Im No Tank Expert...

[pinkdolphin_113]

Ok, well I'm not a tank expert and my friend, who's parents I encouraged , is buying a brand new set up. He said he wants a tropical but parents won't let him because of long term electrical costs so ya know...

Anyway, the space he has is perfectly 25 (lenght) x 15 (deep) x 15/16 (tall (he's not bothered how tall)) inches ... or 63.4 x 38 x 38/40.6 cm.
Are there normal priced tanks out there this size or what is the closest? How much would be the average price?
Also, what size filter would he need? And what about air pump...how big?

Thanks

 

[Torrean]

http/users.bluecarrots.com/dave.mann/pet...in/tankcalc.htm

That link should help you with some of your questions.

About the airpump. Airpumps are not a necessity. The main purpose of an airpump is to increase surface area by causing ripples in the water. This allows gases to be exchanged more freely increasing the oxygen levels in the tank. There are two other purposes for air pumps. You can run a filter with one and they look pretty. Air pumps are nice to have if you have a really tall tank or a high temperature. Both of which will cause lower oxygen levels limiting the number and size of fish you can keep. It's also a good thing to have if you are medicating. It's not a neccessity so if money is tight I would hold off on buying an airpump and just get the largest tank you can. Another way you can save some money is keep your eyes on classified ads. There are often dirt cheap used tanks in there. Just be sure to check the seams and look for any chips or cracks. It's a good idea to ask the person selling the tank to fill it with water for you. Then wait around an hour or so and see if there is any leakage. This isn't a guarantee that the tank won't leak when you get it home but it's still a good idea.