[sawcat]

after I posted this, and seeing the price of a new tank I just bought a 10 gallon. Now have 3 cories who will go into with the bettas.

[accountingchick]

sawcat said:

after I posted this, and seeing the price of a new tank I just bought a 10 gallon. Now have 3 cories who will go into with the bettas.

Just keep a close watch on the compatibility of the fish because every betta that I have known does not like roommates. This can sometimes include snails as well.

[sawcat]

Dude didn't mind the one, but he was also a bit lethargic from his tumor at the time he lived with the first. He just died last night, so I think I will end up putting the betta that was going to be with the cories in the minibow and see about a different type to live with the cories