Starting shell dweller tank

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Dino

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Jan 27, 2013
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Hi this is my first post on this forum. I have been researching shell dwellers for a while now and most of the best information I found was on this forum. Thanks to many forum members for sharing their knowledge with others.
As the title suggests this is another starting shell dwellers post.I have decided on a N. multifasciatus species tank.
This species is appealing for its colony behavior more than anything. They also happen to be readily available.
I have the option to set up any size tank I want for them and the space to accommodate up to a 48" aquarium.
I like the looks of the long low tanks such a the 20 long and 30 breeder.
What size would be ideal in your opinion? I would like to start with about a dozen multies and not have to upgrade the aquarium when the colony begins to grow. Thanks in advance for your suggestions. I would also like to say thanks for all of the information regarding: shellie species,water conditions, lighting, shells, substrate, aquascape, plants, feeding etc that has been shared by forum members in other threads.
 

Pearl

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I'd go with a 40 long because you'd have the option of adding other compatible species if you later decide you want more variety. Good luck and welcome to AC!
 

Dino

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Jan 27, 2013
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Thanks for the reply. You may be right. I hadn't thought about leaving room to grow beyond the shellie colony.
 

Pittbull

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Apr 14, 2007
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Welcome to AC and thanks i am sure i have contributed to the shellies in the past.. As for a 48" aquarium you should go with a 33gal it is as long as a 55gal but not quite that tall and makes for a lot of extra room, due to conspefic aggression at times with these guys a member of the colony is sometimes outed and could easily live on the other side of the tank..
 

Dino

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Jan 27, 2013
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Thanks Pittbull. I did some research and found the 33 gallon long tank produced by Aqueon. That looks like plenty of space without wasted height. 48x12x12 should create a big tank feel when stocked with little shellies. I like the fact that the footprint allows the use of lighting and a stand produced for one of the most common aquariums; accessories will be easy to find with plenty of options. I have never seen this tank in a retail store. I'll have to see if my LFS can order one. Thanks for the suggestion and all the helpful information you have shared regarding Shelies.
 

Pittbull

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Apr 14, 2007
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No problem, glass cages http://www.glasscages.com/ should have them but depending where you live it may just be as good to see if a local pet store can order you one, not sure if you have a Petsmart in your area they might be able to get you one as well.. Yep it is a nice tank i had one on the bottom of a 55gal double iron stand before, wish i never got rid of it..
 

Dino

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Jan 27, 2013
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Just a quick update: The LFS will have my 33 long in stock this Thursday. This shop has been in business since the 60's and there is very little they can't/won't do for a customer. I'm pretty happy and looking forward to getting this started.
 

Pittbull

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Cool deal glad you were able to get one through your local guys.. Is it coming with a stand..
 

Dino

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Jan 27, 2013
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Another quick update: I picked up the 33 long aquarium today. $85.00. Thats the good news.
The bad news is none of the stands met spousal approval. It looks like I'll be spending some time in the shop. A DIY stand to match the furniture is in my future. I'm sure the end result will be worth the trouble. It will probably be a few weeks before I can post pics of the tank set up.
 
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