Need some questions answered????

[Trigger]

Ok first off let me say this. This might be the greatest forums on the internet. I have been operating a saltwater tank now for 7 years and have had lots of great tips from this site. The reason I need some help is this......

I just recently received a 38 Gallon Tank (I Think) the tank demensions are 36"x12"x20". I received this from a neighbor that was getting rid of it free of charge so I thought what the hell. I received the tank, a Whisper 3.0 filter system, heater, and light. My concern is this. I have never ran a Freshwater tank and I have a few questions regarding this. Here they go......

1. For Freshwater...What is the water temperture that should be mantained?

2. I also received some "fake" plants, should I use these or is it better to get real ones?

3. What are some good fish choices to start out with?

I hope this works as I want a tank that the kids can help out with. And if something goes wrong I ain't out alot of money as I am with my saltwater tank. Thanks for all your help.

PS: I thought I would post a picture of my saltwater tank for you to see.

 

[fishy714]

1. Water temperture should be around 74 to 78 degrees.

2. Live plants are the way to go. But you will have to add some things to the tank like. A new substrate like flourite. And a good light setup. But if you go with some hardy species of anubias and some java moss you should be good with lighting that is only 1.5 per gallon.

3. I would suggest some schooling fish like in the tetra family. And a nice little school of corys for the bottom.

Dont worry freshwater is less expensive then saltwater. Since you been in the hobby for years you should do very well. Good luck.