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Post by abm on Nov 29, 2005 22:17:45 GMT -5
Ok, as some of you may know, I'm planning to get my 13-yr-old son a new fish tank for Christmas  I've never cycled a tank (we'll do that before adding fish  ) or used a filter apparatus.... so I would LOVE to hear some suggestions from many of you BEFORE I spend money on the wrong stuff  . He's going on a trip to Europe next year, so this Christmas will be very light on the gifts...but I wanted to get him something he can really get interested in, and he's wanted a "real" fish tank since I started with my bettas 2 years ago. I think it's time  I'm thinking of about a 10 gallon tank...not decided yet what fish will go in it, possibly female bettas, but maybe some guppies or tetras...or even something I've never heard of yet  . So...we need suggestions for tank brands, acrylic vs. glass, filter/pump brands and especially what NOT to get, if you've had bad experiences. Thanks! I'm excited!!! |
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Post by bcroft on Nov 29, 2005 22:27:25 GMT -5
Well from what I've heard, the eclipse systems are very nice. You'll have to go with the size 12 for it to be close to the 10 gallon, since they only come in size 3, 6 and 12s. The biowheel filter is built right into the hood, so it is easy accessible. Here are my experiences / recommendations Filter: I have been using AquaClear power filters since I was ten, when I had my ten gallon. (until the whole tank exploded  ) These are easy to take care of, and they do their job. Pros: - Very good with keeping benificial bacteria with their 3 step filtration system. - There are in-between motor speeds, not just + and - Cons: - Some people experience too much of a current for fish, but can be easily avoided by bigger tanks (10g +) and floating plants If I could use another filter, I would use a Penguin Bio Wheel, they are very easy to use as well Air Pumps: Go to walmart and they have awesome deals on aquaculture pumps. They are very quiet and do their jobs, and are only around 6-7 bucks. Don't forget the anti-syphon valve Tank Brands: From my experience, "all-glass" tanks have been awesome! No leaks yet, and hopefully none in the future lol. They also sell some sets that are not too much money. Hope I was a little helpful I'm sure there will be more posts. |
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Post by twoluvcats on Nov 30, 2005 11:29:02 GMT -5
wooo ABM, big step As much as a 10g sounds "big" to you, I would go for a 29 or larger for a community tank...the bigger the tank, the less likely things can go horribly wrong. My first tank was a 29g and I'm really glad it was, I don't think I could have kept anything alive in a 10g for those first 6 mo. here's a really good article that explains that theory more: www.myfishtank.net/forum/showthread.php?t=31668Walmart does have a 29g kit...but i've replaced everything that came with it except the light and the hood (but hoods ARE expensive and the kit still may be a good deal) Filters: I LOVE LOVE LOVE marineland's bio-wheel filters. The Pengiun line is thier 'cheap' line, and their Emperor line is the 'mac-daddy' LOL I have a penguin 170 on my 29g and it does an AWESOME job. If you do go with a 10, the penguin 125 will do you good. Heater: I just have a 200w Hagen...same heater that you use in your betta tanks, just a bigger wattage. Are you thinking planted or no? I HATE WHISPER HEATERS!!! That's the only thing i'd stay away from...EVERY ONE i've had has failed, and failed badly. Unfortunaly, this is the heater that is usually in a kit...so you might end up with one, keep it in the box and 'return' it to wally LOL HTH |
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Post by abm on Nov 30, 2005 13:37:32 GMT -5
How large is a 29 gallon tank? Like, dimensions? I have a limited number of locations available, if this tank is for my son.
I completely understand the larger is better theory - makes perfect sense, the smaller the environment, the larger the impact of any change, good or bad.
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Post by twoluvcats on Nov 30, 2005 14:04:16 GMT -5
29s are 30x12x18. When i get home I'll measure mine with the stand and let you know what the entire 'footprint' is. |
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Post by abm on Nov 30, 2005 15:40:07 GMT -5
Ok, thanks! Also, online suppliers for price comparisons would be super....Big Al's? thatfishplace? Petco/Petsmart? Others?
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Post by dixieamazon on Nov 30, 2005 16:34:00 GMT -5
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Post by abm on Nov 30, 2005 18:45:57 GMT -5
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Post by bcroft on Nov 30, 2005 21:25:49 GMT -5
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Post by twoluvcats on Dec 1, 2005 11:17:36 GMT -5
Eclipse tanks are great ABM...and a 12 is a decent size...but they are 'expensive' compared to just a regular box tank. I paid $80 for my 29g kit. Check BigAl's and Fosters & Smith too for pricing. Sometimes these do go on sale for pretty cheap...tho the best prices I've seen on them have been 'in store'. I'm leary of shipping tanks anymore after Petco managed to shatter a 2g tank I ordered in the box (and it was acrylic too...they must have TRIED lol)
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Post by abm on Dec 1, 2005 12:29:17 GMT -5
I know the Eclipse "kits" are a bit pricey ... my thinking was, since he's just starting out, it will be easier if the parts are designed to work together. Plus, like I said in an earlier response, it's "pretty" I'll check locally too. More ideas, people?  Thanks! |
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I've never cycled a tank (we'll do that before adding fish 
) or used a filter apparatus.... so I would LOVE to hear some suggestions from many of you BEFORE I spend money on the wrong stuff 
. He's going on a trip to Europe next year, so this Christmas will be very light on the gifts...but I wanted to get him something he can really get interested in, and he's wanted a "real" fish tank since I started with my bettas 2 years ago. I think it's time 
. 
) These are easy to take care of, and they do their job. 
