setting up

[molly guppy]

Hello, I'm very new to all this. I have space in my new study for something other than my computer to look at and enjoy. I have thought about lizards, a tortoise and other reptiles, but I'm not sure I have the time to devote to them. I thought maybe tropical fish was the answer. I'm hoping for something attractive to look at, that is low maintenance and doesn't require too much expertise.
I've looked at a small tank that will fit on a table top and will accommodate a few pretty fish.
I've been advised on molly, guppy and platy as compatible tank sharers, along with a loach. I've thought about black and white gravel as a base, a couple of plants and a piece of artificial coral for them to swim in and around.
I'd like to think that my fish will be happy in these surroundings and I would welcome any comments/tips from more experienced aquaria owners.
thank you

 

[DOLORES]

to the forum!! good to have u with us!, mmmm everything depends on the size of your tank, (what size is it?) if you want to put it on a desktop , you can go with a 5 gallon , but that would be 5" of fishes, (thumb rule , most ppl dont really take it seriously becus it dependes on what fish are you having too) well if you can tell us the size of the tank, that would really help us , to help u meanwhile any other questions, post them on "begginer questions" , plants (i u want live ones sometime) how does your garden grow , and you'll see the other forums, i tell you that these ppl are really helpful! im learning from them so dont hesitate to ask whatever pops in ur mind!
and again

 

[Bradder]

to the forums! You will find a lot of good information here and the members are more than willing to help. The set-up and cycling of a new tank can take some time and maintenance, but once established, the amount of routine care time will drop. Do keep in mind that often smaller tanks can take more time to maintain- that may sound odd but as you read more about tanks it will make more sense.

 

[clutterydrawer]

welcome
bear in mind that your fishes will start to take up vast amounts of your time as you won't be able to stop yourself from sitting watching them for hours on end...

 

[jams.alaskan]

to the forum! Glad you found us - I'm sure that folks will be able to help you with suggestions for your tank. Have a look at the members aquarium pictures and past winners of the Tank of the Month competition for tank ideas.

ALASKA

 

[cutechic]

Welcome to the forum, molly guppy! If you're going with a desktop aquarium, loaches will probably outgrow the tank. You'd best stick with mollies, guppies, platies, danios, or white clouds. Just to let you know: the first three mentioned may breed, so you might find yourself some fry when you least except it!

 

[Inchworm]

Hi molly guppy

Welcome to the forum!

A betta might be an excellent choice for a small tank. You might even consider adding a little African Dwarf Frog as a companion for him. There's a link in my signature that has lots of information about them.