150 Gallon Build Thread ... From the Start

[12 Volt Man]

no real disadvantages to going with the 180 over the 150.

only reason I am not is the initial cost.

Aqueon 180 tank stand and glass top from the LFS is 1100 brand new.

Aqueon 150 tank stand and glass top from the LFS is 650 brand new...

thats almost twice the price...

remember that the "150" is really a 160+


72x18x29 is fair bit more than 150 gallons, based on the outside dimensions (like all other tanks are based on). why Aqueon calls this only a 150 is anybody's guess... it works out to 162 gallons in reality...

but if you can swing it, the extra width is probably worth it.

 

[DrNo]

The tank that my wife had before I took over the fish was a 55 gallon.... that went out first thing and is now housing her Australian Bearded Dragon. Naturally, that tank is too narrow for it as well LOL

 

[WaywardSon]

Today's Progress:

Ordered the 3 Eheim 2217s from Petsmart.com - great price

Ordered the 1/2" and 5/8" black hose - 25' of each - Drs Foster & Smith

Ordered 2 Stealth 250 watt heaters - Drs Foster & Smith

 

[WaywardSon]

Question: We are still having mixed thoughts about the black gravel. Just not sure about the black bottom. So many tanks I review all seem to have lighter colored substrates. Actually, we really like the substrate in the 45. I guess we need to be convinced a little more on the black gravel (lol)!!

 

[Bk718]

black gravel will really bring out the color of plants and fish..

 

[12 Volt Man]

I am planning on using Estes 'black special' gravel in my 150. I like it a lot. need 6 -25 pound bags though...

I do have it in one of my small tanks right now..

you might want to consider it.

live plants look 100x better against a black substrate.

 

[12 Volt Man]

here is an old pic of my 20 gallon long with live plants and black gravel for reference:

 

[galen]

i like black gravel myself, but doesnt the paint deteriorate in the water over time?

 

[WaywardSon]

Thanks BK and thanks for the pic 12 Volt. Wow, tough decision!

 

[Bk718]

i like black gravel myself, but doesnt the paint deteriorate in the water over time?

black gravel has a coating on top of it which should protect it from deteriorating over time.