I am back as a noob :(

[Luvbugz]

I am starting all over. This winter we had a huge ice storm that took out all my tanks (20 gal, 2 10s, and one 15). We were without power for a whole week. It has taken me awhile to "get back up on the horse" so to say, but finally yesterday I went out and bought myself a brand spanky new 55 gallon. The only problem is I feel like I have forgotten everything about fishies. I am at a complete loss on what to stock in this big thing. I would love to go planted again, but can you support plants in a 55 with DYI CO2 and such? What about lighting? I had hacked an old incandesent hood to hold the new compact eco bulbs which gave me more than ample lighting for my plants. Is something like that possible for a 55? I am currently cycling this big bad boy. Had totally forgotten how to do it. Thank goodness for stickies So all you veterans out there, take pity on me and help me brainstorm. Thanks

 

[Mgamer20o0]

you can use shoplights i would just look for some t5 or cf lighting and be done with it though.
http://www.fishneedit.com/t5ho-ligh.html

i woudlnt do diy co2 with a tank that large pressurized is the way to go but you can have a planted tank with out co2.

 

[jpappy789]

:welcome: back!

sorry to hear about the tanks though

 

[247Plants]

I agree with mg. follow that link for cheap lighting.

 

[gmh]

Mg's link has the best priced HO T5s I have seen. Too bad they are out of stock. Maybe you can backorder and just focus on stocking with fish for now.
My first choice would be larger schoolers. 6 Congo Tetras would be spectacular in a 55g.