RD tank size

[beezer720]

Ok, let me start out by saying that I know neither or these are sufficient, but they're all I have right now, so please no stupid remarks. What would you all think would be better for a RD pushing 10". I have a 48"x12"x24 (60 gallon), and a 36"x18"x19"(50 Gallon). I had him in the 60 and just got the 50 and put him in the 50. I figured, yes, I'm losing a foot for him to swim, but he's gaining 6" to turn around and be more comfotable, and I don't really care about the height difference. So what do you think?

[ROLLIN]

I think at his current size, the one with 4' length would be better. But as you already know, neither of those will be suitable long term.

[VTwinFanatic]

For temp usage I'll agree with beezer...in the 60 he only has two spare inches to turn comfotably, but in the 50 hes got 8 more inches...i've always felt that a 50 is better than a 55 or a 60 in most cases for larger fish...ie oscars especially...but thats just my opinion so dont take it to heart

[jm1212]

bigger is always better in this case

[VTwinFanatic]

but the foot print and width for turning around IMO is more important for big cichlids

[beezer720]

Kind of what I was thinking too. But it seems that the majority of people on this and another site, believe the 60 would be better. It does seem like he swims up against the glass alot as if he wants to be able to swim more, but I don't know.

[VTwinFanatic]

Well I know that from what I've heard and seen working in an LFS that especially oscars that are like 8"+ that are kept in 55g (48"x 12"x 18") often end up with sores on their head from where the rub the sides of the tank turning around, but Oscars kept in 50g (36"x18"x?) are often bigger 12"+ and healthier and DO NOT end up with the sores on the sides of their head. But Hey I might not know what I'm talking about...thats why life is so great...everybody has their own opinion about things. I'm not saying I'm right.