Extra Tall Tank questions

Gena575

Gena575

AC Members
Feb 7, 2006
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The "80" gallon tank I just got has some odd dimensions. 36"Lx18"Wx30"H The foot print is the same as a 65 gallon but the added height makes the capacity a bit over 80 gallons. It also doesn't have lighting, so I'm trying to come up with a way to light it. I'm going to check Walmart and Lowes for strip lights of some sort that will fit inside the canopy. Any other advice for finding lighting?

My biggest issue is that I'm kinda short LOL! Once the tank is on the stand I can't reach the bottom of it! Do they make extender tubes for Pythons? LOL!

Another question is filtration. I'm thinking of an AC110 by itself or an AC70 supplemented with a small cannister (or maybe that should be the cannister supplemented with the AC LOL!) Should I add a powerhead somewhere or a few bubble wands?

Does anyone have any tips and tricks for dealing with really tall tanks?
 
Keep in mind that the stocking level will be the same as for the 65--the increased height doesn't allow for much more biomass.

Yes, you can get extenders for pythons and other vaccum systems, including some that can be adjusted. Riser tubes are also an option if they will fit.

For lighting, anything that fits a 65 will fit this setup, but depending on what you want, may not be adequate. The problem will be getting light all the way to the bottom--unlikely with much less than metal hallide, and that's probably overkill unless you want a planted setup.
 
Hi, Try looking at Home Depot. They sell 36" Dual Flourescent strip light's That will work. The only problem is you have to wire them up yourself. It is not that hard to do and they can help you with what you need. If you know someone that is handy get their help. To do this you will probably spend $40 for the Strip light and material's. Yoe can then go and purchase some really nice bulbs for about $50 and in the end you have saved yourself over $ 100. I know it sound's like alot of trouble but trust me it is well worth it in the end. I just did this myself and I am know enjoying a tank with excellent lighting. Another thing is you will need them under a canopy which you woild have to build or purchase yourself.
 
UncaBret said:
BTW, what are you planning to put in this new tank?
Click to expand...

I haven't quite got my plan fully formed yet. I'm pretty sure I want a group of clown loaches. With the height, I thought I might go with angels, the clowns, and a school of something mid level and possibly some hatchets for top level. I've toyed with some other ideas, but nothing has really said WOW that's the setup I want. It's going to take some time to get all the equipment together, plus I plan on doing a fishless cycle on it so I've got LOTS of time to get it together LOL! What would you (or anyone) put in it? I'm looking for ideas :)
 
Hi again. I recommend using a higher than needed filter for your set-up. One step up than recommended will work. I also use a powerhead in the opposite end of the tank to circulate water back to outlet pipe. I only use a Eheim 2213 on my 65 G but I now wish I bought the 2217 after advice from this forum. There was a thread in the past week that talked about this I just can't remember the forum it was in.....
 
20-30 cardinal's would look nice..... Discus.........Blue ram's.......
 
If you're looking for some good lighting...

Check eBay!

I just recently bought a 48" Jebo 220W CF setup for $85 Delivered. there's all kinds of good deals!


Also, if you're looking for something to stock that tank with...

Black Skirts get to be decent size and Perhaps a BIG school of Lemon Tetras for color!
 
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