planting/stocking desktop tank

NewObsession

NewObsession

AC Members
Aug 27, 2007
575
0
16
56
Yews, I know we've all been through this before, but what the heck, it's fun right?

I built 2 desktop tanks, one for my desk at work and 1 for my 12 yo's bookshelf. They are 24"Lx9"Dx10"H. Both will be mainly Betta tanks with whatever else would compliment it. He asked me if he could go all live plants (brought a tear to my eye... lol) I am planning black onyx sand for both. SImple fluorescent strip over both so plannign on sticking with basic low light, easy to care for plants ( especially for his tank) Plan so far is Java moss/fern and annubias. Any other suggestions? Also, suggestions as to what would make good tank mates to compliment the tank, but not over stock it? I personally prefer endlers but thought I would see what suggestions you all have.
looking forward to feedback.
 
Most crypts would work. There are a couple varieties of java fern, windelov (or lace) is nice & a bit shorter IME than regular. Dwarf sag may work too.

Betta personality will decide what other fish might work. Endlers could be in trouble, bettas tend to dislike other fish with colorful tails. Espei rasboras, amano shrimp or dwarf corys could be good.
 
a couple amanos would be good, I had an oto in a 5 gallon which if very heavily planted can work (it was a jungle) you might also get away with a few boraras.
 
fishorama said:
Most crypts would work. There are a couple varieties of java fern, windelov (or lace) is nice & a bit shorter IME than regular. Dwarf sag may work too.

Betta personality will decide what other fish might work. Endlers could be in trouble, bettas tend to dislike other fish with colorful tails. Espei rasboras, amano shrimp or dwarf corys could be good.
Click to expand...

I know it is dependant on Betta personality and thta some do better with tank mates than others. I had a 5 gallon tank at home with a betta that did well with the endlers for a while. It's also why I stay away from things like fancy guppies because I know the tails sset them off. Realy I just want something that will add a bit of colour. I like the thought of neons or cardinals but even with the 24" span I think I would be pushing it for bio load since I think the last time I calculated it it works out to only 7 gallons or so. I like the look of harlequin rasboras, but I think they end up getting too big to have a sufficient amount in the tank. I came across some compact hygro at the local Big Al's that I might try. Crypts aren't a bad idea either for a bit of ground cover..
 
mr.key said:
a couple amanos would be good, I had an oto in a 5 gallon which if very heavily planted can work (it was a jungle) you might also get away with a few boraras.
Click to expand...

Yes, thought about a few amanos, cherry or ghost shrimp as well. Also from experience I know its a coin flip how long they remain "tank stock" before they become "Live food" lol. Perhaps with enough nooks and crannies and ground cover though it could work not to mention if I recall shrimp are a far lower bio load.
 
Espei rasboras look like smaller harlequins but a bit more colorful. I've had mine for a couple years & they're only an inch plus tail. They are never nippy like tetras, even neons, can be. I'd suggest 6 of them for a standard 10 & your's is longer.

I see you have cardinals, neons & endlers already, so I'd probably try one of those species for your tank. You could offer a few suggestions to your son & see what he'd like to try. I'm new to inverts but shrimp are quite interesting & may help with algae or uneaten food. Plants would provide hiding spots for them.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
AquariaCentral.com
Top Bottom