Sell me on a tank

[Redag]

Earlier today I was in an aquarium shop here in Chicago. I was looking at a number of options in acrylic tanks.

At some point I'd like to get a small apartment-friendly tank for a small number of small african cichlids. I don't need schools of fish everywhere. So far I've been looking at tanks between 29 and 45 gallons. Basically what I want to know now is what size tank do I need to sell my next landlord on in order to start being a cichlid hobbyist?

So, if you don't mind, imagine yourself the proprietor of a LFS and try and pitch to me the best tank for my needs. If you feel I need to go larger than I have mentioned here, let me know. I just want to know what to mention when I start apartment-hunting in a few months.

Thanks.

Redag

[caz]

personally, i would go with a 55 unless you are looking for a corner or bowed-front tank. 55's are cheap, and easy to find.

[Redag]

Thanks for the reply.

It is my understanding that acrylic tanks are much less likely to break due to minor mishaps and the like, is this a selling point that is a) true, and b) likely to help make landlords less skittish about all that water hanging out over their floor?;)

[fish_e_o]

acrilic tanks can scratch and if you use an abrasive pad to clean algae it will eventually leave a hazy affect

[NatakuTseng]

I would go with an All-Glass aquarium, Acyrilics are too much of a hassle and you can easily scratch them. Also I believe after time they start to warp. The glass ones are pretty tough, I've never had one break on me.

[greenterrorrr]

Just an idea, keep your eye in the paper. People are always selling used tanks and you can get them for real cheap. Just check that the condition of the tank is good and if possible have the seller fill it with water and check for leaks. That is where I got my 150gal.

[TKOS]

Get the longest tank taht you can afford and the landlord will allow. More swimming room from side to side to generally the best. So a 29 gallon isn't that great as it is quite tall. A 40-55 would be best as they start to get longer. this allows for more territory and with cichlids this is normally a good thing.

[DarthV]

Probably can't beat a 40gal breeder tank for a smaller tank... 36x18x15"... plenty of swimming room for your fish.

[Redag]

Thanks for all the comments. I've got plenty of time left to think, fortunately.

Currently I am looking at Julidochromis marlieri or Labidochromis caerulus (just saw an awesome creamy bright orange color morph in the local store) as likely contenders for the feature species that will define the rest of the tank (environment, size, tankmates if any) any further thoughs on that basis?