(Part 2) Best aquariums & fish bowls according to redditors

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B076GZ2XWW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_HUqSCbBRW660Z

I present you, the link

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B076GZ2XWW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_ODqSCbPZDQ0X9

And, as even more evidence of how terrible of a product this is (for fish, anyway), the Amazon reviews for the product.

Really OP

http://www.amazon.com/Tetra-29137-Wonder-Aquarium-Gallons/dp/B0018CFMYS

http://www.amazon.com/Aquarius-Aq15005-Rounded-5-Gallon-Aquarium/dp/B007KKU8QE/ref=pd_sbs_petsupplies_11?ie=UTF8&refRID=17E2H1M4C6H7V41HJY45

Fluval Chi, ~$65

http://www.amazon.com/Fluval-Chi-Aquarium-Kit-5-Gallon/dp/B003TM1BAE

This is the first I've seen that people think live plants are absolutely vital for all fish like having a filter and heater.

OP made an aquarium for his niece than isn't a heaterless 1.5 gallon beta bowl with a gold fish in it. That's more than many parents/uncles/aunts can say. He could have done so. much. worse.

It’s a new tank lol I just set up 6g (24 litre) tank, with water from the tank mechanical filter? Do you ever have an issue with breeding behavior since you have the attachment for filling ? https://www.amazon.com/Python-Hands-Free-Spill-Aquarium-Green/dp/B01654SSXA/ref=pd_bxgy_199_img_2?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B01654SSXA&pd_rd_r=7PW6EGCHF65V7YEA0EAE&pd_rd_w=CXvvi&pd_rd_wg=pOmgv&psc=1&refRID=7PW6EGCHF65V7YEA0EAE.

I hate to be a debbie downer, but I would say no. Bowls and jars aren't really suitable for fish. They're hard to clean, lack filtration, and just don't provide adequate space. Bettas need heated water, and filters are optional but strongly encouraged. Since they can breath from the surface, you can get away without a filter but even in that jar there is very little surface area. Not to mention, a full grown Betta is going to dirty the water up in a jar pretty fast. There's no swimming room in there, and I just don't think the fish would thrive at all in that. It might survive if you do constant daily water changes, but I don't think it would be a good existence for the fish.

My personal recommendation is that I wouldn't recommend keeping a Betta in anything less than 2.5 gallons, heated. I don't keep mine in anything less than 5 gallons, just to make sure they have adequate swimming room. If you're on a super tight budget, you might try looking on craigslist. If you've got some spare cash, I'd recommend this tank. It comes with a filter, is relatively cheap, and the only thing you'd have to add (equipment wise) is a heater.

Again, I fully understand being on a tight budget, but this would be a one time expense that would last across multiple fish, and could change your fish's lifespan from months to years.

Check r/aquaswap for a cheaper tank. Bare minimum I like this tank though it’s only 3 gallons.

I should probably use something more like this then..... http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00804LWDC/ref=cm_cr_arp_mb_bdcrb_top?ie=UTF8#immersive-view_1457246809766

https://www.amazon.com/Fluval-Chi-Aquarium-Kit-5-Gallon/dp/B003TM1BAE

Buy a 5 gallon tank like this. Get some gravel and some low maintenance plants (cryptocorynes and anubias). Just make the tank look as nice as possible. The nicer it looks, the higher your chances your boss will reimburse you and expense the cost of the tank.

There are cheaper tanks out there. You can make a pretty nice 5 gallon setup for less than $100. Making it in less than $100 seems like it could be reimbursed easily.

Why not turn this into a science lesson too? You see Betta produce waste which turns into Ammonia which is poisons, so you need bacteria to consume this. The bacteria produce Nitrites which bacteria once again produces Nitrates which only plants/water changes remove (hence why water changes are necessary)

I would recommend a simple starter aquarium that gives you the basics something like this: http://www.amazon.com/Marina-Style-Glass-Aquarium-Kit/dp/B0035HBFWM/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1369459499&sr=8-2&keywords=5+Gallon+Aquarium

And also buy some plants and read up on fishless cycling.

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00MXFIFJS/ref=sspa_dk_detail_6?psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUFUOTJZMktaU01NUkcmZW5jcnlwdGVkSWQ9QTAzMDMxNDgzVFREVTJQMjdQS1AxJmVuY3J5cHRlZEFkSWQ9QTA2OTg3MzczQzRYMUpPWVRSS1AxJndpZGdldE5hbWU9c3BfZGV0YWlsMiZhY3Rpb249Y2xpY2tSZWRpcmVjdCZkb05vdExvZ0NsaWNrPXRydWU= Good trade, fake fish!

What volume of water does it hold? What is the filter? Looks to me like it is too small, lacks a filter and lacks a heater.

Absolute minimum for bettas IMO is a 2.5 gallon and a filter like this

I always kept my bettas in a 5 gallon. Bigger tank lets you do more with it in terms of plants and hardscape. Plus the fish enjoy the room.

Here is a tank for $25 or one for $49.99 that would better serve your fish.

You can get him one of these and it should entertain him. Doesn't have to be alive....

https://www.amazon.com/Lightahead-Artificial-Aquarium-Swimming-Bubbles/dp/B00MXFIFJS

yes, I came here to post that they already exist

https://smile.amazon.com/AquaSprouts-Garden/dp/B01B4ZRVR4/ref=sr_1_15?ie=UTF8&qid=1512053959&sr=8-15&keywords=herb+garden

I have a 3 gallon Walstad tank in my office with a couple of live plants (Anubias and a random grass-type), a filter, and a heater. Started with 5 Cherry Shrimp, but after a few bouts of eggs, am currently around 25-30 with more on the way. The setup is similar enough where I can share my own experiences.

• I prefer minimal-looking rimless square-cornered glass tanks like this one. Unfortunately, they're still fulfilling Kickstarter pledges and are not being sold to public yet. If you can find something similar (tank only, ignore the add-ons), I'd say go for it. This 2.7g also looks good, but is slightly too big. They're easier to clean and don't scratch like plastic ones do. Water evaporation is pretty constant, but if you do weekly/bi-weekly water changes, it shouldn't matter. Alternatively, you can find plastic 1g tanks with lids that are made for betta-fish. They'd also be good for shrimp.
  
• My filter is hardly ever turned on (5 minutes in the mornings to get some water circulation), so you may be able to get away with no filter as long as you have live plants and do weekly/bi-weekly water changes.
  
• A heater is pretty important. I've never been able to keep happy shrimp without one. ~75 degrees ambient room temp would probably mean ~68 degrees in the tank. They'll survive, but will be slightly lethargic and will not breed.
  
• Any desktop lamp should be sufficient if you choose easy-maintenance, low-light plants and use the suggested Walstad potting soil. Make sure you sift out large pieces of debris unless you like the natural messiness it gives. Also, I've noticed potting soil makes for a more pungent tank. Carpeting plants will be close to impossible without CO2 of some kind. I've tried to use liquid CO2 in the past, but could not get plants to carpet successfully. Java moss and Marimo balls are good choices for plants. Look into other low-light plants like Anubias. Drift wood provides good grazing for shrimp and works well as focal point for aquascaping, but fresh wood will leach tannins into your tank water and give it an amber/sepia hue.
  
  From my experience, you need 3 constants for Cherry Shrimp to be happy: temperature, food, and water quality.
  
  
• Temperature: My heater is set to 74 degrees. They're silent and only kick in when the temperature falls below a certain threshold. I can't imagine anyone would give you a hard time for having it in your tank.
  
• Food: Cherry Shrimp like to graze on organic matter that grow on top of surfaces. An established tank should have plenty of this. I've gone weeks without adding food and letting them survive on just grazing. But I've only had shrimp successfully breed by supplementing their grazing with more food. Currently, I add crushed up pellets of Crab Cuisine every other morning. They sink, making it ideal for shrimp.
  
• Water quality: I do bi-weekly 50% water changes. Remember to use a water conditioner and try to keep the temperature similar.
  
  Crystal Red Shrimp are too delicate to work in a 1 gallon tank and Amano Shrimp get too big. Cherry Shrimp and various snails should be fine as long as you have enough surfaces and organic matter, and let the tank mature for a few weeks first. They'll also readily breed where Crystal Red Shrimp and Amano Shrimp won't.

http://www.amazon.com/Aqueon-100101218-Kit-Betta-Falls/dp/B00INCRSFC some don't have the filter portion and less water per cube.......

Well, 1st thing...
You dont want to mix the red and blue neo shrimp in the same tank. They will crossbreed and the offspring will be ugly wild type shrimp.

If you want multiple colors, consider going with a neocaridina and a caridina. Either the reds or dream blues and tangerine tigers or Orange eye blue tigers (OEBTs are kinda pricey) would work, and have compatible water params. You could also keep crystal red or black shrimp, or any of the tawian bees with the neos, but theyre more expensive and much more delicate, so not great for a brand new shrimpkeeper. I would also warn against that specific seller. I have seen a LOT of complaints about them... from shipping/communication problems to sick and poor quality shrimp.

Check aquabid, ebay, or the marketplace on shrimp specific forums like shrimpspot.com


For the price range of the tank you listed... I would go with this . It comes with a much better filter and is a nicer looking tank (nice rounded glass corners, rimless tank). It's also made of actual glass, so will not scratch as easily. Despite the description, it does NOT come with a light, however. Just as a heads-up.

You listed a sand substrate, and you listed dwarf baby tears. Sand has no real nutritional value, so plants won't grow well in sand. You will need to supplement with root tabs or switch to a more nutritious substrate. Dwarf baby tears are in general a really demanding plant. Youre going to need high light for them. Since it's such a small tank, a 6500k-7000k compact fluorescent clip light should do it, but you will likely also need Co2, or at least Excel to keep it alive. Monte carlo or glossostigma would both be a LITTLE easier.

For shrimp, you'll need to get a prefilter guard for your intake so you dont suck up babies.

You'll also want to get yourself a GH/KH test kit, as well as a standard water testing kit (API master test kit is my suggestion). If your PH is high, you may want to go with a shrimp specific PH buffering substrate. With Neos, you may be just fine without it, they are not nearly as picky about params as cards. If your KH/GH is too high you may need to use some distilled or RO water mixed with your tap, or your shrimp will be unable to successfully molt, killing them.


You want the tank to be fully cycled and well established before you add shrimp.


If you DO want dwarf baby tears, and do not plan to go with a fancy high tech Co2 setup, I would STRONGLY recommend dry-starting the tank. It's the only way youre really gonna get a nice carpet without Co2.

http://imgur.com/cbWv6oN/
This is a 5 gallon tank
http://www.amazon.com/Fluval-Chi-Aquarium-Kit-5-Gallon/dp/B003TM1BAE
I changed the filter because it was awful. Also though's rocks are stacked so the crab can climb out of the water.

> UNS 5n

quick google pointed me here

I see these at Petsmart all the time.

Sadly, that particular bear is not available: http://www.amazon.com/Teddy-Tank-8-Piece-Premium-Package/dp/B00804LWDC

Just bought this, it's awesome!
http://www.amazon.com/Umbra-460410-660-FishHotel-Aquarium/dp/B0033FGDRS

Judging from the "tank" windows, it looks like the Umbra FishHotel. Probably around 2 gallons.

Nerite snails are great little algae vacuums. Plus, I think their shells look cool. I've never had any escape, but the one in my Fluval Chi tank likes to somehow find his way onto the fountain/filter block. Repeatedly. Lazy ass.

While some people run canister filters on saltwater tanks with success, they are generally not used. Most of the biological filtration in saltwater tanks is done by the bacteria that cover the surface area of the rockwork and sand. Canisters end up filling with gunk and waste that then leeches nitrates and phosphates back into the water and can be counter productive if not kept exceptionally clean. In planted tanks these products are used by the plants, but are detrimental to most marine invertebrates. HOB filters can be used, but generally they are only used for water flow through chemical filtration bags like chemipure, purigen, or GFO. The amount of surface area a HOB filter adds is minimal compared to the porous rock and sand in saltwater tanks.


I ran a sumpless system for about 2 years and many people do the same. Although the system was successful in the short term the waste export was not great and the clarity/water surface were not what they have been since I have set up a new system with sump, filter socks, and skimmer. If you want a simple setup for ~$500 maybe look into some of the plug and play systems like the nuvo aquariums or all-in-one cubes. Some of these systems are more customizable than others if you think you may want to upgrade the tank in the future.

For example:
http://www.marinedepot.com/Innovative_Marine_30_Gallon_NUVO_Fusion_30L_Aquarium_(Tank_Only)_Nano_Cube_Aquariums_Tanks_30_39_Gallons-Innovative_Marine-0I10443-FIAQNCNTHH-vi.html

http://www.amazon.com/Coralife-15607-Biocube-Size-29/dp/B007UQA7CS

http://www.amazon.com/JBJ-Nano-Cube-Aquarium-Fluorescents-Moonlights/dp/B002BC4XIU

That is awesome. Mine doesn't have a filter so I clean it twice a week with some water exchange and a wipe down of the surfaces.

Umbra FishHotel Mini Aquarium, Great for Goldfish, Bettas, and Other Small Fish, 2 Gallon https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0033FGDRS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apap_JaGl3ZJiKgB52

That is the smaller 14 gallon unit. I would stay away from that one for the same reasons everyone is saying smaller aquariums are harder to take care of. I have to be very careful when I do my water changes, because when I take 5 gallons out of my tank it is about a fourth of it's capacity. So if my water is 10 degrees cooler than the rest of the tank when I go to refill it, it can be a huge shock to the tank.

This is the tank I would recommend

Seriously though look online and find them used Mine was in pretty much perfect condition and I only paid $150 for the whole thing with stand.

A couple of weeks ago I saw an Innovative Marine 30Gal tank

At the LFS for only $200 and it was pretty much ready to go.

Hmm. I know Petsmart has a glass cube aquarium for bettas that comes in a wooden frame that you can remove. It's a bit smaller at maybe 1.5 gallons though. What are you using it for?

http://www.amazon.com/Umbra-460410-660-FishHotel-Aquarium/dp/B0033FGDRS

here's a 2.5 gal that comes with a filter and light. I keep my betta in one of these and have a heater and a thermometer and he's doing really well.

Do you have the attachment for filling ? https://www.amazon.com/Python-Hands-Free-Spill-Aquarium-Green/dp/B01654SSXA/ref=pd_bxgy_199_img_2?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B01654SSXA&pd_rd_r=7PW6EGCHF65V7YEA0EAE&pd_rd_w=CXvvi&pd_rd_wg=pOmgv&psc=1&refRID=7PW6EGCHF65V7YEA0EAE

Just wondering :)

I'm surprised no one likes the purple of 2. Lol. I've never seen a purple. But it also seems My petsmart has been getting better colors the last couple weeks.

Well, here's a side question. How do you guys feel about one of the betta multi tanks? The one I was kinda debating was the aqueon betta Falls tank.

https://www.amazon.com/Aqueon-100101218-Kit-Betta-Falls/dp/B00INCRSFC

I'd love to get a couple bigger 5-10 gallon tanks but I don't have quite that much room lol.

I bought 2 of these tanks from my LFS this week because they were so cheap I thought the price was wrong. 13$ for the 2.7 gallon and 15$ for the 4.2 gallon. The brand is Atasuki and the store lady said they just got these tanks in but they have carried terrariums from the brand for a while. I tried to find the tanks online but didn't have much luck. Hope this helps!

edit: If you're looking for a fancy nano tank though and you can't find these, I recommend the Ultum Nature tanks, little pricer (90ish dollars for the 5g) but great quality and clarity. PetSmart also has a beautiful little rimless 5g for 37$ if you're willing to do a tiny bit of work, the filter is absolute shit. I have 3 of these that I ripped the plastic filter compartment out of and they are great! The light is pretty good too, but the back is painted black and I know some people don't like that.

You don’t need a kit. Just the tank. I checked amazon.ca and found one for 44 CAD

10 gallon tank

Or a kit for 60 which I’m kinda jealous of. I love rimless.
I’d be jealous

So there are some options. But id go to an LFS and look to see if they sell just the tank portion. Or petco. Petco has Aqueon glass tanks pretty cheap.

Your goal would be to move your filter and stuff to the bigger tank.

1. Since you mentioned tank mates, I think the most affordable way to go would be to snag a 10 gallon during petco's dollar per gallon sale, (I think going on til almost the end of this month?) You can then price out affordable heater, filter, and lights, and the rest. Altogether, I bet you could get everything for ~$50.00...
   
   Otherwise, they have some alright 'kits' out there. I have both of these, and they're fine to get started, but I still needed to get a heater/thermometer, ended up upgrading the stock lights, etc... so they were more expensive than just starting from scratch.
   
   
2. I always prefer live plants, since they actually somewhat help with your water quality. Marimo moss balls are great. They just kind of... do their thing. Other easy, low maintenance plants include anubias, java fern, anacharis, najas (or guppy grass,) and those bulbs you can find at petsmart or petco are some kind of Aponogeton, those are usually hardy.
   
   
3. I like having a 'clean up crew' - pretty much any combination of snails, shrimp, and some otos.
   
   
4. I personally prefer natural rocks, driftwood, and plants... but they can get pricey. Some cheap/easy things I've seen have been coffee mugs or terra cotta planters laying on their sides.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0069RV8WW/ref=emc_b_5_mob_t

My little guy likes to explore a lot, actually. But I do know that the air exchange in a hex or circular tank is a lot worse than rectangular or semi-rectangular tanks.

Didn't really think about the difficulty with planting and decorating. Had these visions of one or two single plants elegantly stretching way up through the center while several lower plants surround them. Now that you mention that, I'm thinking about trying to prune them and rearrange hard decorations. Doesn't sound like fun at all.

Alright, I'll stick to the rectangular and bowfront 5Gs. Thanks for the input.

EDIT: I'm guessing this is the tank you got?

Our 2yo(almost 3) was having similar issues between 6-10 months ago. It could be a many things. A few things come to mind like night terrors, thirsty or dry mouth (since i read your from Phoenix like me our weather can parch a kids mouth so bad they will wake up thirsty), or maybe even an ear infection or other sickness you may not be noticing. If she has had ear infections in the past then you might want to get her some tubes put in for her.

We found out it was a combination things but mainly she just wanted interaction of some sort. Solved this by getting a mini-artificial aquarium lamp thing. They have a little button where they can turn it on, play soothing sleepy music or ocean sounds and it moves like a little mini ocean. Automatically turns off after 20 minutes or so too. Kind of going off of what /u/BlueberryFish was talking about.

Also semi-related, but no more ipad play time ever, seriously those things are horrible and contribute to restlessness and waking sleep cycles. We stopped letting her use digital pads/phones all together and she sleeps much better.
Article on ipad use for kids with excerpt below.
>The simplest answer would be that many authorities do not recommend electronic devices for children below the age of three, and advise parents to restrict use after that. But when it comes to the actual medical risks, many authorities are highly sceptical about how much of a problem iPads and similar devices present in reality

Fear cuts deeper than swords!

Grey Tribble!

Reminiscent of rain. If you turned a sound machine on and set it to "spring rain" and put this on you'd think your face was actually being caressed by gentle cooling drops of relaxing rain. :)

Weird food Haggis flavored chips. What? I love tasting new stuff. This intrigued me. :)

For my mom She loves horses. I once gave her an ornament with a horse on it that meant a lot to her. It's become sort of a tradition to get her an ornament as part of Christmas. This one is soo pretty. :)

Book! If you've watched the show I don't have to sell this too hard. :) I LOVE this show and really really want to read this book!

Less than $1. Technically... Digital delivery is a delivery method. It's not a food, polish, or anything to do with my hair. ;)

Cat related!

This key does nothing useful, but it looks awesome!

Across The Universe (movie). I had a friend who had the soundtrack. We listened to it pretty often. It's worth a watch just for the music alone, but it's a great watch. :)

Useful for zombies? Maybe?It's a knife that fits in your wallet like a credit card. It's at least a weapon that you could always have on you so you're ready at a moments notice. :) If only they made a credit card size folding flame thrower. ;)

Life changing. I need to be less fat... :/ This would definitely help.

Add on. My hedgehog loves these!

This is my second most expensive. My most expensive was the one for not being fat... lol. Before I used a wishlist I just added stuff to my cart and then saved it for later. This is the oldest item I've had stashed away. Every camping trip or competitive horse ride I went on with my mom/parents always involved sitting around the fire talking before heading off to bed. Whenever I get the chance to see them (we live in different states now) we still sit around a fire. This just reminds me of good times spent with family and essentially being home...

Bigger than a breadbox. For side table fishy times! :D

Smaller than a golfball. I'm obsessed with stars. I really love this ring. :)

Good smell! I bought the lotion and body spray on a whim when I was at the mall a while back. This stuff smells sooo good. It's like summer time!

Safe for work toy. These things look really neat. I saw them mentioned somewhere else and googled to see what they were. The video makes them look pretty cool. :)

I'm always late for class, but if I had a watch that I couldn't stop looking at I might just make it on time. ;)

Speaking of "can't stop looking at"... I'm obsessed with Doctor Who and David Tennant. :D

I added this to show someone else... I think it's crazy that they even make these. There's an appliance for everything! What beats fresh donuts anytime you want them? NOTHING! That's what... This is why I need that elliptical.. :P


Pm'd what I think is your name! :D

Oregon Cherries!

You're damn right I grabbed the link

maybe? https://smile.amazon.com/Penn-Plax-Aquarium-Maximum-Viewing/dp/B0069RTFB8/ref=sr_1_4?crid=PGWXPMVYH6RF&keywords=penn%2Bplax%2Baquarium%2Blight&qid=1556428086&s=gateway&sprefix=penn%2Bplax%2Baquarium%2Bl%2Caps%2C164&sr=8-4&th=1

I got my Sammy at Petco and while he was kind of skittish and lethargic for the first week, after seven or so days in a filtered, heated, 5 gallon tank he was the coolest little guy- loved to come up and say hi, watched people all the time, super interactive. Like having a puppy in fish form. Also he was the cutest mofo ever.

That said, I'm only buying fish from a local place I found now, just because they're so awesome. Comparable prices, but way more knowledgeable and more selection; all their fish are happy and healthy (none of those I-wish_I-were-dead bettas!) and just a cool place to go look at stuff. If you can find a place like that, I'd highly recommend it!

*I almost forgot about the tank! I have this one, with a custom-cut glass lid that a local shop did for me for $15, and I have this heater. I LOVE it, it works great, and Sams looked so elegant in there (now that Sammy's gone, it's the home to two dwarf puffers who also seem to love it). Some may say that heater is overkill, but I went through three others of increasing wattage (including the one made for the tank), and none had the kind of horsepower I needed to get my tank to a safe temperature up from the ~50-60 degrees it is in my room in winter. When I was younger, I had this tank,, which comes with the lid already. I think that lid is really pretty important- my first betta died by jumping, and aside from being really sad, I found him in the morning, after he'd dried...to the carpet...and was a bit difficult to peel off. So kind of added insult to injury.

Either way, I'd definitely recommend starting with a kit, as it really just tends to be cheaper to get them all together. I like real plants, but I always ask for low-light ones myself-I am just too lazy to get extra lighting! But the real plants can help keep things happy and healthy, especially in a tank that small. I use sand over a planting substrate, because sand was nice and soft for my froggy and the substrate was what the plants wanted.

Hope this helped! I realize it's a TON of info. TL;DR, Petco fish can be fine if you don't pick a sick one and take care of them; 5g tank should really be the minimum; tank kits are going to be easier and cheaper; don't forget a heater!

I’ve been Looking at this penn plax aquarium on amazon. Looks pretty cool but I’m not sure about the light.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0069RTFB8/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1519003422&sr=8-3&keywords=penn%2Bplax&dpPl=1&dpID=41E5pivYKHL&ref=plSrch&th=1&psc=1

You can buy it here.

12 5/8'' high by 11 3/4'' wide and 17 3/4'' long

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0069RV8WW?psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_mob_b_asin_title

Thanks! I planted dwarf hairgrass, pearlweed, anubias petite nana, Echinodorus Aflame, and some random moss that started growing. I have pretty thick layer of substrate (about 50mm / 2in) that is a mix of Fluval Stratum and some ADA amazonia. The tank set-up is a UNS 4.6 gallon, azoo mignon 60 HOB filter, asta 20 LED, and a paintball tank CO2 setup. I plan to add a small canister filter, but the HOB is doing alright for now.

There are several assorted shrimp in the tank, but Stuart seems to ignore them so far.

links

Light: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07236CXBQ/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o09_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Tank:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01LXFINHJ/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

CO2 Regulator and parts:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06XW16L4P/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o07_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B009G68LTG/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o07_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004M49QDC/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B078KPCLMY/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0100UO72G/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1


Filter:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005VEWCMO/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0002AS802/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1520030931&sr=8-1&keywords=aqueon%2B20%2Blong%2Bglass%2Blid&dpPl=1&dpID=41XR-m47y3L&ref=plSrch&th=1&psc=1

30 x 12 Aqueon Versa Top Hinged Glass

It has a clear vinyl back strip that you can cut. It’s a bit more expensive though.

I use the Python and am super happy with it. I don't have any experience with the Aqueon unfortunately so can't comment on it.

I know you're not looking for reasons to spend more money, but I will say there are a couple things for the Python that make a huge difference. First, I feel like the hook attachment is almost required. It makes it so much easier to use the system without getting water everywhere. My only other initial problem was that water would often come rushing out of the hook so fast that it would dislodge plants, however I saw a great tip in a YouTube video that this filter tube (70/110 size) fits perfectly onto the end of the hook and is great for diffusing the water. The conbination of these two products makes the Python a pretty perfect system in my opinion.

In regards to matching water temp, I use an infrared thermometer to match the water coming out of the facet before adding it to the tank. Has worked flawlessly as far as I can tell.

Also just to comment on the other posters, I haven't personally experienced any trouble just adding Prime directly to the tank and then immediately filling it up. Haven't had any issue with flow strength either and I'm on the third floor of my building with the tube stretching the full 25' length to reach my tank room.

Hello! The tetra 3 gal is the best choice imo of the 3. If you don't want to go all out, then this hood and basic tank. Petsmart has small 5 lb bags of white or black sand if you don't want to do gravel and depending on what all you will have in you tank, I've found sand to be pretty easy to deal with when cleaning tanks. I'm a big fan of Hydor heaters and I've heard a lot of good reviews on Eheim too.

In all honesty, if you are able to go just a little bit bigger, I'd suggest a Fluval Spec V. I have 3 tanks and 2 of them are the Spec V's. They're sleek, have a nice pump that has not only adjustable flow, but has a directional nozzle, you can fit a Hydor heater next to the outtake tubing, and already has a light. If you get that with a heater, you can take a small bag of sand, the Sponge Bob pineapple home, some colorful silk plants, and a moss ball or two you'd be all set as a beginner and not have it take up much more room. If you do get a snail, perhaps your son would name it Gary? (the snail in Spongebob? haha not necessary but it is possible to have a vacuum to eat any leftovers the betta doesn't eat.)

Just remember that if you move a fish tank, you'll want to drain out some of the water to make moving easier as well as safer. I take it this will be pretty sudden so a fishless cycling won't really be a thing so please make sure to have betta water conditioner.

Good luck!

AquaSprouts Garden https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01B4ZRVR4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_FN0HybTQ6TTVS

This

I didn't find the exact one, and this one is longer than it is tall, but it's as close dimensions as I ahve been able to find.

https://www.amazon.com/Ultum-Nature-Systems-5N-Rimless/dp/B01LXFINHJ

It’s plastic. The shape is called half moon. it this

Thanks for the reply! I'm really thinking I'm going to make the purchase.

I'm really not sure. I know this is the tank.

I think it's an OEM version of https://www.amazon.com/Penn-Plax-Aquarium-Maximum-Viewing/dp/B0069RV8WW (just the tank no lid) with the same blue padding under. Forgot the brand, picked it up from a LFS.

That's really really expensive. Biocubes are less than that. Even their 29 is less.
https://www.amazon.com/Coralife-15607-Biocube-Size-29/dp/B007UQA7CS

While you're at Exotic Fishbowl (which is definitely where you should go), may I recommend one of these? I've had my eye on it for a while but can't get it due to the fact that my wife says I've got enough aquarium shit already. https://www.amazon.com/Aqueon-100101218-Kit-Betta-Falls/dp/B00INCRSFC OR THIS ONE:http://www.tetra-fish.com/Products/fish-tank-aquarium-kits/desktop-aquarium-fish-tank-kits/tetra-led-cube-kit-3-gallon.aspx

I have a 20 long and I use the planted+ 30"and petco 30"glass top. The lights sit directly on the glass (I removed the legs).

It works beautifully.

EDIT: Amazon Link:


http://www.amazon.com/All-Glass-Aquarium-AAG29030-30-Inch/dp/B0002AS802/ref=pd_sim_petsupplies_4?ie=UTF8&refRID=069QB2CAKGTEQEGHFM3F

It's 10L and fits nicely on my computer desk. I found it at a goodwill but it's for sale for around 50 USD. It came with a white filter/light combo; the filter was nice but the light was really wimpy so I made the call to swap it.

LED fish tank for my cats because they need fun things to watch, especially my older girl who can't get up into windows like she used to.

​

a cute tortoise pic

​

Snack is: peanut butter crackers

http://www.amazon.com/Tetra-29137-Wonder-Aquarium-Gallons/dp/B0018CFMYS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1458181043&sr=8-1&keywords=1.5+gallon+fish+tank

Green hook thingy

Some things I find cool that I'd get for a boyfriend (well myself too):

this book.

This fish hotel

this for the puppers

5 gal kits are pretty common. Something like this would work:

Penn Plax Curved Corner Glass Aquarium Kit, Filter, LED Light, Float Glass for Maximum Viewing 5 Gallon https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0069RTFB8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_fGzUBb7D84V60

If it needs to be said, their 7.5 or 10 gallon option would be better, if you can swing it. You'll also want to direct the output of that filter towards a wall to minimize current, at least initially. (It's easy, it swivels).

Edit: Just saw that you want a hidden filter. Those types of tanks tend to cost more, but if that's okay then the fluval spec V tanks are a good option too. You'll likely need a heater for whatever tank you go with, too. Fyi

350$ is more then enough, for a 5 gallon tank. The bigger the tank the less the water quality fluctuates which makes it better for the fish and easier for you to look after. I would advise getting a 5gallon over the 2 gallon.

Read this: http://www.fishkeeping.co.uk/articles_51/fishless-cycling-article.htm

and this: http://www.firsttankguide.net/fishlesscycle.php

These 2 links are the most important part of keeping an aquarium. Please read at least one of them before you buy any fish!!!

Keep in mind you can buy most of this stuff used on craigslist for 1/3 of the price, but I'll link you some options for new 5 gallon tanks.

http://www.amazon.com/Marina-Style-Glass-Aquarium-Kit/dp/B0035HBFWM/ref=sr_1_4?s=pet-supplies&ie=UTF8&qid=1412914315&sr=1-4&keywords=5+gallon+aquarium

http://www.amazon.com/Fluval-Spec-Aquarium-5-Gallon-Black/dp/B0089E5VLC/ref=sr_1_20?s=pet-supplies&ie=UTF8&qid=1412914315&sr=1-20&keywords=5+gallon+aquarium

You will probably need a heater -30$, gavel vacuum -15$, water conditioner -20$, nutrafin or api master test kit -40$. ( I recommend nutrafin over api, if your city's tap water contains chloramine)


Things you can keep in a 5 gallon:

Option 1:

• Siamese fighting fish
  
• 2 nerite snails or 5 amano shrimp( make sure they are over 1/2 when you add them)
  
  
  Option 2:
  
  
• 15 cherry shrimp
  
• 3 nerite snails
  
  
  Option 3:
  
  
• 5 Boraras brigittae they get (.7 inches)
  
• 7 cherry shrimp
  
  Here is some info on boras brigittae: http://www.seriouslyfish.com/species/boraras-brigittae/
  
  
  
  

https://www.amazon.com/Marina-360-Degree-Aquarium-Starter-Kit/dp/B00891I1Q2

The heater was sold separately.

Warning: It's acrylic plastic, so under little to no pressure, small almost scratch like lines form inside the plastic pane, which may ruin the experience for some people.

Its the Tetra cube 1.5g.

I'm thinking about replacing it at some point with this because it's got some scratches on the front.

This doesn't look bad, but isn't as "zen".
https://www.amazon.com/Curved-Corner-Aquarium-Maximum-Viewing/dp/B0069RTFB8

dont let them get you down on it to bad. The main issue for me is price for what it is. Keep up on water changes and cleaning and 3 guppies would be fine for fueling the catnip. Just dont set it and forget it or the fish will suffer.

This is something I was looking at awhile back for a little herb garden in the kitchen, but they are crazy with the prices of this kind of stuff.
https://www.amazon.com/AquaSprouts-Garden/dp/B01B4ZRVR4/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1488294163&sr=8-2&keywords=Water+Garden+Self-Cleaning+Fish+Tank

Here is the desktop version of your link

The cats I have "rescued" have went from me to a no kill shelter because I was taking care of them in the alley. My own cats are inside and have never been out since I've had them. The one I took into the rescue last was placed in the bathroom when I took him in (for isolation). The director had let me know that when they went to see him he was gone (from a closed room). He actually went up into the ceiling vent! Can you believe? I went to visit him after he was fixed and incorporated into one of the open cat rooms. I was able to pet him still while no one else was. I went to visit again after a while and he made some more progress. Last time I looked on their website he had been adopted.

The reason I tell you is because as painful as it is to hear the yowling you have actually saved her. Maybe try giving her a stuffed animal that you have slept with, something to cuddle with. She might have had other cats with her outside and be lonely for them. Also is there a window that she can see out of without climbing the walls or being able to open it? She doesn't need to be outside but cats do like to look outside. I also leave the TV on for my cats. I don't want your mother to be upset so maybe something like this would help. I think the kitty needs a distraction. Also I leave my radio on to music (classic rock like Journey, Queen - my preference). No one likes to be in a closed and quiet room all alone, but don't worry because that is why you are making it so nice for her. How is she when you are in the room? Also I saw someone recommended Feliway and I make sock babies for them. Take some old socks and tie them inside a tube sock (a longer sock) and tie a knot in the end. It is like a kitty body pillow. If you sleep with the socks in your bed first for a day or two then they will smell like you.

https://www.amazon.com/Lightahead-Artificial-Aquarium-Swimming-Bubbles/dp/B00MXFIFJS

yeah but only in dutch stores.

The zen 30 is probably above your budget (and you would still need a heater!) as Ive seen it for 60 euros at its lowest. https://www.bol.com/nl/p/superfish-zen-30-aquarium/9200000053378004/

I just found these on amazon:

https://www.amazon.com/Panaview-Aquarium-Lighting-Filter-5-Gallon/dp/B007KKU8QE

https://www.amazon.com/Aquarium-Tank-Glass-5-1-Gal/dp/B005VDO7QO/

note that the first still doesnt include a heater. And it's only 2 inches wider than that superfish zen 30 and 2 inches flatter as well. And half the price.

I am a big fan of this tank that I have on my desk. The filter runs very quiet and the tank looks really nice for the price. I currently use this solely as my shrimp tank. Granted you need to get your own light, but the lights included with most tanks aren't sufficient anyway. The tank fits under my regular desk lamp with fluorescent bulb.

Oh, I heard about this tank. Tons of horrid reviews, said the bettas get trapped at the end of the tanks due to flow.

So far I have found these, but I don't know what to think. Any thoughts?

http://www.amazon.com/All-Glass-Aquarium-AAG29030-30-Inch/dp/B0002AS802/ref=cm_cd_ql_qh_dp_t

http://www.amazon.com/All-Glass-Aquarium-AAG21230-Fluorescent/dp/B0002AS5BO/ref=cm_cd_ql_qh_dp_t

What kind of tank is it? It looks kind of similar to something I have in a box, and I want to make sure it's not as I was thinking of putting a betta in there. I have something like, if not exactly, this: http://www.amazon.com/Hagen-Marina-360-Degree-Aquarium-Starter/dp/B00891I1Q2/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1420948922&sr=8-2&keywords=2.65+gallon+fish+tank

http://www.amazon.com/Aqueon-17771-Desktop-Aquarium-Black/dp/B00404FLME/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1377397281&sr=8-3&keywords=aqueon+mini+bow

I use this! Well, I use the 5 gallon size and use a different bulb for plants.. but all you need is a heater and you're set!

AquaSprouts Garden https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01B4ZRVR4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_s0oMDb2FA0GFY

This is the one I bought.

I have a dwarf in a 3 gallon with a beta, he dominates the bottom and the betta dominates the top (predators typically leave each other alone, but this is not always the case tho make sure your the betta is dosile). HOWEVER the dwarf cpo is a fragile lil guy he needs tons of food, hiding space (to molt), live plants (to eat), lots of moss (to eat), and exceptionally clean water at 200 tds. I have sucessfully kept mine for several months in such a small environment, but its no jarrarium. The water runs through 3 layers of charcoal filtering to keep him happy, annnnd I have the tank heater to 78 degrees. There great pets to own, but Im nearly certain he would die in a filterless ambiently heated environment

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00891I1Q2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_4anPzbTSF1SGW

This is the smallest tank I've managed to keep one alive in with a bit of tweaking on the filter. This is a fairly inxpensive rig, it's pretty low tech in terms of lighting. So I advise keeping it near a window for cheap yet effective light.

So in conclusion i highly advise raising one of these guys there a riot to watch (so cute :3), but if your hearts set on a jarrarium use either neo shrimp or snails. If you can get a filter in the jar potentially fish.

It a 30 gallon Oceanic Biocube the one I have is an older model.

It’s pretty great, and requires minimal maintenance. It’s a wet/dry filtration system, with three chambers build into the back. The water flows into one chamber through very small slits in the back, then over flows into the filtration chamber with a filter pad (I’ve just been using the large pads that you can cut to fit rather than the fancy one designed for the tank) and three bags of bio media, and then flows into the return chamber with the pump. It’s kind of like a built in sump.

For more info: https://www.amazon.com/Coralife-15607-Biocube-Size-29/dp/B007UQA7CS

Turns out I do have more questions. What sort of filter are you using? I decided to go with this tank instead since I think the shape will make it easier to add rock to the bottom and it comes with a filter already

https://www.amazon.com/Tetra-29137-Wonder-Aquarium-Gallons/dp/B0018CFMYS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1480983782&sr=8-1&keywords=1.5+gallon+aquarium

But I'm worried about the filter being too powerful or killing the shrimp. I watch a video by this youtuber called Christine Ha and she mentions some sort of sponge that can be used with the filter so nothing gets sucked in but I'm not sure how it works.

Did you let your tank cycle before adding the shrimp?

And when you said earlier that you turned your ecosphere upside down while you adjusted the salintiy, how do you mean? Where did the measuring cup come in?

thanks for the info again

I just wanted to say, it sucks that this responsibility was thrust upon you but you seem like a great person who is really trying to do the best for his betta!

I know you said you're low on money, but sometimes Petsmart or Petco will have a dollar per gallon sale so you can get a 5 gallon for $5 or 10 gallon for $10 (I actually only have a 3 gallon because I am a poor college student, but plan on upgrading as soon as I graduate).

I have a more expensive heater to keep the tank at a stable temperature but before that I used this one and a cheap thermometer.

Your betta will be ok! It seems that you are trying your best for him and bettas are more resilient than we think :)

A few things.

1. They are expensive. About $60 on Amazon. For that much you can get a traditional tank that is 10 gallons which will make your fish happier.
   
   
2. They have a small footprint. Fish like swimming side to side rather than up and down.
   
   
3. The design of the tank means that it evaporates much more quickly than a traditional tank.
   
   
4. It's small size makes it unstable (as in the water parameters are more likely to change which isn't great for fish).
   
   
5. It's small size also means that an inexperienced aquarist can easily overstock it leading to poor water quality and a poor quality of life for the fish.
   
   While this tank is aesthetically pleasing, I wouldn't put any fish in it. However, I think it can be made into a beautiful shrimp tank. Now obviously there are some fish that can live fine in there, but I just prefer to keep them in larger tanks.

I think I’m going with this UNS 4.6 gallon and this light

I think I found a nice one.

http://www.amazon.com/Carolina-Biological-Supply-Company-Aquarium/dp/B005VDO7QO/ref=sr_1_113?ie=UTF8&qid=1347143742&sr=8-113&keywords=aquarium

It won't tell me the dimensions though, so I have no idea if it'll fit on my desk.

I found this which looks very similar, but a bit cheaper. Although I saw the one you were talking about for 17 bucks at petco, and of course the next day the sale was over!

Keeping Marimo there is the best choice, jarrarium without animals is a second choice, see Jarrarium subreddit for details.

This not a nano tank, not even a pico, but a subgallon pico. With them the main problem is hardware (it's too big) and tanks without hardware have to be low bioload and way larger, heavily planted.

There should be physical space for shrimp to swim (they are swimming, a lot) and fully grown neocaridina female is more than 1" long, this is without counting in antennae. Water parameters are manageable, if follow pico tank keeping routine.

You should be able to get any wide larger tank (LFS or online), vase (thrift store) or container (9L transparent plastic shoe box), at least 2.5 gal volume. But even in 3 gal, they overpopulate it fast.

Looks to be like it's from the Penn-plax line.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0069RTFB8/ref=mp_s_a_1_10?ie=UTF8&qid=1467234936&sr=8-10&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=penn-plax+aquarium+gallon


I also wonder if the paint wasn't applied after purchase. I haven't seen a lot of tanks come with a painted backing like that.

I was skeptical at first, but the fact that it fits over a regular 10 gallon is really cool! It seems to get some good reviews on amazon too

https://www.amazon.com/AquaSprouts-Garden/product-reviews/B01B4ZRVR4

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0002AS802/ref=mp_s_a_1_23?ie=UTF8&qid=1520114580&sr=8-23-spons&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=aquarium+lid&psc=1

Is something like this lid good for putting a good light source on? I was looking at some of the finnex lights and they appear to need a clear lid like this.

I've also got one of these. The curved glass is amazing looking. The filter is OK, light is Meh. But the price is worth the tank alone.



https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0069RPRHO/ref=mp_s_a_1_14?ie=UTF8&qid=1522757024&sr=8-14&keywords=Fluval+spec

Edit: guess these don't come with lights anymore. Which is good. Lol